cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
We are what we do: Examining learner-generated content in the anatomy laboratory through the lens of activity theory.

Video and photography are often used for delivering content within the anatomical sciences. However, instructors typically produce these resources to provide instructional or procedural information. Although the benefits of learner-generated content have been explored within educational research, virtually no studies have investigated the use of learner-generated video and photograph content within anatomy dissection laboratories. This study outlines an activity involving learner-generated video diaries and learner-generated photograph assignments produced during anatomy laboratory sessions. The learner-generated photographs and videos provided instructors with a means of formative assessment and allowed instructors to identify evidence of collaborative behavior in the laboratory. Student questionnaires (n = 21) and interviews (n = 5), as well as in-class observations, were conducted to examine student perspectives on the laboratory activities. The quantitative and qualitative data were examined using the framework of activity theory to identify contradictions between student expectations of, and engagement with, the activity and the actual experiences of the students. Results indicate that learner-generated photograph and video content can act as a rich source of data on student learning processes and can be used for formative assessment, for observing collaborative behavior, and as a starting point for class discussions. This study stresses the idea that technology choice for activities must align with instructional goals. This research also highlights the utility of activity theory as a framework for assessing classroom and laboratory activities, demonstrating that this approach can guide the development of laboratory activities. Anat Sci Educ 7: 361–369. © 2014 American Association of Anatomists.
Up-regulation of D3 dopamine receptor mRNA in the nucleus accumbens of human cocaine fatalities

The effects of chronic cocaine use on D3 receptor mRNA expression in the human nucleus accumbens was assessed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. D3 receptor/cyclophilin mRNA ratios in the nucleus accumbens were increased 6-fold in cocaine overdose victims as compared to age-matched and drug-free control subjects. This finding demonstrates that chronic cocaine exposure leads to adaptive increases in the expression of D3 receptor mRNA in a critical reward center in brain.
Predictors of major improvement after intravenous thrombolysis in acute ischemic stroke

Background: Intravenous thrombolysis improves outcomes of stroke patients. The immediate response to thrombolysis is variable and few studies attempted to identify predictors of major neurological improvement (MNI) 24 h following thrombolysis. Our objective is to determine predictors of MNI 24 h following thrombolysis. Methods: We reviewed the prospective database of patients treated through our telestroke network and at our institution between November 2008 and June 2012. We included all patients who received IV t-PA and had a 24-h NIHSS score available. Similar to previous studies, we defined MNI as a reduction in NIHSS score by ≥8 points, or a score of 0 or 1 at 24 h. Demographics, risk factors, time to treatment, and clinical and laboratory data, were compared between MNI present or absent. Baseline predictors were compared using t- and Fisher's exact tests, and outcomes using multivariate logistic regression analysis. Results: Out of 316 patients, 306 had 24-h NIHSS scores and 38% of them experienced...
Devices for Aerosol Delivery to Treat Sinusitis

Compared to research into aerosolized delivery of drugs to treat lung disease, research into nasal delivery of aerosolized drugs to treat sinusitis has been significantly neglected. This is despite the fact that more individuals suffer from sinusitis in the United States than suffer from asthma, and its consequences lead to considerable amounts of discomfort, lost work days, and money spent on health care. A number of studies have shown that a high proportion of aerosolized medications delivered by metered dose inhalers (MDIs) and aqueous spray devices deposits in the anterior one-third of the nasal cavity. However, the important targets for treating sinusitis lie beyond this region. These include the middle meatus, the superior and posterior regions of the nasal cavity and the sinuses themselves. This review examines the particle-related and device-related factors that are known to improve intranasal delivery of aerosolized medications to these targets and their efficacy in patients with disease. Based on this review, it is recommended that companies that are interested in improving aerosol delivery to treat sinusitis utilize both in vivo imaging modalities and in vitro models of the nasal cavity and sinuses to assess intranasal aerosol delivery and device performance during the development stage. Once device design has been optimized, it is recommended that device manufacturers and pharmaceutical companies move beyond the current reliance on anecdotal reporting and uncontrolled studies to clinical trials that are randomized and placebo-controlled and that quantify changes both in symptoms and in functional parameters to determine drug efficacy with their device.
Inclusion of Solvation in Ligand Binding Free Energy Calculations Using the Generalized-Born Model

Accounting for the effect of solvent on the strength of molecular interactions has been a long-standing problem for molecular calculations in general and for structure-based drug design in particular. Here, we explore the generalized-Born (GB/SA) model of solvation (Still, W. C.; Tempczyk, A.; Hawley, R. C.; Hendrickson, T. J. Am. Chem. Soc. 1990, 112, 6127−9) to calculate ligand−receptor binding energies. The GB/SA approach allows for the estimation of electrostatic, van der Waals, and hydrophobic contributions to the free energy of binding. The GB/SA formulation provides a good balance between computational speed and accuracy in these calculations. We have derived a formula to estimate the binding free energy. We have also developed a procedure to penalize any unoccupied embedded space that might form between the ligand and the receptor during the docking process. To improve the computational speed, the protein contribution to the electrostatic screening is precalculated and stored on a grid. Refinement...
Thinking Critically about Difference: Analytical Tools for the 21st Century

This article examines a critical cultural thinking framework advanced to develop an analysis of difference as it pertains to race, gender, and sexuality. We examine student journals to document their use (or lack therein) of these critical cultural thinking concepts and how these concepts influence students' understanding of difference. While there are a number of tools that students can rely on for thinking critically, we advance four concepts that are central for the development of a critical cultural consciousness. 1 The critical cultural thinking skills we identify in this article are (1) organic experience, (2) relational analysis, (3) historical analysis, and (4) conception of power relations. We argue that these tools are central for an intellectual understanding of difference. As the student journals analyzed in this article demonstrate, in the absence of these tools of inquiry, much of the campus discourse reverts to oppressive frameworks, which not only serve to oppress students of color, women,...
Blunt-end and single-strand ligations by Escherichia coli ligase: influence on an in vitro amplication scheme

A ligase-based, in vitro DNA amplication system (LAR) has been described by Wu and Wallace [Genomics 4 (1989) 560–569]. This strategy is based on the ability of a DNA ligase to join the 5′ phosphate of one DNA molecule to the 3′ hydroxyl of a second during a nick-closing reaction. Escherichia coli DNA ligase has been used in place of the T4 DNA ligase in our study in order to limit template-independent ligation activities, which lower the sensitivity of this amplication procedure. The results of this studyes indicate that E. coli ligase also joins blunt-ended DNA molecules and some single-stranded oligodeoxyribonucleotides, in the absence of a complementary template, with an efficiency which is sensitive to both the concentrations of DNA substrate and enzyme.
A high-frequency integrable bandpass filter configuration

Inductorless bandpass filters have in the past been realized using all-pass circuits based on op amps. This work replaces the op amps with integrable fixed gain amplifiers to create the bandpass filter. Values of Q exceeding 100 with resonant frequencies approaching 50 MHz can be achieved with an integrated circuit implementation. A method to reduce the sensitivity of Q with respect to temperature is reported.
Sharing resources over the Internet for robotics education

At small, undergraduate institutions, resources are scarce and the educational challenges are great. In the area of robotics, the need for physical experimentation to reinforce and validate theoretical concepts is particularly strong, yet the requirements of maintaining a robotics laboratory can be onerous to teaching faculty. Experimental robotics often requires a software sophistication well beyond that which can be expected from undergraduate mechanical engineers, who are most often only required to write simple programs in manufacturer supplied languages. This paper describes an effort to provide an undergraduate robotics research experience in the presence of these challenges. We have teamed undergraduate mechanical engineers at Wilkes University with undergraduate computer scientists at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse in a collaborative experimental effort. The goal of this project is to remotely control a PUMA 760 robot located at Wilkes University from an operator station located at UW-La Crosse.
The persistence of attachment: complicated grief, threat, and reaction times to the deceased's name.

Abstract Background Complicated grief is increasingly recognized as a debilitating disorder with significant mental and health consequences. The underlying mechanisms of complicated grief remain unclear, however. In the present study, we investigated a specific mechanism of complicated grief (CG) derived from attachment theory: the accessibility of the deceased's mental representation under threat. Methods In a matched comparison of complicated (n = 26) and asymptomatic grievers (n = 30), we used an emotional Stroop task following subliminal threat or neutral primes to examine the accessibility of mental representations of the deceased, current attachment figures, and close others. Results Complicated grievers did not evidence differential accessibility to the deceased's mental representation across priming conditions, whereas asymptomatic grievers showed reduced accessibility (deactivation) of the deceased's mental representation specifically in the threat prime condition. These effects were independent of depressive symptoms. Across grievers, attachment anxiety and avoidance uniquely predicted accessibility of the deceased's name in the threat condition. Limitations The limitations of this study are its small sample size and reliance on analog attachment threats. Conclusions These data support that accessibility of the deceased's mental representation in threatening contexts is an important component of complicated and asymptomatic grieving and that attachment insecurity contributes to a maladaptive reliance on the deceased as an attachment figure.
The locomotor musculature of basal ornithischian dinosaurs

ABSTRACT The earliest ornithischian dinosaurs were small bipeds that possessed the derived, retroverted pubis that is synapomorphic for the clade. Their forelimbs were modified for grasping. Subsequently, ornithischians radiated into numerous body shapes and sizes. Three lineages independently evolved large size and quadrupedality, requiring profound changes to the osteology and myology of the locomotor apparatus. Using comparisons with extinct archosaurian outgroups, as well as extant birds and crocodilians, we reconstruct basal ornithischian limb musculature in order to determine the sequence of musculoskeletal changes that occurred prior to and during the early evolution of Ornithischia. The musculoskeletal anatomy of basal ornithischian forelimbs was probably more similar to that of the crown group archosaur common ancestor and crocodilians than it was to birds. Reduction or loss of the clavicle resulted in migration of the clavicular deltoid onto the proximal scapula and development of a distinct acr...
Men on the Move: Historias mínimas and Lugares comunes

Released in 2002, Historias minimas (Carlos Sorin) and Lugares comunes (Adolfo Aristarain) are two Argentinean films which were well received by critics and public alike, although they are characterized by different aesthetic and technical qualities. Sorin's film mainly uses non-professional actors and was made with a low budget while the cast in Lugares comunes is transnational, as is the film's co-production status. These films depict middle-class men travelling, both within the national territory and abroad. By paying particular attention to the itineraries of these male protagonists, I will argue that both films illustrate a tension between these characters and the socio-economic and cultural background of Argentina during neo-liberal times. My analysis centres on the metaphors of displacement, uprooting and homelessness that these films deploy so as to convey the idea of men's loss of their long-standing privileged status in society and their subsequent (downward) social mobility in the new millennium.
Lithium isotope discrimination by the anion radical of an anthraquinone-15-crown-5 lariat ether

The reduction potentials, or solution electron affinities, of the 6Li+ and the 7Li+ complexes of (9,10-dioxoanthracen-1-yloxymethyl)-15-crown-5 have been measured in acetonitrile, and in mixtures of acetonitrile and dichloromethane, to include 50 and 75%, by volume, of the latter cosolvent. While in acetonitrile the reduction potentials are the same within experimental error, in the presence of 50 and 75% dichloromethane, the 6Li+ complex is anodically shifted relative to its 7Li+ counterpart, by 7 ± 3 and 12 ± 3 mV, respectively. The preceding differences in the reduction potentials suggest equilibrium constant values of ca. 1.3 ± 0.1 and 1.6 ± 0.2, in turn, for electron exchange between 7Li+ and 6Li+ complexes of the macrocyclic donor, whereby the anionic charge resides preferentially in the latter electrophore.
Teaching humanistic geography

Summary It is suggested that the writings of the topophilia school, with its emphasis on the concept of place, have a very important contribution to make to the teaching of geography. The phenomenologic‐existential foundations of that school are outlined and the aesthetic dimension is examined in some detail.
Direct in vivo quantification of the 3D talocrural and subtalar finite helical axes

In an attempt to understand the etiology of ankle joint injury and degeneration, numerous models have been created as a means to estimate ankle joint forces. Due to a lack of non-invasive in vivo measurement techniques, the kinematics required to drive these models have typically been acquired in cadavers or using external markers to infer internal bone motion. This has left some uncertainty as to the validity of these models. Thus, the purpose of this study was to non-invasively quantify the 3D in vivo finite helical axes (FHA) of the subtalar and talocrural joints.
The case of Katrina

Building on their unique theoretical and clinical backgrounds, the respondents presented curiously convergent views on the case of Katrina. The response papers high-lighted Katrina's underlying deficit in affect regulation and the interaction between biological vulnerability and environmental stress as possible etiological factors in her illness. Most respondents suggested two main levels of interventions: skill-building interventions (e.g., dialectical behavior therapy) to facilitate more adaptive coping style, and interventions with a focus on Katrina's in-session behaviors and therapeutic relationship.
An exploratory study of the “personality” of adolescents and adults with Down syndrome

AbstractBackground The pleasant and sociable personality of children with Down syndrome (DS) has received a fair amount of attention in the literature. This study examined the disposition of adolescents and adults with DS, while attempting to control for psychopathology.Method Individuals with DS were divided into two groups according to the presence or absence of psychopathology, and compared to two groups of individuals with nonspecific ID on the 15 subscales of the Reiss Profile MR/DD. Participants across groups were individually matched on gender, level of ID, CA, and severity of psychopathology.Results Few differences across groups emerged at the subscale and item levels. No differences were found on the Social Contact subscale.Conclusions Motivational profiles across groups with and without DS were quite similar when psychopathology was taken into consideration.
Thermal and gravitational atmospheric oscillations—ionospheric dynamo effects included

Abstract The resonance theory of gravitational and thermal oscillations in a rotating atmosphere composed of a neutral gas ( Sen and White , 1955; White , 1956) is extended to include an electron and positive ion gas with a permanent magnetic field superposed (so-called dynamo effect, Chapman and Bartels , 1940). Basic equations of energy and motion are given, resulting, for example, in a Kirchhoff 's voltage law for the upper atmosphere. Height dependent expressions are obtained for the electric field, the current density, the ion drift velocities and non-linear heat source functions q w q n for the gas-as-a-whole and the neutral gas component. The q - functions are produced by an I 2 R power loss. The conditions under which one obtains the previous time-independent differential wave-equation of Wilkes (1951) and Sen and White (1955) are discussed; as an example, it is required that the thermal source function Q include a q function, resulting in two coupled wave-equations, one for the gas-as-a whole and another for the neutral component. Using a method of operators, a time-dependent differential wave-equation is obtained from the time-independent wave-equation. It is found as a sufficient condition that if the four independent space and time variables in the non-linear q - term are separable [with further minor restrictions given in equation (48)], then the oscillations satisfy the condition for neutral stability. Finally, a nonequilibrium “solution” for formation of ionized layers, based on the electron continuity equation, “tidal” transport terms included, is illustrated, using a method of successive approximation. Cavendish tables ( Thomas and Robins , 1955) of the daily electron density variations at given true heights and the New York University analysis ( Kertz , 1956a) of the daily surface pressure variations are examined for predicted non-linear effects. One interesting consequence is an explanation of the major contribution to the 6 hr surface pressure variation as a self-coupling of the important 12 hr pressure variation.
Validity of a pictorial Rate of Perceived Exertion Scale for monitoring exercise intensity in young adults with Down syndrome

AbstractCurrent studies have indicated that people with Down syndrome (DS) have higher prevalence of cardiovascular disease than their typical peers. The high prevalence of cardiovascular disease is associated with their inactivity. However, it is a challenge to conduct effective exercise programmes because of their poor central executive processing and atypical cerebral specialization which causes a verbal-motor disadvantage. Heart rate (HR) is an index to estimate exercise intensity and Rated of Perceived Exertion (RPE) Scale has been found to have a high correlation between RPE and HR in typical and special populations. Thus, there is a need to develop an effective RPE scale to monitor exercise performance in people with DS in order to improve their health. This study recruited 19 participants with DS and required them to perform a progressive walking protocol on the treadmill for 24 minutes. A pictorial RPE scale was conducted during the duration of walking. Results indicated significant positive rela...
133: Pegfilgastim Induces a Crescentic Glomerulonephritis

PEGFILGASTIM INDUCES A CRESCENTIC GLOMERULONEPHRITIS Jorge Lamarche, Alfredo Peguero, Craig Courville, AnaVelez, and Ala’a Farahat James A. Haley Veterans Hospital and the University of South Florida Tampa, FL USA Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (HL) and the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) have been associated with a variety of glomerulonephritic processes. The following scenario involves a 48 year old HIV male who developed rapid and progressive glomerulonephritis (RPGN) with a biopsy proven crescentic glomerulonephritis (CGN) within one week after he underwent the first chemotherapeutic cylcle to treat his recently diagnosed HL. Prior to the treatment of HL the patient was successfully treated with HAART and his renal function was normal with a GFR of 92 ml/min. Despite a normal renal function, the patient’s U/A demonstrated a new onset proteinuria and microscopic hematuria four months prior to the chemotherapy administration. The chemotherapy regimen included pegfilgastim, dexamethasone, dacarbazine, doxorubicin, and vinblastine. Glomerular macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GMCSF) has been demonstrated to be a mediator in the pathogenesis of CGN. Filgastim, an analogue of GM-CSF, has been associated with the new onset proteinuria and microscopic hematuria. After the patient received his chemotherapy, he developed leukocytosis, culture-negative fevers, and acute renal failure. This clinical case likely represents the excacerbation of a mild glomerulonephritis into a full blown CGN after pegfilgastim administration.
Should I Stay or Should I Go? Predicting Dating Relationship Stability from Four Aspects of Commitment

Many have argued that it is important to examine different aspects of commitment in romantic relationships, but few studies have done so. Using a large, national sample of unmarried adults in relationships (N = 1184), this study examined four aspects of relationship commitment and their associations with relationship adjustment and stability. We examined dedication (i.e., interpersonal commitment) as well as three types of constraint commitment: perceived constraints (e.g., social pressure to stay together or difficulty of termination procedures, measured using Stanley and Markman's [1992] Commitment Inventory), material constraints (e.g., signing a lease, owning a pet), and felt constraint (i.e., feeling trapped). Cross-sectionally, these four facets of commitment were associated in expected directions with relationship adjustment, as well as perceived likelihood of relationship termination and of marriage. Longitudinally, each facet uniquely predicted relationship stability. More dedication, more material and perceived constraints and less felt constraint were uniquely associated with a higher likelihood of staying together over an 8-month period.
Electrocerebral inactivity associated with obstructive sleep apnea

We report a child who demonstrates near electrocerebral silence secondary to obstructive apnea during polysomnography. The mechanism of this suppression of cortical activity appears to be related to hypox-emia in the absence of a malignant arrhythmia.
CD4 Lymphocyte Counts and Mortality in AIDS Patients Requiring Mechanical Ventilator Support due to Pneumocystis carinii Pneumonia

Objective To evaluate CD4 counts as a predictor of mortality in AIDS patients with respiratory failure due to Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP). Design Retrospective chart review. Setting Urban university medical center. Patients Forty-eight patients admitted to the medical ICU from January 1993 to August 1996 with diagnosis of HIV/AIDS, PCP, CD4 count Interventions Medical records were reviewed and age, CD4 count, lactate dehydrogenase, room air (RA) PaO 2 , coinfections, and day of admission to day of intubation (DOA-DOI) data were recorded. Results All 48 patients (12 women and 36 men) were treated with corticosteroids and IV trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Age ranged from 21 to 65 years; CD4, 1 to 180, RA PaO 2 , 27 to 93 mm Hg; and DOA-DOI, 0 to 20 days. Mortality varied significantly depending on CD4 counts: CD4 0 to 10 (100%); CD4 11 to 50 (88%); CD4 51 to 100 (50%); and CD4 >100 (25%). There were no significant difference in mortality between the groups with DOA-DOI 5 days (80%) or between the groups with PaO 2 2 >60 mm Hg (73%). Conclusion Even though overall mortality was 81%, the mortality rate was significantly different among the four groups. Most striking was the progressive increase in mortality as CD4 cells decreased from >100 (25% mortality) to
PHYSIOLOGIC ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT OF THE PREOPERATIVE PATIENT WITH PULMONARY EMPHYSEMA.

Abstract Over the past two decades there has been an increasing awareness of the high surgical risk in patients with disabling chronic pulmonary disease. The recognition of the factors which augur an increased incidence of postoperative complications as well as intolerance to pulmonary resection is difficult on clinical grounds alone. The factors of greatest import in the assessment of the patient are the degree and reversibility of bronchial obstruction, the presence of hypercapnia, the pulmonary diffusing capacity and the pressure in the pulmonary artery. Fortunately, methods are available to obtain quantitative information about all of these aspects of pulmonary and cardiovascular function. The data so obtained supplement the clinical examination and serve as an objective basis for the management and selection of patients.
A Hybrid Scheme for Concurrent Error Detection of Multiplication over Finite Fields

Concurrent error detection (CED) schemes for finite field multipliers over GF(2m), based on simple parity bits, have been proposed in the literature. In this paper, we generalize the concept of parity and derive a hybrid scheme for CED. We extend the one-bit parity concept to multiple parity based on generalized (mod g(x)) reduction. Then, we combine this concept together with N-fold redundant reduction modules and apply this to finite field multipliers. The proposed scheme is faster and smaller than simple-parity-bit schemes and provides the same or better error detection capability. For example, implemented on FPGA for 20 parity bits over GF(2^163), the overhead and output delay of the hybrid scheme are 7% and 39 nS, while those of the parity protected scheme are 80% and 198 nS, respectively.
Theory of the temperature dependence of electronic band structures

The adiabatic approximation and perturbation theory to second order in atomic displacement are used to construct a theory of thermal-electron energy shifts. Both intraband and interband 'self-energy' and 'Debye-Waller' corrections are included. A sum rule based on translational invariance clarified the intimate relation between these two types of correction. Various kinds of cancellation between the terms can be seen explicitly for the two limiting cases of a very narrow band and a small gap in a nearly-free-electron band structure.
Novel Control Design for a Wave Energy Generator

This paper presents the derivation of a novel control method for a permanent magnet linear generator for use in wave energy applications. The control design is an extension of optimal wave energy converter (WEC) control theory. Adaptations have been made to account for a variety of real-world limitations. Dynamic generator loading is used to control the motion of the WEC. The novel control presented maximizes power output while also protecting the WEC system.
Reductive Dechlohnation of Dysidenin from Dysidea Herbacea. Structure of a Novel Binuclear Zinc Metallocycle

Abstract The structure of a novel 20-membered macrocyclic Zn chelate, prepared by reductive dechlorination of dysidenin, was solved by single crystal X-ray diffraction and confirms the 5S,13S configuration.
Assimilation, partitioning, and nonstructural carbohydrates in sweet compared with grain sorghum.

Nonstructural carbohydrate concentrations in stems are greater for sweet than grain sorghums [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench.]. Knowledge of plant characteristics associated with high nonstructural carbohydrates in sweet sorghum will aid efforts to increase nonstructural carbohydrates in grain sorghum stems. This study tested the hypothesis that variation of CO 2 assimilation rate, leaf area, branching at upper nodes, and partitioning of 14 C-labeled assimilate to main stems are associated with variation of stem nonstructural carbohydrates (...)
Microfield dynamics of black holes

The microcanonical treatment of black holes as opposed to the canonical formulation is reviewed and some major differences are displayed. We propose a microcanonical alternative to the thermodynamical expression for the number density and discuss its characteristics. In particular the decay rates are compared in the two different pictures and shown to predict significantly different fates for cosmological black holes.
Contractual Kin: Servants and Their Mistresses in Sixteenth-Century Nantes

Female servants and their mistresses in Nantes often disputed the terms of service and wages of the mostly oral contracts between them. These quarrels sometimes ended up in the court of the municipal aldermen, whose records reveal the opposing conceptualization of female service the opponents advocated. Mistresses viewed their servants as dependents, not quite kin, but wholly under their authority at least for the period specified in the contract. Servants perceived themselves as wage laborers with the right to renegotiate, or renege on, contracts when a more advantageous offer presented itself. Municipal officials, caught between their desire to enforce contracts and the need to avoid exploitation of domestic labor in order to ensure a plentiful migration of servants into Nantes, sided with servants surprisingly often. Servant women in Nantes, therefore, enjoyed a higher level of agency than did women serving in Italian cities where high numbers of slaves and indentured refugees distorted the market for, and attitudes toward, female domestics.
KrF laser ablation of polyurethane

248 nm excimer laser ablation of a polyurethane polymer is shown to proceed efficiently and with a surprising lack of post-ablation surface debris. The absorption spectrum of this material displays a strong increase in absorbance beginning at 260 nm and extending to shorter wavelengths, whereas a relatively weak absorption for longer wavelengths accounts for the inability of 308 nm excimer radiation to cause efficient ablation. Ablation rate versus incident fluence data were obtained by both conventional stylus profilometry and the higher precision quartz-crystal microbalance (QCM) method. The data from both methods were in agreement, although the QCM technique provided far more detail of the threshold region. Interestingly, near 35 mJ/cm2 incident fluence, a pronounced increase in the slope of the rate versus fluence curve appears. This is suggestive of a mechanistic change from a lower to higher efficiency ablation regime. Applying a conventional Beer's Law analysis of rate versus In(fluence) yields a straight line that agrees well with the data up to 300 mJ/cm2. In face, the absorption coefficient derived from the slope of this curve is within 4% of the experimentally determined low-level value.© (1991) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Terminal arborization of individual sensory axons in dentin and pulp of rat molars

Abstract Single sensory arbors labeled by axonal transport of [ 3 H]proline were identified in rat molars and reconstructed from serial autoradiograms. Some axons ended in pulp, others made numerous endings in both dentin and pulp. Receptive fields in dentin varied from narrow (40–60 μm diameter) to elongated areas (80 × 350 μm). Sensory arbors had brush-like or fan-like shapes, the largest innervated more than 100 dentinal tubules.
Occupational Upgrading and Changes In Capital Usage In U.S. Manufacturing Industries, 1989–98

Proposed explanations of the role of microprocessor technology in the shifts toward relatively highly skilled workers that have occurred within industries since the mid 1970s have implications for the types of occupations that should be most affected by computerization. In this study, I measure the effects of changes in capital usage, and of the level of high-tech capital usage in particular, on skill change caused by employment shifts among detailed occupations within industries over the 1989–98 period. The study utilizes data collected by the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) survey, which produces data on employment and wages for over 700 occupations in non-farm establishments, by industry. These data provide an unprecedented opportunity to determine the types of occupations and skills that are most affected by changes in capital and technology usage, by making it possible to measure skill change within relatively narrowly defined occupational groups.
Subject‐level matching for imbalance in cluster randomized trials with a small number of clusters

In a cluster randomized controlled trial (RCT), the number of randomized units is typically considerably smaller than in trials where the unit of randomization is the patient. If the number of randomized clusters is small, there is a reasonable chance of baseline imbalance between the experimental and control groups. This imbalance threatens the validity of inferences regarding post-treatment intervention effects unless an appropriate statistical adjustment is used. Here, we consider application of the propensity score adjustment for cluster RCTs. For the purpose of illustration, we apply the propensity adjustment to a cluster RCT that evaluated an intervention to reduce suicidal ideation and depression. This approach to adjusting imbalance had considerable bearing on the interpretation of results. A simulation study demonstrates that the propensity adjustment reduced well over 90% of the bias seen in unadjusted models for the specifications examined. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Abnormal serine hydroxymethyl transferase activity in the temporal lobes of schizophrenics

Abstract We studied the kinetics of the enzyme serine hydroxymethyl transferase (SHMT) and the concentration of its metabolic substrates serine and glycine, in the postmortem brains of controls and schizophrenics. The Km of SHMT, and the concentration of serine and glycine were all significantly higher in the temporal lobes of brain tissues from schizophrenics than in those from controls. These differences were not observed in the frontal is discussed in relation to the production of glycine and 1-carbon units from which purines and thereby adenosine is produced. Both glycine and adenosine are potent neuromodulatory substances for the release of dopamine and glutamate, neurotransmitters which have been implicated in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia.
Theoretical limits on the stability of single-phase kesterite-Cu2ZnSnS4

The single-phase stability of Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS), after an intrinsic defect was incorporated in it, has been examined here for the first time based on ab initio calculations. The stability analysis of such a non-stoichiometric-defect incorporated CZTS shows that the single-phase formation is unlikely at thermodynamic equilibrium conditions. In addition, the effective growth condition of CZTS is determined and quantified for all the elements (Cu-poor, Zn-rich, Sn-poor, and S-rich) to extract maximum photovoltaic efficiency from CZTS. These conditions promote (i) spontaneous formation of Cu vacancy (VCu), which might benefit p-type conduction, and (ii) the co-existence of ZnS while suppressing other harmful defects and secondary phases. Further, the results presented here explain the unavailability of single-phase CZTS to date.
Isozymes in seagrasses

Abstract Isozymes have been compared in leaves grown under controlled conditions for 31 species in the 12 seagrass genera. In isozyme patterns the three genera Zostera, Phyllospadix an and Heterozostera , of subfamily Zosteroideae of Potamogetonaceae, showe greater overall similarity to each other than to members of subfamilies Posidonioideae and Cymodoceoideae. Two genera of the Cymodoceoideae, Thalassodendron and Amphibolis , were more similar to each other in isozyme patterning than to the other genera, Halodule, Cymodocea and Syringodium , in the subfamily. In Zostera , subgenus Zostera had isozyme patterns that were largely distinct from those of subgenus Zosterella , but in Z. marina L. of subgenus Zostera , geographic polymorphism in two enzyme systems, phosphoglucose mutase and malate dehydrogenase, was indicated for plants of diverse origin in North America. In Cymodocea , two sympatric species were widely different in isozymes, but in other genera, Amphibolis, Posidonia and Phyllospadix , two sympatric species were very narrowly separated in isozyme patterning. Among the three genera of the Hydrocharitaceae, Enhalus, Thalassia and Halophila , characteristics isozyme patterns were shown for each genus, but those of Enhalus and Thalassia showed the greatest similarity. Flowers that were compared with leaves for 11 species in 7 genera, Zostera, Phyllospadix, Halodule, Cymodocea, Syringodium, Thalassia and Halophila , showed the characteristic species patterns for most enzymes, but showed differences in some systems, particularly peroxidase. The isozyme banding patterns in most species were consistent over broad geographic ranges and provided useful characters for species identification, but the variation in patterns among small-leaved Halophila populations in the Pacific suggested an endemic status to populations of each island group.
A study of polymer/water interactions using surface acoustic waves☆

Application of surface acoustics waves to the study of fundamental properties of hygroscopic polymer/water systems is reported. The basic device used is a surface acoustic wave (SAW) delay-line oscillator, the propagation path of the delay line being coated with a film of the polymer to be studied. The frequency of the SAW oscillator is measured as a function of temperature at various relative humidities. Thermodynamic functions of free energy (ΔG), enthalpy (ΔH) and entropy (ΔS) are then determined. The transient response of the SAW oscillator to step changes in humidity is also studied, and may be described by a generalized relaxation equation containing two additive terms. The utility of these data for analyzing the thermodynamics and kinetics of water-vapor sorption and desorption is discussed. The very high surface sensitivity and mass resolution (about 1 ng) afforded by the SAW oscillator measurements are advantageous relative to conventional sorption measurements. The approach reported here provides a relatively simple yet precise method for characterizing materials of interest for chemical-sensing applications.
Identification of Tripeptides Recognized by the PDZ domain of Dishevelled

The development of inhibitors of Dishevelled (Dvl) PDZ protein-protein interactions attracts attention due to a possible application in drug discovery and development. Using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, we found that a tripeptide VVV binds to the PDZ domain of Dvl, which is a key component involved in Wnt signaling. Using a computational approach calculating the binding free energy of the complexes of the Dvl PDZ domain and each of the tripeptides VXV (X: any amino acid residue except Pro), we found that a tripeptide VWV had the highest binding affinity. Consistent with the computational result, experimental results showed that the binding of the tripeptide VWV to the Dvl PDZ domain was stronger than that of the tripeptide VVV. The binding affinity of the tripeptide VWV was comparable to that of the organic molecule NSC668036, which was the first identified Dvl PDZ inhibitor. The three-dimensional structure of the complex Dvl1 PDZ/VWV was determined to investigate the role of the energetically favorable W(-1) residue in binding. These interactions were also explored by using molecular dynamic simulation and the molecular mechanics Poisson-Boltzmann surface area method. Taken together, these two tripeptides may be used as modulators of Wnt signaling or as a scaffold to optimize an antagonist for targeting Dvl1 PDZ protein-protein interaction.
Detection of apoptosis‐associated DNA fragmentation using a rapid and quantitative filter elution assay

DNA degradation to oligonucleosome size fragments is one of the cellular markers of apoptosis. Based on DNA filter elution methodology, we have designed a simple assay to monitor apoptosis-associated DNA fragmentation from cultured cells or from a reconstituted cell-free system. The cells are prelabeled with [14C]-thymidine for one cell cycle and chased in nonradioactive medium for a few hours in order to allow incorporation of the radiolabeled thymidine in high molecular weight DNA. After the apoptosis-inducing treatment, cells (or subcellular fractions of the cell-free system) are deposited onto a protein-adsorbant filter and washed with physiological saline. Lysis is then performed with a mild detergent (sarkosyl) and 2 M salt. The lysis fraction is collected, counted, and computed to calculate the fraction of DNA in the lysis fraction. In normal cells more than 90% of the DNA remains on the filter, while in apoptotic cells the kinetics of DNA fragmentation can be monitored and more than 80% of the counts can be found in the lysis. The DNA filter elution assay is sensitive, quantitative, and rapid. By using different types of filters and lysis solution (± proteinase), the protein-bonding to the DNA fragments can be determined. Some applications of this assay to study the effects and mechanisms of action of new therapeutic drugs are presented and discussed. © 1995 Wiley-Liss, Inc.1
Microalgal biodiesel and the Renewable Fuel Standard's greenhouse gas requirement.

Abstract The Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS2) under the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 requires 15.2 billion gallons of domestic alternative fuels per year by 2012, of which 2 billion gallons must be from advanced biofuel and emit 50% less life-cycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions than petroleum-based transportation fuels. Microalgal biodiesel, one type of advanced biofuel, has the qualities and potential to meet the RFS's requirement. A comparative life cycle assessment (LCA) of four microalgal biodiesel production conditions was investigated using a process LCA model with Monte Carlo simulation to assess global warming potential (GWP), eutrophication, ozone depletion and ecotoxicity potentials. The four conditions represent minimum and maximum production efficiencies and different sources of carbon dioxide and nutrient resources, i.e. synthetic and waste resources. The GWP results of the four CO2 microalgal biodiesel production conditions showed that none of the assumed production conditions meet the RFS's GHG requirement. The GWP results are sensitive to energy consumption in harvesting process. Other impacts such as eutrophication, ozone depletion and ecotoxicity potentials, are sensitive to percent lipid content of microalgae, service lifetime of PBRs and quantity of hexane in extraction process, respectively. Net energy ratio and other emissions should be included in future RFS for a more sustainable fuel.
A stochastic model of three-dimensional crystal growth

This paper describes a stochastic model of crystallization from a gas or dilute solution. The model is limited to a crystal of rectangular symmetry whose surface has nonzero Miller indices. By a mapping into the modified KDP model, the kinetic growth coefficient can be given approximately as an analytic function of the Miller indices of the surface. Numerical simulations indicate that the aproximation is accurate within a few percent at all surface orientations.
FREE-RADICAL RETROGRADE-PRECIPITATION POLYMERIZATION: A MATHEMATICAL MODELING STUDY OF POLYMERIZATION OF STYRENE IN DIETHYL ETHER

Polymerizing a monomer above the lower critical solution temperature (LCST) of its polymer-monomer-(non)solvent mixture has demonstrated better control characteristics than conventional free-radical polymerization kinetics. Reaction kinetics of polymerization in a poor solvent are strongly influenced by heat and mass transfer properties, as understood from modeling the transport phenomena in our earlier work. The study has now been extended to model the reaction kinetics in a styrene-diethyl ether system. The model was based on the CCS model for free radical polymerization, with the modification proposed by Achilias-Kiparissides. Computer simulation results agree well with those obtained from experiments carried under similar conditions, with the onset of phase separation as the only adjustable parameter. Drawbacks of the model are lack of analysis for the effect of monomer concentration and the absence of an appropriate radical trapping mechanism.
Ionization of muonic atoms by nonrelativistic electrons.

Analytical expressions for cross sections for ionization of muonic hydrogenlike atoms by nonrelativistic electrons are derived using the classical impulse approximation.
Spouse training in a multicomponent smoking-cessation program.

Smokers with spouses who were willing to cooperate were randomly assigned to one of two conditions: a multi-component cognitive-behavioral smoking program; or the same program with spouses attending and receiving training designed to increase spouse support. Subjects met in small groups for six weekly two-hour sessions proceeded by an individual intake session. Follow-up data were obtained at one, two, three, six, and twelve months posttreatment. Self-reported smoking status was corroborated by either biochemical measures or informants. Although differences were in the predicted direction, there were no significant differences due to spouse training at any assessment point. Subjects whose spouse was also trying to quit tended to do more poorly at follow-up than did subjects whose spouse was not trying to quit. Relatedly, spouse's smoking status was significantly associated with subject's follow-up smoking status. Overall, 23.4% of subjects were abstinent at six months and 34.4% at one year. The implications of the results for the role of spouses in smoking cessation are discussed.