cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Natural science and nursing science: where do the horizons fuse?

Natural science and nursing science: where do the horizons fuse? The natural sciences have an influential effect on society, contemporary world-views, and other scientific disciplines. A brief history of the major advances in the natural sciences and the associated philosophies provides a platform for scholarly discourse regarding the subsequent influence on nursing epistemology. The concepts of knowledge and understanding are differentiated and a cautionary word is expressed not to cast aside the natural sciences and their corollary philosophies as nursing embarks upon its epistemological journey into the 21st century. Aesthetics is presented as a possible fusion of horizons of nursing and natural science.
First-year engineering students' peer feedback on open-ended mathematical modeling problems

Peer feedback is a key component of STEM education, but there is not an accepted pedagogy for teaching students effective critical feedback skills. The quality and nature of current peer reviews must be understood to establish what students need to learn to give effective feedback. This research begins to identify the nature and quality of peer feedback on mathematical models through a mixed-methods approach. The quantitative analysis shows that students typically score models higher than an expert, and the qualitative analysis shows that most students do not address the mathematics used in solutions but rather focus on the presentation of solutions. This research indicates that students need better guidance on how to engage in a more critical feedback process on solutions to open-ended problems. This research also raises some new research questions.
Rare earth element deposition in pelagic sediment at the Cenomanian‐Turonian Boundary, Exmouth Plateau

ODP Site 762 (eastern Indian Ocean) includes a section of sediment that spans the Cenomanian-Turonian Boundary (CTB) and was deposited along a continental margin during a period of widespread oceanic 09. deficiency. The rare earth element (REE) content of pre- and post-boundary sediment is similar to that of present-day continental slope material deposited in well-oxygenated seawater, whereas the CTB section is characterized by significantly depleted REE abundances, a bulk Ce anomaly that increases to maximum of 1.0, and a REE pattern that resembles that of present-day fluvial material. We suggest the change in REE patterns reflects release of scavenged REEs upon reductive dissolution of authigenic Fe-Mn oxyhydroxides, such that sediment deposited during the CTB is dominated by the lithogenous REE fraction. These results are consistent with recent models concerning pervasive fractionation of Mn and Fe and redirection of Mn in pelagic CTB waters.
Examination Of The Kinesin-1 Tail Interaction With Microtubules

It is well known that the kinesin-1 tail domain contains a second microtubule binding-site independent of the binding-site located in the head domain (1,2), but the affinity and location of the tail-microtubule interaction on tubulin is not known. We have used fluorescence anisotropy to measure a Kd of kinesin-1 tail for microtubules in the submicromolar range, and we are currently performing experiments to determine the specific tubulin residues involved in forming this interaction. We hypothesize that the tail binding-site will include the extreme C-terminus of tubulin, which we will test by measuring the affinity of tail for tubulin with its C-terminal residues cleaved. Any effects that kinesin head domains or select microtubule-associated proteins may have on the affinity of the tail for microtubules will also be analyzed by fluorescence anisotropy, and the possibility for the tail to inhibit the ATPase activity of the head while bound to microtubules will be tested with an enzyme-coupled ATPase assay. These studies will test the hypothesis that the kinesin tail can fold over and simultaneously contact both the head domain and microtubules, producing a state in which both the ATPase activity of the head domain is inhibited and the kinesin molecule is anchored to the microtubule via its tail domain, as proposed by Dietrich et al (2).1) Navone F, Niclas J, Hom-Booher N, Sparks L, Bernstein HD, McCaffrey G, Vale RD. Cloning and expression of a human kinesin heavy chain gene: Interaction of the COOH-terminal domain with cytoplasmic microtubules in transfected CV-1 cells. J. Cell Bio. 117(6), 1263-1275 (1992).2) Dietrich KA, Sindelar CV, Brewer P, Downing KH, Cremo CR, Rice SE. The kineisn-1 motor protein is regulated by a direct interaction of its head and tail. Proc. Nat. Ac. Sci. 105(26), 8938-8943 (2008).
Seismic imaging of upper-mantle structure with new evidence for a 520-km discontinuity

Stacked images of long-period seismic data reveal many phases, some not previously observed, which are caused by reflections and conversions at discontinuities in the Earth's upper mantle. These images support the existence of discontinuities at 410, 520 and 660km depth, but no evidence is found for a significant interface at 220 km.
Induction of suppressor T cells and inhibition of contact hypersensitivity in mice by 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate and its analogs

12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) and its analogs were surveyed for their abilities to modify contact hypersensitivity (CHS) responses in SENCAR mice. Sensitization of dorsal skin with 2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB) and subsequent challenge of the ear 5 d later resulted within 24 h in ear swelling and increased vascular permeability (as measured by the extravasation of Evans Blue dye). Treatment of dorsal or ventral skin with TPA 4 times (application made every 3 or 4 d) prior to sensitization on the dorsum inhibited subsequent induction of CHS by DNFB challenge. Maximum suppression of CHS required sensitization at the site of TPA treatment. Suppression occurred over a narrow dose range of TPA (0.1-1.0 micrograms), and qualitatively correlated with the tumor incidences scored in an initiation-promotion multistage skin carcinogenesis experiment. Multiple applications (4x) of the promoters phorbol-12,13-dibenzoate (10 micrograms) and mezerein (2 micrograms) also suppressed CHS, whereas the non-promoter phorbol (20 micrograms) and the first stage tumor promoter 4-O-methyl TPA (20 micrograms) had no effect. Adoptive transfer of splenocytes isolated from mice pre-treated with TPA prior to DNFB sensitization inhibited the development of CHS in recipient mice that were sensitized and challenged with DNFB, but not oxazolone. Splenocyte preparations depleted of T lymphocytes prior to transfer could not suppress CHS in recipient mice. Conversely, suppressive activity was concentrated in splenocyte preparations depleted of adherent cells/monocytes. Collectively, these studies demonstrate that TPA treatment of murine epidermis prior to sensitization with hapten can inhibit subsequent hapten-dependent elicitation of CHS. This suppression is mediated in part by antigen-specific suppressor T cells. Furthermore, there is a qualitative correlation between the complete and second stage in vivo tumor-promoting activities of TPA and its analogs, and their abilities to inhibit CHS.
Calcitonin gene-related peptide enhances the recovery of contractile function in stunned myocardium.

Abstract Introduction: Calcitonin gene-related peptide, a potent vasodilating inotropic agent, increases coronary artery perfusion when administered exogenously and reduces ischemic injury in nonmyocardial tissue. However, it is unclear whether this agent improves recovery of myocardial performance after reversible myocardial ischemia. Methods: Nine dogs underwent complete occlusion of the left anterior descending coronary artery for 15 minutes and were monitored during 24 hours of reperfusion. Calcitonin gene–related peptide (0.07 μg · kg –1 · min –1 ), nitroglycerin (65 μg · kg –1 · min –1 ), or saline solution placebo was infused intravenously during initial reperfusion. Ischemia/reperfusion was repeated in concurrent 24-hour periods until all animals received infusions in random order. Micromanometry and sonomicrometry determined left ventricular pressure and myocardial segment length. Myocardial performance, based on the linear relationship between stroke work and end-diastolic segment length, was estimated with the preload recruitable work area.Results were analyzed as percent control and compared statistically with the use of repeated measures analysis of variance. Results: Recovery of myocardial performance was augmented during reperfusion with calcitonin gene–related peptide infusion relative to placebo ( P = .005; mean preload recruitable work area ± SE after calcitonin gene–related peptide infusion, 2484 ± 705 mm Hg at 90 minutes of reperfusion versus 1473 ± 300 mm Hg for placebo. Recovery of performance after nitroglycerin infusion was similar to recovery after placebo. Conclusions: Calcitonin gene–related peptide infusion improves recovery of contractile function in stunned myocardium. Unlike inotropic agents that impair recovery from reversible ischemia, calcitonin gene–related peptide may confer cardioprotective effects on ischemic myocardium. (J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2000;119:1246-54)
Tyrosine kinases, synaptic plasticity and memory: insights from vertebrates and invertebrates

Tyrosine kinases were first characterized in terms of their function during development. Over the past decade, it has become clear that tyrosine phosphorylation also plays an important role in the adult mammalian nervous system. This article reviews three different families of tyrosine kinase signaling cascades: the Trk receptor tyrosine kinases, the Src family of non-receptor tyrosine kinases and the Eph receptor tyrosine kinases. Each of these cascades has been implicated in both adult synaptic plasticity and memory formation. Evidence from invertebrate systems also demonstrates a role for tyrosine kinase signaling in the induction of long-term memory, suggesting that molecular mechanisms of memory formation are conserved across species.
Integration of vision and robotic workcell

The paper discusses the incorporation of vision into a robotic cell to obtain cell status information and use this information to influence the robot operation. It discusses both mechanical and informational solutions to the operational issues which are present. The cell uses a machine vision system to determine information about part presence in the shipping tray, part location in the tray, and tray orientation. The vision system's edge detector algorithm is used to identify the orientation of the packing trays. In addition, different vision tools are used to determine if parts are present in the trays based on the unique configuration of the individual parts. The mechanical solutions discuss the handling of medium weight (10 - 25 lb.) parts at an average cycle time of 3.1 seconds per part. The robot gripper must handle 33 different models, three identical parts at a time. This is accomplished by using stacks of rotary actuators and slides between the stacks.
Osteopontin increases CD44 expression and cell adhesion in RAW 264.7 murine leukemia cells.

Abstract Background: Osteopontin (OPN) is an inducible cell attachment protein which binds αvβ3-integrin and CD44 receptors to promote tumor metastasis. We hypothesized that OPN alters expression of its CD44 receptor to promote neoplastic cell migration. Methods: RAW264.7 cells were stimulated with OPN (0–10 nM) for 0–12 hours to determine the time- and concentration-dependence of CD44 protein and mRNA expression. In selected instances, a competitive ligand for the αvβ3-integrin, GRGDSP (50 nM), or an inhibitor of protein synthesis, anisomycin (10 μg/ml), was added. Cell adhesion to hyaluronan was assayed with the crystal violet assay. Results: OPN upregulates plasma membrane total CD44 protein in a concentration-(ANOVA P0.001) and time-dependent (ANOVA P0.001) fashion. CD44v6 is not altered. Cell adhesion to hyaluronate increases in parallel with CD44 expression. Steady state mRNA levels for CD44 are not altered by OPN. 5 nM OPN increases CD44 protein half-life from 105 ± 11 minutes to 278 ± 15 minutes. (P
Localization-delocalization transition in inhomogeneous metal-dielectric films

In this paper we study the surface-plasmon eigenvalue-eigenvector problem for 2D metal-dielectric composites. We show that both localized and delocalized states are present in the spectrum. The delocalization results from short-range correlations introduced through the local current conservation. Statistical properties such as density of states and localization lengths are discussed
Anti-reflux surgery in the congenital neuropathic bladder.

Summary 42 refluxing ureters were re-implanted into the bladder in 28 children with neuropathy. In ench case other measures directed at enhancing bladder emptying were employed. Reflux was cured in 36 of 38 ureters investigated after operation. The incidence of contralateral reflux following unilateral re-implantation was 50%. 1 of 12 undilated units showed late post-operative deterioration. 22 of 28 initially hydroureteronephrotic units either improved or stabilised at a satisfactory level. In 6 children urinary diversion was subsequently performed because of persistent reflux (2 cases), postoperative deterioration (1 case) or failure of severely dilated upper tracts to improve (3 cases). Since reflux from a high pressure bladder can rapidly cause severe renal damage, cystography is indicated when there is clinical or pyelographic suspicion of its existence. Operative cure is needed when reflux is of major degree or if, when of lesser severity, it does not stop spontaneously following improved bladder emptying resulting from therapeutic lessening of the urethral resistance.
AAV2-neurturin (CERE-120) for Parkinson's disease

Introduction: Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common and chronic movement disorder with no therapy yet proven to alter the underlying advancing pathology. Gene delivery of trophic factors, which have shown disease modifying potential in preclinical PD models, are now being evaluated in early clinical trials. Areas covered: This review discusses early experiences with glial-derived neurotrophic factor in PD, the initial studies using AAV2-neurturin in PD patients, the lessons learned from these studies and the future directions of this therapy. Expert opinion: Gene therapy has emerged as a potential breakthrough in the treatment of PD and early clinical trials using AAV2-neurturin, a trophic factor that has shown the ability to protect dopaminergic degeneration in preclinical PD models, are underway. While trophic protection of dopamine neurons would be a significant breakthrough, PD remains a widespread disorder that involves neurodegeneration across multiple cellular types. We believe that these initial st...
The effects of nutrient, pH and herbicide levels on algal growth

Growth inhibition of algae increased as herbicide concentrations increased, particularly with prometryn and fluometuron. However, picloram had no effect on algal growth while dinoseb inhibited only Lyngbya. There were no differences in growth rate of algae treated with different levels of potassium or phosphorus. High levels of calcium or magnesium increased growth rate of the algae tested. High levels of nitrogen or pH increased growth rates except when combined with prometryn or fluometuron.
The Community Survey: An Effective Tool for Administrative Planning and Decision Making.

This study was designed to determine and assess community feedback concerning community colleges in order to determine the awareness, the perceptions, and the needs of college communities. A teleph...
Brief report: Comorbid psychiatric disorders of autistic disorder

The behavioral and/or psychiatric symptoms in autistic people as described above have been viewed by many professionals dealing with autistic populations as “associated features of autism” that may result from these individuals' inability to cope with the environmental demands and physical discomfort. Traditionally, in treating individuals with autism, special education intervention including behavioral modifications has been the main emphasis. Such an approach has made some progress in milder and uncomplicated cases of autism. However, if many of these behavioral and/or psychiatric symptoms in those with more severe associated features can be viewed as symptoms of various comorbid psychiatric disorders, there are data suggesting that with an appropriate evaluation, predrug workups, a specific diagnosis, and multiple measures of outcome, pharmacotherapy can be a safe and efficacious adjunct treatment for some symptoms in autistic persons. Nevertheless, the data presented here were obtained mainly from autistic children. A great deal of work remains to be done Future research should put more emphasis on developing agreeable, reliable, and valid diagnostic instruments for identifying comorbid psychiatric disorders in autistic people. Future research should also emphasize employing a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled crossover design, as well as involving multicenters and using uniformed diagnostic criteria to study autistic adolescents and adults.
Consolidation of the Microbiology Laboratory Services: A Mini-Review of Finances and Quality of Care

Objective To evaluate the impact of consolidation of microbiology laboratories on hospital finances and quality of care. Method A literature review of multiple articles and case studies was conducted on the topic of consolidation of microbiology services among multiple health care facilities. Results Elimination of duplicate testing and instrumentation can result in significant cost savings. The quality of results can be improved by staffing the core laboratory with educated, experienced microbiologists. Consolidation of services allows for new, technologically advanced instrumentation, which improves turnaround time. Conclusions Consolidation of microbiology services, when performed with proper planning, can improve the productivity and turnaround time of testing, as well as reducing the cost of providing care, resulting in positive effects on hospital finances and improved quality of care. * HOSA : Health Occupations Students of America DMC : Detroit Medical Center DCL : Damon Clinical Laboratories HAIs : health care-associated infections
A New Look at Episodes of Mistaken Identity Opportunities for Preserving Personhood

Facility caregivers of persons with dementia in residential facilities often find themselves mistaken by residents for people from the residents' past. Such episodes of mistaken identity are usually considered a sign of impairment and simply ignored. This study presents vignettes in which facility caregivers played roles from the resident's past, briefly and without rehearsal or deliberation. During these episodes, residents were able to experience a continuity of identity, a sense of belonging, and a recognition for past accomplishment. This article argues that these brief episodes of mistaken identity were spontaneous opportunities to preserve the personhood of persons with dementia.
A generalized cross‐tabulation matrix to compare soft‐classified maps at multiple resolutions

This paper addresses two grand challenges in the development of methods for Geographic Information Science (GIS). First, this paper presents techniques to compute a cross‐tabulation matrix for soft‐classified pixels. Second, it shows how to compute the cross‐tabulation matrix at multiple scales. The traditional approach to construct the cross‐tabulation matrix uses a Boolean operator to analyse pixels that are hard‐classified. For soft‐classified pixels, the contemporary approach uses a Multiplication operator; the fuzzy approach uses a Minimum operator; whereas this paper proposes a multiple‐resolution approach that uses a Composite operator. There are difficulties with the traditional, contemporary, and fuzzy methods of computing the cross‐tabulation matrix. The proposed multiple‐resolution method resolves those difficulties. Furthermore, the proposed method facilitates multiple‐resolution analysis, so it can examine how results change as a function of scale. The paper derives the equations to compute c...
Helicobacter species and in vivo models of gastrointestinal cancer

Although gastric cancer is an uncommon spontaneous neoplasm of laboratory animal species, rodents, and to a lesser extent other animals, have been used in chemically induced gastric carcinogenesis studies for decades. The role of diet in preventing or promoting gastric cancer has also been addressed in animal models. With the discovery of Helicobacter pylori and its causative role in gastric disease in humans, several animal models have been described for Helicobacter spp.-induced gastric disease, and in selected models, development of gastric and hepatic cancer. This review has attempted to highlight salient features of Helicobacter models and how these observations may be interpreted in light of data obtained from chemical carcinogenesis and nutritional studies. Further insight into mechanisms of Helicobacter-induced cancer should evolve by combining and comparing relevant features of these in vivo models.
Environmental Racial Inequality in Detroit

This study uses industrial pollution data from the Environmental Protection Agency's Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) and tract-level demographic data from the 2000 U.S. census to determine whether environmental racial inequality existed in the Detroit metropolitan area in the year 2000. This study differs from prior environmental inequality research in two important ways. First, it offers a positive rationale for using hazard proximity indicators. Second, it uses a distance decay modeling technique to estimate hazard proximity. This technique weights each hazard's estimated negative effect by distance such that the estimated negative effect declines continuously as distance from the hazard increases, thus providing more accurate estimates of proximity-based environmental risk than can be obtained using other variable construction techniques currently found in the literature. Using this technique, I find that Detroit's black neighborhoods were disproportionately burdened by TRI facility activity in 2000 and that neighborhood racial composition had a strong independent effect on neighborhood proximity to TRI activity.
Comparative Transduction Efficiency of AAV Vector Serotypes 1–6 in the Substantia Nigra and Striatum of the Primate Brain

Vectors derived from adeno-associated virus (AAV) are promising candidates for neural cell transduction in vivo because they are nonpathogenic and achieve long-term transduction in the central nervous system. AAV serotype 2 (AAV2) is the most widely used AAV vector in clinical trials based largely on its ability to transduce neural cells in the rodent and primate brain. Prior work in rodents suggests that other serotypes might be more efficient; however, a systematic evaluation of vector transduction efficiency has not yet been performed in the primate brain. In this study, AAV viral vectors of serotypes 1–6 with an enhanced green-fluorescent protein (GFP) reporter gene were generated at comparable titers, and injected in equal amounts into the brains of Chlorocebus sabaeus. Vector injections were placed in the substantia nigra (SN) and the caudate nucleus (CD). One month after injection, immunohistochemistry for GFP was performed and the total number of GFP+ cells was calculated using unbiased stereology. AAV5 was the most efficient vector, not only transducing significantly more cells than any other serotype, but also transducing both NeuN+ and glial-fibrillary-acidic protein positive (GFAP+) cells. These results suggest that AAV5 is a more effective vector than AAV2 at delivering potentially therapeutic transgenes to the nigrostriatal system of the primate brain.
A 13C NMR study of the solution dynamics of 1,3,5-triphenylbenzene; analysis of motion about the phenyl-phenyl bond

Abstract Carbon-13 spin-lattice relaxation rates were determined for 1,3,5-triphenylbenzene in CDCl3 over a temperature range of 86°C, and the results interpreted in terms of the molecular dynamics. Dynamic models appropriate to the problem, including the effects of anisotropic motion and internal jumping between two or four states, were derived and the results evaluated comparatively for several different models. Similarities in the activation energies based on temperature-dependent measurements for all carbons suggests that either fortuitously similar barriers characterize both overall and internal motion, or that all relaxation rates depend primarily on a single type of motion, with the individual T1 differences reflecting geometric factors. The latter interpretation leads to a rapid internal jump motion with a range of ∼60°, as would be predicted on the basis of theoretical conformational energy calculations. Application of a four-state jump model in which the jump rates are assumed to depend on the 0 and 90° theoretically determined rotational barriers allow an estimation of the rates of internal motion consistent with the relaxation data. The physical basis for complex terms which occur in the bistable (and tristable) jump models is discussed.
The impact of administratively necessary days on hospital costs.

When patients remain in the hospital because no room can be found for them in nursing homes, the additional days are called administratively necessary. This study examines the impact of administratively necessary days on hospital operating costs. With the hospital as the unit of analysis, cost is regressed on hospital characteristics. While administratively necessary days are not measured directly, independent variables include determinants of administratively necessary days, such as nursing-home bed supply and nursing-home reimbursement. Three findings are noteworthy: 1) as the nursing-home market loosens (i.e., beds per elderly increases), hospital costs fall, presumably because discharging patients to nursing homes becomes easier; 2) when Medicaid prospectively reimburses nursing homes, hospital costs increase; and 3) having its own skilled nursing facility lowers a hospital's acute-care costs in tight nursing-home markets but not loose ones.
Cataloging professionals in the digital environment: A content analysis of job descriptions

This study assesses the current state of responsibilities and skill sets required of cataloging professionals. It identifies emerging roles and competencies focusing on the digital environment and relates these to the established knowledge of traditional cataloging standards and practices. We conducted a content analysis of 349 job descriptions advertised in AutoCAT in 2005–2006. Multivariate techniques of cluster and multidimensional-scaling analyses were applied to the data. Analysis of job titles, required and preferred qualifications-skills, and responsibilities lends perspective to the roles that cataloging professionals play in the digital environment. Technological advances increasingly demand knowledge and skills related to electronic resource management, metadata creation, and computer and Web applications. Emerging knowledge and skill sets are increasingly being integrated into the core technical aspects of cataloging such as bibliographic and authority control and integrated library-system management. Management of cataloging functions is also in high demand. The results of the study provide insight on current and future curriculum design of library and information-science programs. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Palliative venting percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube is safe and effective in patients with malignant obstruction.

Background and study aims Obstructive symptoms are common in advanced malignancies. Venting percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (VPEG) tubes can be placed for palliation. The aim of this study was to determine the outcomes of VPEG placement in patients with advanced malignancy.
Measures of communication-related personality variables

(1992). Measures of communication‐related personality variables. Communication Education: Vol. 41, No. 4, pp. 405-414.
Novel synthetic access to 15- and 18-membered ring diaza-bibracchial lariat ethers (BiBLEs) and a study of sidearm-macroring cooperativity in cation binding

Abstract An extremely practical synthesis of 4,10-diaza-15-crown-5, 4,13-diaza-18-crown-6, and symmetrically N,N′ -disubstituted derivatives thereof, is presented along with the first survey of cation binding data for the 15-membered ring systems.
A new towing-block for side-trawling

A towing (or hook-up) block is used as a guide or fair-lead for net tow cables at the stern of a side trawler. It must attach to the cables quickly, hold them securely during the trawling run, and release them at the end of each run in order for the nets to be brought on board. The towing-block now in use is slow and dangerous to operate, requiring the fisherman to encircle the heavily-loaded cables with his arms in attaching the block, and it must often be pried apart to release. It has been the cause of many injuries. A new towing-block has been designed which automatically secures as it is dropped or pushed onto the cables, and which may be released by pulling a lanyard. A prototype has been built and field tested. It has been enthusiastically accepted by the fishermen who have used it, and has been operated successfully in the field since October, 1974.
Emission of Pollutants from Glycine–Nitrate Combustion Synthesis Processes

Four ceramic powders were produced using the glycine-nitrate process: lanthanum-doped barium cobaltite, ceria, magnesia, and strontium-doped lanthanum chromite (LSC). Glycine-to-nitrate ratios from 0.25 to 1 were investigated. During the combustion synthesis process, careful collection of process off-gas was followed by detailed gas analyses to determine product gas composition. All of the synthesis processes produced pure phase ceramic powders, but also produced criteria pollutant emissions levels that were significant enough (up to 4500 ppm of NO x and 9000 ppm of carbon monoxide) to warrant consideration. Equilibrium and chemical kinetic computations are used to determine the implications of the current findings. © 2007 The American Ceramic Society.
Capacity Limitations of a Classic M-Power Measure: A Modified Dual-Task Approach

A modified dual-task approach was employed with 7- to 9-year-olds in an effort to determine whether one of the classic M-power measures, the digit placement task, is indeed capacity-limited. To this end, a computerized version of a three-item digit placement task was administered in addition to three other computerized tasks: a four-item digit placement task, simple reaction time (RT) to a tone presented alone, and reaction time to a tone occurring during the performance of another three-item digit placement task. Careful examination of the data revealed that several critical assumptions concerning the use of the dual-task procedure were successfully met. This permitted a test of the extent to which dual-task RTs were predictive of accuracy in the harder, four-item digit placement task. Not only was this relationship significant, but after partialling out other possible sources of variance, a significant correlation remained, indicating that the digit placement task is indeed capacity-limited.
Vertically Aligned Pearl-like Carbon Nanotube Arrays for Fiber Spinning

This work reports the first synthesis of highly aligned, pearl-like carbon nanotube arrays through a chemical vapor deposition process. The unique morphology of these carbon nanotubes makes it possible to spin them into macroscopic fibers with excellent mechanical and electrical properties. In addition, the interesting hollow structure of these nanotubes opens new applications such as nanoreactors.
WHATIF: An open-source desktop application for extraction and management of the incidental findings from next-generation sequencing variant data

Abstract Background Identification and evaluation of incidental findings in patients following whole exome (WGS) or whole genome sequencing (WGS) is challenging for both practicing physicians and researchers. The American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) recently recommended a list of reportable incidental genetic findings. However, no informatics tools are currently available to support evaluation of incidental findings in next-generation sequencing data. Methods The Wisconsin Hierarchical Analysis Tool for Incidental Findings (WHATIF), was developed as a stand-alone Windows-based desktop executable, to support the interactive analysis of incidental findings in the context of the ACMG recommendations. WHATIF integrates the European Bioinformatics Institute Variant Effect Predictor (VEP) tool for biological interpretation and the National Center for Biotechnology Information ClinVar tool for clinical interpretation. Results An open-source desktop program was created to annotate incidental findings and present the results with a user-friendly interface. Further, a meaningful index (WHATIF Index) was devised for each gene to facilitate ranking of the relative importance of the variants and estimate the potential workload associated with further evaluation of the variants. Our WHATIF application is available at: http://tinyurl.com/WHATIF-SOFTWARE Conclusions The WHATIF application offers a user-friendly interface and allows users to investigate the extracted variant information efficiently and intuitively while always accessing the up to date information on variants via application programming interfaces (API) connections. WHATIF׳s highly flexible design and straightforward implementation aids users in customizing the source code to meet their own special needs.
Detection of Apoptotic Cells in Vitro: A Practical Standardized Experimental Protocol Using Human Fibroblasts for Initial Laboratory Studies

This technical report presents a practical experimental protocol using human fibroblasts that is useful for initiating in situ methods for detection of apoptotic cells in vitro. The protocol details the growth of cells in multichamber wells, and includes a negative control, two positive controls, and untreated fibroblasts to be evaluated for apoptosis localization. Technical tips on handling of solutions, cell culture designs, and separation of slides by treatment are valuable steps for the laboratory beginning such studies. The methods proposed are both time and cost effective.
Variance reduction for error estimation when classifying colon polyps from CT colonography

For cancer polyp detection based on CT colonography we investigate the sample variance of two methods for estimating the sensitivity and specificity. The goal is the reduction of sample variance for both error estimates, as a first step towards comparison with other detection schemes. Our detection scheme is based on a committee of support vector machines. The two estimates of sensitivity and specificity studied here are a smoothed bootstrap (the 632+ estimator), and ten-fold cross-validation. It is shown that the 632+ estimator generally has lower sample variance than the usual cross-validation estimator. When the number of nonpolyps in the training set is relatively small we obtain approximately 80% sensitivity and 50% specificity (for either method). On the other hand, when the number of nonpolyps in the training set is relatively large, estimated sensitivity (for either method) drops considerably. Finally, we consider the intertwined roles of relative sample sizes (polyp/nonpolyp), misclassification costs, and bias-variance reduction.
Effect of erythromycin on theophylline clearance in asthmatic children

Fifteen asthmatic children (mean age=14.5 years) who required daily theophylline therapy were studied for effect of erythromycin ethyl-succinate on theophylline clearance. After a one week caurse of EES, there was 25.8±18.4% reduction in theophylline clearance rate ( P P
Evidence‐Based Infection Control In Clinical Practice: If You Buy Clothes for the Emperor, Will He Wear Them?

In the fabled story of the Emperor's New Clothes, nakedness is ignored, denied, and accepted despite its obviousness. Similarly, we seemingly have ignored, denied, and accepted the risks of healthcare-associated infections (HCAI) in veterinary settings, despite common occurrence and obvious importance. Risks for HCAI in veterinary medicine cannot be denied and are increasingly apparent because of improved surveillance and reporting. We have an ethical responsibility to take all reasonable precautions to minimize foreseeable infectious disease hazards, and provide an environment in which personnel and patients are protected from infectious disease hazards so that care can be optimized. Yet, there is often a pronounced mismatch between what we know about risks for infectious disease and our actions. Veterinarians often fail to act on well-known, universally accepted risks for infectious disease in patients and in people contacting these animals. We must educate personnel so they are well-versed regarding agents commonly causing HCAI (including zoonotic infections), can identify patients with higher risks for shedding agents and for developing HCAI, have awareness of which procedures and management practices are associated with higher rates of HCAI, and have skill in applying effective prevention methods. We need to develop standardized benchmarks for risks of HCAI in veterinary settings, better understand efficacy and cost-effectiveness for prevention practices, and develop good educational materials that will promote an effective understanding of risks and prevention methods for HCAI among personnel and the public. We need to buy new clothes for the emperor and be sure he actually wears them!
A time course study demonstrating RNA stability in postmortem skin.

Abstract Knowledge of the factors regulating the rate of mRNA degradation, including postmortem delay, is important in determining the reliability of gene expression patterns in dermal tissue. Since RNA stability can be tissue dependent, this study evaluates the effect of postmortem interval on the integrity of total RNA or the levels of representative mRNA species in murine cutaneous tissue. Pieces of fresh skin tissue were excised for periods of 0–60 min from SKH-1 female hairless mice that were maintained at room temperature post-sacrifice. Total RNA was subsequently isolated and RNA integrity from each specimen was evaluated. Bioanalyzer profiles showed no apparent change in 28S/18S rRNA ratio or RNA integrity number at time points up to 60 min. Changes in mRNA expression levels of five selected genes were determined by real-time quantitative PCR. There were no statistical differences in the relative gene expressions of Ccnd1 , Hif1α , cMyc and Cyr61 as a function of postmortem interval. Our data suggest that the molecular quality of cutaneous tissue is well preserved for at least 60 min after death, which can be regarded as important information for consideration of the order for tissue procurement in in vivo studies and acute ex vivo dermal studies.
Air-side performance of brazed aluminum heat exchangers under dehumidifying conditions

Abstract An experimental study for air-side thermal-hydraulic performance of brazed aluminum heat exchangers under dehumidifying conditions has been performed. For 30 samples of louvered fin heat exchangers with different geometrical parameters, the heat transfer and pressure drop characteristics for wet surface were evaluated. The test was conducted for air-side Reynolds number in the range of 80–300 and tube-side water flow rate of 320 kg/h. The dry- and wet-bulb temperatures of the inlet air for heat exchangers were 27 and 19 °C, respectively and the inlet water temperature was 6 °C. The air-side thermal performance data for cooling and dehumidifying conditions were analyzed using effectiveness- NTU method for cross-flow heat exchanger with both fluids unmixed. The test results are reported, compared with those for the dry surface heat exchangers, in terms of sensible j factor and friction factor f , as functions of Reynolds number based on louver pitch. The correlations for j and f factors are developed within rms errors of ±16.9 and ±13.6%, respectively.
Hemispheric asymmetries in the perception of musical intervals as a function of musical experience and family handedness background.

Abstract This study examines the effect of musical experience and family handedness background on the categorization of musical intervals (two-note chords). Right-handed subjects, who were divided into four groups on the basis of musical training and presence (or absence) of left-handed family members, categorized musical intervals which were monaurally presented to left or right ear. The results, based on consistency and discreteness of categorization, showed: (1) Musicians' performance is superior to nonmusicians'; (2) musicians and nonmusicians differ significantly on their ear of preference; (3) family handedness background significantly affects ear of preference among musicians but not among nonmusicians.
Single and double ionization of atoms by Compton scattering

Abstract Recent developments in the theoretical treatment of Compton scattering from bound electrons are examined. These include the investigation of electron-electron effects in scattering from helium and the application of relativistic S matrix techniques to the process. The possibility of extending the use of Compton scattering to the investigation of correlations in other systems is discussed. The contributions of resonant terms, not usually considered in calculations of integrated cross sections, are examined.
Continuous axillary brachial plexus analgesia in a patient with severe hemophilia

Until now, the safety of continuous axillary brachial plexus block in a patient with hemophilia has not been reported. We describe the use of continuous axillary brachial plexus block for postoperative pain control in a patient with severe hemophilia after an elbow surgery.
Cigarette Smoking Disparities among Sexual Minority Cancer Survivors.

Objective Sexual minority (i.e., lesbian, gay, and bisexual) adults smoke cigarettes at higher rates than heterosexual adults. Smoking after receiving a cancer diagnosis is a major health concern, yet risk of continued smoking among sexual minority cancer survivors is as yet unknown. The current study examines current smoking among sexual minority vs. heterosexual adult cancer survivors.
Early hormonal changes affect the catabolic response to trauma.

OBJECTIVE: The authors sought to determine how temporary insulin suppression might alter the catabolic effects of cortisol, glucagon, and epinephrine. SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA: The metabolic responses to injury include hypermetabolism, accelerated net skeletal muscle protein breakdown, glucose intolerance, and insulin resistance. These alterations are associated with increased stress hormone concentrations. Insulin elaboration is usually suppressed immediately after an injury but is abundant later during convalescence. An infusion of hydrocortisone, glucagon, and epinephrine increases both stress hormone concentrations and insulin levels. It induces many of the metabolic alterations seen in critically ill patients, but it does not affect net muscle breakdown. METHODS: Seven healthy adults received a stress hormone infusion for 3 days in two separate studies. During one study they, also received an infusion of the somatostatin analogue, octreotide (0.005 micrograms/kg/min), to suppress insulin elaboration for the first 24 hours. During the other study (control), insulin was permitted to rise unchecked. RESULTS: Stress hormone concentrations, hypermetabolism (+/- 20% above basal), and leukocytosis were similar during both study periods. When insulin elaboration was temporarily suppressed, whole-body nitrogen loss was increased during the first 48 hours, and the efflux of amino acids from the forearm after 72 hours of infusion was 60% greater than the control level. CONCLUSIONS: Temporary insulin suppression during physiologic increases in stress hormone concentrations amplified whole-body nitrogen loss and led to the development of accelerated net skeletal muscle protein breakdown. Early hormonal changes after an injury may affect the development of later catabolic responses.
Adenosine nucleotide levels in cardiac arrest.

Abstract Adenosine nucleotides were determined in the myocardium of dogs in which cardiac arrest occurred as a result of hypoxia. When the results were compared to similar values for dogs without treatment, adenosine triphosphate (ATP), adenosine diphosphate (ADP), and adenosine monophosphate (AMP) were found to be diminished significantly during cardiac arrest.
High throughput Farrow re-samplers utilizing reduced complexity FIR filters

New VLSI high throughput parallel structures for arbitrary rate non integer ratio sample rate conversion are presented in the paper. High throughput Sample Rate Converters (SRC) find application in high data rate Software Defined Radio (SDR) where a large degree of flexibility is required to support varied sample rates. Parallel Signal Processing implementations offer higher throughput for lower clock speeds. This makes them ideal for high data rate modem implementations on FPGA's or in power limited ASIC designs. The Farrow structure offers unique advantages ideal for parallel implementation. These unique qualities allow the utilization of novel reduced complexity parallel finite-length impulse response (FIR) filters. The structures presented in this paper are suitable for implementation on application specific integrated circuits (ASIC) or field programmable gate arrays (FPGA). Results shown here are for implementation on FPGAs with varying orders of parallelization.
Fear of fat and the dream process: a correlational investigation.

Summary.-Dream characteristics of 27 women from a graduate couns&ng program were correlated with the Goldfarb Fear of Fat Scale. Significant positive correlations were obtained for scores wich recurrent nightmares (38) and dreaming one is dreaming (.40). An inverse relationship was noted between sexual content of dreams and scores for fear of fat (-,411. Results were discussed in terms of associations among dissociation, body image, and che dream process. Dreams involving themes of self-hatred, being watched and judged, being controlled, and an inabhty to self-nourish have been significantly related to the presence of an eating chsorder (Brink, Man, & Boldt, 1995). Anorexic dreamers showed fewer pleasurable themes, dreamt less often in color, and experienced dreams with distorted body images (Frayn, 1991). Goldfarb (1985) held that fear of being fat is a core dynamic in developing eating disorders. The present inquiry was done to delineate further the associations of fear of fat and the dream process. Method.-Twenty-seven women ranging in age from 23 to 50 years (M: 33.4, SD: 8.4) from a graduate program in counseling psychology were administered the Goldfarb Fear of Fat Scale (Goldfarb, 1985). They were also given the KJP Dream Inventory (Kroth, Jensen, & Haraldsson, 1997). The former has a test-retest reliabhty of .88 and the latter a split-half reliabhty of .79. In the present study a 2-wk. test-retest reliabhty was 39. Results.-Means and standard deviations for the 27 women appear in the table. Significant correlations with scores for fear of fat (p 1.05) were obtained in three areas: dreaming that one is dreaming (.40), recurrent nightmares (.38), and the presence of sexual content in dreams (-.41). Wornen with high scores on the Fear of Fat Scale tend to dream less often about sexual issues, have a greater frequency of recurrent nightmares, and report more often that they have dreams of themselves dreaming. Frayn's finding that their scores for fear of fat may be inversely correlated with dreaming in color was not supported (p 2 .05). Dreaming that one is dreaming underscores a tendency to watch and observe oneself in the dream state and parallels Brink's research that eat