cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Odden High School Fiasco: Examining the Intersection of Race, Class, and Values in Rural School Leadership and Policy.

The clash of values between the principal and the community has political ramifications for how policies are developed and implemented. This case study describes a situation in which an African American principal in a White-dominant but increasingly diverse rural school district tests the limits of a community by enforcing a tardy policy for the students. The tensions between the community and its wishes, on one hand, and the principal's enforcement of a new policy, on the other, converge to create a dilemma with enormous implications. In particular, the principal's implementation and regulation of policies are likely to have serious ramifications for how the principal will be embraced by the community. To address this issue and its broader implications, this case narrative contains topics selected to promote dialogue about the development of policies in White-dominant but increasingly diverse rural communities where the principals' race and values vary greatly from those of the parents and students.
Ultrafast Dynamics of Diatomic Ligand Binding to Nitrophorin 4

Nitrophorin 4 (NP4) is a heme protein that stores and delivers nitric oxide (NO) through pH-sensitive conformational change. This protein uses the ferric state of a highly ruffled heme to bind NO t...
Winter and early spring microclimate of a subalpine spruce-fir forest canopy in central New Hampshire

Abstract Recent evidence suggests that the decline of red spruce in the northeastern United States is directly related to freezing injury during winter. As part of a study on the relationship between red spruce decline and winter conditions, within-canopy micrometeorological measurements were taken in a subalpine red spruce (Picea rubens Sarg.)-balsam fir (Abies balsamea (L.) Mill.) forest on Mt Moosilauke in central New Hampshire during the winter and early spring of 1990 and during the late fall, winter and early spring of 1991. At 880- and 1010-m elevation in 1990 and at 880-m elevation in 1990–1991, solar radiation and relative humidity were recorded at one height within the canopy, and air temperature and wind speed were recorded at two heights within the canopy. Hourly mean and maximum temperatures were slightly greater in the upper canopy than in the lower canopy. Both the maximum (26.1°C) and minimum (−27.6°C) temperatures of the study were recorded in the upper canopy at the 1010-m elevation study site. The maximum temperature drop that occurred within one hour and also spanned freezing was 9°C. Temperature minima below −35°C and much greaer rapid temperature drops are believed to be necessary to cause or induced red spruce freezing injury. It appears that conditions during the study period were not severe enough to cause freezing injury; this conclusion was supported by the relatively small amount of visible injury observed in the periods following the study. These data on winter microclimate in a spruce-fir forest should be of value to investigators studying freezing injury and to other forest scientists.
Progestin therapy in endometrial hyperplasia

Abstract As adenocarcinoma of the endometrium appears to be increasing in frequency of detection, there has been an increase in the frequency of the endometrial hyperplasias. Histological criteria for the definitive diagnosis of adenomatous hyperplasias, a typical hyperplasia and adenocarcinoma in situ have been published which will correct some of the confusions concerning these lesions. This presentation deals with the frequency of these lesions as diagnosed by curettage, the precancerous stigma of these lesions when they are persistent in nature, the coexistence of these lesions with adenocarcinoma and the results of studies involving treatment with oral progestins. A comprehensive plan for the medical and surgical treatment of the dysplastic lesions of the endometrium is included.
Nonlinear electrodynamics and nonresonant microwave absorption in ceramic superconductors

We work out some of the consequences of a simple model for nonlinear electrodynamics and nonresonant microwave absorption in the high-temperature superconductors. The model assumes that these materials contain loops of weakly coupled superconducting grains. As the magnetic field is changed, a loop jumps from one energy state to another, thus experiencing phase slips. This produces both electromagnetic absorption through the normal shunt resistance in the junctions, and induced currents at high-order multiples of the applied frequency. The calculated power spectrum from a single loop, with and without a dc applied magnetic field, is in qualitative agreement with the measurements of Jeffries et al. (Phys. Rev. B 37, 9840 (1988)).
Susceptibility of European and north-west American conifers to the North American vascular pathogen Leptographium wageneri

Black stain root disease, caused by the fungus Leptographium wageneri, is a native disease of western North America. It primarily attacks several Pinus species and Pseudotsuga menziesii. Currently absent from Europe, any accidental introduction or the pathogen could pose a threat to the commercially grown conifers in Europe. To assess the extent of this threat, the susceptibility of nine European and North American conifer species to this disease was examined.
Design and optimization of magnetically-applied pressure-shear (MAPS) experiments on Sandia's Z machine

Magnetically-applied pressure-shear (MAPS) is a recently developed technique to directly measure material shear strength using magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) pulsed power platforms [1,2]. The method has been prototyped on Sandia's Veloce pulser, but was limited to strength measurements at modest pressures of ~10 GPa. Our present aim is to develop MAPS into a robust technique to measure strength at higher pressures achievable on Sandia's Z pulsed power machine.
The activation and elimination of H2 by Zr complexes

An ab initio analysis of the reaction of molecular hydrogen with the Zr-imido complex (NH2)2Zr NH is reported. Several interesting points are noted. The calculated stretching frequency of the ZrN bond in (NH2)2ZrNH is 860 cm−1 when properly scaled to account for electron correlation effects. The value supports the assignment of an infrared (IR) band at 865 cm−1 to the ZrN stretch of a tetrahydrofuran (THF) adduct of the putative reactive intermediate (NHSi′)2ZrNSi′. Although a weakly bound, H2 complex is found, the interaction is small (1.3 kcal mol−1) compared with experimentally characterized H2 complexes. Variations in bond lengths and intrinsic stretching frequencies demonstrate that π-bonding for amido (NH2) ligands can be substantial in a coordinatively saturated complex. H2 activation by the bis(amido)imido reactive intermediate is calculated to be significantly more favorable by the 1,2-addition of H2 across the ZrN bond to form the tris(amido)hydride than a sigma-bond metathesis pathway. The transition state (TS) for the addition of H2 across the ZrN bond of the bis(amido )imido complex is 9.8 kcal mol−1 above the charge transfer (CT) complex, (NH2)2ZrNH H2 at the MP2 level; the reverse process, extrusion of H2 from the tris(amido)hydride has a 28.2 kcal mol−1 barrier. The geometry of the four-center TS is of interest, deviating markedly from that of a square and being more “kite” shaped (i.e., one obtuse and three acute angles). Mulliken Bond Overlap Populations suggest that there is some interaction between the Zr and the H atom being transferred (Hl) in the various TSs studied. It is suggested that the interaction plays an important role in the ability of the Zrimido complexes, and indeed other high-valent, multiply bonded complexes, to activate XH (XH, C, Si, N, and H) bonds. The design of materials and catalysis precursors which enhance the metalhydrogen interaction in the TS could conceivably lead to lower chemical vapor deposition (CVD) processing temperatures and higher catalytic activities. © 1992 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Soliton collisions in optical birefringent fibers

Soliton collisions in birefringent optical fibers have been investigated numerically. It is found that soliton collisions can be divided into three kinds of behavior depending on the value of the linear birefringence. Both soliton mixing and soliton center-frequency shifts have been studied in detail. A new kind of soliton state has been found. The Cerenkov emission generated by soliton collision has also been found numerically.
Enzymic studies on ascitic tumors and their host's blood plasmas.

Abstract Otto Warburg's finding that the aldolase concentration in the ascitic fluid of the Ehrlich ascites carcinoma increases significantly upon anaerobic in vitro incubation was confirmed. dba thymoma ascitic cell suspensions from dba mice were investigated under similar conditions and the observations extended to include, in addition to aldolase, both isomerase and α-glycerophosphate dehydrogenase concentrations in the ascitic fluids from tumors of different ages and in the blood plasmas of the hosts. Comparative studies were made on the Ehrlich ascites carcinoma in strain C albino mice.
Inside Front Cover: Combinatorial Modification of Degradable Polymers Enables Transfection of Human Cells Comparable to Adenovirus (Adv. Mater. 19/2007)

On p. 2836, Daniel G. Anderson and co-workers report the development of end-modified poly(β-amino ester)s that are able to deliver DNA to primary human umbilical vein endothelial cells at levels comparable to adenovirus at a Multiplicity of Infection between 100 and 500, and two orders of magnitude better than the commonly used non-viral polymeric vector, poly(ethylene imine). Small structural changes were found to have dramatic effects on multiple steps of gene delivery including the DNA binding affinity, nanoparticle size, intracellular DNA uptake, and final protein expression. In vivo, these polymer modifications enhance DNA delivery to ovarian tumors.
Central metabolic fluxes in the endosperm of developing maize seeds and their implications for metabolic engineering

Abstract 14 C labeling experiments performed with kernel cultures showed that developing maize endosperm is more efficient than other non-photosynthetic tissues such as sunflower and maize embryos at converting maternally supplied substrates into biomass. To characterize the metabolic fluxes in endosperm, maize kernels were labeled to isotopic steady state using 13 C-labeled glucose. The resultant labeling in free metabolites and biomass was analyzed by NMR and GC–MS. After taking into account the labeling of substrates supplied by the metabolically active cob, the fluxes through central metabolism were quantified by computer-aided modeling. The flux map indicates that 51–69% of the ATP produced is used for biomass synthesis and up to 47% is expended in substrate cycling. These findings point to potential engineering targets for improving yield and increasing oil contents by, respectively, reducing substrate cycling and increasing the commitment of plastidic carbon into fatty acid synthesis at the level of pyruvate kinase.
Ethical and policy issues in pediatric genetics.

This article presents an overview to a special issue on ethical and policy issues in pediatric genetics. It discusses challenges to current practices and policies with regard to newborn screening, biobanking initiatives, and predictive genetic testing of minors. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Origin of second harmonic generation optical activity of a tryptophan derivative at the air/water interface

Second harmonic generation optical activity (SHG-OA) of chiral monolayers of the tryptophan derivative N(alpha)-(tert-butoxycarbonyl)-tryptophan (BOC-Trp) at an air/water interface has been studied in detail. In combination with previously reported experimental measurements with the fundamental frequency variant Planck's 'h/' omega=2.20 eV (lambda=564 nm), new measurements with lambda=564 and 800 nm fully characterize the nonlinear susceptibility tensors of chiral and achiral (racemic) monolayers under two-photon resonant and nonresonant conditions of the fundamental frequency. A realistic computational approach including semiempirical, intermediate neglect of differential overlap (ZINDO/S) calculations has been used to calculate the nonlinear susceptibilities of model achiral and chiral monolayers composed of indole chromophores. There is satisfactory agreement between calculated and observed nonlinear susceptibilities, which constrains certain structural parameters of the monolayers including the absolute orientation of the long molecular axis of indole at the air/water interface. The origin of SHG-OA of BOC-Trp monolayers is discussed with reference of two distinct mechanisms at the microscopic level, designated type I or chiral assembly and type II or electronic coupling. Both mechanisms are studied in detail within the framework of ZINDO/S calculations. The dominant effect for the BOC-Trp monolayers is type I, involving chiral assembly of indole chromophores.
T-condylar fractures of the distal humerus in children: does early motion affect final range of motion?

Abstract Purpose T-condylar fractures of the distal humerus are infrequent injuries in children. There are little data regarding outcomes in this age group. The adult literature demonstrates a high rate of postinjury stiffness. We describe a large series of T-condylar fractures in children and set out to identify factors that influence the postoperative range of motion (ROM) in children. Our hypothesis was that starting motion early (<3 weeks) would favorably influence the postoperative ROM. Methods Patients were identified based on the Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) code for ORIF of supracondylar distal humerus fractures with intracondylar extension (24546). Patient records and radiographs were reviewed to determine the demographics, fracture characteristics, surgical approach and fixation, and postoperative immobilization time. Our outcome measure was ROM in flexion/extension at 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and final follow-up. Patients were analyzed by Morrey’s criteria of −30° extension and 130° ...
Short stature and growth hormone use in pediatric hemodialysis patients.

End-stage renal disease (ESRD) causes growth retardation in children, and poor growth has been linked to worse outcomes. Recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) can increase growth velocity and final adult height in pediatric ESRD patients. We aimed to identify clinical predictors of short stature (height standard deviation score (Ht SDS) <−1.88) and rhGH use in short stature pediatric hemodialysis patients. In 2002, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Clinical Performances Measures (CPM) ESRD Project collected demographic, clinical and laboratory data as well as rhGH use on all in-center hemodialysis patients in the US aged <18 years. The odds ratios (OR) of short stature and rhGH use for individual predictors were determined by multivariate logistic regression modeling. Six-hundred and fifty-one (92%) of 710 eligible patients were included for analysis. Of these, 266 (41%) had Ht SDS <−1.88. After adjustment, short stature was predicted by congenital / urologic causes of ESRD ((OR 5.4; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.1–13.8; p <0.001) in patients aged 10–14 years; (OR 2.8; 95% CI, 1.5–5.4; p <0.01) in patients aged 15–18 years) and increasing years on dialysis ((OR 1.2; 95% CI, 1.1–1.4; p <0.01) in patients aged 10–14 years; (OR 1.2; 95% CI, 1.1–1.4; p <0.001) in patients aged 15–18 years). Of 266 short stature patients, 214 (80.5%) had data on rhGH use. Of these, 80 (37%) had been prescribed rhGH. After adjustment, use of rhGH in short-stature patients was predicted by white race (OR 2.1; 95% CI, 1.1–4.0; p <0.05), increasing years on dialysis (OR 1.13; 95% CI, 1.05–1.22; p <0.01) and patients with BMI <16.6 kg/m2 (OR 3.1; 95% CI, 1.2–8.4; p <0.05). Increasing age and level of intact parathyroid hormone were not associated with rhGH use among short stature patients. A significant proportion of pediatric hemodialysis patients have short stature. The majority of short-stature patients are not receiving rhGH. Patients with short stature who are white, have longer durations on dialysis and have lower BMI are more likely to receive rhGH.
Life-Forms in Meteorites: Origin of Life-like Forms in Carbonaceous Chondrites Introduction

Life-Forms in Meteorites: Origin of Life-like Forms in Carbonaceous Chondrites Introduction
Changes in Rapid-Guessing Behavior over a Series of Assessments.

Abstract A series of 8 tests was administered to university students over 4 weeks for program assessment purposes. The stakes of these tests were low for students; they received course points based on test completion, not test performance. Tests were administered in a counterbalanced order across 2 administrations. Response time effort, a measure of the proportion of items on which solution behavior rather than rapid-guessing behavior was used, was higher when a test was administered in the 1st week. Test scores were also higher. Differences between Week 1 and Week 4 test scores decreased when the test was scored with an effort-moderated model that took into account whether the student used solution or rapid-guessing behavior. Differences further decreased when students who used rapid-guessing on 5 or more of the 30 items were filtered from the data set.
Standard state and thermodynamic self‐consistency

It is pointed out that even though the standard state for solutions is a fictitious state, it nonetheless should be thermodynamically self-consistent. Using a volumetric constraint, it is shown that the biochemical standard state concentration of 1M is too high for macromolecules like proteins and nucleic acids that it violates volumetric self-consistency. Also, at 1 M standard state, the mole fraction of these macromolecular solutes is not the commonly held value of 1/55.5, but rather a meaningless negative number. Thus, the ideal mixing entropy (also called cratic entropy) cannot be meaningfully calculated for macromolecules at such a standard state. The relevance of this conclusion to the interpretation of standard bimolecular binding entropy is discussed.
A Relational Model of How High-Performance Work Systems Work

In this paper we explore a causal mechanism through which high-performance work systems contribute to performance outcomes. We propose that high-performance work systems can improve organizational performance by strengthening relationships among employees who perform distinct functions, a pathway that is expected to be particularly important in settings characterized by highly interdependent work. In a nine-hospital study of patient care, we identify high-performance work practices that positively predict the strength of relational coordination among doctors, nurses, physical therapists, social workers, and case managers, in turn predicting quality and efficiency outcomes for their patients. Relational coordination mediates the association between these high-performance work practices and outcomes, suggesting a relational pathway through which high-performance work systems work.
Extension properties of order continuous functionals and applications to the theory of Banach lattices

Abstract Let E be a Banach lattice and E 0 an ideal of E . Let f be a positive norm-bounded order continuous functional on E 0 . Then f has a norm preserving positive order continuous extension to E . Moreover, there exists a minimum extension among all such extensions. This result enables us to obtain an isometric lattice homomorphism from ( E 0 ) ∗ n into E ∗ n . As an application, we prove that if F is a Banach lattice and if E 0 is the ideal generated by F in E (= F ∗∗ ), then ( E 0 ) ∗ n can be identified with F ∗ in the canonical sense. Certain extension properties of order continuous functionals thus follow. Banach lattices with strictly monotone norm are also investigated.
The Relationship between Delivered Ozone Dose and Functional Responses in Humans

Abstract The relationship between delivered ozone dose and variability of pulmonary function response to ozone was investigated in 20 young, healthy, nonsmoking male volunteers. The subjects were exposed to 0.4 ppm ozone for 1 hr during which time they walked on a treadmill at a speed and inclination sufficient to induce a minute ventilation ( V E ) of 20 liter/min/m 2 body surface area. Prior to and immediately following exposure spirometric and plethysmographic measurements of lung function were made. In addition, 5 min after the beginning of exposure and 5 min before the end of exposure the uptake efficiency of ozone in the upper and lower respiratory tract, spontaneous tidal volume ( V t ). and breathing frequency ( f ) were measured. During exposure subjects wore a noseclip in order to constrain breathing to the oral pathway. Uptake efficiencies in the upper ( F URT ) and lower ( F LRT ) respiratory tracts were determined by continuously drawing air from the posterior pharynx into a rapidly responding chemiluminescent ozone analyzer. Linear regression models were constructed to examine the relationships between pulmonary function and breathing pattern responses, and the instantaneous and average values of F LRT and V E . Initial V E and average V E ([formula]) were found to be significant predictors of FEV 1 decrement ( p = 0.011 and p = 0.006, respectively). In addition the cross-product term F LRT × [formula] was a significant predictor of V t decrement ( p = 0.02). These results suggest that delivered dose, as determined primarily by V E , is responsible for some of the intersubject variability of ozone response. The failure of F LRT to play a significant role may be due to the fact that it primarily reflects ozone uptake in the lung periphery distal to anatomical sites where the ozone response may be mediated.
Fair use, DRM, and trusted computing

How can DRM architectures protect historical copyright limitations like fair use while ensuring the security and property interests of copyright owners?
Rheumatoid arthritis databases

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) registers and databases serve as data storage for longitudinal observational studies. This article describes selected computerized RA databases from the United States and Europe and focuses on their novel observations concerning long-term outcomes of RA.
Effects of chemical inhomogeneities on grain growth and microstructure in Al2O3

Effects of chemical inhomogeneities and single-crystal seeds on normal and discontinuous grain growth were investigated in both undoped and MgO-doped Al2O3. The chemical impurities in the samples were exsolved at a lower temperature than the sintering temperature and measured by SEM/EDS to determine the correlation between the distribution of impurities and the microstructure in Al2O3. A feature of this study was the use of clean-room processing and firing procedures to maintain sample composition at the levels initially present in the starting powders. As the local concentrations of chemical impurities (i.e., Si, Ca) increased, the grain boundary–grain boundary dihedral angle distribution widened, with many angles at 180°, the grain-size distribution widened, and pore–boundary separation was enhanced. Discontinuous grain growth was observed in regions of undoped Al2O3 containing the largest Ca and Si concentrations. It is suggested that doping with MgO solute reduces the effects of impurities on grain growth by increasing the bulk solubility and decreasing interfacial segregation of impurities, especially Si, and by narrowing the distribution of grain boundary–grain boundary dihedral angles.
Distribution and Biodegradation Potential of Buried Oil on a Coastal Headland Beach

ABSTRACT Buried and surface MC252 oil from the intertidal on a coastal headland beach was sampled using a randomized block methodology. Weathering indices contrasting alkylated 3- (phenanthrenes) a...
Making economic adjustment work: The politics of policy implementation

This article identifies tentative lessons about successful political management of stabilization and structural adjustment policies in developing countries. It addresses three basic questions: 1) What is the purpose of stabilization and structural adjustment policies and what specific measures are usually undertaken? 2) Who, in theory, is supposed to benefit or lose from such policies and who, in actual practice, supports or opposes them? 3) How have governments in developing countries successfully managed the supporters and opponents of adjustment policies?
Weight matters: physical and psychosocial well being of persons with spinal cord injury in relation to body mass index.

Chen Y, Cao Y, Allen V, Richards JS. Weight matters: physical and psychosocial well being of persons with spinal cord injury in relation to body mass index. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2011;92:391-8. Objective: To examine the relationship of body mass index (BMI) with multiple health indices among persons with spinal cord injury (SCI). Design: Multicenter cross-sectional study. Setting: A total of 16 SCI Model Systems throughout the United States. Participants: A total of 1107 men and 274 women (N1381), mean age SD, 43.114.6 years (tetraplegia, 56.9%; complete injuries, 50.2%; mean years since injury SD, 7.88.6), who received follow-up in 2006 to 2009, were classified into 1 of the 4 BMI categories—underweight, nor- mal, overweight, and obese—based on self-reported height and measured weight. Interventions: Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures: Rehospitalization, pain, self- perceived health, FIM, Craig Handicap Assessment and Re- porting Technique, Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), and the Diener's Satisfaction With Life Scale (SWLS). Results: The prevalence of underweight, overweight, and obesity was 7.5%, 31.4%, and 22.1%, respectively, which varied by age, sex, marital status, education, and neurologic impairment. For those with tetraplegia and functional motor- complete injuries, rehospitalization occurred more frequently among obese persons, while days rehospitalized were the lon- gest among underweight persons. Pain was more severe in those classified as obese. Community mobility was lower in the underweight, overweight, and obese groups than in those with normal weight. There was no significant association between BMI and self-perceived health, FIM, PHQ-9, and SWLS be- yond the effect of neurologic impairment. Conclusions: Prevention and intervention directed at those significantly overweight or underweight deserve consideration as priorities in the continuity of care for persons with SCI. Efforts should be targeted particularly to those at higher risk,
Diagnosis of congenital nephrotic syndrome: a clinical and a pathologic challenge.

The diagnosis of congenital nephrotic syndrome (NS) is a challenge both for clinicians and for pathologists. We observed three cases in a series of 50 children with NS nonresponsive to therapy, corresponding to one case each of minimal change disease, Finnish-type glomerulopathy, and diffuse mesangial sclerosis--two histopathologic studies were performed in each case. The age at presentation did not predict the diagnosis nor the prognosis: The NS presented at 7 months of age in the patient with diffuse mesangial sclerosis, but it was present at birth in the patient with minimal change disease. In these 2 patients the final diagnosis was made with the first renal biopsy. Conversely, in the patient with Finnish-type glomerulopathy, the diagnosis was only possible in the repeat biopsy, as the early pathologic changes were nonspecific. This study shows the essential role of the renal biopsy in determining the etiologic diagnosis and prognosis in patients with congenital nephrotic syndrome.
Plasma shielding, Vlasov's equation, and the unperturbed-orbits technique

Abstract The common textbook derivation of collisionless plasma shielding is technically invalid. Trapped particles are crucial to shielding, but the trapped-particle distribution does not reach a steady state before the trapped particles bounce, thereby violating the unperturbed-orbit technique used in the derivation. However, physical arguments indicate that the final answer is nonetheless often correct.
Role of repeat staging laparoscopy in locoregionally advanced gastric or gastroesophageal cancer after neoadjuvant therapy.

Introduction Staging laparoscopy (SL) can identify occult, subradiographic metastatic (M1) disease in patients with gastric or gastroesophageal (G/GEJ) cancer who are unlikely to benefit from gastrectomy. The purpose of this study is to determine the yield of repeat SL following neoadjuvant therapy for G/GEJ adenocarcinoma after initial negative pretreatment SL.
One-step Melt Synthesis of Water Soluble, Photoluminescent, Surface-Oxidized Silicon Nanoparticles for Cellular Imaging Applications.

We have developed a versatile, one-step melt synthesis of water-soluble, highly emissive silicon nanoparticles using bifunctional, low-melting solids (such as glutaric acid) as reaction media. Characterization through transmission electron microscopy, selected area electron diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy shows that the one-step melt synthesis produces nanoscale Si cores surrounded by a silicon oxide shell. Analysis of the nanoparticle surface using FT-IR, zeta potential, and gel electrophoresis indicates that the bifunctional ligand used in the one-step synthesis is grafted onto the nanoparticle, which allows for tuning of the particle surface charge, solubility, and functionality. Photoluminescence spectra of the as-prepared glutaric acid-synthesized silicon nanoparticles show an intense blue−green emission with a short (ns) lifetime suitable for biological imaging. These nanoparticles are found to be stable in biological media and have been used to examine cellular...
Influence of defensive behavior of Eastern Chipmunks and Gray Squirrels (Rodentia: Sciuridae) on feeding success of Aedes triseriatus (Diptera: Culicidae)

The defensive behavior of Eastern Chipmunks, Tamias striatus , and Gray Squirrels, Sciurus carolinensis , against the mosquito Aedes Triseriatus was studied under large-cage conditions. Both rodent species had broad defensive behavior repertoires, but only a subset of these behaviors was effective in preventing mosquito feeding. Frequency of defensive behavior increased with increasing mosquito density during experiments, but at a lower rate than predicted by a linear model. In general, Eastern Chipmunks were tolerant of mosquito feeding whereas Gray Squirrels were not, although mosquito feeding success on both host species tended to decrease as mosquito density increased. Few mosquitoes were killed by these day-active rodents, and none were ingested. Estimated attraction rates of Ae. triseriatus under field conditions allowed the prediction that mosquito feeding success would be high on chipmunks but lower on squirrels. The significance of these results to transmission of La Crosse virus is discussed.
Electron-phonon contribution to the thermopower of metals

A theorem is proved for the thermopower when limited by the electron-phonon interaction. It is shown for simple metals that the thermopower is given by the Mott formula plus a correction term. The correction term is evaluated and shown to be small for simple metals. Thus we are able to show that Mott's formula is valid for phonon scattering by electrons, even when the energy dependence of the phonons is taken into account. This proof extends our earlier result, which only applied to static impurities, and to phonons in the adiabatic approximation.
The autoxidation of hydroxylamine

Abstract Aqueous solutions of hydroxylamine undergo deterioration in contact with atmospheric oxygen. The autoxidation process is markedly catalysed by trace quantities of dissolved metals, particularly copper. Such solutions can be stabilized by addition of metal deactivators such as potassium ethyl xanthate, 8-hydroxyquinoline, dithizone and polyethyleneamines, which serve as excellent complexing agents for either Cu(I) or Cu(II).
Perfecting Patient Care: Integrating Principles of Process Redesign in Nursing Homes

The authors describe the principles of Perfecting Patient Care (PPC) and provide case examples of work redesign and measurable outcomes at one nursing home. The impact of PPC was evaluated by examining employee, family, and resident satisfaction scores. PPC helped with process redesign to eliminate linen shortages and to decrease the resident fall rate. For the employee job satisfaction survey, improved scores resulted for nine questions; six scores were similar to baseline; and four scores were lower than at baseline. For the family satisfaction survey improved scores resulted for 17 questions; five scores were similar to those at baseline; and no scores were lower than baseline. For the resident satisfaction survey scores on 13 questions improved compared to baseline; eight scores were similar to those at baseline; and one score was lower than baseline. Thus, we found using PPC, improvements in work processes were implemented at this pilot facility.
Profilometric and Morphometric Response of Murine Skin to Cosmeceutical Agents

Objective To investigate whether topical antiaging compounds can reduce wrinkle depth as noted at replica profilometry with comparable changes in histologic findings in hairless mice. Methods Commercial retinoic acid cream, a peptide lotion, and a soy cream were applied to the dorsal skin for 4 weeks. Silicone-negative replicas of treated and untreated skin surface were photographed and evaluated for traditional features of surface roughness. Skin samples were processed using histomorphometry and immunohistochemistry of proliferating cell nuclear antigen. Quantitative light microscopic data were acquired for estimating replication of epidermal keratinocytes, epidermal thickness, and depth of dermal collagen bundles. Results Data were analyzed by comparing means with 1-way analysis of variance, and significant changes in all measurements were noted. Augmented keratinocyte proliferation and thickening of viable epidermis were observed with all 3 compounds, although a greater effect was found in the retinoic acid and peptide treatment groups. A similar trend was noted with respect to widening of the collagen layer. Epidermal surface roughness manifested maximum smoothing after treatment with the peptide compound. Conclusion The pronounced effects noted with all 3 compounds indicate that topical agents other than retinoic acid may have comparative stimulating effects on the skin in nonirradiated mice.
Shortest path planning on topographical maps

This paper introduces a new algorithm for quickly answering repetitive least-cost queries between pairs of points on the Earth's surface as represented by digital topographical maps. The algorithm uses a three-step process; preprocessing, geometrically modified Dijkstra search, and postprocessing. The preprocessing step computes and saves highly valuable global information that describes the underlying geometry of the terrain. The search step solves shortest path queries using a modified Dijkstra algorithm that takes advantage of the preprocessed information to "jump" quickly across flat terrain and decide whether a path should go over or through a high-cost region. The final step is a path improvement process that straightens and globally improves the path. Our algorithm partitions the search space into free regions and obstacle regions. However, unlike other algorithms using this approach, our algorithm keeps the option of passing through an obstacle region.
GREENHOUSE GASES FROM DEFORESTATION IN BRAZILIAN AMAZONIA: NET COMMITTED EMISSIONS

Deforestation in Brazilian Amazonia is a significant source of greenhouse gases today and, with almost 90% of the originally forested area still uncleared, is a very large potential source of future emissions. The 1990 rate of loss of forest (13.8 × 103 km2/year) and cerrado savanna (approximately 5 × 103 km2/year) was responsible for releasing approximately 261 × 106 metric tons of carbon (106 t C) in the form of CO2, or 274–285 × 106 t of CO2-equivalent C considering IPCC 1994 global warming potentials for trace gases over a 100-year horizon. These calculations consider conversion to a landscape of agriculture, productive pasture, degraded pasture, secondary forest, and regenerated forest in the proportions corresponding to the equilibrium condition implied by current land-use patterns. Emissions are expressed as ‘net committed emissions’, or the gases released over a period of years as the carbon stock in each hectare deforested approaches a new equilibrium in the landscape that replaces the original forest. For low and high trace gas scenarios, respectively, 1990 clearing produced net committed emissions (in 106 t of gas) of 957–958 for CO2, 1.10–1.42 for CH4, 28–35 for CO, 0.06–0.16 for N2O, 0.74–0.74 for NOx and 0.58–1.16 for non-methane hydrocarbons.
An Analysis of Test Bias and Differential Item Functioning due to Race on the Mattis Dementia Rating Scale

The Mattis Dementia Rating Scale (MDRS) is a commonly used cognitive measure designed to assess the course of decline in progressive dementias. However, little information is available about possible systematic racial bias on the items presented in this test. We investigated race as a potential source of test bias and differential item functioning in 40 pairs of African American and Caucasian dementia patients (N = 80), matched on age, education, and gender. Principal component analysis revealed similar patterns and magnitudes across component loadings for each racial group, indicating no clear evidence of test bias on account of race. Results of an item analysis of the MDRS revealed differential item functioning across groups on only 4 of 36 items, which may potentially be dropped to produce a modified MDRS that may be less sensitive to cultural factors. Given the absence of test bias because of race, the observed racial differences on the total MDRS score are most likely associated with group differences in dementia severity. We conclude that the MDRS shows no appreciable evidence of test bias and minimal differential item functioning (item bias) because of race, suggesting that the MDRS may be used in both African American and Caucasian dementia patients to assess dementia severity.
Combining subjective probabilities and data in training markov logic networks

Markov logic is a rich language that allows one to specify a knowledge base as a set of weighted first-order logic formulas, and to define a probability distribution over truth assignments to ground atoms using this knowledge base. Usually, the weight of a formula cannot be related to the probability of the formula without taking into account the weights of the other formulas. In general, this is not an issue, since the weights are learned from training data. However, in many domains (e.g. healthcare, dependable systems, etc.), only little or no training data may be available, but one has access to a domain expert whose knowledge is available in the form of subjective probabilities. Within the framework of Bayesian statistics, we present a formalism for using a domain expert's knowledge for weight learning. Our approach defines priors that are different from and more general than previously used Gaussian priors over weights. We show how one can learn weights in an MLN by combining subjective probabilities and training data, without requiring that the domain expert provides consistent knowledge. Additionally, we also provide a formalism for capturing conditional subjective probabilities, which are often easier to obtain and more reliable than non-conditional probabilities. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach by extensive experiments in a domain that models failure dependencies in a cyber-physical system. Moreover, we demonstrate the advantages of using our proposed prior over that of using non-zero mean Gaussian priors in a commonly cited social network MLN testbed.
The American national interest and global public goods

Since the end of the Cold War, Americans have been divided over how to be involved with the rest of the world. In the wake of the 11 September terrorist attacks, the debate between those who favour a unilateral foreign policy and those who advocate a multilateral approach has been brought to the fore in American politics and the media. In this article, Joseph Nye proposes a conception of the American national interest grounded in multilateralism. He argues that, although the United States remains the world's leading power, it cannot act alone to solve global problems such as transnational terrorism, the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and global warming. Although the United States is the only country in a position to take the lead in protecting ‘global public goods’, such as an open international economic system and international stability, it will maintain its current predominance only if it works to establish international consensus on issues of global importance.
Cockatiels (Nymphicus hollandicus) reject very low levels of plant secondary compounds

The rejection thresholds of caged cockatiels (Nymphicus hollandicus) were tested to determine their sensitivity to plant secondary compounds. Both alkaloids and tannins were tested using a two-bottle method in which purified water was always available in one bottle and an aqueous test solution was available in the other bottle. After each 3-day experimental period, three consumption parameters were recorded (test solution-side consumption, water-side consumption, and a ratio of test solution-side consumption to total consumption). Repeated test periods were conducted with increasingly concentrated test solutions of each compound until one or more consumption parameters were significantly (P
Utilizing simulation to evaluate production line performance under varying demand conditions

Determining how a new production cell will function is problematic and can lead to disastrous results if done incorrectly. Discrete-event simulation can provide information on how a line will function before, during, and after the line is in operation. A simulation model can also provide a visual animation of the line to see how product will flow through the line. This paper discusses the development and analysis of a simulation model of a new manufacturing line. The manufacturing cell is a new motor assembly cell. An analysis of the capability of the line for varying demand levels was conducted for the two main motor types produced on the line. An ARENA ® simulation model was developed, verified, and validated to determine the daily production and potential problem areas for the various demand levels. The results show that at all but one demand level, the line is capable of producing to within one unit of customer demand if the required number of workers is present. At the highest demand level, the simulation results suggest that the line is not capable of meeting demand. Additional analysis indicates that multiple workstations could prove problematic with minor fluctuations in demand. Problematic workstations were identified for each assembly area and for the line as a whole.
Leaf‐cutting ant preferences for five native tropical plantation tree species growing under different light conditions

To examine the susceptibility of five Costa Rican tree species to leaf-cutter ants (Atta cephalotes L.: Formicidae, Attini), young and mature leaves from trees that were grown in a plantation under full sun and partial shade were offered to six leaf-cutter colonies located in full sun and six in partial shade. In addition to offering leaf disks to the ants, we offered large pieces of leaves to assess the effect of cutting leaves on food choices. Leaf-cutters responded differently to each plant species, preferring Virola koschyni Warburg (Myristicaceae) and Hyeronima alchorneoides Allemao (Euphorbiaceae) over Stryphnodendrum microstachyum Poeppig & Endlicher (Mimosoideae), Pentaclethra macroloba Willdenow (Fabaceae) and Vochysia ferruginea Martius (Vochysiaceae). In agreement with previous studies, interspecific differences among the tree species in water and saponin content appeared to account for the observed ant preferences among the five tree species: leaf-cutter ants preferred leaves and disks with more water and less saponins and the five tree species varied significantly in these traits. An observed positive correlation between preference and phenolic/nitrogen ratio appears to be spurious, and is instead due to a negative correlation between water content and nitrogen content. For the first time, Atta nest location has been shown to affect consumption: nests located in partial shade removed more leaf material than those from the sun plots. However, nest location had no effect on preference ranking of the tree species tested. Pieces of leaves from all the tree species grown in partial shade were significantly more removed than those trees grown in full sun. Leaf age, toughness, leaf specific weights, ant activity, and colony were not correlated with food choices. Because of the observed preferences, the five tree species should not be considered as equal candidates for plantation purposes. However, complete characterization of the candidate status of tree species for plantations in the neotropics must include information on the ability of such species to tolerate pest attacks in addition to their natural defenses to attack.
Spatial fault simulation and the saturation effect

Stochastic fault simulation processes have been used successfully to generate fault distributions for evaluating fault tolerant VLSI designs. In one of these processes, faults in subareas of integrated circuits are simulated as a function of time. This leads to an exponential increase of the average number of faults in the area segments of the integrated circuits. It was discovered analytically that by forcing a correlation between the number of faults in adjacent area segments, the increase in the number of faults with time exceeds exponential growth and exhibits a singularity. At the singularity point the fault population becomes infinite. The time associated with this singularity has been denoted as 'saturation time'. >
Electrical Conduction Between the Right Atrium and the Left Atrium via the Musculature of the Coronary Sinus

Background—The purpose of this study was to determine whether the coronary sinus (CS) musculature has electrical connections to the right atrium (RA) and left atrium (LA) and forms an RA-LA connection. Methods and Results—Six excised dog hearts were perfused in a Langendorff preparation. A 20-electrode catheter (2-4-2-mm spacing center to center) was placed along the CS. Excision of the pulmonary veins provided access to the LA, and a second 20-electrode catheter was placed along the LA endocardium opposite the CS catheter. An incision opened the CS longitudinally, and microelectrodes were inserted into the CS musculature and adjacent LA myocardium. Continuous CS musculature was visible along a 35±9-mm length of the CS beginning at the ostium. During lateral LA pacing, CS electrodes recorded double potentials, a rounded, low-frequency potential followed by a sharp potential. The rounded initial potential propagated in the lateral-to-septal direction and represented “far-field” LA activation (timing coinci...
Systemic Therapy for Merkel Cell Carcinoma: What’s on the Horizon?

Merkel cell carcinoma is an aggressive neuroendocrine skin cancer that usually affects elderly patients. Despite being uncommon, incidence has been steadily increasing over the last two decades, likely due to increased awareness, better diagnostic methods and aging of the population. It is currently one of the most lethal cutaneous malignancies, with a five-year overall survival of approximately 50%. With the better understanding of the molecular pathways that lead to the development of Merkel cell carcinoma, there has been an increasing excitement and optimism surrounding novel targeted therapies, in particular to immunotherapy. Some of the concepts surrounding the novel targeted therapies and currently ongoing clinical trials are reviewed here.