cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sucrose in aqueous solution revisited, Part 2: adaptively biased molecular dynamics simulations and computational analysis of NMR relaxation.

We report 100 ns molecular dynamics simulations, at various temperatures, of sucrose in water (with concentrations of sucrose ranging from 0.02 to 4M), and in a 7:3 water-DMSO mixture. Convergence of the resulting conformational ensembles was checked using adaptive-biased simulations along the glycosidic Φ and ψ torsion angles. NMR relaxation parameters, including longitudinal (R1) and transverse (R2) relaxation rates, nuclear Overhauser enhancements (NOE), and generalized order parameter (S2) were computed from the resulting time-correlation functions. The amplitude and time scales of molecular motions change with temperature and concentration in ways that track closely with experimental results, and are consistent with a model in which sucrose conformational fluctuations are limited (with 80–90% of the conformations having ϕ−ψ values within 20° of an average conformation), but with some important differences in conformation between pure water and DMSO-water mixtures. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 97: 289–302, 2012.
The Influence of Board Diversity, Board Diversity Policies and Practices, and Board Inclusion Behaviors on Nonprofit Governance Practices

This study examines how and when nonprofit board performance is impacted by board diversity. Specifically, we investigate board diversity policies and practices as well as board inclusion behaviors as mediating mechanisms for the influence of age, gender, and racial/ethnic diversity of the board on effective board governance practices. The empirical analysis, using a sample of 1,456 nonprofit board chief executive officers, finds that board governance practices are directly influenced by the gender and racial diversity of the board and that board inclusion behaviors together with diversity policies and practices mediate the influence of the board’s gender and racial diversity on internal and external governance practices. Additionally, we found an interaction effect that indicates when boards have greater gender diversity, the negative impact of racial diversity on governance practices is mitigated. The findings suggest that board governance can be improved with more diverse membership, but only if the board behaves inclusively and there are policies and practices in place to allow the diverse members to have an impact.
Reconstruction of a large upper tibial wound extending to the knee with a free latissimus dorsi flap: Optimizing the outcomes

Despite recent advances in free tissue transfer, management of a large upper tibial wound extending to the knee can be challenging for reconstructive surgeons. In this report, we present two cases where a free latissimus dorsi flap was used for successful soft-tissue coverage of the wound for limb salvage with optimal reconstructive outcomes. Our unique recipient vessel selection allows more effective free-tissue transfer without using a vein graft. Our preferred flap inset technique with multiple interrupted horizontal mattress sutures over a closed suction drain leads to an improvement of the initial contour of soft-tissue coverage that may contribute to the final optimized outcome in the lower-extremity reconstruction with or without a further debulking procedure.
E-books: a report on the state of the market

This informative session featured presentations by Mark Walter, a leading analyst in the field of electronic publishing and Editor with Seybold Publications, and Nancy J. Gibbs, Head of Acquisition...
The corrosion of materials in water irradiated by 800 MeV protons

Abstract A method for measuring the real-time corrosion rates for Alloy 718, stainless steels (SS) 304L and 316L nuclear grade (NG), aluminum alloys 5052 (Al5052) and 6061 (Al6061), copper (Cu), tantalum (Ta), and tungsten (W) in two separate water systems that were irradiated by 800 MeV protons is presented. The first water system was fabricated entirely of 304 SS, thoroughly cleaned before operation, and employed hydrogen water chemistry (HWC) to mitigate the formation of some of the radiolysis products. The samples were adequately shielded from the irradiation cavity such that only the effects of water chemistry were investigated. Over the course of that irradiation period the corrosion rates for 304L SS, 316L-NG SS, Alloy 718, and Ta were less than 0.12 μm/yr. For Al6061 and Al5052, the corrosion rates were of the order of 0.50–2.0 μm/yr. The corrosion rate of W was relatively high between 5.0 and 30 μm/yr. The second water system, fabricated from copper piping and steel components, was not cleaned prior to operation, and employed no HWC. In comparison to the other system, the corrosion rates in the copper/steel system were 1–3 orders of magnitude higher. These results are discussed in terms of water radiolysis and water impurity levels.
Sonography of Testicular Tumors and Tumor-Like Conditions: A Radiologic-Pathologic Correlation

Malignant testicular tumors are an important clinical problem, and ultrasound is the most frequently ordered imaging modality once a palpable scrotal mass is discovered. Numerous articles discussing the role of ultrasound in the evaluation of testicular pathology have confirmed the value of preoperative imaging. This article presents a review of imaging literature regarding testicular neoplasms, with an emphasis on correlation of gross and microscopic tumor pathology and imaging findings. Also included are sections on anatomy, epidemiology, histogenesis, and tumor markers.
Ultrastructural studies on inclusion formation and virus occlusion in nuclear polyhedrosis and granulosis virus-infected cells of Trichoplusia ni (Hübner).

A description is given of the formation of viral and virus-free inclusions in nuclear polyhedrosis virus (NPV) infected cells of Trichoplusia ni. A relationship between “membrane-like” profiles, fibrous material, and inclusion bodies was shown which is believed to reveal a possible process by which protein subunits are assembled into a growing crystal. During development, the fibers were first observed forming between existing “membrane-like” profiles. The origin of the profiles is unknown, but they are of composite structure not previously shown in biological systems. Observations suggest that the profiles are related to or intimately associated with tubules having a unit membrane structure; these may possibly be derived from the nuclear membrane. The fibrous material associated with profiles also appears to be fused with the surface of growing crystals. A partly ordered structure exhibiting a line periodicity similar to that of completed crystals can be seen in the fibrous material. Similar fibrous material was also observed in the granulosis virus (GV) infected fat body cells and was often intimately associated with growing, but aberrant, inclusion formation. “Membrane-like” profiles were not observed in the GV replication cycle. Inclusions formed in the presence of large numbers of naked virus particles, but viral occlusion occurred only after acquisition of the outer membrane. Possible explanations for these observations are discussed.
Effect of D-amphetamine sulfate on susceptibility to audiogenic seizures in DBA-2J mice.

D-Amphetamine sulfate in saline was injected intraperitoneally into DBA/2J mice in doses ranging from 0.25 to 16.0 mg/kg. Fifteen minutes after injection, 21- or 26-day-old DBA/2J mice were tested for susceptibility to audiogenic seizures. Maximal protection was found at 1.0–2.0 mg/kg at both ages. Fewer 21-day-old animals died after the maximally effective dose, and at 26 days of age, fewer animals manifested a wild running response than did saline controls. D-Amphetamine sulfate (2.0 mg/kg) was then injected intraperitoneally, into DBA/2J mice at 21, 24, 27, 30, or 45 days of age. Fifteen minutes after injection, each mouse was tested for susceptibility to sound-induced seizures. DBA/2J mice receiving D-amphetamine sulfate manifested significantly fewer severe seizures than control mice at 21, 24, and 27 days. In particular, the incidence of tonic seizures and death was significantly reduced for each of the age groups. For the 27-day-old mice, the incidence of clonic seizures was also significantly reduced.
A fully implicit method for diffusion-controlled solidification of binary alloys

Abstract A recently developed numerical method for single-component phase-change problems is extended to treat some existing multi-domain models for diffusion-controlled solidification of binary alloys. The multi-domain models invoke a special difficulty associated with the unknown interface location and phase-transition temperature. Such a difficulty is efficiently resolved here by defining corrections similar to those used in single-phase convection problems. The field equations and the interfacial conditions are treated fully implicitly through the correction equations that are developed from the conservation of the interfacial fluxes. In addition, when a high disparity occurs between thermal and solutal mass diffusivities, renormalization of the length scales is suggested to improve spatial resolution of both the temperature and concentration fields. As a verification, several diffusion models that allow for analytical solutions are considered. Numerical solutions agree well with the available analytical solutions. The widely used assumption of a constant latent heat is found to be thermodynamically inconsistent under certain conditions and is clarified and corrected. A unique iteration procedure suggested in this study proves to be remarkably efficient and leads to fast convergence.
An instrument for the automatic detection of enzyme activity in column chromatography effluents

Abstract A new instrument has been developed that is able to monitor enzyme activities in chromatography column eluents automatically. The instrument consists of a simple stopped-flow instrument, equipped with a multishutoff valve to direct reagents and eluent flow. Assays of the eluate may be done at present intervals. The instrument may also be used for monitoring enzyme activities in perfasates as well as for monitoring the elution of metabolites.
Project Design Factors That Affect Student Perceptions of the Success of a Science Research Project.

Throughout the United States, various summer science programs for precollege students are conducted with an aim toward increasing the involvement of young people in science. Most of these programs are perceived as successful by teachers and scientists because they involve students in hands-on science activities, improve their scientific skills and confidence, and allow them the opportunity to use science to answer questions and solve problems. The work described here involves a detailed assessment of a summer National Science Foundation (NSF) Young Scholars Program, which was carried out over 2 summers. Student participants were entering 9th and 10th grade. The data used for this assessment included journals kept by teaching assistants, questionnaires administered to the participants and parents, and interviews with the participants. Analysis revealed that students perceived program success differently from teachers and program organizers. Their perception of the success of a program is directly related to whether or not their individual research project met its goals, regardless of other project activities. Designing projects that have a high likelihood of success from this perspective can be complex, but this work identified six variables that must be incorporated appropriately into the design of a project to ensure its success: (1) extent of project structure and who structures the project, faculty or student; (2) project relevance; (3) project flexibility; (4) project background research; (5) tangible results; and (6) project introduction.
The use of indicators in acid-base titrations in liquid ammonia

Abstract The p K values in liquid ammonia for acid-base indicators have been bracketted using buffer solutions prepared from acids with known p K values in liquid ammonia. The application of these indicators to some practical acid-base titrations has been demonstrated.
Diaphragmatic Motion During Cheyne-Stokes Respiration by Navigator Magnetic Resonance Imaging

A 66-year-old man with a history of cardiomyopathy was referred for cardiac MRI to evaluate ventricular function and coronary anatomy. Functional MRI studies demonstrated mildly depressed left ventricular systolic function and an ejection fraction …
Cell delivery and tissue regeneration

Abstract A logic for choosing appropriate delivery vehicles for cells involved in massive bone repair/regeneration is herein put forth. The basic principles involve choosing a biocompatible material which not only must interface with the cell and tissue biology of the host into which it is implanted, but must also support cellular-driven regeneration of that tissue. An example of such a delivery vehicle is a calcium phosphate porous ceramic into which dispersed whole marrow has been incorporated. A non-union rat femur gap model has been chosen to explore the combination of appropriate delivery vehicle and reparative cells. Under conditions which appear to be optimal for bone formation, the repair of this gap is monitored using histological techniques. The management of massive regeneration motifs by the selection of appropriate biocompatible materials and regeneration-competent cells provides a new and vital clinical strategy.
Sonic Hedgehog Signaling Confers Ventral Telencephalic Progenitors with Distinct Cortical Interneuron Fates

Interneurons in the cerebral cortex regulate cortical functions through the actions of distinct subgroups that express parvalbumin, somatostatin, or calretinin. The genesis of the first two subgroups requires the expression of NKX2.1, which is maintained by SHH signaling during neurogenesis. In this paper, we report that mosaic elimination in the medial ganglionic eminence (MGE) of Smo, a key effector of SHH signaling, reveals that MGE progenitors retain a remarkable degree of plasticity during the neurogenic period. SHH signaling prevents the upregulation of GSX2 and conversion of some MGE progenitors to a caudal ganglionic eminence-like, bipolar calretinin-expressing cell fate that is promoted by GSX2. In addition, a higher level of SHH signaling promotes the generation of the somatostatin-expressing interneuron at the expense of parvalbumin-expressing subgroup. These results indicate that cortical interneuron diversity, a major determinant of cortical function, is critically influenced by differential levels of SHH signaling within the ventral telencephalon.
The Effects of Self-Disclosing Communication and Attitude Similarity on the Reduction of Interpersonal Conflict.

The purpose of this investigation was to test the effects of self‐disclosure and attitude similarity on the reduction of interpersonal conflict between interactants involved in playing the Creative...
“I Feel Uncomfortable ‘Calling a Patient Out’”: Educational Needs of Palliative Medicine Fellows in Managing Opioid Misuse

Abstract Context During the past 10 years, advocates of palliative care have sought to be included earlier in the course of patients' illnesses. Palliative care providers may thus be more likely to care for patients who misuse and abuse opioids. Objectives To assess whether hospice and palliative medicine (HPM) fellows see patients at risk for opioid misuse and how competent they perceive themselves to be to treat pain in these patients. Methods An electronic survey was distributed to 102 HPM fellows. The survey included questions assessing self-perceived competency in care for patients who misuse opioids. Responses were rated using a Likert scale of one to seven, where one=strongly agree and seven=strongly disagree; any number greater than two was considered to be nonagreement. Results Fifty-seven (56%) fellows from 34 programs responded to the survey. In the previous two weeks, 77.2% of respondents had seen at least one patient with a substance use disorder (SUD) and 43.9% had treated a patient whom they were concerned was misusing opioids. Half (47.2%) of respondents stated that they have a working knowledge of addiction, 41.4% agreed their training has prepared them to manage opioid misuse, and 36.8% felt they knew how to differentiate pain from addiction. Only 21.1% were satisfied with how they treat symptoms in this population. Fellowship training in opioid misuse was associated with increased satisfaction. Conclusion HPM fellows regularly see patients who are at risk for opioid misuse and feel unprepared to treat pain in these patients. There is a need for more education of fellows in this area.
Acute Tender Nodules in a Linear Arrangement

REPORT OF A CASE A 55-year-old woman noted tender small nodules that appeared in 1 day on her right flank (Fig 1). One month before the onset of the nodules she was admitted to the hospital because of the sudden onset of right-sided hemiparesis. She had a history of mitral valve stenosis and was noted at the time to have an atrial thrombus and fibrillation. This was thought to be the cause of the basal ganglia infarct noted on computed tomography (CT) of the head. Despite adequate intravenous anticoagulation with heparin, she developed superior mesenteric thrombosis and other peripheral emboli. In addition, she developed a fever that was unresponsive to multiple antibiotics. Cultures of blood, sputum, and urine failed to yield any growth. An intra-abdominal abscess was suspected on the basis of a CT scan revealing a right psoas muscle mass. One day after the CT she noted the onset
Eigenfunctions of composite Hermitian operators with application to discrete and continuous radiating systems

Some properties and applications of Hermitian operators composed of any integral operator and its adjoint are studied. Such operators arise in array and aperture antenna theory and the eigenfunctions of the corresponding Hermitian operators form complete sets for the expansion of sources and fields in their respective regions. The eigenfunctions with the largest eigenvalue form a source and field pair which radiate the largest power under a fixed source-norm constraint and can be used, for example, to maximize power transferred from an array to a point, or from one aperture to a second aperture.
How does clickthrough data reflect retrieval quality

Automatically judging the quality of retrieval functions based on observable user behavior holds promise for making retrieval evaluation faster, cheaper, and more user centered. However, the relationship between observable user behavior and retrieval quality is not yet fully understood. We present a sequence of studies investigating this relationship for an operational search engine on the arXiv.org e-print archive. We find that none of the eight absolute usage metrics we explore (e.g., number of clicks, frequency of query reformulations, abandonment) reliably reflect retrieval quality for the sample sizes we consider. However, we find that paired experiment designs adapted from sensory analysis produce accurate and reliable statements about the relative quality of two retrieval functions. In particular, we investigate two paired comparison tests that analyze clickthrough data from an interleaved presentation of ranking pairs, and we find that both give accurate and consistent results. We conclude that both paired comparison tests give substantially more accurate and sensitive evaluation results than absolute usage metrics in our domain.
Zooming into the School Narratives of Refugee Students.

The experiences of immigrant and refugee students in schools have been explored by two primary frameworks. The first is informed by sociology and attends to the macro-level adaptation of students i...
Defense Burdens, Capital Formation, and Economic Growth: The Systemic Leader Case

One of the factors thought to explain the relative decline of system leaders is the high military overhead costs assumed by leaders. High defense burdens, however, may be achieved at the expense of...
Possible Neuroendocrine Actions of Endothelin-3

The presence of endothelin (ET) immunoreactivity and binding sites in hypothalamus and pituitary gland suggests potential neuroendocrine actions of this family of vasoactive peptides. ET-3, the predominant member of the ET family in brain, exerted significant dose-related (1, 10, and 100 nM) inhibitory effects on PRL release from dispersed anterior pituitary cells in static incubations. The effect was not dependent on voltage-sensitive calcium channels, since the dihydropyridine calcium channel antagonist nifedipine failed to block this action. Nifedipine did, however, significantly reduce the transient acute stimulatory effect of ET-3 on PRL release in cultured cells incubated in dynamic perifusion. The longer lasting inhibitory effect on PRL release that followed the brief stimulatory action was not affected by nifedipine. ET-3 also stimulated a transient but significant release of LH from cells harvested from random cycle female rats, an effect that was not antagonized by a LHRH antagonist, but was blo...
Over-estimate of Thin Dielectric Lifetime in Single Doping Type Poly-Gate Capacitors

Summary form only given. It is reported that effects of band-bending produce a voltage drop in the poly gate, which reduces the voltage stress across the capacitor dielectric. It was found that if this effect is not taken into account there is a three-orders-of-magnitude overestimate of the 5-V lifetime for a 68-AA oxide equivalent ONO poly/poly capacitor. A family of curves relating poly doping concentration, dielectric thickness, and the maximum allowable accelerated test voltage was given as guidelines for accelerated time-dependent dielectric breakdown testing. >
Unifying FSM-inference algorithms through declarative specification

Logging system behavior is a staple development practice. Numerous powerful model inference algorithms have been proposed to aid developers in log analysis and system understanding. Unfortunately, existing algorithms are difficult to understand, extend, and compare. This paper presents InvariMint, an approach to specify model inference algorithms declaratively. We applied InvariMint to two model inference algorithms and present evaluation results to illustrate that InvariMint (1) leads to new fundamental insights and better understanding of existing algorithms, (2) simplifies creation of new algorithms, including hybrids that extend existing algorithms, and (3) makes it easy to compare and contrast previously published algorithms. Finally, algorithms specified with InvariMint can outperform their procedural versions.
MYCOBACTERIUM KANSASII INFECTION IN THE WRIST AND HAND

Mycobacterium kansasii infection of the deep structures of the wrist and hand can cause progressive damage which may eventually lead to permanent loss of hand function. This report describes three cases followed by a review of the literature. The important principles of management in this unusual infection are discussed.
A probabilistic approach for channel initiation

[1] The channel head represents an important transition point from hillslope to fluvial processes. There is a nonlinear threshold transition across the channel head with sediment transport much larger in channels than on hillslopes. Deterministic specific catchment area, a, thresholds for channel initiation, sometimes dependent on slope, S, in the form of aSα ≥ C, have been suggested. In this paper the channel initiation problem is viewed probabilistically with a spatially variable probability of channel initiation that depends on slope, specific catchment area, and the probability distributions of median grain size, surface roughness, and excess rainfall rate. The channel initiation threshold C is cast as a random variable to characterize the variability of aSα at channel heads. Using field measurements from the Idaho Batholith, we show that median grain size measurements at each channel head explain a significant part of the observed variability of aSα. We then characterize the variability of model inputs (median grain size, roughness, and excess rainfall) using probability distributions and show that the probability distribution of area-slope threshold derived from these inputs matches the probability distribution of area-slope thresholds measured at field channel head locations. A gamma probability distribution provides a reasonable match to the distributions of area-slope threshold measured and modeled at channel heads in our study area and in other published channel head data.
Opsonic antibody activity against Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans in patients with rapidly progressive periodontitis.

Abstract Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans has been closely associated with early-onset, severe periodontitis, and such patients often have serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies reactive with antigens of this gram-negative pathogen. We examined the functionality and potential importance of these antibodies. The opsonic activity against A. actinomycetemcomitans of sera from 30 patients with rapidly progressive periodontitis (RPP) and from 28 periodontally normal subjects was tested by using polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMN) chemiluminescence and bactericidal assays. Peak chemiluminescence values correlated strongly with killing observed in the PMN-dependent bactericidal assay (r = 0.88; P < 0.001). Neither the mean IgG titer nor the mean peak chemiluminescence differed significantly between the two groups. However, when the relationship between chemiluminescence and titer was examined, regression analysis showed that antibodies present in low-titer normal sera were significantly more effective at opsonizing A. actinomycetemcomitans than antibodies present in low-titer RPP patient sera (P = 0.04). Thus, periodontally normal individuals may be better able than RPP patients to clear A. actinomycetemcomitans in early stages of colonization, and anti-A. actinomycetemcomitans antibodies in RPP patients may be relatively ineffective in preventing infection by this organism.
Electrical Quiescence of Pulmonary Artery Smooth Muscle During Sympathomimetic Stimulation

Simultaneous recordings of isometric tension and muscle membrane potential have been made in the sympathetic nerve-pulmonary artery preparation of the rabbit. The mean resting membrane potential recorded intracellularly was 51.5 mv. Sympathetic nerve stimulation and l-norepinephrine caused contraction without change in the membrane potential and in the absence of action potentials. Increase in extracellular potassium initiated both depolarization and contraction, although these two processes exhibited different latencies and time courses. The significance of these findings is discussed in relation to recent findings of dissociation in smooth muscle between contraction and membrane potential changes.
Surveillance of Craniopharyngioma Cyst Growth in Children Treated With Proton Radiotherapy

Purpose Craniopharyngiomas are benign, slow-growing tumors that frequently contain a cystic component. Even with gross total resection, the cyst can reform and cause symptoms. Fluctuations in cyst volume during radiotherapy (RT) can affect treatment planning and delivery. The aim of this study was to report our experience with cyst enlargement during conformal proton RT for children with craniopharyngioma and to make recommendations regarding mid-treatment surveillance. Methods and Materials Between January 2001 and August 2007, 24 children (aged ≤18 years) underwent proton RT at the Massachusetts General Hospital for craniopharyngioma. For all 24 patients, tumor size on magnetic resonance imaging and/or computed tomography was measured before and after RT. Surveillance imaging was available for review on 17 patients. During RT, cyst growth was assessed to determine whether the treatment fields needed to be altered. Results Of the 17 children who underwent repeat imaging during RT, 6 required intervention because of changes in cyst dimensions. Four patients (24%) had cyst growth beyond the original treatment fields, requiring enlargement of the treatment plan. One patient's treatment field was reduced after a decreased in cyst size. Cyst drainage was performed in another patient to avoid enlargement of the treatment fields. Conclusion In patients undergoing highly conformal RT for craniopharyngiomas with cysts, routine imaging during treatment is recommended. Surveillance imaging should be performed at least every 2 weeks during proton RT in an attempt to avoid marginal failure. Craniopharyngiomas with large cystic components or enlargement during treatment might require weekly imaging.
ROOMMATE EFFECTS ON GRADES: Evidence from First- Year Housing Assignments

This paper estimates the effect of students’ background characteristics on the academic outcomes of their college roommates. It uses data from four classes of students at Wellesley College, where roommate assignment is credibly random, conditional on student responses to a housing preference form. In linear specifications, there are no peer effects on students’ grade point averages. There is some evidence that students’ SAT scores have nonlinear effect on their roommates’ achievement, but the results are not robust. We conclude that roommate peer effects might exist among small groups of students, but they are not a key determinant of students’ average academic outcomes at Wellesley College.
Sensitivity of an Acinetobacter baylyi mpl Mutant to DNA Damage

A mutant derived from Acinetobacter baylyi ADP1 was isolated from a screen for genes involved in the response to DNA damage. This derivative has an insertion in the mpl gene which encodes a peptidoglycan-recycling protein. We demonstrate that the insertion renders cells sensitive to mitomycin C and to UV.
Testing constant-geometry FFT arrays for wafer scale integration

Two approaches for testing constant-geometry wafer scale integration (WSI) array architectures used in the computation of the complex N-point fast Fourier transform (FFT) under a single combinational fault model are presented. Initially, an unrestricted single cell-level fault model is considered. The first approach is based on a process whose complexity is independent of the number of cells in the FFT architecture. The second method is based on a testing process whose complexity is linear with respect to the number of stages (columns) of the FFT array. No additional hardware is required in this case. A component-level fault model is also proposed and analyzed. >
Fever: Parental Concerns

Although fever is a common pediatric complaint, temperatures less than 41.7°C rarely cause neurologic sequelae such as obtundation and death. Most cases of fever in children cause no more than transient discomfort. Fever phobia is an exaggerated misconception about causes and consequences of fever and is very common among parents. Unsubstantiated parental concerns often push health care providers to overtreat fevers and further reinforce the phobia. To decrease this response, it is important to educate health care workers about thermometry, the pathophysiology of fever, the distinction between hyperthermia and fever, and safe evidence-based treatment strategies. Informed practitioners will in turn be better equipped to educate parents.
Does teaching experience matter? Examining biology teachers' prior knowledge for teaching in an alternative certification program

Alternative certification programs (ACPs) have been proposed as a viable way to address teacher shortages, yet we know little about how teacher knowledge develops within such programs. The purpose of this study was to investigate prior knowledge for teaching among students entering an ACP, comparing individuals with teaching experience to those lacking teaching experience. Of the four participants seeking secondary biology teaching certification, two participants had 2 years of prior biology teaching experience. We used the Lesson Preparation Method as a data collection tool, asking participants to create lesson plans to teach the concept of heritable variation. Primary data sources were the lesson plans and follow-up interview transcripts. Prior teaching experience made little difference as both groups held didactic teaching orientations and wrote similar lesson plans. Both groups drew on general pedagogical knowledge (PK), and had little pedagogical content knowledge for teaching heritable variation. Teaching experience did appear to lead to more integration among PK components. The study includes implications for the teacher education, research, and policy. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 46: 357–383, 2009
Randomized Phase II Study of Gemcitabine Administered at a Fixed Dose Rate or in Combination With Cisplatin, Docetaxel, or Irinotecan in Patients With Metastatic Pancreatic Cancer: CALGB 89904

Purpose The relative value of gemcitabine-based combination chemotherapy therapy and prolonged infusions of gemcitabine in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer remains controversial. We explored the efficacy and toxicity of gemcitabine administered at a fixed dose rate or in combination with cisplatin, docetaxel, or irinotecan in a multi-institutional, randomized, phase II study. Patients and Methods Patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer were randomly assigned to one of the following four regimens: gemcitabine 1,000 mg/m2 on days 1, 8, and 15 with cisplatin 50 mg/m2 on days 1 and 15 (arm A); gemcitabine 1,500 mg/m2 at a rate of 10 mg/m2/min on days 1, 8, and 15 (arm B); gemcitabine 1,000 mg/m2 with docetaxel 40 mg/m2 on days 1 and 8 (arm C); or gemcitabine 1,000 mg/m2 with irinotecan 100 mg/m2 on days 1 and 8 (arm D). Patients were observed for response, toxicity, and survival. Results Two hundred fifty-nine patients were enrolled onto the study, of whom 245 were eligible and received treatment. ...
Use of a J-antenna structure to implement the method of multiple resonances

This paper presents an antenna structure - the J-antenna, comprising of two linear, parallel conductors, that is used to implement the method of Multiple Resonances, in a cross-fed configuration. This design provides almost 2:1 bandwidth, and offers excellent opportunities for miniaturization by inductive loading.
Predictive and prognostic markers for epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitor therapy in non-small cell lung cancer.

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) related therapies – mainly tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) such as erlotinib and gefitinib, but also monoclonal antibodies targeting EGFR, for example, cetuximab – have been investigated in numerous settings in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and in different combinations. The overall clinical benefit of EGFR TKI therapy is roughly 10–30%, with higher benefit in nonsmoker Asiatic women with EGFR-mutated adenocarcinoma. Currently, there are several biomarkers that are able to direct and predict the yield of EGFR-related therapies in NSCLC. These include EGFR mutation status, EGFR protein expression, EGFR gene copy number and a serum proteomic marker (Veristrat®, Biodesix; CO). The usage of such biomarkers is important from many aspects. First, it helps clinicians to make the right treatment decisions and second, it leads to a wiser usage of financial resources. This review will focus on EGFR-related biomarkers for their prognostic power and their ability to predict clinical benefit from EGFR-related therapy.
Oscillations in an intra-host model of Plasmodium Falciparum malaria due to cross-reactive immune response.

We consider an intra-host model of malaria that allows for antigenic variation within a single species. More specifically, the host’s immune response is compartmentalized into reactions to major and minor epitopes. We investigate the conditions that lead to transient oscillations, which correspond to recurrent clinical episodes of the diseases, and how a small delay in the activation of the immune response can lead to persistent oscillations. We find that the efficacies of the immune responses to the major and minor epitopes, defined in terms of rate constants, play a crucial role in determining when there will be transient oscillations. The delay necessary to excite persistent oscillations, the time duration between disease episodes and their severity are also expressed in terms of the immune response efficacies. In addition, we describe how the severity and duration of the oscillations depend upon the parasite propagation rates and the immune response efficacies.
Germ Cell Tumors

Germ cell tumors are rare mediastinal lesions that are thought to originate from aberrant migration of germ cells to the thymus during embryogenesis. These tumors account for approximately 10–15 % of all mediastinal tumors and cysts. All types of germ cell tumors arising at other body sites (i.e., gonads, retroperitoneum, pituitary) have been described in the mediastinum. Teratomas, the most common type of germ cell tumor of the mediastinum, occur mostly in children or young adults. The vast majority of germ cell tumors originating from the mediastinum arise in the anterior compartment. Mediastinal germ cell tumors show a striking predilection for men. Most present with symptoms related to compression of surrounding structures. Malignant germ cell tumors of the mediastinum can secrete fetal oncoproteins, including alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG). Elevation of these proteins can be assessed easily by serology, aiding in the preoperative diagnosis. An important clinical association has been observed in patients with Klinefelter’s syndrome, who show an increased predisposition for the development of germ cell malignancy and hematologic abnormalities. An increased incidence of hematologic disorders such as acute leukemias, malignant histiocytosis, or systemic mastocytosis has also been observed in patients with mediastinal germ cell tumors.
In-line birefringent fiber polarizer

Due to the increasing application of high-birefringence polarization-holding fiber in fiber systems, there is a high current interest in fiber polarizers and polarizing fibers.1,2 To date, most discrete fiber polarizers reported have been made with ordinary low-birefringence fiber so that they are not compatible with high-birefringence fiber. Recently, two polarizing fibers have been reported1,2 which utilize high fiber birefringence combined with an appropriate fiber geometry to allow the low-loss propagation of only one linear polarization mode.
East Coast update

The Atlantic coast of Canada is emerging as a major producer of conventional crude. But new discoveries are few and far between. Will the capricious nature of this basin lead to trouble in the future? asks Gordon Cope.
Selling Yoga: From Counterculture to Pop Culture by Andrea R. Jain, New York: Oxford University Press, 2014, ix + 244 pp., ISBN 978-019-939024-3, US$19.95 (paperback)

In pursuit of a more fluid, context-dependent conception of modern postural yoga (MPY), Andrea Jain challenges the notion that all yogas exist as part of a monolithic, unbroken lineage. Jain convin...
Employability Skills as Perceived by Employers and University Faculty in the Fields of Human Resource Development (HRD) for Entry Level Graduate Jobs

The world of employment has changed dramatically, technology is impacting practices and experiences, and societies are becoming more global and multicultural. With the rise of globalization, employability is becoming one of the main goals for education systems. Today’s employers require employees to have soft or non-technical skills in addition to technical skills. The purpose of the study was to explore employability skills as perceived by employers and university faculty of human resource development (HRD) and management for entry level graduate jobs. As a result of this research, types of employability skills may be identified which are common among the faculty of HRD programs and employers of HRD graduates both in the U.S. and internationally. To evaluate the interrelationships between the variables of interest among employees and faculty members, both in the U.S. and internationally, one way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was utilized. The overall results of this study indicate that with the exception of communication skills and the use of technology, there is a significant relationship between 16 of the 18 variables investigated and the type of respondents.
How to Launch a STARS Computing Corps Cohort to Improve Retention and Broaden Participation in Computing (Abstract Only)

The STARS Computing Corps is a national alliance with the mission to grow a diverse community of computing leaders. STARS serves as a framework for integrating civic engagement into college computing departments with the goals of broadening participation of underrepresented groups in computing, recruiting K-12 students into the computing pipeline, and retaining students in computing majors. The STARS approach to broadening the participation of women and underrepresented minorities in computing is based on research that has shown the value of creating a community and sense of identity. The Corps creates such a community across multiple institutions, including women's and historically black colleges and universities, with members that share the core values of becoming responsible leaders who use their computing skills for social benefit. Each cohort of students and faculty at a STARS member university collaborates with local K-12 schools and industry partners to conduct computing-related outreach, service, and research that can broaden participation in computing. These local cohorts help to build community within and across STARS member institutions, retain students in college degree programs in computing, recruit new students into computing, educate local K-12 teachers, counselors, students, and parents about computing, and build bridges with local industry and community organizations. This workshop will provide hands-on training for new schools to learn how to begin and build a STARS Computing Corps cohort on their own campus.
Influence of protein intake on magnesium requirement during protein synthesis.

SummaryAdult protein-depleted rats receiving a complete mineral supplement gain over twice as much in 10 days on a 14% level of protein intake as on a 7% (120 mg N daily) level, but those receiving...
Hypotonicity increases transcription, expression, and action of Egr-1 in murine renal medullary mIMCD3 cells

In cells of the murine renal inner medullary collecting duct (mIMCD3) cell line, acute hypotonic shock (50% dilution of medium with sterile water but not with sterile 150 mM NaCl) increasedEgr-1 mR...
Analysis on Epidemiological Characteristics of Viral Hepatitis During 1965 to 2010 in Luwan District Shanghai

OBJECTIVE To know the epidemiological characteristic of hepatitis during1965 to 2010 in Luwan district Shanghai. METHODS To analysis the data of hepatitis incidence rate during 1956 to 2010 with the methods of descriptive epidemiology. RESULTS The incidence rate of hepatitis has decreased obviously during 1956 to 2010 in Luwan District. The peak of hepatitis incidence was in winter and spring, but from 1991 was no longer significant. The predilection age of hepatitis has changed from children under 15 to adults under 50. Hepatitis B has the highest incidence rate among all type of hepatitis. CONCLUSION The Hepatitis prevention and control work in Luwan District has achieved remarkable results during 55 years. The hepatitis incidence has decreased obviously. Hepatities prevention and control work is still the center of the focus.
Random depletion of T cells that bear specific T cell receptor Vβ sequences in AIDS patients

A cross-sectional PCR analysis of the TCR V beta repertoires in HIV-1 seronegative controls and HIV-1 infected individuals with either clinically or immunologically defined AIDS [1] was performed to examine the proposed superantigen model for HIV-1 pathogenesis. In contrast to previous reports, we find neither uniform specific losses nor uniform clonal expansions of particular TCR V beta gene families in subjects with AIDS. Instead our study, which was designed specifically to qualitatively determine the presence or absence of TCR V beta families in both subject populations, indicates an overall diminution in the expression of TCR V beta gene families in HIV-1 infected individuals with AIDS compared with controls. This is commensurate with the decrease in CD4 T cells in the AIDS population. Our data are therefore not directly suggestive of a common superantigen model of HIV-1 induced T cell clonal depletion or anergy, but instead emphasize a broad decrease in signals throughout the TCR V beta repertoire in AIDS versus control groups. This random depletion in the TCR V beta repertoire is most likely caused by aspects of HIV-1 pathogenesis other than virus-encoded superantigens.
New Turtles from the Paleogene of North America

Formal names, diagnoses, and descriptions are supplied for previously identified, but informally named, cryptodiran turtles from the Paleogene of Montana and Wyoming, USA. Two new early Paleocene (Puercan) turtles are described from Montana: a peculiar trionychid, Atoposemys entopteros gen. et. sp. nov., from the Tullock Member of the Fort Union Formation, and a chelydrid, Tullochelys montanus gen. et. sp. nov., from both the Tullock Member of the Fort Union Formation and the Hell Creek Formation. From the Wasatchian (early Eocene) Wasatch and Willwood formations of Wyoming, the following taxa are described: the earliest North American emydid, Psilosemys wyomingensis gen. et. sp. nov.; a platysternid, Cardichelyon rogerwoodi gen. et. sp. nov.; and Planetochelys dithyros sp. nov. A new family, Planetochelyidae, within the Trionychoidae, is erected for Planetochelys.
Compressive strength and stiffness of filament-wound cylinders

In filament-wound composites, the existence of fiber undulation introduces unique challenges in the calculation of compressive modulus and strength using traditional composite theories. In the current work, a previously developed three-dimensional continuum representation of undulated fibers was incorporated into a multi-scale homogenization process to simulate the effective longitudinal stress-strain behavior of filament-wound cylinders and compressive failure in the undulation regions. Calculated properties were compared to previously obtained experimental data for carbon fiber cylinders made with various matrix materials and winding parameters. The average difference between predicted and measured properties was 14% and the predicted failure modes were consistent with the experimental observations.
Managing Your Time

Time is your most valuable resource. Managed poorly, “lack of time” will be a source of frustration, stress, and reduced productivity. When managed well, you can be productive in academic medicine, take on leadership roles, and have time for things you enjoy outside of work. The Four P’s provide a guiding framework for how to manage your time: plan, prioritize, pack for productivity, and persevere without procrastination. A goal should be to reduce time spent on non-important activities and shift toward more time spent on important yet non-urgent ones. When you are over-committed, use a systematic approach to decide which activities to prioritize.
The Theory of Foreign Trade and Other Portions of Economic Science Bearing on the Principle of Laissez Faire

During the years 1873–7, Marshall laboured over the composition of a volume dealing with problems of international trade. The history of the project and its abandonment was briefly discussed in Section I.4 above. Marshall gave further information about it in a letter written to E.R.A. Seligman in April 1900.1