cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Diffusion of Impurities Under Bias in CVD Diamond Films

The diffusion of oxygen, lithium, chlorine, and fluorine in CVD diamond films was performed under bias at 700 and 1000°C. SIMS and Auger analyses were used to determine the impurity concentration. After diffusion, the concentrations of Li and O in the diamond films were found to be of the order of (3-4)×1019 cm-3. The fluorine concentration was of order of (l-2)×1017 cm-3. The conductivity was p-type. The change in the resistivity due to diffusion was nearly nine orders of magnitude for the sample diffused under electric field, and six orders of magnitude for the samples diffused without field. No dependence of the impurity concentration on the applied bias was observed except for fluorine. The fluorine concentration dependence on the electric field indicates that fluorine may have formed a shallow level in the diamond band gap. The fact that large concentrations of impurities can be diffused into diamond films at relatively low temperatures indicates the presence in the films of many lattice defects (including grain boundaries).
Showing the way: large cell lymphoma

Comment on Lu et al, page [2924][1] In this issue of Blood, Lu and colleagues clearly show how the identification of biologically meaningful patterns of gene expression can guide the molecular dissection of the mechanisms that give rise to neoplastic phenotypes. In the field of oncology,
Simultaneous separation of common mono- and divalent cations on silica gel modified with aluminium by non-suppressed ion chromatography with conductimetric detection and nitric acid-15-crown-5 as eluent.

Abstract The modification of silica gel with aluminium by a coating method was very effective for the preparation of silica-based stationary phases which acted as a cation exchanger under strongly acidic conditions. However, the separation of common mono- and divalent cations (Li+, Na+, NH4+, K+, Mg2+ and Ca2+) on an aluminium-adsorbing silica (Al-Silica) column was moderate by a conductimetric detection ion chromatography (IC) with strongly acidic eluents. Then, the addition of various crown ethers (12-crown-4, 15-crown-5 and 18-crown-6) in acidic eluent was carried out. As a result, it was found that 15-crown-5 was most effective for the improvement of peak resolution. Excellent separation of these cations was achieved in 20 min by elution with 2 mM nitric acid–2 mM 15-crown-5. The proposed IC was successfully applied to the determination of major cations in various natural waters.
Enabling agile adoption practices through network organizations

As distributed organizations increasingly rely on technological innovations to enhance organizational efficiency and competitiveness, interest in agile practices that enable adoption of information technology (IT) based innovations has grown. This study examines the influence of a network organization environment on the ability to develop agile adoption practices. An exploratory case study design was used to investigate the interactions between network structure, social information processing, organizational similarity (homophily), and absorptive capacity during the adoption of a large-scale IT system in two network organization environments within New York State. The data suggest that network organization characteristics and communication processes that reinforced social influence and supported knowledge transfer positively influenced adoption agility. We propose a model of agile adoption practices and discuss implications for the development of theory about network organization characteristics and capabilities to adopt IT-based innovations.
Self-Consistent Field Approach to the Many-Electron Problem

The self-consistent field method in which a many-electron system is described by a time-dependent interaction of a single electron with a self-consistent electromagnetic field is shown to be equivalent for many purposes to the treatment given by Sawada and Brout. Starting with the correct many-electron Hamiltonian, it is found, when the approximations characteristic of the Sawada-Brout scheme are made, that the equation of motion for the pair creation operators is the same as that for the one-particle density matrix in the self-consistent field framework. These approximations are seen to correspond to (1) factorization of the two-particle density matrix, and (2) linearization with respect to off-diagonal components of the one-particle density matrix. The complex, frequency-dependent dielectric constant is obtained straight-forwardly from the self-consistent field approach both for a free-electron gas and a real solid. It is found to be the same as that obtained by Nozi\'eres and Pines in the random phase approximation. The resulting plasma dispersion relation for the solid in the limit of long wavelengths is discussed.
STEMI AND OUT OF HOSPITAL CARDIAC ARREST (START) REGISTRY: ANGIOGRAPHIC FINDINGS IN PATIENTS WITH AND WITHOUT SHOCKABLE INITIAL ARREST RHYTHMS

Survival following out-of-hospital cardiac arrest plus ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (OOHCA+STEMI) is worse in the absence of an initial shockable arrest rhythm (ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation). This study seeks to detail angiographic differences between those with and without
Interrelationship of parathyroid and adrenocortical function in calcium homeostasis in the rat.

This study evaluated the relationship between the parathyroid glands (PTG) and the adrenal cortex in calcium (Ca) homeostasis in the rat. Adrenalectomy (AdX) alone caused no change in plasma Ca. Thyroparathyroidectomy (TX-PTX) caused a decrease in plasma Ca within 4 hr. Concomitant AdX prevented this decrease. Cortisol 5 (img/100 g body wt SC immediately after surgery) caused a decrease in plasma Ca of TX-PTX plus AdX rats, but not of intact rats. Parathyroid extract (PTE) (single injection of 100 U/100 g body wt SC) caused less increase of plasma Ca in intact rats than i n AdX rats. PTE (125 U/100 g body wt SC twice daily for 2 days) to intact rats caused an increase in plasma Ca, adrenocortical hyperplasia and increase in plasma corticosterone. Cortisone acetate (10 mg SC twice daily for 7 days) to intact rats caused PTG hyperplasia and increase in serum immunoreactive parathyroid hormone (iPTH), but with no change in plasma Ca. The results show that a) PTH-induced hypercalcemia leads to increased adren...
Structure and stability changes of human IgG1 Fc as a consequence of methionine oxidation.

The Fc region has two highly conserved methionine residues, Met 33 (CH2 domain) and Met 209 (CH3 domain), which are important for the Fc’s structure and biological function. To understand the effect of methionine oxidation on the structure and stability of the human IgG1 Fc expressed in Escherichia coli, we have characterized the fully oxidized Fc using biophysical (DSC, CD, and NMR) and bioanalytical (SEC and RP-HPLC−MS) methods. Methionine oxidation resulted in a detectable secondary and tertiary structural alteration measured by circular dichroism. This is further supported by the NMR data. The HSQC spectral changes indicate the structures of both CH2 and CH3 domains are affected by methionine oxidation. The melting temperature (Tm) of the CH2 domain of the human IgG1 Fc was significantly reduced upon methionine oxidation, while the melting temperature of the CH3 domain was only affected slightly. The change in the CH2 domain Tm depended on the extent of oxidation of both Met 33 and Met 209. This was c...
Menopausal hormone therapy (HT) in patients with breast cancer

Abstract Objectives To assess the effect of menopausal hormone therapy (HT) on reoccurrence, cancer-related mortality, and overall mortality after a diagnosis of breast cancer. Methods We performed a quantitative review of all studies reporting experience with menopausal HT for symptomatic use after a diagnosis of breast cancer. Rates of reoccurrence, cancer-related mortality, and overall mortality were calculated in this entire group. A subgroup analysis was performed in studies using a control population to assess the odds ratio of cancer reoccurrence and mortality in hormone users versus non-users. Results Fifteen studies encompassing 1416 breast cancer survivors using HT were identified. Seven studies included a control group comprised of 1998 patients. Among the 1416 HT users, reoccurrence was noted in 10.0% (95% CI: 8.4–11.6%). Cancer-related mortality occurred at a rate of 2.6% (95% CI: 1.8–3.7%), while overall mortality was 4.5% (95% CI: 3.4–5.8%). Compared to non-users, patients using HT had a decreased chance of reoccurrence and cancer-related mortality with combined odds ratio of 0.5 (95% CI: 0.2–0.7) and 0.3 (95% CI: 0.0–0.6), respectively. Conclusions In our review, menopausal HT use in breast cancer survivors was not associated with increased cancer reoccurrence, cancer-related mortality or total mortality. Despite conflicting opinions on this issue, it is important for primary care physicians to feel comfortable medically managing the increasing number of breast cancer survivors. In the subset of women with severe menopausal symptoms, HT options should be reviewed if non-hormonal methods are ineffective. Future trials should focus on better ways to identify breast cancer survivors who may safely benefit from HT versus those who have a substantial risk of reoccurrence with HT use.
Examining Culturally Responsive Teaching Self-Efficacy in a Preservice Social Studies Education Course:

In a preexperimental study of preservice practitioners’ professional dispositions, we examined the relationship between an innovative culturally responsive teaching model in a social studies method...
Utility of high-performance liquid chromatography analysis of mycolic acids and partial 16S rRNA gene sequencing for routine identification of Mycobacterium spp. in a national reference laboratory

Abstract High-performance liquid chromatography analysis of mycolic acids and partial gene sequencing for the first 500-bp 5′ end of the 16S rRNA gene were used singularly and in combination to evaluate the final identification of species. Examination of 200 cultures revealed 100 strains of slowly growing mycobacteria (SGM), 91 strains of rapidly growing mycobacteria (RGM), and 9 strains of other genera. SGM were discriminated in complexes with both methods for 56 strains, composed primarily of the Mycobacterium spp.: Mycobacterium avium , Mycobacterium terrae , and Mycobacterium simiae – Mycobacterium lentiflavum . For RGM, 73 strains were associated with complexes designated as Mycobacterium abscessus – Mycobacterium chelonae , Mycobacterium fortuitum – Mycobacterium peregrinum , and Mycobacterium mucogenicum – Mycobacterium phocaicum . Consistent identification of all the isolates differentiated to single species within the Mycobacterium genus was not possible with either test method. Sequencing results often distinguished complexes containing fewer species, and combining the results from each method increased the confidence of identifying the correct species.
Comments on two tests of partial conservation of axial vector current in 3 He

Another look is taken at the transition amplitude for radiative muon capture. We conclude that the standard, or diagrammatic, amplitude first given by Opat for hydrogen is a good approximation to the systematic expansion of Adler and Dothan, and use it to calculate the angle-integrated photon spectrum in /sup 3/He..mu../sup -/ ..-->.. /sup 3/H..gamma nu... The result is in fair agreement with Beder and Fearing. Also, the ''soft-pion'' prediction for /sup 3/He..pi../sup -/ ..-->.. /sup 3/H..gamma.. is compared with experimental data.
A Three-Step Synthesis of Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide is used as a bleaching agent for flour and whey processing, a polymerization initiator in the synthesis of plastics, and the active component of acne medication. Because of its simplicity and wide application, benzoyl peroxide is a target molecule of interest. It can be affordably synthesized in three steps from bromobenzene using procedures that can be performed in four, 4 h laboratory periods. This process includes a Grignard reaction to turn bromobenzene into benzoic acid, nucleophilic acyl substitution to transform the resulting carboxylic acid into an acid chloride, and the addition of H2O2/NaOH to the acid chloride to yield benzoyl peroxide. Most organic chemistry students are familiar with these traditional reaction mechanisms because they are covered in introductory organic chemistry courses. The starting materials for each reaction are commercially available, and the products can be readily characterized using NMR spectroscopy, IR spectroscopy, and melting point.
Effect of nano inclusions on the structural and physical properties of polyethylene polymer matrix

The reinforcement mechanism of nano inclusions on the mechanical properties of nanocomposites is still a controversial issue. In this work, the polyethylene (PE) polymer nanocomposites were simulated by infusing different kinds of nano inclusions (bucky-ball, graphene, single-walled-carbon-nanotube (SWNT), X-shaped SWNT junction and Y-shaped SWNT junction) into PE matrices. The effects of these nano inclusions on structural and physical properties of PE matrices were considered through molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The packaging densities of PE matrices were highly different from each other. The graphene inclusion had larger interaction with the PE matrix than the others. However, Y-shaped SWNT junction applied the strongest restriction on diffusion behaviors of PE matrices. Therefore, mean squared displacement of the PE matrix infused with Y-shaped SWNT junction is much smaller than that of pure PE. The effect of nano inclusions on primitive chain network of PE matrices was also considered. However, these nano inclusions did not significantly alter the underlying mesh of primitive chain network of PE matrices. The change of mechanical properties associated with these nano inclusions should be directly attributed to the interaction between polymer matrices and nano inclusions.
Topics in polarization ray tracing for image projectors

Many subtle effects arise when tracing polarization along rays that converge or diverge to form an image. This paper concentrates on a few examples that are notable for the challenges they pose in properly analyzing vector imaging problems. A striking example is the Federov-Imbert shift, in which coating phase-shifts cause a reflected beam to actually be deviated "sideways" out of the plane of incidence. A second example involving groups of coated surfaces is the correction of contrast loss from skew-angle depolarization in the optics of data projectors that use reflective polarization-modulating light valves. We show that phase-controlled coatings can collectively correct the contrast loss by exploiting a symmetry that arises when the coatings are operated in double-pass (due to use of reflective light valves). In lowest order, this symmetry causes any ellipticity that the coatings may introduce in the polarization of illuminating skew-rays to cancel in the return pass from the light valve back through the optics. Even beyond this first order reversibility result, we have shown elsewhere that, for NA less than about 0.2, the computation involved in calculating beam contrast can be reduced to the equivalent of tracing a single ray. We show here that the Federov-Imbert shift can be derived in a straightforward way using this formalism. Even a non-polarizing system will show vector effects when the numerical aperture is sufficiently high, as in photolithographic lenses. Wavefront quality in these deep-UV lenses is of order λ/100, and simulations to account for the complexities of the image transfer steps during IC manufacture must be accurate to better than a part in 1E2 or 1E3; hence small polarization distortions in the superposed image rays become very significant. An interesting source of such distortions is spatial dispersion in CaF2 lens elements, which gives rise to intrinsic birefringence at the ppm level. Polarization ray tracing must then contend with the phenomenon of double refraction, wherein a given ray splits into two rays each time it passes through an element, giving rise in principle to an exponentially extended family of rays in the exit pupil. However, we show that it is possible to merge each coherent family of rays into a single plane-wave component of the image. (This is joint work with colleagues at Carl Zeiss SMT.1) Generalizing beyond the analysis of birefringence, such a plane-wave component can be identified with the particular subset of rays that are converged through a common pupil point and transferred to the image after diffracting from the object points within an isoplanatic patch. Thin-film amplitude transfer coefficients implicitly take into account the prismatic change in beam-width that occurs when such a ray bundle refracts through a lens surface, but these coefficients do not include the focusing effect arising from power in the surfaces; hence polarization ray-tracing by sequential application of thin-film transfer coefficients does not by itself provide the correct amplitude distribution over the pupil.
The regulated association of Cdt1 with minichromosome maintenance proteins and Cdc6 in mammalian cells.

Chromosomal DNA replication requires the recruitment of the six-subunit minichromosome maintenance (Mcm) complex to chromatin through the action of Cdc6 and Cdt1. Although considerable work has described the functions of Cdc6 and Cdt1 in yeast and biochemical systems, evidence that their mammalian counterparts are subject to distinct regulation suggests the need to further explore the molecular relationships involving Cdc6 and Cdt1. Here we demonstrate that Cdc6 and Cdt1 are mutually dependent on one another for loading Mcm complexes onto chromatin in mammalian cells. The association of Cdt1 with Mcm2 is regulated by cell growth. Mcm2 prepared from quiescent cells associates very weakly with Cdt1, whereas Mcm2 from serum-stimulated cells associates with Cdt1 much more efficiently. Cdc6, which normally accumulates as cells progress from quiescence into G1, is capable of inducing the binding of Mcm2 to Cdt1 when ectopically expressed in quiescent cells. We further show that Cdc6 physically associates with Cdt1 via its N-terminal noncatalytic domain, a region we had previously shown to be essential for Cdc6 function. Cdt1 activity is inhibited by the geminin protein, and we provide evidence that the mechanism of this inhibition involves blocking the binding of Cdt1 to both Mcm2 and Cdc6. These results identify novel molecular functions for both Cdc6 and geminin in controlling the association of Cdt1 with other components of the replication apparatus and indicate that the association of Cdt1 with the Mcm complex is controlled as cells exit and reenter the cell cycle.
On the emission and excitation spectrum of the NIR laser center in Cr:YAG

Abstract We use a tunable narrowband laser operating in the region 1.1–1.3 μm to probe the excitation spectrum of the NIR laser center in Cr doped yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG) at low temperatures. Our results reveal that the sharp emission bands observed at low temperatures around 1.28 μm are true electronic origins. This is in contrast to previous interpretations of this luminophore in which these sharp bands have been interpreted as false origins built on a zero phonon line supposed, but not observed, to lie midway between the 1.28 μm bands in emission and a sharp “false origin” absorption band at 1.125 μm. We discuss the possible nature of this luminophore in light of these new results.
Persistent Lines of Hafnium

A NUMBER of spectra of zirconium ores and oxides have been examined for persistent lines of hafnium, using the wave-lengths for this latter element given by Hansen and Werner (NATURE, 112, 618; 1923). The most persistent lines observed—three of which were found in all spectra examined—are at wave-lengths
Primary and secondary superresolution: degrees of freedom versus Fourier extrapolation

Superresolution of images by data inversion is defined as extrapolating measured Fourier data into regions of Fourier space where no measurements have been taken. This type of superresolution can only occur by data inversion. There exist two camps of thought regarding the efficacy of this type of superresolution: the first is that meaningful superresolution is unachievable due to signal-to-noise limitations, and the second is that meaningful superresolution is possible. Here we present a framework for describing superresolution in a way that accommodates both points of view. In particular, we define the twin concepts of primary and secondary superresolution and show that the first camp is referring to primary superresolution while the second group is referring to secondary superresolution. We discuss the implications of both types of superresolution on the ability of data inversion to achieve meaningful superresolution.
Affinity Capillary Electrophoresis−Mass Spectrometry for Screening Combinatorial Libraries

A new methodology, affinity capillary electrophoresis−mass spectrometry (ACE-MS), is introduced as a solution-based approach for screening combinatorial libraries for drug leads. The method allows on-line, one-step selection and structural identification of candidate ligands. ACE-MS is demonstrated using the binding of vancomycin to libraries of all-d-tri- and tetrapeptides as a model system. Peptide libraries of different forms of Fmoc-DDXX and Fmoc-EXX containing up to 361 compounds were successfully employed to determine interacting structural motifs. A consensus structure of the strongest interacting peptides consisted of d-Ala at the C-terminus and an aromatic amino acid in the penultimate position. Ligands with this structure bound more strongly to the receptor than the known ligand, d-Ala-d-Ala. A 1000 peptide library was also screened directly by ACE-MS. It was found that, for this and potentially larger libraries, incorporating an affinity solid phase extraction step prior to ACE-MS was effective...
Anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery: preoperative diagnosis and surgical planning.

Background: Anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery (AAOCA), the anomalous coronary artery arises from an inappropriate coronary sinus and travels between the aorta and pulmonary artery. Proper surgical management depends upon correct diagnosis and accurate characterization of the origin and course of the coronary artery. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) has been the mainstay for diagnosis, but magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomographic angiography (CTA) have been increasingly utilized. In this study, we report the largest series of surgically repaired AAOCA and accuracy of preoperative diagnostic studies. Methods: A review of 53 consecutive patients (mean age 13.9 years, range 4-65 years) undergoing repair of an AAOCA from 1995 to 2009 was performed. In all, 40 patients were identified with an anomalous right coronary artery (ARCA) from the left sinus of Valsalva, 13 patients had an anomalous left coronary artery (ALCA) arising from the opposite sinus. Symptoms of angina or syncop...
Curing system involving SiH-containing organic oligomers

We describe here the preparation and properties of a novel curing system, which has been derived from an SiH-containing organic oligomer 1 and an allyloxy end-blocked organic oligomer 2. The composition of these oligomers could be crosslinked via a platinum-catalyzed hydrosilylation reaction, that is, the addition reaction of the SiH bonds of 1 to the allyl functionality of 2, above 100°C, yields a rubbery material in a short period of time. The compatibility of the SiH-containing oligomer 1 with the allyloxy end-blocked oligomer 2 was governed by the oligomer main chain employed. Hence the SiH-containing oligomer 1 was completely miscible with 2, having the same main chain and, thus, the system yielded a homogeneously cured material. The poly(propylene oxide) curing system 1a/2a was systematically investigated in detail to manifest its curing behavior and crosslink structure. © 1993 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Monitoring Abundance and Expression of “Dehalococcoides” Species Chloroethene-Reductive Dehalogenases in a Tetrachloroethene-Dechlorinating Flow Column

We investigated the distribution and activity of chloroethene-degrading microorganisms and associated functional genes during reductive dehalogenation of tetrachloroethene to ethene in a laboratory continuous-flow column. Using real-time PCR, we quantified “Dehalococcoides” species 16S rRNA and chloroethene-reductive dehalogenase (RDase) genes (pceA, tceA, vcrA, and bvcA) in nucleic acid extracts from different sections of the column. Dehalococcoides 16S rRNA gene copies were highest at the inflow port [(3.6 ± 0.6) × 106 (mean ± standard deviation) per gram soil] where the electron donor and acceptor were introduced into the column. The highest transcript numbers for tceA, vcrA, and bvcA were detected 5 to 10 cm from the column inflow. bvcA was the most highly expressed of all RDase genes and the only vinyl chloride reductase-encoding transcript detectable close to the column outflow. Interestingly, no expression of pceA was detected in the column, despite the presence of the genes in the microbial community throughout the column. By comparing the 16S rRNA gene copy numbers to the sum of all four RDase genes, we found that 50% of the Dehalococcoides population in the first part of the column did not contain either one of the known chloroethene RDase genes. Analysis of 16S rRNA gene clone libraries from both ends of the flow column revealed a microbial community dominated by members of Firmicutes and Actinobacteria. Higher clone sequence diversity was observed near the column outflow. The results presented have implications for our understanding of the ecophysiology of reductively dehalogenating Dehalococcoides spp. and their role in bioremediation of chloroethenes.
Launching the Space Shuttle Challenger: disciplinary deficiencies in the analysis of engineering data

Published and archival testimony of participants in the decision to launch the Challenger Space Shuttle and new lessons from the decision process for engineering training and engineering managers are analyzed. Examination of interview testimony, published hearings, and tabular data examined by the decision participants at the time of the Challenger launch shows that analysis of data and reasoning were flawed and that the flaws are attributable in large measure not to personal or even organizational failings but rather to a professional weakness shared by all participants. The professional weakness is either curricular or instructional: a gap in the education of engineers. Simple analysis of field data available to both Morton-Thiokol and NASA at launch time and months before the Challenger launch are presented to show that the arguments against launching at cold temperatures could have been quantified, but were not quantified, to the point of predicting degrees of component failure beyond those held by decision participants to be safe. >
The decarboxylation of carboxylic acids during the autoxidation of cyclohexane

Abstract The oxidative decarboxylation of adipic acid does not contribute significantly to the poor selectivity observed during autoxidation of cyclohexane under the conditions examined. The stabilities of adipic, glutaric, succinic, and acetic acids during the cobalt-catalyzed air oxidation of cyclohexane were investigated using carbon14 tracer methods. The amount and rate of deearboxylation of the various acid products increased rapidly with increasing temperature and cobalt-catalyst concentration. At 90 °C, 12% of the adipic acid decarboxylated (rate = 50% hr−1). However, at all temperatures, decarboxylation has only a minor effect on overall selectivity. At 150 °C glutaric and succinic acids reacted at about 25% of the rate of adipic acid; acetic acid decomposed at about 7% of the adipic-acid rate. Carbon monoxide is also produced in large quantities but does not contain any radioactivity. The rate of decarboxylation did not decrease with increasing hydrocarbon conversion in contradiction to previous literature reports on similar systems.
Measuring convalescence after laparoscopic surgery.

Objectives To better understand the relationships between case-mix, processes of care, and recovery after laparoscopic surgery. Methods Patient recovery was prospectively measured among patients undergoing laparoscopic nephrectomy (n = 308), partial nephrectomy (n = 81), nephroureterectomy (n = 30), and cyst decortication (n = 46). Convalescence was measured using the SF-12 and visual analog pain scales administered preoperatively and at 2 and 6 weeks postoperatively. Patient-reported time to events (eg, driving, normal, nonstrenuous activity) were also measured. Mixed models (SF-12 and pain scores) and Cox proportional hazards models (time to event) were fit to determine the association of case-mix and processes of care with the recovery measures. Results With the exception of mental health, all convalescence measures demonstrated significant variability across procedure type. The time to return to normal, nonstrenuous activity was 12.8 ± 9.8, 11.9 ± 9.2, 21.6 ± 11.9, and 12.0 ± 9.0 days for patients undergoing nephrectomy, partial nephrectomy, nephroureterectomy, and cyst decortication, respectively (P < 0.01). The baseline scores were robust predictors of physical, mental, and pain recovery (all P < 0.01). The surgical approach was associated with postoperative pain recovery and return to normal activity (all P < 0.05). Compared with the preoperative characteristics, the perioperative processes of care did not explain the additional variation in any of the recovery measures. Conclusions The variation in recovery among the various laparoscopic kidney procedures is significant. The baseline health status of the patient and the preoperative processes (planned procedure, planned surgical approach) strongly influence postoperative recovery.
Tribological Properties of Sputter-Deposited MoS2 Films Containing Titanium

The tribological properties of sputter-deposited MoS 2 and MoS 2 -Ti films were investigated in this study. The deposited films were characterized using microprobe analysis for composition and x-ray diffraction (XRD) for structure. The frictional properties of the films were examined using a pin-on-disk (POD) with counterfaces of 440C steel, aluminum, tungsten carbide and alumina. The tests were run under low (25%), medium (50%) and high (70%) humidity levels. MoS 2 films without Ti were first examined under cyclic humidity conditions between 25 and 50% R/H. The results showed that for steel, WC and alumina counterfaces, the effect of the higher humidity was to increase the friction, but lower friction could be recovered when the humidity was reduced back to 25%. For films containing Ti, the best results were obtained at a concentration of 20 at. % Ti. These films performed well for steel and WC counterfaces, but poorly against aluminum. The effect of deposition temperature (up to 450oC) was examined for MoS 2 and MoS 2 -5% Ti films. Higher temperatures yielded more crystalline films, but the addition of Ti partially countered this effect. The POD test showed that at medium humidity levels the friction decreased with temperature, but increased slightly when tested under low humidity. In all cases, the 5% Ti-containing films had a fiction coefficient of about 0.1 below that for films without Ti.
Comparative Bioinformatics Analyses and Profiling of Lysosome-Related Organelle Proteomes

Complete and accurate profiling of cellular organelle proteomes, while challenging, is important for the understanding of detailed cellular processes at the organelle level. Mass spectrometry technologies coupled with bioinformatics analysis provide an effective approach for protein identification and functional interpretation of organelle proteomes. In this study, we have compiled human organelle reference datasets from large-scale proteomic studies and protein databases for seven lysosome-related organelles (LROs), as well as the endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria, for comparative organelle proteome analysis. Heterogeneous sources of human organelle proteins and rodent homologs are mapped to human UniProtKB protein entries based on ID and/or peptide mappings, followed by functional annotation and categorization using the iProXpress proteomic expression analysis system. Cataloging organelle proteomes allows close examination of both shared and unique proteins among various LROs and reveals their functional relevance. The proteomic comparisons show that LROs are a closely related family of organelles. The shared proteins indicate the dynamic and hybrid nature of LROs, while the unique transmembrane proteins may represent additional candidate marker proteins for LROs. This comparative analysis, therefore, provides a basis for hypothesis formulation and experimental validation of organelle proteins and their functional roles.
The influence of physicians' demographic characteristics and their patients' demographic characteristics on physician practice: implications for education and research.

In recent years, interest in improving health care to diverse patient populations has stimulated the development of academic and clinical resources to improve physicians’ cultural competence. These efforts have focused on increasing physicians’ sensitivity to the roles patients’ ethnicity and culture play in health care. However, the influence of physicians’ own demographic characteristics on their practice of medicine is an important, yet relatively overlooked, consideration among efforts to improve cross-cultural care. There is a strong presumption in the medical literature that clinicians are neutral operators governed by objective science and are unaffected by personal variables. Yet, there is a body of research that finds physicians’ practice patterns are influenced by their own demographic characteristics, and patient care is affected by the demographic concordance or discordance of the physician–patient dyad. The author discusses this existing literature to illustrate the presence and importance of the impact of physicians’ demographic characteristics on the care they provide and discusses strategies to mitigate this influence. Greater attention to understanding the way in which physician demographic characteristics influence clinical care using multidisciplinary and multimodal approaches provides an opportunity to improve the quality of medical education and improve the quality and efficacy of medical care.
Comparative risk estimates relative to the average peer predict behavioral intentions and concern about absolute risk

This study explored whether comparisons of one's perceived absolute risk of being overweight to that of other people are predictive of concern about one's risk and intentions to reduce it. One hundred and six North American college students rated their absolute risk, concern, and intentions, and compared their risk with that of several comparison referents including average targets (e.g., ‘the average same-sex student in the US’), single targets (e.g., ‘best friend’), temporal targets (e.g., ‘yourself a few years ago’), and exemplar targets (e.g., ‘prototypical person with weight problem’). Participants showed high concern and intentions when comparing unfavorably with many of the average targets, even when controlling for absolute risk. Comparisons with single targets were generally related to concern, though not to intentions. Temporal and exemplar comparisons were unrelated to concern and intentions. Comparative risk (particularly with average targets) may elicit worry about one's risk and encourage protective measures, irrespective of one's absolute risk.
Ethanol-1-C14 and acetate-1-C14 incorporation into lipid fractions in the mouse.

SummaryPairs of mice were administered either by mouth or by injection equal amounts of ethanol-1-C14 or acetate-1-C14 . The phospholipid, non-saponifiable fraction, and fatty acid fractions of liver, gut, brain, and fat were isolated and specific activities of these fractions were compared. Ethanol-1-C14 and acetate-1-C14 contributed approximately equal labelling to tissues investigated.
Thin films of oriented collagen fibrils for cell motility studies.

Collagen films with oriented fibrils mimic tissues that have been remodeled by fibroblasts, which naturally tend to orient collagen fibrils in vivo. We have prepared thin films of ordered fibrils of collagen I, a major component of the extracellular matrix. The films were prepared by modifying a technique previously used to produce collagen I films for studies of cell morphology and intracellular signaling. By modifying the drying step, we were able to produce thin monolayers of collagen fibrils with consistent orientations over macroscopic (>100 μm) distances. We quantified the degree of orientation of the collagen fibrils using Fourier analysis of optical microscopy images. We also conducted experiments with vascular endothelial cells, and found that cell orientation and migration are well-correlated with fibril orientation. Using polarized cells, we showed oriented thin collagen film induces natural migration along the fibrils without using any sort of attractor. Taken together, these results demonstrate additional functionality and physiological relevance for a class of films being successfully applied in a variety of cell biology experiments. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2008
Security in Wireless Mobile Technology for Healthcare Systems

The healthcare providers are always on the move, and they need to have real-time access to the patient information, to stay at the pulse of the medical technology. The wireless mobile technology provides the care giver with the critical patient information which must be more secure and reliable for patient diagnosis and treatment procedures. As a result, the healthcare organizations are under increased pressure to streamline their operations through wireless authentication and encryption technology, in order to maintain the highest level of data security and privacy of the patients.
Sibling Relationships Among Children With ADHD

Objective: This study investigated the quality of sibling relationships among children with ADHD relative to those without ADHD. Additional analyses examined whether externalizing and internalizing problems comorbid with ADHD affected sibling relationships. Method: Participants were 77 children with ADHD and 14 nonproblem control children. Sibling relationships were assessed via three informants: mother report, self-report, and sibling report. Results: In analyses utilizing hierarchical linear modeling to combine data from the three informants, children with ADHD showed increased conflict in sibling relationships, relative to nonproblem children. Comorbid externalizing problems were associated with less warmth/ closeness and increased conflict in the sibling relationship and largely accounted for the finding that children with ADHD showed greater sibling relationship problems. Comorbid internalizing problems were associated with less warmth/closeness in the sibling relationship. Conclusion: It is recommen...
Complications and Predictors of Need for Return to the Operating Room in the Treatment of Supracondylar Humerus Fractures in Children

Supracondylar humerus fractures are common pediatric injuries. Little is known about the risk factors for repeat operative procedures. A retrospective chart review of 709 patients treated for a displaced supracondylar humerus fracture was performed to identify risk factors for return to the operating room during the initial post-operative period. Deviations of routine fracture care were recorded and complication rates were compared between Gartland type 2 and 3 fractures using logistic regression. Type 3 fractures were found to have a higher complication rate, and, specifically, more peri-operative nerve palsies, more likely to need to return to the operating room for hardware removal, to lose fracture reduction, and require a return to the operating room for any reason. Five risk factors which may require returning to the operating room were identified: younger patient age, left sided fractures, type 3 fractures, peri-operative nerve palsy, and post-operative infection. In conclusion, Gartland type 3 supracondylar humerus fractures are associated with more complications then type 2 fractures. Risk factors for the need to return to the operating room in the post-operative period include: younger patient age, left sided fractures, type 3 fractures, peri-operative nerve palsy, and post-operative infection. Patients with these risk factors should be considered at risk for return to the OR and fracture fixation and follow up protocols should be adjusted for this risk. Level of Evidence : Prognostic Study, Level II.
Advances in Inhalation Dosimetry Models and Methods for Occupational Risk Assessment and Exposure Limit Derivation

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview and practical guide to occupational health professionals concerning the derivation and use of dose estimates in risk assessment for development of occupational exposure limits (OELs) for inhaled substances. Dosimetry is the study and practice of measuring or estimating the internal dose of a substance in individuals or a population. Dosimetry thus provides an essential link to understanding the relationship between an external exposure and a biological response. Use of dosimetry principles and tools can improve the accuracy of risk assessment, and reduce the uncertainty, by providing reliable estimates of the internal dose at the target tissue. This is accomplished through specific measurement data or predictive models, when available, or the use of basic dosimetry principles for broad classes of materials. Accurate dose estimation is essential not only for dose-response assessment, but also for interspecies extrapolation and for risk characterization at given exposures. Inhalation dosimetry is the focus of this paper since it is a major route of exposure in the workplace. Practical examples of dose estimation and OEL derivation are provided for inhaled gases and particulates.
Genetic algorithm and Wisdom of Artificial Crowds algorithm applied to Light up

We describe an experimental approach to solving instances of an NP-Complete game, Light up, using a genetic algorithm. Subsequently we apply a new postprocessing algorithm known as the Wisdom of Artificial Crowds (WoAC) to improve the quality of achieved solutions. Experimental results are reported and directions for future research are suggested.
Exploring Boaters’ Environmental Views for a Marine Conservation Campaign

This article reports on formative research as part of a broader interdisciplinary campaign to increase voluntary environmentally responsible boating in a local lagoon. A telephone survey was conducted with a sample (N = 404) of targeted boaters to explore their views on the environmental issue and motivations to perform the desired behavior. Results reveal over half of respondents were unaware of the environmental damage caused by recreational boating but were somewhat concerned. Importantly, many believe they are able to engage in environmentally responsible boating and that it would help to protect this marine ecosystem. The article concludes by discussing scholarly and practical contributions and future research considerations.
Using Logic Problems in Introductory-Level Geoscience Courses to Develop Critical Reasoning and Basic Quantitative Skills

Problems that involve quantitative skills require students to reason logically. Strong logical-reasoning and problem-solving skills are necessary for students in proceeding with the application of mathematical methods. introductory geoscience courses offer an excellent opportunity for students, especially nonscience majors, to develop their problem-solving and quantitative skills. A series of logic problems that increase in difficulty level as the course progresses are given to students in my introductory geoscience courses. Because each student works through problems at his/her pace, many exercises are given as homework. To tie the problems to the course material, real geologic data are used. For example, one logic problem uses streamflow discharge data for a local river. Each student must perform unit conversions, solve the problem, plot data, and provide a written interpretation of the graph. At the end of one semester, a majority of students state that their self-reported ability to solve logic proble...
Superficial spreading melanoma: an analysis of 97 702 cases using the SEER database

Superficial spreading melanoma (SSM) is the most common type of melanoma. Large, population-based studies analyzing the incidence and survival of SSM are limited. This retrospective study was designed to evaluate demographic factors influencing the incidence and survival of SSM using a national population-based database. The United States National Cancer Institute's Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results registry was used to calculate incidence and disease-specific survival trends for SSM between 1973 and 2012. Patient data were stratified according to age, sex, race, ulceration, thickness, and stage. Of 97 702 patients, 52.66% were men, 94.93% were white, and 38.92% had a primary lesion on the trunk. The overall incidence is 5.987/100 000 and is increasing with an annual percentage change (APC) of 1.42%. Incidence increases with age, peaking at 70-79 years. Men (6.68/100 00, APC: 1.78) had a significantly higher incidence than women (5.565/100 000, APC: 1.10). A total of 79.16% of SSM are less than or equal to 1 mm and 92.32% are nonulcerated. The overall 5-year survival is 95.30% and is increasing steadily. Women (hazard ratio: 0.54), 'other' races (hazard ratio: 0.30), those with local disease, those with thin tumors, and those without ulceration had higher survival than their counterparts (P<0.0001). The incidence of this predominantly thin melanoma subtype is on the rise, creating enhanced concern. Primary and secondary prevention techniques should consider the mortality associated with thin melanoma.
Potential Mortality of Pink Bollworms Caused by Summer Thundershowers

In 1971, while introductions of Bracon kikpatricki (Wilkinson) and Chelonus blackburni Cameron were being evaluated as controls for the pink bollworm, Pectinophora gossypiella (Saunders), in Arizona (Bryan et al. 1973), the pest populations appeared to equalize at a common level over the 1000-acre study area. Since equalization could not be readily attributed to biological factors, an investigation of climatic effects, particularly thunderstorms, was suggested. The following study was made during the winter of 1971–72 to determine what effects the heavy rainfalls that accompany thunderstorms might have upon pink bollworm pupae in the soil.
Affirmative Action from Below: Civil Rights, the Building Trades, and the Politics of Racial Equality in the Urban North, 1945–1969

In April 1963 it was impossible to ignore the tragic events in Birmingham, Alabama, where civil rights protesters faced fire hoses and attack dogs. The clash between unchecked police brutality and nonviolent protest marked a watershed in the battle against Jim Crow. Television news crews and print journalists from around the world descended on Birmingham. Their reports and photographs provided indelible images of the black freedom struggle. A thousand miles to the northeast, overshadowed by events in Alabama, an equally momentous wave of protests swept through Philadelphia, as activists from local chapters of the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE) and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) began a two-month-long siege of city-sponsored construction projects. Beginning in early April, protesters marched in front of Mayor James Tate’s modest North Philadelphia row house, staged a sit-in at city hall, shut down construction of the city’s Municipal Services Building, battled with police and white unionists at the site of a partially built school, and unleashed an intense debate about racial politics, discrimination, and employment. The Philadelphia protests had national resonance. On June 22, 1963, President John F. Kennedy issued Executive Order 11114, calling for a still vaguely defined “affirmative action” in government-contracted construction employment.