cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
145. The impact of Michigan's new opioid prescribing laws on spine surgery patients: analysis of the Michigan Spine Surgery Improvement Collaborative (MSSIC)

BACKGROUND CONTEXT In response to the opioid abuse epidemic, the state of Michigan passed new legislation designed to limit use of narcotics. Specific requirements included patient education with attestation, prescription system query, 7-day supply limit for acute pain, and a bona fide prescriber-patient relationship. The major aspects of these opioid laws were effective beginning July 1, 2018. PURPOSE To evaluate the impact of these new restrictive laws on preoperative narcotic use, short-term outcomes, and readmission rates after spinal surgery. STUDY DESIGN/SETTING Patient data from 1 year prior to and 1 year after initiation of the new opioid laws were queried from the Michigan Spine Surgery Improvement Collaborative (MSSIC) database, a spine-specific registry. PATIENT SAMPLE Michigan Spine Surgery Improvement Collaborative (MSSIC) Registry. OUTCOME MEASURES Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) short form Physical Function (PF) 4a. METHODS The MSSIC registry prospectively enrolls patients undergoing surgery for degenerative spine disease. Prior to and after implementation of the major elements of the new laws, 12,325 and 11,988 patients, respectively, were treated. Chi-square and t-tests were used to examine differences between pre and postopioid law implementation. RESULTS Pre- and postopioid law patients had generally similar demographic and surgical characteristics. Notably, after passage of the opioid laws, the number of patients taking daily narcotics preoperatively decreased from 3,783 (48.7%) to 2,698 (39.7%), P CONCLUSIONS There was a meaningful decrease in preoperative narcotic use, but notably there was no apparent negative impact on postoperative recovery, patient satisfaction, or short-term outcomes after spinal surgery despite more restrictive opioid prescribing. Although the readmission rate did not significantly increase, pain as a reason for readmission was marginally more frequently observed. FDA DEVICE/DRUG STATUS This abstract does not discuss or include any applicable devices or drugs.
Capital, the State, and Economic Policy: Bringing Open Marxist Critical Political Economy Back into Contemporary Heterodox Economics

This intervention brings the Open Marxist critical political economy perspective from the Conference for Socialist Economists into contemporary heterodox economics by critically contrasting what I ...
Induced pluripotent stem cell reprogramming-associated methylation at the GABRA2 promoter and chr4p12 GABA A subunit gene expression in the context of alcohol use disorder

Twin studies indicate that there is a significant genetic contribution to the risk of developing alcohol use disorder (AUD). With the exception of coding variants in ADH1B and ALDH2, little is known about the molecular effects of AUD-associated loci. We previously reported that the AUD-associated synonymous polymorphism rs279858 within the GABAA α2 receptor subunit gene, GABRA2, was associated with gene expression of the chr4p12 GABAA subunit gene cluster in induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived neural cultures. Based on this and other studies that showed changes in GABRA2 DNA methylation associated with schizophrenia and aging, we examined methylation in GABRA2. Specifically, using 69 iPSC lines and neural cultures derived from 47 of them, we examined whether GABRA2 rs279858 genotype predicted methylation levels and whether methylation was related to GABAA receptor subunit gene expression. We found that the GABRA2 CpG island undergoes random stochastic methylation during reprogramming and that methylation is associated with decreased GABRA2 gene expression, an effect that extends to the GABRB1 gene over 600 kb distal to GABRA2. Further, we identified additive effects of GABRA2 CpG methylation and GABRA2 rs279858 genotype on expression of the GABRB1 subunit gene in iPSC-derived neural cultures.
Molecular Dynamics Simulation to Uncover the Mechanisms of Protein Instability During Freezing.

Abstract Freezing is a common process applied in the pharmaceutical industry to store and transport biotherapeutics. Herewith, multi-scale molecular dynamics simulations of Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) protein in phosphate buffer with/without ice formation performed to uncover the still poorly understood mechanisms and molecular details of protein destabilization upon freezing. Both fast and slow ice growing conditions were simulated at 243 K from one or two-side of the simulation box, respectively. The rate of ice formation at all-atom simulations was crucial to LDH stability, as faster freezing rates resulted in enhanced structural stability maintained by a higher number of intramolecular hydrogen bonds, less flexible protein's residues, lower solvent accessibility and greater structural compactness. Further, protein aggregation investigated by coarse-grained simulations was verified to be initiated by extended protein structures and retained by electrostatic interactions of the salt bridges between charged residues and hydrogen bonds between polar residues of the protein. Lastly, the study of free energy of dissociation through steered molecular dynamics simulation revealed LDH was destabilized by the solvation of the hydrophobic core and the loss of hydrophobic interactions. For the first time, experimentally validated molecular simulations revealed the detailed mechanisms of LDH destabilization upon ice formation and cryoconcentration of solutes.
Black Female Adolescents’ Sexuality: Pleasure Expectancies, Sexual Guilt, and Age of Sexual Debut

This study examined individual and familial influences on Black female adolescents’ (N = 1426) sexual pleasure expectancies, sexual guilt, and age of sexual debut using data from the National Longi...
Right Ventricle to Pulmonary Artery Conduit Size Is Associated with Conduit and Pulmonary Artery Reinterventions After Truncus Arteriosus Repair.

We studied conduit-related risk factors for mortality, conduit reintervention, conduit replacement, and pulmonary artery (PA) reinterventions after truncus repair. Patients who underwent truncus repair at our institution between 1995 and 2019 were studied. Cox proportional hazards modeling evaluated variables for association with mortality, time to conduit reintervention, time to conduit replacement, and time to PA reintervention. Truncus was repaired in 107 patients at median age of 17 days (IQR 9–45). Median follow-up time was 7 years. Aortic homografts were implanted in 57 (53%) patients, pulmonary homograft in 40 (37%), and bovine jugular conduit in 10 (9%). Median conduit size was 11 mm (IQR 10–12) and median conduit Z-score was 1.71 (IQR 1.08–2.34). At 5 years, there was 87% survival, 21% freedom from conduit reinterventions, 37% freedom from conduit replacements, and 55% freedom from PA reinterventions. Conduit size (HR 0.7, 95%CI 0.4–1.4, p=.41) and type (aortic homograft reference; bovine jugular vein graft HR 0.6, 95% CI 0.08-5.2, p=.69; pulmonary homograft HR 0.7, 95% CI 0.2–2.3, p=.58) were not associated with mortality. On multivariate analysis, the hazard for conduit reintervention, conduit replacement, and PA reintervention decreased with increasing conduit Z-score values of 1 to 2.5 (non-linear relationship, p
Entrepreneurial community development: Longitudinal SNA of cross-promotional behavior

Entrepreneurial communities can serve as important regimes of support necessary for enterprise growth and the creation of broader civic wealth. This research seeks to contribute to the existing lit...
ТЕХНОЛОГИЯ КОРОТКО-ЦИКЛОВОЙ АДСОРБЦИИ ДЛЯ ПРОИЗВОДСТВА ЧИСТОГО ВОДОРОДА

The industry’s requirement of the hydrogen has steadily grown. Therefore a constantly pays attention to perfection the processes and technologies of manufacturing hydrogen. The various hydrogenous gas mixtures are one of sources of hydrogen. For extraction from them hydrogen it is expedient to apply in most cases the installations in which are realized the processes of pressure swing adsorption (PSA). «LINDE АG» now produces an effective installations for reception of purity hydrogen with the help of PSA processes with productivity up to 300000 nm3/h. For the period since 1974 the firm has constructed a hydrogen installations with a total annual production rate more than 45 billion nm3 by initial hydrogenous gas mixtures. The basic features of installations with PSA for manufacture of hydrogen and other gases, and also some directions of their perfection are considered in given article.
Carmelo Mesa-Lago, Cuba en la era de Raúl Castro. Reformas económico-sociales y sus efectos

As speculation over Cuba’s future continues by pundits, exiles, and academics, a timely book by Carmelo Mesa-Lago illuminates recent structural and administrative changes in economic and social pol...
Closed-loop control of torsional harmonics in a permanent magnet synchronous machine without use of a position encoder

A hall-effect sensor-based position observer is developed and coupled to a torque ripple sensor to provide encoderless feedback-based torque ripple mitigation. The observer includes a routine to compensate for offset in placement of sensors, which is shown to be necessary for effective control of torque harmonics. Using the position observer, the overall cost of ripple mitigation is significantly reduced, with relatively minor penalties in system performance. The strategy has been validated in simulation and hardware
Acute staphylococcal peritonitis following cystocentesis in a dog

Objective: Description of a case of acute gram-positive peritonitis following cystocentesis and leakage of contaminated urine into the peritoneal cavity. Case summary: A 6-year-old male Standard Poodle was presented for stranguria and was identified to have a urethral obstruction. Attempts at retrograde urethral catheterization failed and a decompressive cystocentesis was performed. Within several hours, the dog became dull, tachycardic, tachypneic, pyrexic and profoundly hypovolemic. Septic peritonitis resulting from the introduction of a staphylococcal organism from a urinary tract infection into the peritoneal cavity was identified. The dog responded well to surgical therapy and medical management. New or unique information provided: To the authors' knowledge, this is the first detailed report of gram-positive septic peritonitis resulting from a therapeutic cystocentesis. This is contrary to most other reports of septic peritonitis in dogs, where the causative agent is a gram-negative organism. The characteristics of sepsis caused by a gram-positive organism are different and in humans the relative importance of gram-positive sepsis is increasing.
Accountability and Judicial Response: Building Mechanisms for Post-Conflict Justice

The purpose of the thirty-eighth Strategy for Peace, US Foreign Policy Conference, the third in a Stanley Foundation series addressing the role of the international community in post-conflict justice, was to bring together a unique blend of policymakers and practitioners, each with extensive experience in fostering justice and the rule of law internationally, to explore how specifically the United States and other players could better coordinate and rationalize their international activities.
Cloning, nucleotide sequence, and expression of the Bacillus subtilis ans operon, which codes for L-asparaginase and L-aspartase.

Abstract L-Aspartase was purified from Bacillus subtilis, its N-terminal amino acid sequence was determined to construct a probe for the aspartase gene, and the gene (termed ansB) was cloned and sequenced. A second gene (termed ansA) was found upstream of the ansB gene and coded for L-asparaginase. These two genes were in an operon designated the ans operon, which is 80% cotransformed with the previously mapped aspH1 mutation at 215 degrees. Primer extension analysis of in vivo ans mRNA revealed two transcription start sites, depending on the growth medium. In wild-type cells in log-phase growth in 2x YT medium (tryptone-yeast extract rich medium), the ans transcript began at -67 relative to the translation start site, while cells in log-phase growth or sporulating (t1 to t4) in 2x SG medium (glucose nutrient broth-based moderately rich medium) had an ans transcript which began at -73. The level of the -67 transcript was greatly increased in an aspH mutant grown in 2x YT medium; the -67 transcript also predominated when this mutant was grown in 2x SG medium, although the -73 transcript was also present. In vitro transcription of the ans operon by RNA polymerase from log-phase cells grown in 2x YT medium and log-phase or sporulating cells grown in 2x SG medium yielded only the -67 transcript. Depending on the growth medium, the levels of asparaginase and aspartase were from 2- to 40-fold higher in an aspH mutant than in wild-type cells, and evidence was obtained indicating that the gene defined by the aspH1 mutation codes for a trans-acting transcriptional regulatory factor. In wild-type cells grown in 2x SG medium, the levels of both aspartase and asparaginase decreased significantly by t0 of sporulation but then showed a small increase, which was mirrored by changes in the level of beta-galactosidase from an ansB-lacZ fusion. The increase in the activities of ans operon enzymes between t2 and t5 of sporulation was found primarily in the forespore, and the great majority of the increased was found in the mature spore. However, throughout sporulation the only ans transcript detected was the -73 form, and no sporulation-specific RNA polymerase tested yielded a -73 transcript in vitro.
SEE and TID of emerging non-volatile memories

We report on the SEE and TID (total ionizing dose) tests of higher density flash memories. Stand-by currents and functionality tests were used to characterize the response to radiation effects. Single event functional interrupt (SEFI) errors were observed indicating upsets from complex control circuitry.
Thermography Applied to Reinforced Plastics

Thermography is an important and potentially extremely powerful technique for the non-destructive examination of materials, with special reference to the detection of flaws and other defects. This chapter explains the underlying principles, and the procedures currently available for applying them. Factors affecting the performance of the technique in practice are discussed, and examples are given which show the usefulness of thermography in the non-destructive examination of fibre-reinforced composite materials and structures.
Communication: The H2@C60 inelastic neutron scattering selection rule: Expanded and explained

Recently [M. Xu et al., J. Chem. Phys. 139, 064309 (2013)], an unexpected selection rule was discovered for the title system, contradicting the previously held belief that inelastic neutron scattering (INS) is not subject to any selection rules. Moreover, the newly predicted forbidden transitions, which emerge only in the context of coupled H2 translation-rotation (TR) dynamics, have been confirmed experimentally. However, a simple physical understanding, e.g., based on group theory, has been heretofore lacking. This is provided in the present paper, in which we (1) derive the correct symmetry group for the H2@C60 TR Hamiltonian and eigenstates; (2) complete the INS selection rule, and show that the set of forbidden transitions is actually much larger than previously believed; and (3) evaluate previous theoretical and experimental results, in light of the new findings.
Chapter 12 Strategies for cell permeabilization and fixation in detecting surface and intracellular antigens

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses a logical approach for the permeabilization and fixation of cells such that surface and intracellular antigens can be preserved and quantified. It is understood that no single fixative or permeabilization reagent will be appropriate for all antigens, and each will have its own set of advantages and limitations. However, there are ubiquitous, logical concepts from which a common framework can emerge. Intracellular staining for flow cytometry is more of a challenge than surface staining. There are many more factors that influence the staining outcome. When developing a protocol that includes simultaneous surface and intracellular staining, several techniques should be selected as most likely approaches. To properly select fixation and permeabilization reagent(s), the antigen(s) of choice and their intercellular location(s) must be clearly in focus. The reagents of choice should stabilize the cell and the cytoplasmic or nuclear antigen expression over time and allow access to the antigenic site using antibody conjugates at a reasonable concentration.
De-icing: recovery of diffraction intensities in the presence of ice rings

Macromolecular structures are routinely determined at cryotemperatures using samples flash-cooled in the presence of cryoprotectants. However, sometimes the best diffraction is obtained under conditions where ice formation is not completely ablated, with the result that characteristic ice rings are superimposed on the macromolecular diffraction. In data processing, the reflections that are most affected by the ice rings are usually excluded. Here, an alternative approach of subtracting the ice diffraction is tested. High completeness can be retained with little adverse effect upon the quality of the integrated data. This offers an alternate strategy when high levels of cryoprotectant lead to loss of crystal quality.
The cytokine temporal profile in rat cortex after controlled cortical impact

Cerebral inflammatory responses may initiate secondary cascades following traumatic brain injury (TBI). Changes in the expression of both cytokines and chemokines may activate, regulate, and recruit innate and adaptive immune cells associated with secondary degeneration, as well as alter a host of other cellular processes. In this study, we quantified the temporal expression of a large set of inflammatory mediators in rat cortical tissue after brain injury. Following a controlled cortical impact (CCI) on young adult male rats, cortical and hippocampal tissue of the injured hemisphere and matching contralateral material was harvested at early (4, 12, and 24 hours) and extended (3 and 7 days) time points post-procedure. Naive rats that received only anesthesia were used as controls. Processed brain homogenates were assayed for chemokine and cytokine levels utilizing an electrochemiluminescence-based multiplex ELISA platform. The temporal profile of cortical tissue samples revealed a multi-phasic injury response following brain injury. CXCL1, IFN-γ, TNF-α levels significantly peaked at four hours post-injury compared to levels found in naive or contralateral tissue. CXCL1, IFN-γ, and TNF-α levels were then observed to decrease at least 3-fold by 12 hours post-injury. IL-1β, IL-4, and IL-13 levels were also significantly elevated at four hours post-injury although their expression did not decrease more than 3-fold for up to 24 hours post-injury. Additionally, IL-1β and IL-4 levels displayed a biphasic temporal profile in response to injury, which may suggest their involvement in adaptive immune responses. Interestingly, peak levels of CCL2 and CCL20 were not observed until after four hours post-injury. CCL2 levels in injured cortical tissue were significantly higher than peak levels of any other inflammatory mediator measured, thus suggesting a possible use as a biomarker. Fully elucidating chemokine and cytokine signaling properties after brain injury may provide increased insight into a number of secondary cascade events that are initiated or regulated by inflammatory responses.
Effects of thick aberrators in one-way imaging schemes

The ability of one-way imaging schemes to correct for the effects of thick aberrators is examined. These schemes correct an image for the influence of an intervening aberrator in a single pass. Single-pass image correction is observed for thick aberrators that change in times that are short compared with the nonlinear response time of the four-wave mixing material. Image degradation is observed for static aberrators.
Neurons take shape.

To construct the intricate network of connections that supports the functions of an adult nervous system, neurons must form highly elaborate processes, extending in the appropriate direction across long distances to form synapses with their partners. As the nervous system takes shape, the process of neuronal morphogenesis is controlled by a broad repertoire of cellular signals. These extracellular cues and cellular interactions are translated by receptors at the cell surface into physical forces that control the dynamic architecture of the neuron as it explores the surrounding terrain. The interpretation of these cues involves a large set of intracellular proteins, whose functional logic we are just beginning to appreciate. We shall consider the basic mechanics of neuronal morphogenesis and some of the emerging pathways that seem to link the outer and inner worlds of the neuron.
Concealed Antidromic Re‐entrance During Rapid Atrial Pacing in the Wolff‐Parkinson‐White Syndrome

In a patient with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, rapid atrial pacing up to rates of 140/min resulted in A-H prolongation; increases in rate up to 200/min, however, failed to lengthen A-H further. The delta-H interval increased as rate rose to 120/min, but remained stable thereafter. These and other findings suggest retrograde activation of the His bundle via the accessory pathway at rates greater than 140/min. Such a phenomenon: 1) prevents initiation of PSVT with atrial pacing; 2) prevents one from determining the anterograde block rate of the AV node; 3) represents concealed antidromic re-entrance, which may theoretically lead to antidromic re-entrant PSVT.
Upregulation of forebrain proenkephalin mRNA subsequent to NMDA receptor blockade

Blockade of NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) receptors for 5 h with MK 801 resulted in elevated levels of proenkephalin mRNA (up to 40% above vehicle-injected controls) in medial and anterior aspects of the caudate-putamen (mCPU and aCPU) and the nucleus accumbens (NAc). Increases were dose-dependent, with maximal effect at 0.1 mg/kg (body weight). These results suggest that NMDA receptor activity exerts tonic inhibition on proenkephalin mRNA expression in the striatum and accumbens of the rat brain.
The suicide attitude vignette experience (save): A search for sexual stereotypes in the perception of suicidal behavior

Abstract Using a modification of the Suicide Attitude Vignette Experience (SAVE), a study identified no sexual stereotypes in the perceived rationality and appropriateness of completed suicide in response to crises. Respondents who were depressed or who had a history of suicidal preoccupation did view the choice of suicide as more rational and more appropriate.
Metabolomics profiling of dates subtypes

Dates form an important product of Qatari agriculture and further constitute an icon of the identity and heritage of the Arab world. Along many Arab countries, Qatar is engaging active research into studying the biology of dates with the view of improving the quality of the fruit both for commercial reasons as well as impact on the human health. As part of a major initiative of date biology research project at WCMC-Q, we aim to deploy metabolomics techniques to discover the molecular basis for the phenotypic diversity in date subtypes. In addition to natural variation, we also explore the effect of environment on date metabolome. To this end, we collected 63 samples that are both phenotypically and geographically diverse; including countries such as Qatar, Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco, Mauritania, Egypt, Israel, Pakistan, Djibouti, Iraq, United Arab Emirates and Oman. Metabolomics data for these samples were obtained from two independent platforms. Combining data from both sources has the advantage of reduci...
Scaling Nonequilibrium-Reacting Flows: The Legacy of Gerhard Damko-yen;hler

Damks personal background is e rst outlined, followed by an examination of his early pioneering work in the 1930s on reacting e ows, which led to the basic nondimensional similitude parameters that now bear his name. We then survey the role that these parameters have played in dealing with e nite reaction-rate effects in acoustics, combustion, and the aerothermodynamics of hypervelocity e ight vehicles and their propulsion systems. Emphasis is placed on the aerospace sciences and the value of the Damk ¨ ohler number not only in understanding and correlating experimental data, but also in conducting efe cient numerical studies and analyses of reacting-gas e owe elds.
Charge and spin collective excitations in a coupled spin-polarized bilayer system

We investigate the occurrence of charge and spin density collective excitations in a bilayer quasi-two-dimensional spin polarized system in the presence of interlayer tunneling. The inclusion of the self-consistent magnetization interaction among the electron spins, in addition to the Coulomb interaction, permits the resolution of coupled in-phase and out-of-phase electric and magnetic modes associated with the charge and spin densities in the two layers. While the in-phase modes are not affected by tunneling, the out-of-phase modes, both electric and magnetic, are gaped, the width of the gap being proportional to the tunneling amplitude. We analyze the existence of these modes outside the electron-hole continuum within the random phase approximation and suggest that they can be relevant for materials with large gyromagnetic factors, for example, dilute magnetic semiconductors.
Drosophila has one myosin heavy-chain gene with three developmentally regulated transcripts

Abstract We have isolated overlapping genomic clones that contain a single-copy myosin heavy-chain gene of Drosophila melanogaster. By the criteria of hybridization under nonstringent conditions, this is the only myosin heavy-chain gene of the fly. The gene is localized to the chromosomal region 36B. The transcriptional unit has a length of about 19 kb and contains at least nine introns. There are three mature mRNA species expressed from the gene, with molecular lengths of 7.2 kb, 8.0 kb and 8.6 kb. The former two are expressed abundantly during those stages of development when larval muscle proteins are being synthesized; the latter two are expressed when the principal muscle proteins of the adult are made. The three transcripts differ primarily in their respective patterns of splicing at the 3′ ends.
P-Chlorophenylalanine-induced alterations in the behavioral effects of 5-hydroxytryptophan.

Pretreatment of rats with p-chlorophenylalanine methyl ester (PCPA-ME) causes a normally non-effective dose of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) to disrupt bar-pressing at times when serotonin (5-HT) concentration is depleted. There does not appear to be any correlation between the initial, behaviorally-distruptive effects of PCPA-ME and the action of this compound on 5-HT biosynthesis.
Preschool Teachers and Children's Emergent Writing: Supporting Diverse Learners.

Early literacy skill development is critical during the preschool years. Under that umbrella is emergent writing, a small but important component of overall literacy development. This article presents two writing strategies: (1) writers’ workshop and (2) dictation within the context of storybook reading that preschool teachers can utilize to target emergent writing development. Modifications for diverse learners are also included throughout.
Some strong limit theorems for M-estimators☆

Abstract Some laws of the iterated logarithm for empirical processes rescaled in the “time” parameter are presented. These laws of the iterated logarithm are applied to obtain strong limit theorems for M-estimators. In particular, a law of the iterated logarithm for M-estimators with unusual rates of convergence (in particular with cubic root asymptotics) is considered. We also obtain some Bahadur-Kiefer representations for M-estimators with unusual order.
Growth Hormone (GH) Treatment in Turner Syndrome (TS) and Predictors of Response: a Comparison between Japan, Sweden, and the UK as Documented in the Kabi Pharmacia International Growth Study (KIGS) Database

Baseline auxology and responses to growth hormone (GH) treatment in girls with Turner syndrome (TS) from three countries, Japan, Sweden and the United Kingdom, were compared, using data from the Kabi Pharmacia International Growth Study (KEGS). Differences were observed between countries in respect to pretreatment height and height velocity, chronological and bone ages at onset of GH, parental and target heights, body proportions, weight-for-height index, birth weight, and peak GH levels in provocation tests.Median values for height velocity in the first 3 year of GH treatment were greatest in Sweden and lowest in Japan. A previously derived model for predicting first year response in TS was applied to data from the 3 countries: there was no difference between the Studentised residuals of observed-predicted height velocities between countries.It was concluded that although there were differences in response to GH between countries, there was no difference in “responsiveness”. The predictive model for first year response was robust but only accounted for 25% of the variability of response; other factors predicting response to GH in TS should be sought.
Jumpstarting Novice Teachers' Ability to Analyze Classroom Video: Affordances of an Online Workshop

AbstractVideo analysis of teaching is an important element of teacher education, yet the skills of classroom observation are often assumed rather than explicitly taught. To prepare a group of teacher trainees to interpret videos of their own teaching, the researchers developed a self-paced, online workshop to introduce micro-ethnographic techniques for observing and analyzing teaching through video. A series of video tutorials and activities guides teacher trainees through the process of viewing the same video clip through different lenses. They are asked to reflect on student response opportunities, teacher use of praise, and feedback to student error. Results indicate that this training led to strong learning outcomes, such as seeking specific evidence from the video to support claims and being more cautious about making judgments. Findings also suggest that instruction in video analysis techniques is particularly suited for online learning environments.
Redistribution of melanosomal complexes within keratinocytes following UV-A irradiation: a possible mechanism for cutaneous darkening in man.

In contrast to other ultraviolet (UV) wavelengths, UV-A can induce long-term or “true” pigmentation rapidly with little or no latency. The response cannot be clearly separated from immediated pigment darkening and is too rapid in onset to be explained by neomelanogenesis. In order to investigate possible mechanisms for this phenomenon, UV-irradiated skin was examined microscopically and ultrastructurally 18 h postirradiation. Specimens from skin sites tanned by exposure to melanogenic doses of UV-A showed a paradoxical reduction in the degree of basal melanization by light microscopy compared to unirradiated skin. Ultrastructurally, there was migration and dispersion of packaged melanosomes within keratinocytes from their normal, aggregated location around the nucleus towards the periphery of the cell. These changes were not observed in specimens exposed to melanogenic doses of UV-B.
Comment on "Deep mixing of 3He: reconciling Big Bang and stellar nucleosynthesis".

Eggleton et al . (Reports, 8 December 2006, p. 1580) reported on a deep-mixing mechanism in low-mass stars caused by a Rayleigh-Taylor instability that destroys all of the helium isotope 3He produced during the star's lifetime. Observations of 3He in planetary nebulae, however, indicate that some stars produce prodigious amounts of 3He. This is inconsistent with the claim that all low-mass stars should destroy 3He.
PLA2Activity Regulates Ca2+Storage-Dependent Cellular Proliferation

Abstract The objective of this study is to determine the role of arachidonic acid (AA) in cell proliferation by inhibiting AA synthetic enzyme phospholipase A 2 (PLA 2 ) and to determine its involvement in the role of the second messenger intracellular calcium (Ca 2+ ). Methods used to determine the effects on proliferation of cell cultures of primary meningioma and astrocytoma U373-MG included treatment with micromolar concentrations of PLA 2 inhibitors 4-bromophenacylbromide and quinacrine. Effects of these drugs on proliferation were further investigated by the application of concentrations that inhibit growth by 50% while antagonizing these agents with AA replacement. Free cytosolic Ca 2+ was measured with the use of fluorescent dye Fura-2 during PLA 2 agonist/antagonist studies. These Ca 2+ measurements were performed in the absence of extracellular Ca 2+ to identify the contribution of intracellular Ca 2+ sources. PLA 2 inhibition resulted in decreased growth of cultured astrocytoma and meningioma cells in a dose-dependent manner in the micromolar range. This inhibitory effect was antagonized by the addition of AA. PLA 2 inhibition caused an elevation of basal-cytosolic-free [Ca 2+ ] while depleting internal Ca 2+ stores. These Ca 2+ changes were also antagonized by the addition of AA. In conclusion, these results demonstrate that AA, a PLA 2 enzyme product, is involved in regulating the growth rate of these cell types. The PLA 2 pathway also regulates the maintenance of the internal Ca 2+ stores. Ca 2+ is known to be a growth-related intracellular second messenger. These results suggest that the growth regulatory functions of AA are mediated by Ca 2+ -dependent mechanisms.
Electrical properties of polycrystalline β-SiC thin films for high temperature sensors grown by the activated reactive evaporation process

Abstract Polycrystalline β-SiC is expected to be an excellent semiconductor material for thin film temperature sensors which can measure the surface temperature of ceramic turbine blades up to 1500°C. Films were deposited on thermally oxidized Si(100) substrates by the activated reactive evaporation (ARE) process. The electrical properties, such as resistivity, carrier type, density and mobility, are some of the important factors determining sensor performance. Room temperature Hall measurements on the as-deposited silicon carbide films were carried out to investigate these properties. The effects of important deposition parameters, such as C 2 H 2 pressure, substrate temperature and ARE electrode power (plasma density) for the generation of glow discharge of acetylene gas, on those properties are studied. It is found that the electrical properties of the films are very much dependent on those deposition parameters. Under the optimum deposition conditions (C 2 H 2 pressure 3 m Torr, substrate temperature 700°C and ARE electrode power 12.0–16.2 W), β-SiC films with C/Si ratio 1.27–1.34 are obtained. The films show n-type conduction, resistivity 4.4–5.7 ωcm, carrier density (5.2–7.1) × 10 16 cm -3 , and Hall mobility 17.4–19.8 cm 2 V -1 s -1 .
Digesting the Doughnut Hole

Despite its success, Medicare Part D has been widely criticized for the gap in coverage, the so-called "doughnut hole". We compare the use of prescription drugs among beneficiaries subject to the coverage gap with usage among beneficiaries who are not exposed to it. We find that the coverage gap does, indeed, disrupt the use of prescription drugs among seniors with diabetes. But the declines in usage are modest and concentrated among higher cost, brand-name medications. Demand for high cost medications such as antipsychotics, antiasthmatics, and drugs of the central nervous system decline by 8-18% in the coverage gap, while use of lower cost medications with high generic penetration such as beta blockers, ACE inhibitors and antidepressants decline by 3-5% after reaching the gap. More importantly, lower adherence to medications is not associated with increases in medical service use.
Virtual Synthesis and Optoelectronic Properties of Prismatic Artificial Molecules of In-N and Zn-O: Comparative Studies

The Hartree-Fock (HF), restricted open shell HF (ROHF), configuration interaction (CI), complete active space (ICASCF), and multiconfiguration self-consistent field (MCSCF) methods provide sophisticated fundamental theory-based, computational tools to study structure, composition,chemistry and electronic properties of small artificial molecules composed of semiconductor compound atoms. These tools are used to synthesize virtually several prismatic In-N and Zn-O artificial molecules whose structure is derived from that of the symmetry elements of the respective wurtzite bulk lattices. Applications of spatial constraints to the atomic coordinates allow modeling molecular synthesis in quantum confinement, to obtain pre-designed molecules with tunable electronic properties. Relaxation of these constraints, or optimization, leads to the corresponding molecules synthesized in “vacuum”. The development of computational templates of the studied artificial molecules synthesized in confinement reflects effects of quantum confinement on the electronic level structure, bonding, the direct optical transition energy, and charge and spin density distributions of the molecules. Comparison of the structure and properties of these molecules to those of their vacuum counterparts leads to a conclusion that a small changes in atomic positions in otherwise structurally similar molecules cause a significant change in their electronic properties. Thus, the electronic properties of artificial molecules can be tuned by changing their synthesis conditions that are defined by atomistic details of quantum confinement where the molecules are synthesized.
Tight hardness results for minimizing discrepancy

In the Discrepancy problem, we are given M sets {S1,..., SM} on N elements. Our goal is to find an assignment χ of {−1, + 1} values to elements, so as to minimize the maximum discrepancy maxj | ΣieSjχ(i)|. Recently, Bansal gave an efficient algorithm for achieving O(√N) discrepancy for any set system where M = O(N) [Ban10], giving a constructive version of Spencer's proof that the discrepancy of any set system is at most O(√N) for this range of M [Spe85].We show that from the perspective of computational efficiency, these results are tight for general set systems where M = O(N). Specifically, we show that it is NP-hard to distinguish between such set systems with discrepancy zero and those with discrepancy Ω(√N). This means that even if the optimal solution has discrepancy zero, we cannot hope to efficiently find a coloring with discrepancy o(√N). We also consider the hardness of the Discrepancy problem on sets with bounded shatter function, and show that the upper bounds due to Matousek [Mat95] are tight for these sets systems as well.The hardness results in both settings are obtained from a common framework: we compose a family of high discrepancy set systems with set systems for which it is NP-hard to distinguish instances with discrepancy zero from instances in which a large number of the sets (i.e. constant fraction of the sets) have non-zero discrepancy. Our composition amplifies this zero versus non-zero gap.
A Ubiquitously Expressed Human Hexacoordinate Hemoglobin

We have identified a new human hemoglobin that we call histoglobin because it is expressed in a wide array of tissues. Histoglobin shares less than 30% identity with the other human hemoglobins, and the gene contains an intron in an unprecedented location. Spectroscopic and kinetic experiments with recombinant human histoglobin indicate that it is a hexacoordinate hemoglobin with significantly different ligand binding characteristics than the other human hexacoordinate hemoglobin, neuroglobin. In contrast to the very high oxygen affinities displayed by most hexacoordinate hemoglobins, the biophysical characteristics of histoglobin indicate that it could facilitate oxygen transport. The discovery of histoglobin demonstrates that humans, like plants, differentially express multiple hexacoordinate hemoglobins.
In vitro characterization of a compliant biodegradable scaffold with a novel bioreactor system.

The influence of scaffold compliance on blood vessel tissue engineering remains unclear and compliance mismatch issues are important to an in vivo tissue-engineering approach. We have designed and constructed a modular bioreactor system that is capable of imparting pulsatile fluid flow while simultaneously measuring vessel distension with fluid pressure changes in real time. The setup uses a pneumatic PID control system to generate variable fluid pressure profiles via LabVIEW and an LED micrometer to monitor vessel distension to an accuracy of ±2 μm. The bioreactor was used to measure the compliance of elastomeric poly(1,8-octanediol citrate) (POC) scaffolds over physiologically relevant pressure ranges. The compliance of POC scaffolds could be adjusted by changing polymerization conditions resulting in scaffolds with compliance values that ranged from 3.8 ± 0.2 to 15.6 ± 4.6%/mmHg × 10−2, depending on the distension pressures applied. Furthermore, scaffolds that were incubated in phosphate-buffered saline for 4 weeks exhibited a linear increase in compliance (2.6 ± 0.9 to 7.7 ± 1.2%/mmHg × 10−2) and were able to withstand normal physiological blood pressure without bursting. The ability to tailor scaffold compliance and easily measure vessel compliance in real time in vitro will improve our understanding of the role of scaffold compliance on vascular cell processes.
Design of a Bioreactor for Mechanical Stimulation of Adipose Derived Stem Cells for Intervertebral Disc Tissue Engineering

Lower back pain is one of the most common medical problems in the world [1], affecting between 70% and 85% of the US population at some point during their lives [2]. Disc degeneration is caused by biological changes in the disc, which result in dehydration of the nucleus pulposus (NP). The long term goal of this project is to treat disc degeneration with a tissue engineering strategy for the regeneration of the nucleus pulposus using messechymal stem cells derived from adipose tissue. It has been established in cartilage regeneration studies that cyclic compressive loading of stem cells is beneficial for tissue formation compared to static culture [3–7]. In this work, a bioreactor is being developed that can subject cell-seeded polymeric tissue engineering scaffolds to dynamic compressive forces. Ultimately, the bioreactor will be used to study the effects of different loading parameters on the production of new nucleus pulposus tissue from adipose-derived stem cells.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Noninfectious Posterior Uveitis

Posterior uveitis encompasses a broad range of clinical entities with multiple manifestations. A complete history and physical examination provide diagnostic clues and guide an appropriate laboratory evaluation. An infectious cause should always be considered before instituting therapy. Periocular and systemic corticosteroids are the mainstay of treatment, but additional immunosuppressive agents may be required to control inflammation and minimize side effects. An atypical response to therapy should provoke further testing to rule out a masquerade process. This article reviews the common clinical findings, differential diagnosis, and treatment of posterior uveitis.
Comfort and medical ambivalence in old age

This article, based on three years of longitudinal research, analyzes the role of technology in creating or inhibiting comfortable lives in old age, from the perspective of elders themselves. By understanding the oldest old as technology users, we can appreciate elders as savvy tech-operators, ambivalent users, and non-users. Combining science and technology studies and medical sociology frameworks together provides a basis from which to examine technogenarians in action, (or chosen in-action), and the complex relationship between biotechnology and well-being.
Bronchial bifurcations and respiratory mass transport

A new transport mechanism explains the importance of the shape of bronchial bifurcations in the transfer of gases and particles between the atmosphere and the alveoli. Photographs of flow visualization experiments illustrate the effect in models of bronchial branching. The mechanism provides a means of nondiffusional transport that helps to explain normal respiratory exchange of gases as well as successful ventilation with very low tidal volumes, as in some lung diseases and in the high-frequency panting of dogs.
Comparison of volatile release in tomatillo and different varieties of tomato during chewing.

ABSTRACT: The release of volatiles from tomatillos (Physalis ixocarpa Brot.) and tomatoes in the mouthspace and nosespace was measured in real-time using selected ion flow tube mass spectrometry (SIFT-MS). (Z)-3-Hexenal, (E)-2-hexenal, hexanal, and 1-penten-3-one increased, while isobutyl alcohol, nonanal, and methylbutanal showed no significant change in the first 30 s of chewing. Cherry tomato released more (E)-2-hexenal, (Z)-3-hexenal, and 1-penten-3-one than tomatillo, Roma tomato, and vine-ripened tomato during chewing. The proportion of the average concentration of volatiles in the mouthspace after swallowing to before swallowing (MSas/MSbs) varied from 2.8% to 73.9% between different volatiles and varieties. Methylbutanal, hexanal, and nonanal were retained at a higher percentage in the mouth after swallowing than (Z)-3-hexenal, (E)-2-hexenal, 1-penten-3-one, and isobutyl alcohol. The proportion of the average volatile concentration in the mouthspace, to the headspace in a glass container (MS/HS) of 1-penten-3-one, hexanal, methylbutanal, and nonanal, and the proportion of nosespace to headspace (NS/HS) for 1-penten-3-one, hexanal, (Z)-3-hexenal, and nonanal was significantly higher in tomatillo than in tomatoes. There was no difference between tomatoes of different varieties in NS/HS ratio. Practical Application: The real-time volatile release from tomatillos and tomatoes was measured and compared. The information obtained on the dynamic generation of volatile compounds provides a better understanding of volatile release in the headspace of tomatillo and tomatoes. The compounds and their volatile release patterns were similar for the tomatillo and tomatoes. The green aldehydes released during chewing were not significantly higher than most tomato varieties, except for Roma tomatoes. Cherry tomato released relatively more volatiles during chewing, whereas Roma tomatoes were generally poor in mouthspace volatiles. The lingering of volatiles in the mouth after swallowing was different for different volatiles and varieties, which may appear as a sensory difference detected by consumers.
Transboundary water management Game-theoretic lessons for projects on the US–Mexico border⋆

Of the twelve million people who live within 100 km of the US‐Mexico border, 90 percent are clustered in transboundary sister cities that share common water sources and pollution problems. New institutions created to address environmental concerns over NAFTA offer the promise of greater financial and technical assistance for water management in border cities. This paper reviews US‐Mexico border water issues and institutions. Using insights from game theory, it draws policy lessons for institutions funding border water projects. We examine how the design of assistance programs, technical support, and pre-existing water rights and regulations affect project outcomes. The diversity and geographic dispersion of water conflicts suggests potential for applying the interconnected game approach to US‐Mexico water negotiations. © 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved. JEL classification: Q250 — Renewable Resources and Conservation, Environmental Management: Water, Air, Climate; Q280 — Renewable Resources and Conservation, Environmental Management: Government Policy; D740 — Conflict, Conflict Resolution; D780 — Positive Analysis of Policy-Making and Implementation