cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
PREDICTING DEPRESSION FROM MARITAL DISTRESS AND ATTRIBUTIONAL PROCESSES

This study examined the interaction between marital distress and spouses' attributions and expectancies regarding the marital relationship in predicting depressive symptoms in a mixed sample of 59 clinic and nonclinic couples. The best single predictor of depression for both sexes was a measure of disaffection, reflecting emotional distance and alienation in the marriage. However, prediction of wives' depression in multiple regression analyses was enhanced by measures of overt marital disharmony, attribution of causality for relationship difficulties to their own behavior, and failure to attribute difficulties to their husbands' behavior. Regression analyses accounted for 55% of the variance in wives' depression, in contrast to only 32% for husbands. Treatment implications are discussed.
Information sources accessed by parents following childhood poisoning.

Objective: To ascertain the sources of information accessed by parents/caregivers following an incident of child poison ingestion, prior to their presentation to an ED. Methods: A questionnaire based survey of the parents/caregivers of children presenting to the Mater Children's Hospital Emergency Department with poisoning from March to October 2001. Results: A total of 121 parents/caregivers were surveyed. In 117 cases (97%), information was sought prior to presentation. The Poisons Information Centre (PIC) was the initial source of information in 39 cases (32%), the ED in 25 cases (21%) and the family doctor (by telephone or consultation) in 21 cases (17%). Poisons Information Centres, emergency departments and family doctors were the sole sources of information for 18%, 15% and 12% of cases, respectively. For 46% of cases multiple sources of information were accessed, and overall, in 57 cases (47%) the Poisons Information Centre was accessed, the ED in 38 cases (31%) and the family doctor in 34 cases (28%). Conclusions: Poisons Information Centres are under-utilized as the first point of contact after childhood poisoning but in nearly all cases of poison ingestion that presented to the ED, information was sought prior to presentation and in most cases this was from direct contact with a health professional.
Boundary-conformed toolpath generation for trimmed free-form surfaces via Coons reparametrization

In the process of CAD/CAM, predefined parametric surfaces are often subject to the operation of trimming or extending. In such a case, the original iso-parametric curves are no longer boundary-conformed. Consequently, they are not anymore suitable for being used as natural CNC toolpaths. In this paper a method to regenerate boundary-conformed iso-parametric toolpaths on altered free-form surfaces is presented. The main idea of this method is to fit the 2D parametric domain of the given trimmed surface with a 2D Coons patch. Then boundary-conformed toolpaths on the altered surface can be regenerated naturally via the iso-parametric curves of the Coons patch via a two-step mapping. The application of this method is successfully illustrated on a typical trimmed surface, a turbine blade. The applicability and limitations of this method are also discussed.
Predictive properties of a qualitative urine acetaminophen screen in patients with self-poisoning.

Objective: Screening for acetaminophen toxicity is recommended in almost all cases of self poisoning. We compared a qualitative urine acetaminophen screen to the quantitative serum acetaminophen to test the hypothesis that a negative urine acetaminophen screen would be predictive of a negative serum acetaminophen level. Methods: All adults with intentional ingestions evaluated in our Emergency Department during 1995 were retrospectively identified based on Emergency Department International Classification of Disease–9th edition codes. Laboratory data from each patient including serum and urine toxicologic assays were examined. Predictive properties of urine acetaminophen screens for serum acetaminophen were evaluated.Results: A total of 88 patients were identified who had both a serum acetaminophen and a urine acetaminophen performed. The sensitivity of the urine acetaminophen screen was 100% (95% CI 72–100%) and the specificity was 87% (95% CI 80–95%). All patients with negative urine acetaminophen scree...
Item analysis of cancer patient responses to the Multidimensional Affect and Pain Survey demonstrates high inter-item consistency and discriminability and determines the content of a short form

Abstract To construct a short form (SMAPS-CP), item analysis was used to select 30 items, 1 from each of the 30 subclusters in the 101-item Multidimensional Affect and Pain Survey (101-MAPS). Representation of each of the subclusters ensured that the structure of the MAPS dendrogram obtained by cluster analysis was maintained in SMAPS-CP. Responses of outpatients with cancer to the 101-MAPS were treated by item analysis to obtain measures of interitem consistency (criterion between .40 and .80) and discriminability (criterion above .35) for each of the 101-MAPS questions. Both of these criteria for acceptance were met by 53 of the 57 questions in Supercluster I, Somatosensory Pain, by 25 of the 26 questions in Supercluster II, Emotional Pain, and by all 18 of the questions in Supercluster III, Well-being. The item within each cluster that best met the item analysis criteria was selected for the 30-item SMAPS-CP questionnaire. Perspective Item analysis of responses by cancer patients to a 101-item questionnaire was used to develop a short questionnaire that can be used to identify and treat both physical and emotional levels of pain without the burden of a long questionnaire.
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) pneumonitis mimicking swine influenza pneumonia during the swine influenza (H1N1) pandemic.

Abstract Background We present a young woman with a negative medical history who presented with acute systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) pneumonitis mimicking swine influenza (H1N1) pneumonia. Because this case occurred during the H1N1 pandemic, the initial diagnostic impression was of H1N1 pneumonia. Methods Although her clinical and laboratory findings were consistent with the diagnosis of H1N1 pneumonia, e.g., fever, sore throat, dry cough, arthralgias, myalgias, thrombocytopenia, relative lymphopenia, and elevated serum transaminases, some findings suggested an alternate diagnosis, e.g., leukopenia, a highly elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate, highly elevated serum ferritin levels, elevated antinuclear antibody (ANA) levels, and double-stranded (DS) DNA titers. Her chest x-ray showed an accentuation of basilar lung markings, with a small pleural effusion similar to the chest x-ray findings of early H1N1 pneumonia. Initially, her headaches were thought to be related to central nervous system manifestations of H1N1. Results After laboratory test results demonstrated elevated ANA and anti-DS DNA titers, she was diagnosed with acute SLE pneumonitis. The take-home lesson for clinicians is that other infectious diseases, e.g., human parainfluenza virus or Legionnaires’ disease, can mimic H1N1 pneumonia during an influenza pandemic. Excluding asthma, congestive heart failure, exacerbations of acute bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder, and pulmonary interstitial disease, noninfectious mimics of H1N1 are extremely rare. Conclusion To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of de novo SLE pneumonitis mimicking H1N1 pneumonia during the swine influenza pandemic.
STUDIES ON CELLULASE PRODUCTION BY CLOSTRIDIUM THERMOCELLUM

Clostridium thermocellum ATCC 27405 (and its improved cellulase-producing mutant, AS-39) is an anaerobic thermophile that produces endo-β-glucanase and exo-β-glucanase when grown on cellobiose or cellulose as major carbon source (Shinmyo et al. 1979). The site of cellulase accumulation was at least 95% extracellular. Optimum conditions for endo-β-glucanase production in flasks included 1% (w/v) cellobiose, 0.2% (w/v) urea as a nitrogen source, 0.1 M morpholinopropane-sulfonic acid buffer, an initial pH of 7.4, and a yeast extract concentration of 0.6% (w/v). An improved medium (GS medium) was devised for future studies. Xylan was degraded by an extracellular enzyme (s) produced during cultivation on cellobiose, although C. thermocellum does not grow on xylan.
Geology of Bulgaria: a Review

Bulgaria is in southeastern Europe between reasonably well-described areas of predominantly Alpine crustal deformation on the north and northwest (Carpathians in Romania, Hungary, and Czechoslovakia; Alps in Austria), on the east (Pontides and Taurides in Turkey), and on the west and south (Dinaric Alps in Yugoslavia; Pindos Mountains in Greece) but has not been well described in easily available literature. There are three major east-west trending morphotectonic units. The low-relief Moesian platform of northern Bulgaria and southern Romania owes its heritage to Hercynian deformation. It is mantled by flat-lying, shelf-type Mesozoic and Tertiary sedimentary (mostly carbonate) rocks. Along its southern boundary a foredeep developed during Jurassic-Cretaceous time in which thick flysch-like sediments accumulated. There is small oil and gas production. The Lom basin, North Bulgarian swell, and Varna trough are other major structural elements within the platform. The Rhodope massif of southern Bulgaria and northern Greece is a rugged mountainous terrain of Precambrian and early Paleozoic crystalline rocks. It is a fragment of a once much larger crustal block that began to break up in the Paleozoic and which has experienced uplift of 2,000 m in the Pliocene-Pleistocene. Between the Rhodope and Moesian crustal blocks the narrow (10-20 km) Balkan Mountains (Stara Planina zone) consist of tightly folded and metamorphosed Paleozoic sedimentary rocks that have been deformed recurrently during the Hercynian and Alpine orogenies, culminating in 3 to 4 km of vertical uplift since the Miocene. The sub-Balkan fault bounds the south side of the Balkans and is at many places a spectacular scarp. The Balkanide zone has been compressively molded between the large, relatively stable Rhodope massif and Moesian platform. Locally, north-moving gravitational glide masses lie on the platform but there has been minimal crustal shortening. A fourth morphotectonic unit, the Kraishtide zone, trends northwest through western Bulgaria and into adjacent Yugoslavia. This rugged area, 15-60 km wide, is a megashear zone within which both right-lateral strike-slip and vertical movements have been common since the Paleozoic. It parallels the better known Vardar zone of Yugoslavia. In addition to the long-lived, deep-seated faults that parallel the trend--and which are the boundary for some--of these four crustal units, a northeast-southwest fault system (Tvarditsa and Etropole), further breaks the Bulgarian crust into a giant block mosaic. Predominantly vertical movement along the major faults alternately has elevated or depressed individual blocks of the mosaic and has influenced profoundly the location and the character of sedimentation, igneous activity, occurrence of mineral deposits, and erosion.
SURFACE MODIFICATION OF SILICA-BASED MONOLITH WITH POLY(PENTAFLUOROPROPYL METHACRYLATE) USING SINGLE STEP PHOTOGRAFTING

Photografting has been utilized to achieve on-column functionalization of porous silica monoliths in capillaries. The pore surface was first modified with 3-((trimethoxysilyl)propyl) methacrylate (γ-MAPS) and then photografted in a single step with poly(pentafluoropropyl methacrylate) (PFM). The chromatographic performance of these grafted capillary columns was evaluated using reversed-phase separation of alkylbenzenes.
BENTHIC ALGAL COMMUNITIES OF THE METOLIUS RIVER1,2

SUMMARY Sampling of benthic algae from selected sites in the Metolius River was carried out at regular intervals between April 15, 1967 and March 9, 1968 to determine the species composition of the communities. With the exception of the sampling site at the headwaters and the site immediately downstream, the benthic community of the Metolius River is described as a Cladophora–Achnanthes–Spirogyra community, with species of these 3 genera predominating on a year-round basis. The community described for the headwaters and the sampling site immediately downstream was composed primarily of Nitzchia palea and Cymbella cistula. Of the approximately 60 species of algae which were identified, only 9 showed a definite seasonal distribution, the remaining species being found on a year-round basis.
Transcortical Cooling Inhibits Hippocampal-kindled Seizures in the Rat

Purpose When epileptogenic regions encroach on eloquent brain, surgery may incur unacceptable deficits. Reversible cooling may control seizures while preserving function. We describe the effects of cooling kindled seizures in awake, freely moving rats. Methods We kindled rats after placement of a bipolar electrode and a copper cooling coil in dorsal hippocampus. Fully kindled animals (three consecutive grade 5 seizures) were cooled to one of two target temperatures (24 degrees or 27 degrees C) for 3 min preceding a kindling stimulation and 2 minutes after. We compared seizure score (0-5) and afterdischarge duration (ADD) with and without cooling. Target temperatures were confirmed in identical animals by using a needle thermocouple advanced to the kindling target while circulating coolant. Results Circulation of 16 degrees C and 8 degrees C coolant reliably achieved transcortical cooling of the hippocampal target to 27.0 +/- 1.2 degrees C and 23.8 +/- 2.0 degrees C, respectively, by 180 s. Cooling with 16 degrees C coolant (n = 5) significantly reduced seizure scores from 5 to 2.57 +/- 1.56, and ADD from 142 +/- 94.5 s to 45.7 +/- 20.5 s. Cooling with 8 degrees C coolant (n = 5) reduced seizure scores from 5 to 2.0 +/- 0.42, and ADD from 132.3 +/- 29.6 s to 55.5 +/- 25.9 s. In 33.3% of all cooled stimulations, grade 0 seizures resulted; grade 5 seizures recurred during subsequent stimulations when cooling was withheld. Conclusions Fully kindled, tonic-clonic seizures can be suppressed or aborted with periictal cooling of the kindling target. Anticonvulsant activity occurred at temperatures well above those known to result in tissue injury or inhibition of normal neurologic function. These findings have important implications for the potential use of implantable cooling devices in humans with refractory epilepsies in or near eloquent cortex or dominant hippocampal formations.
The Milwaukee Inventory for the Dimensions of Adult Skin Picking (MIDAS): Initial development and psychometric properties

This article describes the development and initial psychometric properties of the Milwaukee Inventory for the Dimensions of Adult Skin picking (MIDAS), a measure designed to assess "automatic" and "focused" skin picking. Data were collected from 92 participants who completed an anonymous internet-based survey. Results of an exploratory factor analysis revealed a two-factor solution. Factors 1 ("focused" picking scale) and 2 ("automatic" picking scale) each consisted of 6 items, and preliminary data demonstrated adequate internal consistency, good construct validity, and good discriminant validity. The MIDAS provides researchers with a reliable and valid assessment of "automatic" and "focused" skin picking.
Simulation of a Rectangular Cylinder in Cross Flow in a Microchannel Using Information Preservation (IP) Method

A numerical simulation is performed to study the characteristics of the gas flow over a constant temperature rectangular cylinder in a cross flow in a micro channel. The non-isothermal Information Preservation (IP) method is employed to eliminate the statistical scatter of Direct Simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) at low Reynolds numbers. Pressure boundary conditions based on the characteristic theory are implemented in the algorithm. The simulation results are compared with the references available in the literature. This study will form a base for our future particle-atomistic hybrid computations.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
A unified minimum-search method for resolving contentions in multiaccess networks with ternary feedback

Abstract We propose a unified optimization method called window protocol for a class of CSMA and CSMA/CD protocols, which include the adaptive-tree-polling protocols, the urn protocols, the priority-access protocols, the arrival-time-window protocols and the virtual-window protocol. Window protocols have the following features. First, each contending station in the network generates a contention parameter and the channel will be allocated to one that generates the minimum. Second, a global window is maintained at every station to indicate the upper and lower bounds on the minimum. Lastly, a distributed window-control scheme is used to update the global window so that the minimum is uniquely isolated in the global window when the contention terminates. Based on this characterization, window protocols can be implemented by a distributed minimum-search procedure and optimized by a unique optimization method. The average overhead to resolve contentions for each transmitted packet is minimized by incorporating the channel load and the distribution of contention parameters into a dynamic programming formulation. Heuristic methods to set the windows and fast hardware implementation are also discussed.
Situational and Predispositional correlates of public speaking anxiety

The results of the present study indicate that situational factors such as perceived novelty, subordinate status, conspicuousness, dissimilarity and prior history correlate significantly with public speaking anxiety. A multiple regression equation accounted for 48.70% of the variance in public speaking anxiety scores with prior history, operationalized as CA scores, novelty and conspicuousness contributing to the prediction. Pedagocial implications include the importance of reducing students' perceptions of dissimilarity and producing and maintaining a noncritical, attentive classroom atmosphere during student performance.
Seasonal shoot and needle growth of loblolly pine responds to thinning, fertilization, and crown position

Abstract The impacts of thinning, fertilization and crown position on seasonal growth of current-year shoots and foliage were studied in a 13-year-old loblolly pine ( Pinus taeda L.) plantation in the sixth post-treatment year (1994). Length of new flushes, and their needle length, leaf area, and oven-dry weight were measured in the upper and lower crown from March through November. Total shoot length was the cumulative length of all flushes on a given shoot and total leaf area per shoot was the sum of leaf areas of the flushes. By the end of June, first-flush foliage reached 70% of the November needle length (14.3 cm) and 65% of the final leaf area (15.0 cm 2 ). Cumulative shoot length of first- and second-flush shoots achieved 95% of the annual length (30.3 cm), whereas total leaf area per shoot was 55% of the final value (75.3 dm 2 ). Fertilization consistently stimulated fascicle needle length, dry weight, and leaf area in the upper crown. Mean leaf area of upper-crown shoots was increased by 64% six years after fertilization. A significant thinning effect was found to decrease mean leaf area per shoot in the crown. For most of the growing season, the thinned-fertilized trees produced substantially more leaf area per shoot throughout the crown than the thinned-nonfertilized trees. These thinned-fertilized trees also had greater needle length and dry weight, longer first flush shoots, and more leaf area per flush than trees in the thinned-nonfertilized plots. Needle length and leaf area of first flush shoots between April and July were linearly related to previous-month canopy air temperature ( T a ). Total shoot length strongly depended on vertical light gradient (PPFD) within the canopy, whereas shoot leaf area was a function of both PPFD and T a . Thus, trees produced larger and heavier fascicles, more and longer flush shoots, and more leaf area per shoot in the upper crown than the lower crown. We conclude that thinning, fertilization, and crown position regulate annual leaf area production of current-year shoots largely by affecting the expansion of first flush shoots and their foliage during the first half of the growing season.
Effects of a novel thyrotropin-releasing hormone analogue, JTP-2942, on extracellular acetylcholine and choline levels in the rat frontal cortex and hippocampus.

Abstract The effects of a novel thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) analogue, N α -[(1S,2R)-2-methyl-4-oxocyclopentanecarbonyl]-L-histidyl-L-prolinamide (JTP-2942) on acetylcholine (ACh) release and on the extracelullar choline level were investigated in rat frontal cortex and hippocampus by microdialysis, and were compared with effects of TRH. JTP-2942 (0.3 mg/kg i.p.) produced a marked (> 300%) and persistent increase of ACh release in both the frontal cortex and hippocampus, while TRH (3 mg/kg i.p.) caused a significant but transient increase of ACh to about 200% in the frontal cortex. Both drugs significantly decreased the choline levels in both brain regions. Investigation of the effects of JTP-2942 (0.001–1 mM) and TRH (1 and 10 mM) on ACh release and choline levels when perfused through the dialysis probe revealed that JTP-2942 had a greater effect than TRH in both the frontal cortex and the hippocampus. The action of JTP-2942 was about 1 000-fold more potent than that of TRH in both brain regions. Oral administration of JTP-2942 at a dose of 10 mg/kg markedly and persistently increased the release of ACh and at doses of 1–10 mg/kg decreased the extracellular choline level in the frontal cortex and hippocampus. These results also suggest that JTP-2942 has some selectivity for the hippocampus compared to the frontal cortex after both systemic administration and local injection. The increase of ACh release caused by JTP-2942 was completely antagonized by perfusion with tetrodotoxin (TTX, 1 μM), suggesting that the action of JTP-2942 on cholinergic neurons was mediated via neuronal activity.
A Fast Adaptive Wavelet Collocation Algorithm for Multidimensional PDEs

A fast multilevel wavelet collocation method for the solution of partial differential equations in multiple dimensions is developed. The computational cost of the algorithm is independent of the dimensionality of the problem and is O(N), where N is the total number of collocation points. The method can handle general boundary conditions. The multilevel structure of the algorithm provides a simple way to adapt computational refinements to local demands of the solution. High resolution computations are performed only in regions where singularities or sharp transitions occur. Numerical results demonstrate the ability of the method to resolve localized structures such as shocks, which change their location and steepness in space and time. The present results indicate that the method has clear advantages in comparison with well established numerical algorithms.
Optically induced Freedericksz transition and bistability in a nematic liquid crystal

An Euler equation, consistent with Maxwell's equations, for describing the optically induced spatial reorientation of the director of a homeotropically oriented nematic liquid crystal is obtained for the case of normal incidence. The exact solution describing the orientation of the director is obtained. By examining the maximum deformation angle near the threshold, the threshold intensity and the criterion for the physical parameters that indicate whether the transition is first- or second-order at the threshold are obtained. The hysteresis accompanying the first-order Freedericksz transition is discussed. By choosing a compound (PAA, $p$-azoxyanisole) with suitable material parameters from known nematic liquid crystals, an experiment is proposed to observe, for the first time, a first-order Freedericksz transition in nematic liquid crystals. The Zel'dovich approach [Sov. Phys.-JETP 54, 32 (1981)] based on the geometrical-optics approximation is shown to be internally inconsistent and also inconsistent with the geometrical-optics approximation. The Euler equation using a self-consistent geometrical-optics approximation is also obtained, and turns out to be identical to our exact Euler equation, but different from the infinite-plane-wave approximation used by Durbin et al. [Phys. Rev. Lett. 47, 1411 (1981)]. Detailed comparisons between our approach and the Durbin approach are made. The dynamics of the transition are discussed and an approximate solution is given. The transient responses to the laser switch-on and switch-off are shown to have exponential time dependence. Finally, the effects of surface interactions on the transition are discussed and the exact solution is given. The procedure for determining the threshold, the saturation, and the parallel-state-maintenance intensities is given. We also discuss the first-order transition and propose experimental methods manifesting the effects of surface interaction. The criterion for the transition to be first order at any intensity is given.
Analysis of Neuronal Nitric Oxide Synthase Isoform Expression and Identification of Human nNOS-μ

Abstract The neuronal form of nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) is responsible for the production of NO, which acts as a neurotransmitter for penile erection and urethra relaxation. An nNOS splice variant form, nNOS-μ, was first reported to be specifically expressed in skeletal muscle and heart in the rat, but later also identified in rat penile cavernosum. We report here an apparently universal expression of nNOS-μ mRNA in rat tissues, including brain, which was previously reported to be lacking nNOS-μ. Immunoblot analysis revealed that some commercially available nNOS antibodies had high levels of nonspecific activities, which could lead to the appearance of seemingly multiple forms of nNOS. Immunohistochemical analysis with these antibodies also produced nonspecific stainings. In humans, nNOS-μ expression appeared to be confined to skeletal muscle and heart. Human penile tissues obtained from patients with erectile dysfunction did not express nNOS-μ. The human nNOS-μ-specific cDNA sequence was 89% homologous to its rat counterpart.
Subjective response to alcohol and associated craving in heavy drinkers vs. alcohol dependents: An examination of Koob's allostatic model in humans

Background: Koob’s allostatic model of addiction emphasizes the transition from positive reinforcement to negative reinforcement as dependence develops. This study seeks to extend this well-established neurobiological model to humans by examining subjective response to alcohol (SR) as a biobehavioral marker of alcohol reinforcement. Specifically, this study examines (a) differential SR in heavy drinkers (HDs) vs. alcohol dependent individuals (ADs) and (b) whether HDs and ADs differ in terms of the association between SR and craving. Methods: Data was culled from two alcohol challenge studies, totalling 91 participants (oversampled on OPRM1 Asp40 carriers). Alcohol was administered intravenously and participants completed standard measures of SR and craving at BrAC’s of 0.02, 0.04, and 0.06 g/dl. SR was modeled as a multi-dimensional construct consisting of stimulation, sedation, and tension relief. Results: ADs reported significantly higher sedation and craving initially and exhibited a blunted response to alcohol along escalating BrACs. ADs exhibited greater initial tension but did not differ from HDs in tension reduction across rising BrACs. Further, alcohol-induced stimulation was associated with alcohol craving to a significantly greater degree in HDs, as compared to ADs. Conclusions: This study provides initial evidence that HDs and ADs differ in their subjective experience of alcohol and in the association between dimensions of SR and craving for alcohol. Hypotheses derived from the allostatic model were partially supported, such that, while ADs and HDs did not differ on stimulation response, there was a relative dissociation between positive reinforcement and craving in ADs as compared to HDs. © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.
Partially graphitic, high-surface-area mesoporous carbons from polyacrylonitrile templated by ordered and disordered mesoporous silicas

Abstract Ordered and disordered mesoporous carbons synthesized from polyacrylonitrile using a templating method were heated under argon atmosphere at ∼2470 K to partially graphitize them without the loss of mesoporosity. The high-temperature treatment led to a marked enhancement of graphitic ordering, which manifested itself in a narrowing of wide-angle XRD peaks, and in the appearance of domains of lateral dimensions 5–15 nm, consisting of stacked graphitic planes with interplanar spacing of ∼0.34 nm. Raman spectroscopy provided evidence for the increased content of graphitic sp 2 carbon structures. The specific surface areas and total pore volumes of the carbons were as high as 500–600 m 2 g −1 and 0.8–1.8 cm 3 g −1 , respectively. These carbons had essentially no microporosity and their surface properties were similar to those of a graphitized carbon black Carbopack X. For ordered mesoporous carbons, the high-temperature treatment led to the loss of nanoscale periodicity, broadening of the pore size distribution (PSD) and ∼40% decrease in the mesopore volume. In contrast, PSD and total pore volume of the disordered carbon were essentially unchanged. These results show that the high-temperature treatment of mesoporous carbons from PAN affords partially graphitic carbons with high specific surface areas and large pore volumes.
The regulation of Rubisco by Rubisco activase

The activity of Rubisco depends on the conversion of the inactive form (E) to the active form (ECM); the binding of the inhibitors CA1P and RuBP to ECM and E, respectively; and the catalytic formation of inhibitory sugar bisphosphates from the enediol intermediate that precedes carboxylation/oxygenation. The regulatory protein, Rubisco activase, modulates the activity of Rubisco by kinetically increasing the dissociation rate of these sugar bisphosphates from their respective enzyme forms in a process that requires ATP hydrolysis. The activity of Rubisco activase is determined by the ATP:ADP ratio. The activity also appears to be influenced by thylakoid membranes in a light-dependent manner, but only a few details of this effect are currently understood. A species dependence in the interaction between heterologous Rubisco and Rubisco activase proteins has been observed. Whether the regulation of Rubisco is a constraint to crop productivity is debatable and will only be decided by detailed study of plants transformed with appropriately modified Rubisco activase and/or Rubisco proteins.
Prevalence of overweight among Baltimore City schoolchildren and its associations with nutrition and physical activity.

Objective: To determine the prevalence of overweight and at-risk-for-overweight in schoolchildren from Baltimore City. Research Methods and Procedures: Ten schools within city limits were randomly selected from each tertile of income, using eligibility for free school lunch as a proxy. A total of 209 third grade students from eight public schools in Baltimore City were surveyed in May 2000. Anthropometric data including height, weight, subscapular and triceps skinfold thickness, and percentage body weight from bioelectrical impedance were collected. Nutrition-related knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors were assessed using a validated questionnaire. Physical activity was assessed by questionnaire. Results: Based on International Obesity Taskforce reference values for BMI-for-age, 20.7% of girls and 17.2% of boys were overweight (BMI > 95th percentile) and 15.3% of girls and 14.1% of boys were at-risk-for-overweight (BMI between the 85th and 95th percentiles). The prevalence of overweight and at-risk-for-overweight did not vary by self-reported physical activity levels or by nutrition-related knowledge and behaviors. Discussion: The high prevalence of overweight and at-risk-for-overweight in this sample of inner-city children from Baltimore City highlights a need for targeted preventive and treatment interventions.
Human rod cGMP-gated cation channel gene maps to 4p12-->centromere by chromosomal in situ hybridization.

Phototransduction is mediated by cGMP, a second messenger that gates a cation channel in the rod outer segment membrane. The level of cGMP in photoreceptor cells is regulated by cGMP phosphodiesterase (PDE), a G-protein-coupled enzyme that is stimulated by light activation of rhodopsin. The cGMP PDE has two catalytic units, alpha and beta, a third subunit, gamma, is inhibitory, and when released facilitates activation of PDE activity. Illumination of vertebrate photoreceptor cells produces transient hyperpolarization due to the closure of a cGMP-gated channel in the rod outer segment membrane. In the dark, photoreceptors are depolarized as the cGMP-gated channels are opened. The retinal rod cGMP channel is a member of a growing family of ligand-gated channels that are regulated by a direct interaction with cyclic nucleotides. The gene encoding the human retinal rod cGMP channel has been cloned recently and preliminarily localized to chromosome 4 using somatic cell hybrid panels. The authors report here confirmation of the mapping to chromosome 4 and refine the map location by chromosomal in situ hybridization. 8 refs., 1 fig.
An Apology for Structured Composition Instruction

Many researchers in composition instruction assume that free and journal writing exclusively and necessarily produce “meaningful” writing. This is not substantiated in their limited case study rese...
Could medical intervention work for aortic aneurysms

Abstract Background Aortic aneurysms represent a serious and common condition. Current therapies are based on mechanical treatment. With increased knowledge of the biochemical mechanisms responsible for aneurysm expansion, it may be possible to prevent the growth of small aneurysms. Methods A series of experiments performed in the investigator’s laboratory during the past decade is outlined to show the evolution of our concepts of the processes underlying aneurysm formation and progression. Results Our understanding of aortic aneurysms has changed dramatically. Once thought to represent a simple degenerative process, aneurysm tissue is highly active metabolically with ongoing synthesis and degradation of matrix proteins. Several members of a family of matrix-degrading enzymes play an important role in this process. These enzymes can be inhibited by the antibiotic doxycycline. Conclusions With a better understanding of aneurysm pathology, it may be possible in the future to inhibit the growth of small aortic aneurysms before they reach a size at which the risk of rupture is significant.
A feeding scale for research and clinical practice to assess mother—infant interactions in the first three years of life

The Feeding Scale provides a reliable rating of mother-infant/toddler interactions during a 20-minute feeding in a laboratory setting. The scale consists of 46 mother and infant behaviors, which are rated at the end of the feeding session. Observations of mother—infant interactions during two feedings separated by 2 weeks showed considerable stability. Five subscale scores are derived (1) Dyadic Reciprocity, (2) Dyadic Conflict, (3) Talk and Distraction, (4) Struggle for Control, and (5) Maternal Non-Contingency, Predictive validity of the Feeding Scale has been demonstrated and it discriminates between infants with and without feeding disorders as well as three diagnostic categories of feeding-disordered infants. The Feeding Scale can be used with infants and toddlers ranging in age from 1 month to 3 years. © 1997 Michigan Association for Infant Mental Health
On‐Line Learning and Dynamic Capacity Allocation in the Traffic Management of Integrated Services Networks

A Traffic Monitoring Algorithm (TMA) is utilized to allocate channel capacities dynamically to heterogeneous traffics with time-varying characteristics. The threshold parameters that characterize the operational characteristics of the TMA control the overall system performance, including traffic rejection rates and wasted capacity rates. In this paper an on-line learning algorithm is introduced, to dynamically adapt the threshold parameters of the TMA for attaining a prespecified upper bound on the traffic rejection rate, at minimal cost in wasted capacity rate. The learning algorithm is analyzed and evaluated to expose its superior convergence characteristics.
Importance of extracellular polysaccharides on proton and Cd binding to bacterial biomass: A comparative study

Abstract The importance of extracellular polysaccharide (EPS) on proton and Cd binding was examined by comparing the adsorption behaviors of 4 bacterial species (Pseudomonas putida, Shewenella oneidensis, Rhizobium tropici, and Agrobacterium sp. [ATCC# 21680]) with intact capsular EPS to corresponding adsorption behaviors with the EPS enzymatically removed from the biomass. Potentiometric titrations were conducted to detect any differences in proton binding of the biomass with and without the presence of EPS. Enzymatic removal of the EPS from each of the bacterial species in this study resulted in no significant differences in biomass proton binding behavior. Batch Cd adsorption experiments also showed no significant differences in the adsorption capacities between the EPS and EPS-free systems for all 4 species of bacteria. Our results suggest that EPS contains proton-active functional groups that are similar to those on the cell wall, and that, on a mass-normalized basis, EPS and bacterial cell walls exhibit similar site concentrations and affinities for adsorbing protons and Cd from solution. Because EPS exhibits similar Cd and proton binding properties to bacterial cell walls, and because of the similarity in binding properties between species, it may be possible to model metal and proton binding to biofilms in general using a single set of stability constants. This general modeling approach would obviate the impossible task of determining binding constants for protons and each metal of interest with each EPS component and each bacterial cell wall of interest.
Synthesis and Characterization of the Microporosity of Ion-Exchanged Al2O3-Pillared Clays

We have studied the effects of postsynthesis ion exchange on the microporous properties of Al2O3-pillared clays. These changes were effected by incorporating differently-sized charge-compensating cations from the alkali and alkaline earth series into the pillared clay by standard ion-exchange techniques. The resulting materials were characterized with respect to their surface area, interlayer spacing, and micropore size distribution. The micropore size distributions were determined from their N2 adsorption isotherms at 77 K using the slit-pore model of the Horvath−Kawazoe equation (and applying the Cheng−Yang correction). The results showed a bimodal micropore size distribution for the unaltered pillared clay and for all of the ion-exchanged pillared clays. In every case, the micropore volume for those pores in the lower distribution (<0.45 nm) increased with increasing ionic radius of the charge-compensating cations used in the ion exchange. In each case, the micropore volume for those pores in the upper...
Calcium-activated endoplasmic reticulum stress as a major component of tumor cell death induced by 2,5-dimethyl-celecoxib, a non-coxib analogue of celecoxib.

A drawback of extensive coxib use for antitumor purposes is the risk of life-threatening side effects that are thought to be a class effect and probably due to the resulting imbalance of eicosanoid levels. 2,5-Dimethyl-celecoxib (DMC) is a close structural analogue of the selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor celecoxib that lacks cyclooxygenase-2–inhibitory function but that nonetheless is able to potently mimic the antitumor effects of celecoxib in vitro and in vivo . To further establish the potential usefulness of DMC as an anticancer agent, we compared DMC and various coxibs and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs with regard to their ability to stimulate the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress response (ESR) and subsequent apoptotic cell death. We show that DMC increases intracellular free calcium levels and potently triggers the ESR in various tumor cell lines, as indicated by transient inhibition of protein synthesis, activation of ER stress–associated proteins GRP78/BiP, CHOP/GADD153, and caspase-4, and subsequent tumor cell death. Small interfering RNA–mediated knockdown of the protective chaperone GRP78 further sensitizes tumor cells to killing by DMC, whereas inhibition of caspase-4 prevents drug-induced apoptosis. In comparison, celecoxib less potently replicates these effects of DMC, whereas none of the other tested coxibs (rofecoxib and valdecoxib) or traditional nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (flurbiprofen, indomethacin, and sulindac) trigger the ESR or cause apoptosis at comparable concentrations. The effects of DMC are not restricted to in vitro conditions, as this drug also generates ER stress in xenografted tumor cells in vivo , concomitant with increased apoptosis and reduced tumor growth. We propose that it might be worthwhile to further evaluate the potential of DMC as a non-coxib alternative to celecoxib for anticancer purposes.
On the identity of Lacerta punctata Linnaeus 1758, the type species of the genus Euprepis Wagler 1830, and the generic assignment of Afro-Malagasy skinks : original article

Abstract A recent phylogenetic revision placed Afro‐Malagasy Mabuya Fitzinger, 1826 into the genus Euprepis Wagler, 1830, with the type species Lacerta punctata Linnaeus, 1758 (syn. Mabuya homalocephala fide Andersson [1900]). Identification of L. punctatus with Euprepis destabilizes existing name usage for both a common southern African skink and a common south Asian skink. Reconsideration of the types of this taxon reveals another interpretation that maintains nomenclatural stability for both taxa. A lectotype is selected for Lacerta punctata that fixes this name to the Asian species currently known as Lygosoma punctatum. The first type designation for Euprepis is invalid and the oldest valid designation places Euprepis in the synonymy of Mabuya sensu stricto. The name Herini Gray, 1839 is a nomen dubium and is not applicable to Afro‐Malagasy "Mabuya”. The oldest available name for this clade is Trachylepis Fitzinger, 1843 (type species Euprepes savignyi Dumeril & Bibron, 1839 [syn. Scincus quinquetaeni...
Designs, Geometry, and a Golfer's Dilemma

(2004). Designs, Geometry, and a Golfer's Dilemma. Mathematics Magazine: Vol. 77, No. 4, pp. 275-282.
Correlates of honor ratings in a clinical clerkship employing a faculty forum evaluation system.

Abstract The purpose of this study was to determine whether or not suspected variables affected a surgery clerk's chances of being awarded an honor rating. Findings indicated a significant relationship between a student receiving an honor rating and his or her preceptor's predetermined level of student advocacy, the number of completed patient interview and physical examination write-ups, and final examination scores. There was no significant relationship found between honor ratings and the preceptor's status, the sequence in which the student was discussed or the length of time spent discussing the student at the final evaluation meeting, or the number of clinical faculty present at the meeting. These results lend support to the faculty forum evaluation approach, but suggest a need for further scrutiny of some influencing variables to ensure all students are fairly considered and honor ratings judiciously awarded.
Further development of accelerator mass spectrometry for the measurement of 90Sr at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory

Based on the encouraging results of our initial efforts to develop a 90Sr accelerator mass spectrometry capability, we have undertaken efforts to enhance our system. By changing some key operating parameters and constructing an optimized detector we were able to improve the discrimination of 90Sr from the isobaric interference 90Zr and reduce our instrumental background by nearly two orders of magnitude. Our current background (4 × 106 atoms, 3 mBq) is comparable to that achievable by decay counting, but is still a factor of ten higher than what is theoretically predicted based on the efficiency of our system. Therefore, future plans include implementation of a time-of-flight system to improve the rejection of 90Zr.
Factors Controlling the Size of Graphene Oxide Sheets Produced via the Graphite Oxide Route

We have studied the effect of the oxidation path and the mechanical energy input on the size of graphene oxide sheets derived from graphite oxide. The cross-planar oxidation of graphite from the (0002) plane results in periodic cracking of the uppermost graphene oxide layer, limiting its lateral dimension to less than 30 μm. We use an energy balance between the elastic strain energy associated with the undulation of graphene oxide sheets at the hydroxyl and epoxy sites, the crack formation energy, and the interaction energy between graphene layers to determine the cell size of the cracks. As the effective crack propagation rate in the cross-planar direction is an order of magnitude smaller than the edge-to-center oxidation rate, graphene oxide single sheets larger than those defined by the periodic cracking cell size are produced depending on the aspect ratio of the graphite particles. We also demonstrate that external energy input from hydrodynamic drag created by fluid motion or sonication, further redu...
Peptide- and collagen-based hydrogel substrates for in vitro culture of chick cochleae.

The overall goal of this work is to improve the culture of the auditory organ of birds for the dual use of developing a hair cell regeneration model and charting a pathway to the eventual replacement of the hearing organ. In doing so, we develop a protocol for removing the auditory organ from its basement membrane in the inner ear, attach the organ to a series of artificial basement membranes, and conduct qualitative and quantitative analysis of how cell morphology, viability and function change with time. Native matrix cultures, where the epithelium was floating in media with the basement membrane and accessory structures attached, were used as a basis of comparison. PuraMatrix™, collagen I, collagen I/chondroitin-sulfate and Matrigel™ were chosen to encompass a diverse range of mechanical properties and macromolecule moieties. Surprisingly, we find that PuraMatrix™ outperformed the other matrices as a scaffold for sensory organ culture. PuraMatrix™, a self-assembled peptide hydrogel, is a biochemically specific culture substrate that contains none of the extracellular matrix (ECM) molecules and growth factors contained in the inner ear's basement membrane. Rheological measurements reveal that PuraMatrix™ may be a closer approximation to the stiffness of the soft tissue supporting the auditory organ. Cell density on the PuraMatrix™ substrate is comparable to that of the native matrix cultures, despite the absence of the basement membrane and accessory structures. Further studies show that PuraMatrix™ supports the culture of functional hair cells over a 72 h period, with a significant increase in the number of functional hair cells in comparison to the organ cultured without a matrix. This is the first example of adhesion of the adult auditory epithelium to a biomaterial for an extended period of time. With further optimization, this system will enable the performance of many novel biophysical and pharmacological studies involving hair cells and supporting cells.