cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Simulated acetaminophen overdose: pharmacokinetics and effectiveness of activated charcoal.

Abstract Study objective: To determine the absorption rate of a supratherapeuticdose of acetaminophen elixir and compare the effect of activated charcoal (AC) given at different time intervals on preventing acetaminophen absorption. Design: Randomized, nonblinded, crossover controlled study. Setting: A certified regional poison control center. Participants: Ten healthy, adult male volunteers from 21 to 39 years old. Interventions: Each subject received 5 g acetaminophen (elixir) on fouroccasions: a control phase plus 30 g of AC administered 15, 30, or 120 minutes after acetaminophen. Serum acetaminophen levels were obtained during the control phase only, and 24-hour urine collections were obtained during all four phases. Measurements and main results: The highest serum acetaminophen levels were measured 1.4 ± 0.52 hours after ingestion, and absorption was 97% complete by a mean of 2.05 hours. The administration of AC at 15, 30, and 120 minutes after acetaminophen reduced urinary recovery of acetaminophen and metabolites by 48%, 44%, and 33%, respectively. Conclusion: AC significantly reduces urinary recovery but not absorption of acetaminophen when administered two hours after acetaminophen elixir.
Syntheses and Structural Studies of the Coupling Products of the Zr(6,6-dimethylcyclohexadienyl)2 Fragment with the Diimines (CH2)n[N=CH(C6H5)]2 (n = 3,4)

The reactions of the α,ω-diimines (CH2) n [N=CH(C6H5)]2 with Zr(6,6-dmch)2(PMe3)2 (dmch = dimethylcyclohexadienyl) lead to couplings of both imine carbon atoms, each to one of a single dmch ligand’s termini, which thereby also leads to the formation of two Zr–N bonds, and release of the phosphine ligands. The resulting complexes possess 18 electron configurations by virtue of a remaining η5-6,6-dmch ligand, η3-allyl coordination by the coupled 6,6-dmch ligand, and π-amide coordination by each nitrogen donor center. The η5-6,6-dmch ligand displays the distortions expected for a high valent metal pentadienyl complex. The n = 3 complex crystallized in the monoclinic space group P21/c with a = 8.5687(2) A, b = 27.8768(6) A, c = 11.7747(3) A, β = 103.6081(8)°, V = 2,733.64(11) A3, Dcalc = 1.351 g/cm3 at 150(1) K. For the n = 4 complex, the triclinic space group P $$ \overline{1} $$ is adopted, with a = 11.1279(3) A, b = 11.3846(3) A, c = 14.9154(3) A, α = 81.6030(13)°, β = 69.8503(13)°, γ = 84.6588(12)°, V = 1,753.05(7) A3, Dcalc = 1.283 g cm−3 at 150(1) K. The reactions of the Zr(6,6-dimethylcyclohexadienyl)2 fragment with α,ω-diimines (CH2) n [N=CH(C6H5)]2 led to couplings between the imine carbon atoms and the dienyl termini, thereby resulting in 12- and 13-membered ring constructions.
Substitution of Intracranial Electrical Stimulation for Photic Stimulation during Extinction Procedure

IT has been demonstrated that a conditioned response to a peripheral physiological stimulus (CS) can later be evoked when electrical stimulation of the cortical or subcortical centres is substituted for the original conditioning stimulus1–3. The present experiment was designed to examine the degree to which electrical stimulation of the occipital cortex, during the extinction stage of an avoidance conditioning procedure, would elicit conditioned responses (CRs) in an animal previously trained to respond to light (CS).
Se estiran las fronteras más allá de los territorios de soberanía

The EU’s borders, and those of its member states, are shifting zones of power arranged by novel institutional strategies and the subsequent proliferation of legal texts, maps, technologies and actors, reconstructing where and what the border is. This paper focuses on the phenomenon of “border externalization” in the European Union, in particular the case of Spain, describing it as a stretching of the borderline. Externalization includes the outsourcing of border control to non-EU countries, as well as the spatial extension of where EU governments and forces can patrol, thus a literal expansion of the borderline. The latest EU strategy of border policy and migration control yet to be fully implemented is called “the Migration Routes Initiative” and involves spreading checkpoints, migration control experts and other dispositifs of migration management along shifting migrants itineraries passing through sending, transit and destination countries. In this paper we identify different policies and institutions that constitute this “external dimension” of border management for the EU as a whole and for Spain vis-a-vis its Southern borders with Africa, mainly focusing on the Rabat Process. These changes in migration management practices present possible reconfigurations in the exercise of sovereignty and its relationship to territoriality.
Applied-Field Magnetoplasmadynamic Thrusters, Part 1: Numerical Simulations Using the MACH2 Code

Numericalmodeling of the NASALewis Research Center 100-kW, steady-state, applied- eld magnetoplasmadynamic thruster is performed using the magnetohydrodynamicscodeMACH2 for a range of applied magnetic  eld strengths and discharge currents. Overall performance trends, obtained experimentally with argon propellant, are captured by the simulations. Magnitudes of plasma voltage vs applied  eld strength also agree well. Interrogation of the calculated  ow eld offers a new visualization of applied- eld magnetoplasmadynamic thruster operation, comprising the following elements: 1) the back electromotive force is the dominant contributor to the plasma voltage for the geometry examined; 2) viscous forces oppose applied azimuthal electromagnetic forces and limit the maximum rotational speed to a constant independent of applied  eld or current value; 3) viscous heating and conversion of thermal energy to axial directed kinetic energy is the main acceleration mechanism; and 4) the low-density, low-conductivity argon plasma for the regime examined does not interact with the applied  eld in the manner of a magnetic nozzle.
400-ps time resolution with a passively quenched avalanche photodiode

Avalanche photodiodes (APD’s) operated in a single-photon-counting Geiger mode are becoming attractive alternatives to photomultiplier tubes for low-light-level detection and signal timing. By paying careful attention to the design and construction of a simple APD passive quenching circuit to reduce stray capacitances, we directly measured a time resolution of 410 ps FWHM for a commercial APD. A more detailed data analysis shows the actual time resolution to be ~ 390 ps FWHM. This is believed to be the most accurate time response for such a simple, inexpensive, and widely available device achieved to date.
“They Treat us Like Pests:” Undocumented Immigrant Experiences Obtaining Health Care in the Wake of a “Crackdown” Ordinance

This article presents findings from a qualitative study of Latino immigrant experiences seeking health care services in the wake of an anti-immigrant “crackdown” ordinance similar to Arizona's SB 1070. Prince William County, Virginia's 2007 “Rule of Law” ordinance escalated law enforcement efforts that targeted this population for deportation and ordered staff to ensure that no one receive social services other than those required by federal law. This article sought to answer the questions: (1) Were undocumented immigrants able to obtain health care? (2) How do immigrants characterize their experiences with health providers? Data were gathered via semi-structured interviews (n = 57) with Latinos in a low-income neighborhood. Analysis of Spanish-language narratives found that many were dissuaded from seeking care because of high costs as well as lack of familiarity with the health care system. Others perceived that they were treated with insensitivity or outright hostility—and believed this treatment was a...
Follow-up surveillance strategies for genitourinary malignancies

BACKGROUND Genitourinary cancers account for more than 20% of all malignancies in the United States. These cancers do not usually yield rapid mortality, thereby necessitating longer-term surveillance strategies. METHODS A review and analysis of relevant studies were performed. Follow-up strategies are proposed to reflect effective methods to detect recurrent prostate, bladder, renal, and testicular cancers. Cost analysis was performed using Medicare reimbursement rates. RESULTS For genitourinary tumors, follow-up tests can be planned rationally based on detection rates and patterns. Tumor grade and stage drive follow-up strategies, along with therapeutic implications of detecting a recurrence. Symptomatic recurrences often obviate the need for radiographic tests and can minimize costs. Stage- specific plans for these four urologic malignancies are outlined specifically. CONCLUSIONS Not all surveillance approaches have been critically tested for follow-up of genitourinary tumors, but ample data are available to propose sound medical and economic strategies. Cancer 2002;94:2892–905. © 2002 American Cancer Society. DOI 10.1002/cncr.10525
Photoacoustic microscopy with an enhanced axial resolution of 5.8 μm

The axial resolution of photoacoustic microscopy (PAM) can be enhanced by reducing the speed of sound within the imaging region of interest. This principle was demonstrated on a previously-reported PAM system, which utilized a 125 MHz ultrasonic transducer for signal detection and the Wiener deconvolution for signal processing. With sound slowed by silicone oil immersion, we have achieved a finest axial resolution of 5.8 μm for PAM, as validated by phantom experiments. The axial resolution was also enhanced in vivo when mouse ears injected with silicone oil were imaged. After injection of silicone oil, the blood vessels were resolved more clearly. When tissue-compatible low-speed liquids become available, this approach may find applications in PAM as well as in other imaging modalities, such as photoacoustic computed tomography and ultrasound imaging.
Removal of PCR inhibiting substances in sewage sludge amended soil

Current methods for the detection of enteric viruses in soil involve elution of viruses from soil colloids using beef extract or other proteins. These eluates are then assayed in cell culture and observed daily for cytopathic effects (CPE). While this method is suitable for detection of enteric viruses by cell culture, these eluates contain humic acids and heavy metals that interfere with polymerase chain reaction (PCR) detection. Using beef extract eluates prepared from sludge amended soil, 10 different methods of eluate purification were evaluated for their ability to remove PCR inhibition and maximize sensitivity. The treatment method providing the greatest sensitivity of poliovirus detection by PCR was the combination of Sephadex G-50 and Chelex-100. Using this method 2 plaque forming units (PFU) could be detected after reverse transcription and 30 cycles of PCR. Thirty (30) cycles of seminested PCR were performed on these samples to verify nucleic acid sequences and increase sensitivity after the first 30 cycles of PCR. Using seminested PCR, sensitivity of detection using the Sephadex G-50 and Chelex-100 treatment method to 0.2 PFU. In addition to providing excellent sensitivity for viruses in sludge amended soils, this treatment method is relatively simple compared to other methods.
Theory of finite-β-modified drift waves

An alternative approach to the analysis of radial eigenmodes of finite-β-modified drift waves in a sheared magnetic field is presented. As an illustration of this approach, it is applied to the universal drift mode. For the lowest (n = 0) radial eigenmode, the previous result [1] that finite-β effects are further stabilizing is recovered. For the next (n = 1) radial eigenmode, however, it is found that finite-β effects play a de-stabilizing role. The corresponding electromagnetic eigenmode structures are also obtained.
Expanding spectrum of cocaine induced central nervous system malformations.

Abstract Two patients born to mothers who abused cocaine during pregnancy were found to have various brain malformations, some of which were not previously reported. Children who were exposed to cocaine or polysubstances prenatally and who present with a neurologic deficit require neuroimaging studies to detect abnormalities.
Structural Properties and Psychometric Qualities of Organizational Self-Reports: Field Tests of Connections Predicted by Cognitive Theory

Recent cognitive theories about question interpretation, information retrieval, and judgment-response mapping were used to develop hypotheses about how structural properties of the context of self-report items affects psychometric qualities. The hypotheses were tested in three experiments. In Study 1, a field experiment with 366 security firm employees, manipulation of the evaluative (positive vs. null vs. negative) context of a neutral item embedded in a job affect measure yielded differences in item parameters and correlations with other constructs. In Study 2, a field experiment with 392 chemical processing employees, manipulation of the physical context (“boxed” random vs. uniform groupings) of job attitude and perception items produced differences in internal consistencies and discriminant validities, as well as differences in measurement and structural models. In Study 3, an experiment with 187 undergraduate business students, manipulation of response contexts (low vs. open-ended vs. high ranges of ...
Multi-point boundary value problems on an unbounded domain at resonance

Abstract We consider the second-order nonlinear differential equation ( p ( t ) u ′ ( t ) ) ′ = f ( t , u ( t ) , u ′ ( t ) ) , a.e. in ( 0 , ∞ ) , satisfying two sets of boundary conditions: u ′ ( 0 ) = 0 , ∑ i = 1 n κ i u ( T i ) = lim t → ∞ u ( t ) and u ( 0 ) = 0 , ∑ i = 1 n κ i u ( T i ) = lim t → ∞ u ( t ) , where n ≥ 1 , f : [ 0 , ∞ ) × R 2 → R is Caratheodory with respect to L 1 [ 0 , ∞ ) . The parameters in the multi-point boundary conditions are such that the corresponding differential operator is non-invertible but nevertheless is a Fredholm map of index zero. As a result the coincidence degree theory can be applied to establish existence theorems.
Increased resistance to extracellular cation block by mutation of the pore domain of the Arabidopsis inward-rectifying K+ channel KAT1.

Inward-rectifying potassium channels in plant cells provide important mechanisms for low-affinity K+ uptake and membrane potential control in specific cell types, including guard cells, pulvinus cells, aleurone cells and root hair cells. K+ channel blockers are potent tools for studying the physiological functions and structural properties of K+ channels. In the present study the structural and biophysical mechanisms of Cs+ and TEA+ block of a cloned Arabidopsis inward-rectifying K+ channel (KAT1) were analyzed. Effects of the channel blockers Cs+ and TEA+ were characterized both extracellularly and intracellularly. Both external Cs+ and TEA+ block KAT1 currents. A mutant of KAT1 (``m2KAT1''; H267T, E269V) was produced by site-directed mutagenesis of two amino acid residues in the C-terminal portion of the putative pore (P) domain. This mutant channel was blocked less by external Cs+ and TEA+ than the wild-type K+ channel. Internal TEA+ and Cs+ did not significantly block either m2KAT1 or KAT1 channels. Other properties, such as cation selectivity, voltage-dependence and proton activation did not show large changes between m2KAT1 and KAT1, demonstrating the specificity of the introduced mutations. These data suggest that the amino acid positions mutated in the inward-rectifying K+ channel, KAT1, are accessible to external blockers and may be located on the external side of the membrane, as has been suggested for outward-rectifying K+ channels.
Basic fibroblast growth factor is efficiently released from a cytolsolic storage site through plasma membrane disruptions of endothelial cells.

Cells of gut and skin frequently suffer mechanically-induced plasma membrane disruptions in vivo, and bioactive molecules, including basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), could enter and leave cytoplasm through these disruptions. We here provide three lines of evidence that bFGF is released with surprising efficiency through plasma membrane disruptions, resembling those known to occur in vivo, produced by scraping endothelial cells from their culturing substratum. First, 41% of the total of bFGF extractable in 1 M NaCl by freeze-thaw and sonication was released simply by scraping the endothelial cells. Second, relative to release of lactate dehydrogenase, cells wounded by scraping under conditions promoting greater than 60% cell survival released a significantly larger amount (up to twofold more) of growth promoting activity than did cells uniformly killed and irreversibly permeabilized by scraping in the cold or by freezing and thawing. Last, cells that survived membrane disruptions released, and contained, less bFGF on each subsequent wounding, consistent with release of bFGF through transient (i.e., survivable) membrane disruptions. A polyclonal antibody against bFGF completely neutralized the growth promoting activity released by scraping, confirming that bFGF is released through endothelial cell plasma membrane disruptions. Cell fractionation and immunolocalization, including a novel permeabilization technique for electron microscope immunolocalization, demonstrated a cytosolic location of bFGF. We conclude that many characteristics of bFGF--its broad spectrum of producing and target cell types, cytosolic location, efficient release through biologically and pathologically relevant plasma membrane wounds, and its release from cells that survive membrane wounds--make it a strong candidate as a "wound hormone" for rapidly initiating the cell growth required for routine maintenance of tissue integrity and/or repair after injury.
Interaction of Sc and O on W

Abstract The surface chemistry on top of scandate cathodes plays a fundamental role in the performance and reliability of the cathodes. The surface chemical reaction is a complex dynamical process that involves Sc, Ba, O, W and noble metals at elevated temperatures. An initial approach is to investigate the interaction among the elements in subsets separately. In this study we investigate the interaction of Sc and O on W substrates, combining temperature-programmed desorption (TPD) and Auger electron spectroscopy (AES). There are three distinct states of Sc adsorption on W that originate from the first-layer, second-layer and multiple-layer states in a decreasing order of binding energy. The first layer grows to about 2/3 completion when the second layer begins to form, but the second layer is unstable. Agglomeration into multiple layers occurs when the second layer exceeds 1/3 layer. Sc bonds to W more strongly than Ba to W. The desorption maximum of the first-layer Sc occurs at 1575±22 K, in comparison with the desorption maximum of Ba from W at 1250±4 K. The addition of O strengthens the Sc-to-W bonds. There are also three distinct binding states that emerge simultaneously during the growth of oxidized Sc. The weakest binding state has a desorption maximum at 1732±29 K, which is about 300 K higher than the desorption maximum of the oxygen-enhanced Ba adsorption on W. Evaporation rates as a function of temperature are determined from TPD spectra of thick films. The results suggest that during activation of a scandate cathode the loss of metallic Sc can be substantial while the loss of oxidized Sc is minimal. It implies also that thermal evaporation from oxidized Sc may not be an effective method to replenish the Sc, the loss of which could occur from ion sputtering during operation in a vacuum electron device.
Effects of temperature and diet on the growth and longevity of phlebotomine sand flies (Diptera: Psychodidae)

Se realizo una serie de experimentos para estudiar los efectos de diferentes temperaturas ambientales (28 a 10°C) y tipos de dieta sobre la tasa de crecimiento, el tamano y la longevidad de los flebotomineos. Se utilizaron cuatro colonias de laboratorio diferentes: Phlebotomus papatasi, P perniciosus, Lutzomyia longipalpis (Brasil) y L. longipalpis (Colombia). Los periodos de desarrollo y supervivencia de los insectos fueron muy variables segun la temperatura y la especie. Por debajo de 18 ""C, la mayoria de las larvas y pupas de L. longipalpis murieron. A 15 ""C, el tiempo de desarrollo de P papatasi y P perniciosus se prolongo considerablemente (150 a 41 2 dias) y muchas de las formas inmaduras murieron. En el rango de 28 a 15 °C, la longevidad de los adultos de P papatasi y L. longipalpis aumento a medida que la temperatura ambiente disminuia; a 15 °C los tiempos promedio de supervivencia de las hembras de P papatasi y L. longipalpis fueron de 632 y 37,l dias, respectivamente. El efecto de dos tipos de dieta diferentes (heces de animallpolvo de higado y hojas en descomposicion) sobre la tasa de crecimiento y el tamano (peso de la pupa) de L. longipalpis tambien se determino, estableciendose que los insectos alimentados con heces de anirnallpolvo de higado se desarrollaron mas rapido y fueron mas sincronizados y mas grandes que aquellos alimentados con hojas en descompisicion. Los resultados de este estudio entregan nueva informacion sobre los efectos de factores medioambientales en el crecimiento y la longevidad de lebotomineos bajo condiciones de laboratorio.
DESIGN AND EVALUATION OF A MICROROCKET PROPELLANT TANK

There is currently an unfilled niche in the aerospace industry for low cost, high performance launch vehicles for small payloads. Recent advances in miniaturization and manufacturing technologies will allow satellites with masses on the order of one pound to fulfill useful functions. To maximize the launch vehicle's payload, its structural mass must be minimized. This is achieved by making the propellant tank walls as thin as possible while maintaining their structural integrity. NASA's research into the buckling of thin walled cylinders has not addressed this small size regime. Axial compression tests were conducted at 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, and 2.5 atmospheres of overpressure. Local buckling was observed in all cases. The theoretical predictions were close to the experimental results for 1.0 and 1.5 atmospheres. For 2.0 and 2.5 atmospheres the load fell below the predicted values. At higher pressures, the significantly reduced strength of the weld's heataffected zone induced premature failure of the cylinder. The results of this experiment verified the local buckling theory for internally pressurized cylinders at low internal pressures. The experimental results reinforce the design parameter of a high internal pressure, as dictated by the propulsion system, because of the demonstrated post-buckling ability to carry increased loads.
Mathematical Modeling of Solar-Hydrogen System for Residential Applications

A possible future approach to home and personal vehicle energy needs is to combine solar power generation on the structure with hydrogen production and use. In this paper, performance of a solar-hydrogen system for residential application is simulated. Included in the main components of the solar-hydrogen system are photovoltaic panels, electrolyzer, fuel cell, compressor, and storage tank. The solar-hydrogen system is assumed to be installed on the standard house (1600 sq ft), to be a part of a grid-connected system where the house can receive energy from both grid as well as PV panels and fuel cell based on the energy requirements of the house. Using yearly weather data for Las Vegas, net grid interaction as well as stand alone (off grid) performance is considered as part of the analysis. The effect of component sizing aspects is examined.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
The mitochondrial theory of aging and its relationship to reactive oxygen species damage and somatic mtDNA mutations

Mitochondria are cellular energy factories that generate ATP via the reaction of hydrocarbons with oxygen. Every human cell contains hundreds of mitochondria, and each mitochondrion contains multiple copies of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). The ancestry of the mitochondrial genome can be traced to early eubacteria, and it is therefore unexpected that this organelle may have a major role in governing the pace of human aging. Three recent papers (1–3) plus a work published in a recent issue of PNAS (4) have demonstrated that accelerating the mtDNA mutation rate can result in some features suggestive of premature aging, consistent with the view that loss of mitochondrial function is a major causal factor in aging. mtDNA polymerase (Pol-γ) is the only DNA polymerase that is known to be targeted to and that resides in mitochondria (5). In the absence of other known mtDNA polymerases, it is assumed that Pol-γ is responsible for all aspects of mtDNA synthesis, including replication of the mitochondrial genome and repair of DNA damage. As is the case for many other DNA polymerases, the high fidelity of Pol-γ derives from both selection for the correct incoming nucleotide and excision of misincorporated nucleotides by a 3′ → 5′ exonucleolytic proofreading activity (6). Elimination of proofreading by replacement of critical aspartic acid residues in the exonuclease domain with alanine increases misincorporation; in vitro , this misincorporation is manifested predominantly as single base substitutions (7). Both the Larsson (1) and Prolla (2) groups replaced in embryonic stem cells POLG, the …
Treatment of persistent pruritus ani in a combined colorectal and dermatological clinic

Background: Pruritus ani is a common and socially embarrassing condition which is often poorly managed. It is often classified as idiopathic where the symptoms are usually transitory or secondary when a more persistent itch is experienced. The aim of this study was to establish the cause of pruritus ani in a group of patients referred to a combined colorectal and dermatological clinic, and to determine the most appropriate treatment. Methods: Forty consecutive patients with pruritus ani were referred over a 6-month period from either the general practitioner or another hospital consultant to a combined colorectal and dermatological clinic. They were assessed by history, completion of a general health questionnaire, full examination of the skin, digital rectal examination, proctoscopy, sigmoidoscopy and patch testing. Patients were treated according to clinical findings at assessment. Results: Thirty-four patients had a recognizable dermatosis, three had superficial perianal fissuring and three had a normal perineum; two required surgical intervention. Eighteen patients had a positive reaction when patch tested. All patients have shown an improvement or complete resolution of symptoms with treatment. Conclusion: This series has shown that the majority of patients presenting with pruritus ani have a dermatosis as the underlying cause of their symptoms and that many of them have developed contact sensitivities to the various topical medications used. These findings suggest that referral to a dermatologist in the first instance may be more appropriate. © 1999 British Journal of Surgery Society Ltd
miR-32 and its target SLC45A3 regulate the lipid metabolism of oligodendrocytes and myelin

Oligodendrocytes generate large amounts of myelin by extension of their cell membranes. Though lipid is the major component of myelin, detailed lipid metabolism in the maintenance of myelin is not understood. We reported previously that miR-32 might be involved in myelin maintenance (Shin et al., 2009). Here we demonstrate a novel role for miR-32 in oligodendrocyte function and development through the regulation of SLC45A3 (solute carrier family 45, member 3) and other downstream targets such as CLDN-11. miR-32 is highly expressed in the myelin-enriched regions of the brain and mature oligodendrocytes, and it promotes myelin protein expression. We found that miR-32 directly regulates the expression of SLC45A3 by binding to the complementary sequence on the 3'UTR of cldn11 and slc45a3. As a myelin-enriched putative sugar transporter, SLC45A3 enhances intracellular glucose levels and the synthesis of long-chain fatty acids. Therefore, overexpression of SLC45A3 triggers neutral lipid accumulation. Interestingly, both overexpression and suppression of SLC45A3 reduces myelin protein expression in mature oligodendrocytes and alters oligodendrocyte morphology, indicating that tight regulation of SLC45A3 expression is necessary for the proper maintenance of myelin proteins and structure. Taken together, our data suggest that miR-32 and its downstream target SLC45A3 play important roles in myelin maintenance by modulating glucose and lipid metabolism and myelin protein expression in oligodendrocytes.
Parent-child relations and psychological adjustment among high-achieving Chinese and European American adolescents.

Abstract Chinese American students are often perceived as problem-free high achievers. Recent research, however, suggests that high-achieving Chinese American students can experience elevated levels of stress, especially comparing to their peers from other ethnic groups. In this paper, we examine how family dynamics may influence psychological adjustment among a group of high-achieving adolescents. Drawing on survey data collected on 295 Chinese American and 192 European American 9th graders attending a highly selective magnet school, our findings show that Chinese American adolescents reported significantly lower levels of psychological adjustment (d = −.31), and significantly less family cohesion (d = −.34) and more conflict (d = .56) than their European American peers. Further, the ethnic differences on adjustment disappeared after controlling for perceptions of family cohesion and conflict, indicating that such perceptions may be a key factor in understanding the high academic achievement/low psychological adjustment paradoxical pattern of development among Chinese American adolescents.
Impact of a dosimetry review program on radiotherapy in group trials

The impact of a quality assurance program on protocol compliance has been explored. A sample of 2258 patients, who received radiation therapy on 18 different NCI funded protocols, was selected for this study from the more than 6200 cases reviewed by the Quality Assurance Review Center (QARC) from 1974 to 1983. Analysis of this sample reveals a significant decrease in the protocol non-compliance rate as a function of QA participation time (35% down to 5%). The educational impact of the QA program is demonstrated by the drop in the protocol dose deviation rate from 11.4% (before QARC feedback) to 3.6% (after feedback, p less than .001). The corresponding drop in protocol deviations in treatment volume is from 21.5% to 10.5% (p less than .001). The effect of the "on-treatment" review process is studied; it is demonstrated that this process cuts the rate of major deviations in half. The technical discrepancies in dose are also analyzed and discussed.
Automatic accessibility transcoding for flash content

It is not surprising that rich Internet content, such as Flash and DHTML, is some of the most pervasive content because of its visual attractiveness to the sighted majority. Such visually rich content has been causing severe accessibility problems, especially for people with visual disabilities. For Flash content, the kinds of accessibility information necessary for screen readers is not usually provided in the existing content. A typical example of such missing data is the lack of alternative text for buttons, hypertext links, widget roles, and so on. One of the major reasons is that the current accessibility framework of Flash content imposes a burden on content authors to make their content accessible. As a result, adding support for accessibility tends to be neglected, and screen reader users are left out of the richer Internet experiences.Therefore, we decided to develop an automatic accessibility transcoding system for Flash content to allow users to access a wider range of existing content, and to reduce the workload for content authors by using an automatic repair algorithm. It works as a client-side transcoding system based on the internal object model inside the Flash content. It adds and repairs accessibility information for existing Flash content, so screen readers can present more accessible information to users. Our experiment using the pilot system showed that 55% of the missing alternative texts for buttons in the tested websites could be added automatically.
Public Sector Labor Law in the Age of Obama

The attacks on public sector collective bargaining rights during the past year have arguably been the most important development in U.S. labor and employment law in recent memory. While the most famous and radical moves took place in Wisconsin and Ohio, over a dozen states have enacted significant restrictions on the rights of government employees and their unions. This is important, not least because public sector workers now comprise more than half the total number of union members in the U.S., and because of the broader political implications of “defunding” and otherwise crippling a major constituent of the Democratic Party. This article, based on a symposium paper, discusses not only these developments but also other key events in public sector labor relations in recent years: the battle for collective bargaining rights at the Transportation Safety Administration; and recent cases interpreting a 2007 decision of the Missouri Supreme Court which held that the Missouri Constitution provided a right to collective bargaining for all public employees in the state (without defining what that right specifically entails).
Is virtual reality training for resident cataract surgeons cost effective

Dear Editor, Virtual reality (VR) simulation is a promising modality to help ophthalmology residents bridge the gap between the wet lab and the operating room (OR) [1]. However, more widespread implementation of VR simulation in ophthalmology graduate medical education (GME) programs has been limited by concerns about simulator realism fidelity, lack of evidence for surgical skills transfer (VR-to-OR), and startup costs [2]. While current research is focused on addressing simulation fidelity and skills transfer, little has been done to address cost; VR units must be cost effective for VR to become a widespread part of ophthalmology GME [3, 4]. To this end, we investigated potential cost savings of VR training in cataract surgery using the criterion of reduced trainee OR time, one of the only published outcomes of VR-to-OR training [3]. The calculation of cost savings with the use of the VR simulator in residency program is summarized in Table 1. We found that the average US residency program will save $4,980 per year in non-supply costs. In addition, a well-studied VR cataract surgery simulator, the EyeSi (VRmagic, Mannheim, Germany) [1–3], costs approximately $167,000 (pers. comm., VRmagic US Sales representative, 1/07/2013); based on non-supply cost savings, it thus would require an estimated 34 years ($167,070/$4,980) for a typical US residency program to recoup the expense of a VR unit. This analysis has several limitations. First, the cost calculation was based on data from one US Veterans Health Administration (VHA) hospital. While the VHA is the largest provider of health care training in the US, costs in other teaching hospitals may differ. Second, we only evaluated non-supply costs of OR staff salaries, wages, and benefits. These were the only costs that could be readily linked to decreased OR time, as other differences in OR performance have not yet been found. Third, the estimates of savings in OR times were based on one study of 20 residents. Lastly, we only considered savings accrued with VR training in cataract surgery. While a VR training module in vitreoretinal surgery is available at additional cost, US residents only perform an average of 6.5 vitreoretinal procedures as primary surgeon in the course of their training [6]. The low volume of vitreoretinal surgery would be a significant barrier to determining the impact of VR training on resident vitreoretinal surgical outcomes and OR costs. Similarly, low volume would be a barrier for assessing the impact of VR cataract surgery training on other intraocular procedures such as glaucoma surgery. B. K. Young : P. B. Greenberg Division of Ophthalmology, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
Needs Assessment as a Change Strategy: A Case Study

Needs assessment provides a tool for gathering data which, when applied back upon the situation it addresses, becomes a first step in a change process. A major criticism of needs assessment has been that frequently the process is an exercise, and that the results are seldom actually applied in the planning process. The question arises whether the process, separate from the intended results, can be beneficial to the organization. This article documents a case study in which needs assessment and a change model were applied in conjunction with each other in such a way that the needs assessment process, independent of data collected, served as a change strategy. In this case, while the results of the needs assessment were important to the planning process, the needs assessment process itself, independent of its conclusions, also contributed to the organization's change goals.
Static Gain, Optical Modulation Response, and Nonlinear Phase Noise in Saturated Quantum-Dot Semiconductor Optical Amplifiers

A rate equation model preserving charge neutrality for quantum-dot semiconductor optical amplifiers (QD-SOAs) is established to investigate the nonlinear gain dynamics in the saturation regime. The static gain of QD-SOA is calculated assuming overall charge neutrality and compared with that without overall charge neutrality. Optical modulation response and nonlinear phase fluctuation through saturated QD-SOAs are calculated numerically based on a small-signal analysis. The gain dynamics of QD-SOAs are strongly dependent on the current injection level. The carrier reservoir in the wetting layer and continuum state is necessary for QD-SOAs to operate with high gain, high saturation power, and ultrafast gain recovery.
Exposing gaps in linear radiofrequency lesions: form before function.

The termination of atrial fibrillation (AF) by radiofrequency ablation in the left atrium is undeniable evidence that the pathophysiology underlying AF can be ameliorated. The cornerstone of this therapy, pulmonary vein isolation, can be achieved acutely in virtually 100% patients.1,2 Recurrent AF is the bane of this procedure, however, and is most commonly attributed to recovery of pulmonary vein conduction through the ablation lines.2 Return of conduction across ablation lines to the mitral isthmus and the left atrial roof contribute to postablation arrhythmias as well. Intensive investigation of sophisticated ablation systems have failed to yield consistently durable ablation lines. Efforts to map and eliminate conductive gaps at the time of ablation have not resolved this problem. Gaps in linear ablation lines for AF ablation are a reality of current clinical practice. As a result, the single procedure success rate for AF ablation is constrained. It appears that a major advance in ablation and/or mapping technologies is needed to improve the state of catheter ablation for AF. Article see p 279 Despite the clinical problems they produce, gaps within ablation lines represent fascinating examples of myocardial electrophysiology. A brief review is relevant to placing new studies in perspective. The animal model of the myocardial gap was introduced almost 100 years ago by Garrey3 to study fibrillatory conduction patterns over an isthmus of myocardial tissue. With the advent of linear surgical and catheter-based ablation for AF, the model has been used extensively to reveal the complex conduction behavior associated with discontinuous linear lesions.4–10 Direct experimentation has benefited from computer modeling to provide deeper insights into gap conduction.11,12 A description of gap conduction invokes all 3 determinants of myocardial impulse propagation: (1) passive tissue electric properties, (2) excitable membrane properties, and (3) …
Making and Keeping Peace

Recent efforts to explain why some peace agreements last while oth- ers fail have focused on the strength of the agreement itself+ Maintaining peace, even if both belligerents want peace, can be difficult if there are temptations to defect or there are reasons to fear that one may be played for the sucker+ Strong agreements that can increase the costs of defection, enhance monitoring, or reward cooperation help to solve this enforcement dilemma and generally increase the former belliger- ents' incentives to remain at peace + Although we agree that such carrots and sticks can facilitate cooperation, we argue in this article that such measures will often be inadequate if the belligerents themselves are no longer committed to keeping the peace+ If the belligerents believe that a renewed war can lead to better terms, peace will be precarious+ We demonstrate that getting ~and keeping! the terms right may be more important than any carrots and sticks incorporated into the document to enforce those terms+ In particular, we show that "unnatural" ceasefires that come about as a consequence of third-party pressure are significantly more likely to fail+ We also show that ceasefires negotiated after wars with consistent battle outcomes are more likely to last than those where the "right" terms of settlement are less apparent +
'Sweetening' natural products via glycorandomization.

In an effort to explore the contribution of the sugar constituents of pharmaceutically relevant glycosylated natural products, chemists have developed glycosylation methods for the generation of ‘glycorandomized’ libraries. Each member of these libraries is uniquely differentiated by an attached carbohydrate. Recently, two complementary glycorandomization strategies have emerged: chemoenzymatic glycorandomization, a biocatalytic approach dependent upon the substrate promiscuity of enzymes to activate and attach sugars to natural products, and neoglycorandomization, an efficient one-step chemical sugar ligation reaction that does not require prior sugar protection or activation. These strategies are likely to have a significant impact on fundamental glycoscience and drug discovery.
Using labeled data to evaluate change detectors in a multivariate streaming environment

We consider the problem of detecting changes in a multivariate data stream. A change detector is defined by a detection algorithm and an alarm threshold. A detection algorithm maps the stream of input vectors into a univariate detection stream. The detector signals a change when the detection stream exceeds the chosen alarm threshold. We consider two aspects of the problem: (1) setting the alarm threshold and (2) measuring/comparing the performance of detection algorithms. We assume we are given a segment of the stream where changes of interest are marked. We present evidence that, without such marked training data, it might not be possible to accurately estimate the false alarm rate for a given alarm threshold. Commonly used approaches assume the data stream consists of independent observations, an implausible assumption given the time series nature of the data. Lack of independence can lead to estimates that are badly biased. Marked training data can also be used for realistic comparison of detection algorithms. We define a version of the receiver operating characteristic curve adapted to the change detection problem and propose a block bootstrap for comparing such curves. We illustrate the proposed methodology using multivariate data derived from an image stream.
Vision-Based Estimation for Guidance, Navigation, and Control of an Aerial Vehicle

While a Global Positioning System (GPS) is the most widely used sensor modality for aircraft navigation, researchers have been motivated to investigate other navigational sensor modalities because of the desire to operate in GPS denied environments. Due to advances in computer vision and control theory, monocular camera systems have received growing interest as an alternative/collaborative sensor to GPS systems. Cameras can act as navigational sensors by detecting and tracking feature points in an image. Current methods have a limited ability to relate feature points as they enter and leave the camera field of view (FOV). A vision-based position and orientation estimation method for aircraft navigation and control is described. This estimation method accounts for a limited camera FOV by releasing tracked features that are about to leave the FOV and tracking new features. At each time instant that new features are selected for tracking, the previous pose estimate is updated. The vision-based estimation scheme can provide input directly to the vehicle guidance system and autopilot. Simulations are performed wherein the vision-based pose estimation is integrated with a nonlinear flight model of an aircraft. Experimental verification of the pose estimation is performed using the modelled aircraft.
The dopant distribution computed in the modified Chang–Brown model using quasi-steady state approximation

Abstract In this paper we present computed flow, temperature and concentration fields in the case of Bridgman–Stockbarger semiconductor crystal growth system, using the modified Chang–Brown model. This model is an extension of the initial Chang–Brown model in the framework of the continuum mechanics. The effect of the precrystallization-zone is included by mean of a thin porous layer (of width 10−9 m; size of solid inclusions 10−10 m; porosity 0.9) which reduces the dopant diffusivity from D to Deff=0.917D, increases the heat conductivity from K to Keff=1.1K and does not influence the flow in the zone. In computing, the true unsteady process is replaced with a quasi-steady state process. The obtained results are compared to those obtained using the initial Chang–Brown model. Comparisons prove, that the influence of the precrystallization-zone is relevant.
Introduction to the special section in Vadose Zone Journal: Parameter identification and uncertainty assessment in the unsaturated zone

During the last few decades hydrologists have made significant progress toward applying physically based simulation models for the analysis and understanding of field-scale flow and transport phenomena in the vadose zone. This progress has been enabled in part by the development of advanced
Inexpensive Retroreflectivity Field Inspection Kit

The Cornell Local Roads Program worked with three counties and several municipalities within those counties to study how a retroreflectometer might be shared by the 74 local jurisdictions to help them meet the new standards for sign retroreflectivity in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). The new standards for retroreflectivity include eight techniques, most of which require at least access to a retroreflectometer on a regular basis. Cornell worked with the three counties to review their sign inventory, inspection, and management programs. Through a strong collaboration between the municipalities, Cornell engineers, and a student intern hired as part of the study, an inexpensive retroreflectivity field inspection kit was developed. Agencies using the kit were able to reduce the time of inspection and the number of signs that needed to be removed from service.