cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Insta-shopping: Examining use of Instagram for shopping online using Theory of Reasoned Action

The growth and popularity of social commerce has created opportunities for increased interactions between sellers and buyers over various social media platforms. Instagram has the highest rate of engagement and is also considered an important platform for marketing purposes. The current study utilized Theory of Reasoned Action and examined (1) consumer's purchase intention on Instagram; (2) the impact of interpersonal influence. Data was collected via an online survey at a university resulting in a sample size of 342. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, factor analysis and Structural Equation Modeling. The findings of this study indicate: (1) Instagram use is influenced by PU, not PEOU; (2) Normative beliefs impact interpersonal influence and subjective norms; (3) Attitude towards shopping from Instagram influences both purchase intention as well as interpersonal influence; (4) Interpersonal influence does not impact subjective norms; and (5) purchase intention is influence by interpersonal influence.
A Look at Current Validity Issues of School-Wide Behavior Support

School-wide behavior support has experienced recent interest among educators. This approach has been embraced because of its potential for decreasing school violence and improving school climate. I...
Extended Abstract: Diversifying STEM through Academic Makerspaces: Practical Ideas for Changing Culture

Academic makerspaces offer unique opportunities to build community and welcome diverse students early in their academic careers. By establishing an intentional culture of acceptance and trust in the makerspace where difference is the norm, students can visualize success and build the self-efficacy needed to take on challenging course work. This presentation offers examples and guidelines for creating and maintaining an inclusive academic makerspace.
Ministry to Transgender Teenagers (Part Two): Providing Pastoral Care, Support, and Advocacy to Trans Youth:

This article considers the ministry and pastoral care to transgender teenagers. It begins by offering a brief introduction and then concentrates on the ways or methods for providing pastoral care, ...
Development of a Biocompatible Copolymer Nanocomplex to Deliver VEGF siRNA for Triple Negative Breast Cancer.

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most difficult breast cancer subtype to treat. TNBC patients have significantly higher expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in tumors compared to non-TNBC patients. VEGF not only exerts its pro-angiogenic effects on endothelial cells but also acts as a survival and autocrine growth factor for VEGF receptor (VEGFR) expressing cancer cells. Silencing the expression of VEGF is therefore a potential therapy for TNBC. Methods: A novel biocompatible linear copolymer poly[bis(e-Lys-PEI)Glut-PEG] (PLEGP) was developed to deliver VEGF siRNA for TNBC therapy. The copolymer is composed of lysine and glutaric acid, a natural metabolite of amino acids in the body. Low-molecular weight polyethyleneimine (PEI) was grafted to the copolymer to efficiently condense siRNA into nanocomplex without inducing cytotoxicity. Various in vitro studies were performed to evaluate the stability, cellular uptake, tumor penetration, and biological activities of the VEGF siRNA nanocomplex. The anti-tumor activities of the nanocomplex was also evaluated in an orthotopic TNBC mouse model. Results: PEIs with different molecular weights were evaluated, and the copolymer PLEGP1800 was able to easily form a stable nanocomplex with siRNAs and protect them from serum degradation. The siRNA/PLEGP1800 nanocomplex exhibited negligible cytotoxicity but showed high cellular uptake, high transfection efficiency, and high tumor penetration. In vitro activity studies showed that the siRNA nanocomplex significantly inhibited migration and invasion of TNBC cells. Moreover, the VEGF siRNA nanocomplex efficiently inhibited tumor growth in an orthotopic TNBC mouse model and down-regulated VEGF expression in the tumor. Conclusion: PLEGP1800 is a safe and efficient copolymer to deliver siRNAs for TNBC therapy. It could potentially be applied to other cancers by changing the cargo and incorporating tumor-specific ligands.
Peroxidase as a simultaneous degradation agent of ochratoxin A and zearalenone applied to model solution and beer.

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate the action of the commercial peroxidase (POD) enzyme (Armoracia rusticana) on the simultaneous degradation of ochratoxin A (OTA) and zearalenone (ZEA) in model solution and beer. For this purpose, the reaction parameters for POD action were optimized, POD application in the degradation of mycotoxins in model solution and beer was evaluated and the kinetic parameters of POD were defined (Michaelis-Menten constant - KM and maximal velocity - Vmax). In the reaction conditions (pH 7, ionic strength of 25 mM, incubation at 30 °C, addition of 26 mM H2O2 and 1 mM potassium ion), POD (0.6 U mL−1) presented the maximum activity for simultaneous degradation of OTA and ZEA of 27.0 and 64.9%, respectively, in model solution after 360 min. The application of POD in beer resulted in the simultaneous degradation of OTA and ZEA of 4.8 and 10.9%, respectively. The kinetic parameters KM and Vmax for degradation of OTA and ZEA were 50 and 10,710 nM and 0.168 and 72 nM min−1, respectively. Therefore, POD can be a promising alternative to mitigate the contamination of OTA and ZEA in model solution and beer, minimizing their effects in humans.
Rules, Standards, and Copyright Fair Use

This Article analyzes copyright law’s fair use doctrine using basic ideas from the “rules” and “standards” literature. The Article proposes that instead of understanding of 17 U.S.C. §107 as one copyright exception, it is better to see §107 as a legal standard which serves as a mechanism to establish distinct, judge-made rule-like exceptions. The §107 jurisprudence does this in the same way that 15 U.S.C. § 1 of the Sherman Act allows courts to generate per se illegal rules for some economic conduct while itself remaining a legal standard to judge other business activities. The principle difference is that fair use jurisprudence abhors “bright-line rules,” so the rules must remain sub rosa. The fact that what we call “fair use” is both the overall §107 balancing test and these specific, de facto rules explains Jekyll/Hyde descriptions of fair use as both “vague” and “predictable,” as “stable” yet “so flexible as virtually to defy definition.” After exploring some de facto rule-like exceptions that have spun off the fair use legal standard in §107, the Article places this observation about fair use in the context of Karl Llewelyn’s Theory of Rules. The Article then considers two debated topics among commentators: whether fair use determinations can ever be automated and what impact the transformative use doctrine has on fair use. Despite some doctrinal instability, transformative use analysis has already spun off one stable, rule-like exception from §107: comprehensive reproduction of expressive works to prepare searchable databases. The Article concludes that we can expect that the fair use balancing test in American copyright law will continue to generate specific, rule-like exceptions in response to new social and economic developments.
Synthesis, mechanical properties, and in vitro corrosion behavior of biodegradable Zn–Li–Cu alloys

Abstract Zinc alloys are proposed as suitable biodegradable materials due to an intermediate corrosion rate, non-toxicity, and good mechanical properties. The novel ternary Zn–Li–Cu alloy system is explored in this study as a potential biodegradable material for stent and other temporary medical device applications, utilizing pure Zn, Zn–Li, and Zn–Cu as control materials. After casting and hot-rolling, the chemistry, microstructure, mechanical properties, and immersion corrosion behavior of Zn-0.3Li-xCu (x = 2, 3.5, and 5 wt%) are investigated. The simulated Zn–Li–Cu ternary phase diagram compares well with experimental chemistry and phase fractions. Zn–Li–Cu alloys demonstrated excellent ultimate tensile strength (333–428 MPa) and hardness (125–134HV), with acceptable elongation (18–26%) compared to general stent design criteria and similar materials. In vitro corrosion rates of approximately 0.01 mm yr−1 were observed after 21 days of immersion in Hank’s Balanced Salt Solution (HBSS), where depletion of metal ions is slowed by the formation of a dense corrosion product layer that partially breaks down after 100 days. The current study highlights that the novel Zn–Li–Cu alloys are promising candidates for medical device applications by exceeding stent design criteria.
Novel Cosmetic Uses of Botulinum Toxin in the Head and Neck

Injection of botulinum toxin is the most commonly performed nonsurgical cosmetic procedure worldwide. New applications and formulations of botulinum toxin have become available for clinical use. This review presents recent advancements, applications, and new formulations of botulinum toxin. We also discuss issues regarding brand uniformity, safety, and patient satisfaction. Novel cosmetic uses for botulinum toxin include the treatment of androgenic alopecia, oily skin, and others. Two new toxin formulations include daxibotulinumtoxinA, with a duration of 6 months, and botulinum toxin E, with a fast onset of action (24 h) and duration of 2–4 weeks. Recent trends find increased usage among younger adults and men. Cosmetic injection of botulinum toxin into the head and neck remains an area of innovation and evolution. Research continues to support the finding that botulinum toxin formulations are equally safe and efficacious.
Sensorimotor function in progressive multiple sclerosis

BackgroundA sensitive test reflecting subtle sensorimotor changes throughout disease progression independent of mobility impairment is currently lacking in progressive multiple sclerosis.Objectives...
Acquisition of cancer stem cell properties during EMT requires cell division

Cancer cells acquire stem cell and mesenchymal properties during epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), facilitating metastasis and chemoresistance [1-6]. In this study, we find that mammary epithelial cells quickly develop mesenchymal phenotype in response to EMT-inducing signals; however, acquiring stemness takes several days and always requires a preceding mesenchymal program. In addition, we observe that carcinoma cells, over a period of time, switch their cell division from symmetrical differentiated type to symmetrical self-renewal type. Importantly, epithelial cells can gain mesenchymal properties without undergoing cell division, but cell disivion is vital for these cells to gain stem cell properties during EMT. The EMT-induced stemness signature (SC-sig) is capable of predicting progression-free and overall-survival of breast cancer patients but not the EMT-induced mesenchymal signature (M-sig). Collectively, our findings demonstrate that the use of mesenchymal markers alone is insufficient to identify tumors with metastatic and chemoresistance potential and emphasize that the markers of EMT-induced stem cell program are central for clinical prediction. Most importantly, our data, for the first time, demonstrate that acquisition of stem cell properties during EMT depends on cell division but not the mesenchymal program.
Energy catalysis needs ligands with high oxidative stability

Summary Heterogeneous catalysts predominate in large-scale and technologically important processes because of their privileged stability under harsh operating conditions. Despite this notable performance advantage, they lack the tunability and control of reaction mechanism offered by molecular catalysts, which are particularly predisposed to rational design with ligand modification. A 70-year research effort in molecular catalysis has largely focused on reductive catalytic transformations (e.g., hydrogenation, metathesis, C–H activation/functionalization, cross-coupling bond formation, Ziegler-Natta polymerization) and consequently attendant ligand designs (e.g., amines, amides, phosphines, polycyclic/heterocyclic aromatics and macrocycles, (iso)nitriles) show poor stability outside a reducing environment. Oxidative instability of ligands has been particularly problematic for energy-conversion catalysis, as any large-scale renewable fuels cycle relies on the extraction of electrons and protons from water. The typical ligands of organometallic catalysis are ill suited to withstand the harsh oxidizing conditions of oxygen evolution reaction, providing an imperative for research directed toward designing oxidatively and hydrolytically stable ligands.
Evaluating electrochemical accessibility of 4fn5d1 and 4fn+1 Ln(II) ions in (C5H4SiMe3)3Ln and (C5Me4H)3Ln complexes.

The reduction potentials (reported vs. Fc+/Fc) for a series of Cp′3Ln complexes (Cp′ = C5H4SiMe3, Ln = lanthanide) were determined via electrochemistry in THF with [nBu4N][BPh4] as the supporting electrolyte. The Ln(III)/Ln(II) reduction potentials for Ln = Eu, Yb, Sm, and Tm (−1.07 to −2.83 V) follow the expected trend for stability of 4f7, 4f14, 4f6, and 4f13 Ln(II) ions, respectively. The reduction potentials for Ln = Pr, Nd, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, and Lu, that form 4fn5d1 Ln(II) ions (n = 2–14), fall in a narrow range of −2.95 V to −3.14 V. Only cathodic events were observed for La and Ce at −3.36 V and −3.43 V, respectively. The reduction potentials of the Ln(II) compounds [K(2.2.2-cryptand)][Cp′3Ln] (Ln = Pr, Sm, Eu) match those of the Cp′3Ln complexes. The reduction potentials of nine (C5Me4H)3Ln complexes were also studied and found to be 0.05–0.24 V more negative than those of the Cp′3Ln compounds.
Forgotten healers: women and the pursuit of health in Late Renaissance Italy

In this meticulously researched and vivid study, Sharon Strocchia, at one level, situates women healers in the world of early modern medical practice with more precision and nuance than other schol...
Data Acquisition in the Laboratory

Analytical chemistry may be defined as the science and art of determining the composition of materials in terms of the elements or compounds that they contain (Ewing, 1985). The role of the computer in aiding this endeavor has evolved over three stages, namely, data processing, data acquisition, and data communications. The first use of the computer in analytical laboratories was for data processing, principally for statistical analysis of data on remote mainframe computers. During this period computer technology had little immediate impact within the laboratory. The initial analysis of raw data, which included measurement of distances or lengths associated with experimental parameters, was still a manual operation in the laboratory. The form of raw data varied from the displacement of a pointer on an analytical balance to a pen that traces by its vertical movement on horizontally moving chart paper. With the advent of the minicomputer in the 1960s, the vigorous development of computerized data acquisition in the laboratory began. The electronic capture of data made possible elimination of many manual manipulations, and consequently a larger number of analyses were possible. These developments brought about the need for electronic pathways to transfer data from dedicated microcomputers to larger computer systems for more extensive data analysis, report generation, and data storage.
Toward a “Reaganov” Russia: Russian Security Policy after Putin

Russia's military annexation of Crimea in early 2014, and the ensuing crisis in its relations with neighboring countries and the Western world, brought to the fore an age-old question that had fade...
Baseband digital image-suppression in low-IF receivers by complex-valued ICA

A digital baseband image rejection technique for low-IF wireless receivers is presented. It is based on complex-valued Independent Component Analysis (ICA), where non-Gaussianity is measured by kurtosis. Computer simulations demonstrate that the proposed technique is able to substantially improve the receiver's performance, and the resulting receiver is robust to I/Q mismatch levels, thermal noise, and input signal to interference ratios.
Thermodynamic parameters of cation exchange in MOF-5 and MFU-4l.

We present a method for approximating thermodynamic parameters , ΔH, and ΔS for the cation exchange process in metal–organic frameworks, as exemplified by Ni2+ exchange into Zn4O(1,4-benzenedicarboxylate)3 (MOF-5) and Co2+ exchange into MOF-5 and Zn5Cl4(bis(1H-1,2,3-triazolo-[4,5-b],[4′,5′-i])dibenzo-[1,4]-dioxin)3 (MFU-4l). For these examples, we find that the cation exchange process is endergonic and that parameters such as solvent and cation identity impact the thermodynamics.
Cytoskeletal dynamics and lung fluid balance

This article examines the role of the endothelial cytoskeleton in the lung's ability to restrict fluid and protein to vascular space at normal vascular pressures and thereby to protect lung alveoli from lethal flooding. The barrier properties of microvascular endothelium are dependent on endothelial cell contact with other vessel-wall lining cells and with the underlying extracellular matrix (ECM). Focal adhesion complexes are essential for attachment of endothelium to ECM. In quiescent endothelial cells, the thick cortical actin rim helps determine cell shape and stabilize endothelial adherens junctions and focal adhesions through protein bridges to actin cytoskeleton. Permeability-increasing agonists signal activation of "small GTPases" of the Rho family to reorganize the actin cytoskeleton, leading to endothelial cell shape change, disassembly of cortical actin rim, and redistribution of actin into cytoplasmic stress fibers. In association with calcium- and Src-regulated myosin light chain kinase (MLCK), stress fibers become actinomyosin-mediated contractile units. Permeability-increasing agonists stimulate calcium entry and induce tyrosine phosphorylation of VE-cadherin (vascular endothelial cadherin) and β-catenins to weaken or pull apart endothelial adherens junctions. Some permeability agonists cause latent activation of the small GTPases, Cdc42 and Rac1, which facilitate endothelial barrier recovery and eliminate interendothelial gaps. Under the influence of Cdc42 and Rac1, filopodia and lamellipodia are generated by rearrangements of actin cytoskeleton. These motile evaginations extend endothelial cell borders across interendothelial gaps, and may initiate reannealing of endothelial junctions. Endogenous barrier protective substances, such as sphingosine-1-phosphate, play an important role in maintaining a restrictive endothelial barrier and counteracting the effects of permeability-increasing agonists.
Corticosteroids in the treatment of acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Background Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic and progressive disease that affects an estimated 10% of the world’s population over the age of 40 years. Worldwide, COPD ranks in the top ten for causes of disability and death. Given the significant impact of this disease, it is important to note that acute exacerbations of COPD (AECOPD) are by far the most costly and devastating aspect of disease management. Systemic steroids have long been a standard for the treatment of AECOPD; however, the optimal strategy for dosing and administration of these medications continues to be debated.
Highly Phase-Stable RF Power Circuits for the MIT-LNS Linac

The RF design objective for the MIT medium energy, high-duty-cycle linear accelerator has been to optimize and extend existing technology to obtain a degree of phase stability not previously achieved with high power RF systems. The RF system, which operates with a maximum average RF power of 80 kW per high power klystron (4 MW peak at 2% duty cycle to 1 MW peak at 6.5% duty cycle), is described. Accurate phase bridge measurements on the system indicate a pulse-top phase stability of better than 10 at 2856 MHz.
Bacteremia in Blood or Marrow Transplantation Patients: Clinical Risk Factors for Infection and Emerging Antibiotic Resistance

Bacterial infections continue to be a leading cause of mortality and morbidity in patients who undergo blood and marrow transplantations (BMTs). The relative importance of different clinical features (donor type, graft cell source, and conditioning regimen) on the incidence and timing of posttransplantation bacterial infections is uncertain, but a detailed analysis could better guide prevention and therapy. We retrospectively analyzed the incidence and risk factors for early bacterial infections, as well as patterns of antibiotic resistance. We observed 613 bacteremic events among 349 of 834 patients who underwent BMT treated at the University of Minnesota from 2005 to 2010 (cumulative incidence 42%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 38-45). Donor type (allogeneic vs autologous) had the greatest impact on the incidence of bacteremia within 100 days posttransplantation. Among allogeneic transplantations, myeloablative (MA), compared to reduced-intensity conditioning (RIC) was associated with a significantly greater risk of bacteremia, as was the development of acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD). Additionally, patients who underwent BMT, compared to the contemporaneous hospital population, developed infections with more frequent resistance to antibiotics used in the treatment against commonly isolated bacterial organisms. These findings have important clinical implications regarding the use and selection of both prophylactic and empiric antibiotic regimens.
Use of student pharmacist peer feedback during a journal club in an advanced in pharmacy practice experience

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of peer feedback during a journal club by student pharmacists during an advanced pharmacy practice experience (APPE). We hypothesized that students providing constructive feedback to their peers would positively affect learning. Methods: Students from two different universities and three different APPE practice specialties participated in the study. Students received training on providing constructive feedback and then provided written and verbal feedback to their peers after their journal club presentations. Students were then surveyed on this experience. Results: Forty-three APPE students completed the study. Students reported the activity positively affected their ability to evaluate and provide feedback to peers. The students also stated the experience positively promoted their growth and learning. Conclusions: This APPE activity provided an opportunity to learn how to provide constructive feedback. Activities should be created at schools of pharmacy that engage students while teaching ways to provide quality feedback.
Serotonergic inputs to FoxP2 neurons of the pre-locus coeruleus and parabrachial nuclei that project to the ventral tegmental area.

Abstract The present study demonstrates that serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT)-containing axons project to two sets of neurons in the dorsolateral pons that have been implicated in salt appetite regulation. These two neuronal groups are the pre-locus coeruleus (pre-LC) and a region in the parabrachial nucleus termed the external lateral-inner subdivision (PBel-inner). Neurons in both regions constitutively express the transcription factor Forkhead protein2 (FoxP2), and become c-Fos activated after prolonged sodium depletion. They send extensive projections to the midbrain and forebrain, including a strong projection to the ventral tegmental area (VTA)—a reward processing site. The retrograde neuronal tracer cholera toxin β-subunit (CTb) was injected into the VTA region; this was done to label the cell bodies of the pre-LC and PBel-inner neurons. After 1 week, the rats were killed and their brainstems processed by a triple-color immunofluorescence procedure. The purpose was to determine whether the CTb-labeled pre-LC and PBel-inner neurons, which also had FoxP2 immunoreactive nuclei, received close contacts from 5-HT axons. Neurons with these properties were found in both sites. Since the origin of this 5-HT input was unknown, a second set of experiments was carried out in which CTb was injected into the pre-LC or lateral PB. One week later, the rats were perfused and the brainstems from these animals were analyzed for the presence of neurons that co-contained CTb and tryptophan hydroxylase (synthetic enzyme for 5-HT) immunoreactivity. Co-labeled neurons were found mainly in the area postrema and to a lesser degree, in the dorsal raphe nucleus. We propose that the 5-HT inputs to the pre-LC and PBel-inner may modulate the salt appetite-related functions that influence the reward system.
Influence of aging on catecholamine levels, accumulation, and release in F-344 rats ☆

Neuronal function in selected brain areas has been evaluated in Fischer 344 rats aged 2-4 months, 11-14 months and 21-26 months. In vitro release of 3H-norepinephrine from hypothalamus and occipital cortex and 3H-dopamine from striatum has been evaluated using potassium, amphetamine, and field-stimulation. In vitro uptake of 3H-catecholamines has been evaluated in the same tissues. Catecholamine levels were measured in six brain areas: hypothalamus, striatum, cortex, cerebellum, brainstem and midbrain. Significant age-related decreases of NE levels, uptake, and release to high frequency stimulation were seen in the hypothalamus. The decreases in 3H-NE uptake and NE levels in the hypothalamus were apparent at 12 months, whereas the decrease in 3H-NE release after high frequency stimulation was seen in the senile rats.
OBSERVATIONS ON THE OXYGEN SUPPLY TO THE FETAL LLAMA

The oxygen dissociation curves of the maternal and fetal bloods of the llama show a high saturation at low oxygen pressures. At 38° C. and pH 7·4 the maternal blood is half saturated with an oxygen pressure of 21·9 mm. Hg, the fetal at 18·0. The data about the adult animal confirm the previous results of Hall, Dill and Guzman Barron. The estimated transplacental difference in oxygen pressures of the two bloods in vivo was about 15 mm. Hg. As the llama has a six-layered epithelio-chorial placenta, the hypothesis that the thicker placental types are necessarily associated with steep transplacental gradients in oxygen pressure appears to be without foundation.
US Exports of Knowledge-intensive Services and Importing-country Characteristics

This paper studies the determinants of US exports of knowledge-intensive services. Using US export data to as many as 29 countries between 1989 and 2002, I find the following. First, gross product and per capita income have heterogeneous effects on affiliated and non-affiliated exports of knowledge-intensive services. Secondly, property rights protection matters. Thirdly, infrastructure quality and political institutions only matter in the transfer of knowledge assets. Finally, financial depth is only correlated with the export of services to non-affiliates.
Variation of the Relative Yield of Charged and Neutral B Mesons Across the ϒ(4S) Resonance

It is shown that the ratio of the production rates of the pairs B+B- and should experience a substantial and rapid variation with energy within the width of the ϒ(4S) resonance, crossing the value of one near the center of the resonance. This behavior is due to an interference of the rapidly changing with energy Breit–Wigner phase with the phase introduced in the wave function of charged mesons by their Coulomb interaction.
Dobutamine stress echocardiography for preoperative cardiac risk stratification in patients undergoing orthotopic liver transplantation

This study attempts to evaluate the efficacy of dobutamine stress echocardiography for preoperative cardiac risk stratification in patients undergoing orthotopic liver transplantation. Two hundred twenty consecutively submitted patients were evaluated in preparation for orthotopic liver transplantation. Dobutamine stress echocardiography was performed in 80 patients with known or suspected coronary artery disease. Follow-up information was available in 40 patients in the form of cardiac catheterization and/or outcome from liver transplantation to validate the dobutamine stress echo findings. The prevalence of coronary artery disease in this cohort was 5% and was closely associated with the presence of diabetes mellitus. Dobutamine stress echocardiography, when interpreted as abnormal in the presence of wall motion abnormalities only, is associated with a sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive value of 100%. Dobutamine stress echocardiography is highly efficacious and should be the screening study of choice to detect coronary artery disease in patients undergoing orthotopic liver transplantation.
Amodal representation of speech in infants

Past research ( Kuhl and Meltzoff, 1984 , Kuhl and Meltzoff, 1988 ) demonstrated that 18- to 20-week-old infants looked longer at a (ace articulating the corresponding phoneme when presented with a phoneme and two simultaneously articulating faces, one face articulating the presented phoneme, and the other face articulating an incorrect phoneme. Using an operant choice sucking procedure, this experiment replicated those findings, with special attention given to mismatched face-voice pairs. A second experiment examined 6- to 8-month-old infants' perceptions of familiar and novel face-voice pairs. Infants were presented with a face articulating /u/, paired with the phonemes /u/ (possible), /i/ (impossible), and the French /y/ (novel but possible). Results indicated that infants preferred possible face-voice pairs over pairs that are impossible matches.
Current Management Strategies for Intraocular Retinoblastoma

Survival rates for retinoblastoma patients have increased dramatically over the last century, with documented 5-year survival figures reaching 87–99% in developed countries. During the last decade, there has been a dramatic paradigm shift in the treatment approach for intraocular retinoblastoma, emphasising chemoreduction protocols and minimising the use of external beam radiation. The recognition of the increased risk for second non-ocular cancers with external beam radiation contributed to the growing emergence of chemotherapy. Although chemoreduction protocols vary slightly between institutions, many centres are currently treating intraocular retinoblastoma with carboplatin, vincristine and etoposide as a three-drug regimen given in two to six cycles. Clinical studies have demonstrated that systemic chemotherapy must be combined with other modalities, such as laser treatment and cryotherapy, for adequate tumour control and many eyes with advanced intraocular disease require salvage therapy with radiation or enucleation. Therefore, modern centres treating retinoblastoma continue to manage patients with a variety of modalities, individualising the therapy according to the patient’s presentation and clinical course.
Analysis of dynamics and propagation of parietal cingulate seizures with secondary mesial temporal involvement

Cingulate-onset seizures, particularly those originating from parietal cingulate regions, are inadequately described and confounded by patterns of propagation. We analyzed scalp and depth electrode recordings in a patient whose seizures originated from a lesion in the right posterior cingulate region and produced secondary seizure activity in ipsilateral mesial temporal structures. Analyses included the matching pursuit (MP) method of time–frequency decomposition and the Gabor atom density (GAD) measure of signal complexity. Although scalp recordings suggested a right temporal onset, seizures recorded with depth electrodes clearly began in the parietal cingulate region before producing a secondary discharge in ipsilateral mesial structures. GAD revealed a significant increase in complexity during ictal cingulate activity and a consistent pattern of subsequent complexity changes in the hippocampus 30 seconds later. MP and GAD measures were valuable supplements to confirm the stereotyped pattern of both time–frequency changes and complexity. This provides additional evidence for pathways between the parietal cingulate region and mesial temporal structures and raises questions as to whether parietal cingulate seizures can produce clinical symptoms independent of regional or remote propagation.
Effect of Upper Strap Downward Displacement on N95 Filtering Facepiece Respirator Fit Factors: A Pilot Study

Fifteen subjects underwent three replicates of quantitative respirator fit-testing with N95 filtering facepiece respirators that were donned with the upper strap high on the occiput, as per the manufacturers’ donning instructions. Each fit-test was immediately followed by repeat fit-testing with the upper strap downwardly displaced to the level of the ear sulcus to determine any change in fit factors that might occur with upper strap downward slippage. A total of 35/45 (78%) initial fit-tests had a passing score (fit factor ≥100) with the top strap high on the occiput and 33/35 (94%) of these passed subsequent fit-testing after the top strap was displaced downward to the ear sulcus. Geometric mean fit factors for the initial passed fit-tests, and following downward strap displacement, were 217±1.6 and 207±1.9, respectively (p = 0.64). Downward displacement of the top strap did not significantly impact fit factors of N95 FFRs that had previously passed fit-testing.
Evaluation of Steel Slag Fine Aggregate in Hot-Mix Asphalt Mixtures

Since a considerable amount of steel slag is produced in the southwestern part of Pennsylvania around Pittsburgh, where natural fine aggregate sources are limited, an evaluation was undertaken to determine the feasibility of using “cured” steel slag fine aggregate in hot-mix asphalt (HMA) mixtures. The objectives of this work were to (1) correlate fine aggregate expansions to the “parent” coarse aggregate expansions, (2) determine properties of dense-graded Pennsylvania ID-2 wearing coarse mixtures made with various sources of steel slag and crushed limestone fine aggregate, and (3) recommend appropriate specifications and test criteria for implementing the use of steel slag fine aggregate, if justifiable. Expansive characteristics of the steel slag aggregates were determined by Pennsylvania Test Method 130. HMA mixtures made with steel slag aggregates and limestone aggregate (control) were subjected to hot-water conditioning and Lottman freeze-and-thaw conditioning to determine potential problems, such a...
Role of JNK-1 regulation in the protection of contact-inhibited fibroblasts from oxidative stress

The molecular signaling events leading to protection from oxidative stress-induced apoptosis upon contact inhibition have not been fully investigated. Previous research has indicated a role for mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) in the regulation of contact inhibition, and these proteins have also been associated with cell cycle regulation and stress-induced apoptosis. The potential role of the MAPK JNK-1 in the stress-response of actively proliferating and contact-inhibited cells was investigated. Actively proliferating normal fibroblasts (BJ) and fibrosarcoma cells (HT-1080) were stressed with H2O2, and levels of activated JNK-1 and cleaved PARP were ascertained. Similarly, these results were compared with levels of activated JNK-1 and cleaved PARP detected in H2O2-stressed confluent fibrosarcoma or contact-inhibited fibroblast cells. Contact-inhibited fibroblasts were protected from apoptosis in comparison to subconfluent fibroblasts, concurrent with decreased JNK-1 activation. Increased culture density of fibrosarcoma cells was not protective against apoptosis, and these cells did not demonstrate density-dependent alterations in the JNK-1 stress response. This decreased activation of JNK-1 in stressed, contact-inhibited cells did not appear to be dependent upon increased expression of MKP-1; however, over-expression of MKP-1 was sufficient to result in a slight decrease in H2O2-stimulated PARP cleavage. Increasing the antioxidant capacity of fibroblasts through NAC-treatment not only lessened H2O2-stimulated JNK-1 activation, but also did not influence the expression of MKP-1. Taken together, these results suggest that regulation of negative regulation of JNK-1 upon contact inhibition is protective against apoptosis, and that this regulation is independent of MKP-1.
Field-induced surface texture in 3He-A in the presence of superflow

The effect of superflow on the magnetic field-induced surface texture in /sup 3/He-A is studied theoretically. We find that in the presence of small superflow the surface texture becomes nonplanar. The NMR satellite frequencies associated with the surface texture are obtained.
Effect of a nonmetabolizable analog of fructose-1,6-bisphosphate on glycolysis and ethanol production in strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Escherichia coli.

Fructose-1,6-bisphosphate (F-1,6-P2) is an allosteric activator of two key enzymes of glycolysis: phosphofructokinase and pyruvate kinase. Regulation of glycolysis in a wild-typeSaccharomyces cerevisiae and a recombinantEscherichia coli by a dead-end structural analog of F-1,6-P2 was studied. 2,5-Anhydromannitol (2,5-AM), a structural analog of β-d-fructose, was used. On being taken up by the cells, 2,5-AM was converted into its monophosphate and diphosphate by the enzymes of the glycolytic pathway. The final product, 2,5-anhydromannitol-1,6-bisphosphate, could not be metabolized further and, therefore, accumulated inside the cells. Glucose and fructose were used as substrates. It was found that 2,5-AM at concentrations of 1 mM or less did not have any effect on either substrate consumption or ethanol production. At concentrations of 2,5-AM of 2.5 mM or greater, significant inhibition of both glucose and fructose was observed, with fructose inhibition much more severe. We discuss the possible mechanisms of glycolysis inhibition by 2,5-AM at high concentrations and the regulation of glycolysis by this compound.
Voices of the Forgotten Half: The Role of Social Class in the School-to-Work Transition.

This study examines the impact of social class on the school-to-work (STW) transitions of young adults in working-class occupations. Using an exploratory, qualitative research methodology, interviews were conducted with 10 men and 10 women to examine the role of social class in the STW transition. All participants were working in low-skilled jobs and grouped into 2 cohorts based on their family’s socioeconomic background: higher socioeconomic status (HSES) and lower socioeconomic status (LSES). The findings indicate that social class played an important role in the participants’ STW transition. Individuals from the HSES cohort expressed greater interest in work as a source of personal satisfaction, higher levels of self-concept crystallization, greater access to external resources, and greater levels of career adaptability compared with their LSES counterparts. I was forced into this way of life. It’s like I was forced to drop out of
Responses to Combinations of Tones in the Nuclei of the Lateral Lemniscus

Combination-sensitive neurons integrate specific spectral and temporal elements in biologically important sounds, and they may underlie the analysis of biosonar and social vocalizations. Combination-sensitive neurons are found in the forebrain of a variety of vertebrates. In the mustached bat, they also occur in the central nucleus of the inferior colliculus (ICC). However, it is not known where combination-sensitive response properties emerge. To address this question, we used a two-tone paradigm to examine responses of single units to combination stimuli in a brainstem structure, the nuclei of the lateral lemniscus (NLL). We recorded and histologically localized 101 single units in the NLL. The majority (82%) of units had a single excitatory frequency tuning curve. Seven units had two separate excitatory frequency tuning curves but displayed no combinatorial interaction. Twelve units were combination-sensitive. Of these, three units were facilitated by the combination of two separate frequency bands and nine units were inhibited by combinatorial stimuli. The three facilitatory neurons had excitatory responses tuned to the second harmonic constant frequency (CF2, 57-60 kHz) component of the biosonar signal and were facilitated by a second signal within the first harmonic (Hl, 24-30 kHz) of the biosonar call. Most of the inhibitory interactions occurred between signals in the frequency bands associated with the frequency-modulated (FM) components of the biosonar call. The strongest combinatorial effects (facilitatory and inhibitory) were elicited by simultaneous onset of the two signals (i.e., 0 ms delay). All combination-sensitive units were in the intermediate nucleus of the NLL (INLL), which in bats is a hypertrophied structure that projects strongly to combination-sensitive neurons in the ICC. Thus, the combination-sensitive neurons in the INLL may impart their response properties onto ICC neurons. However, the small number of facilitatory combination-sensitive neurons in the NLL suggests that the majority of these combinatorial responses originate in the ICC.
A design-of-experiments approach to characterizing the effects of sonic IR variables

Sonic IR has shown potential as a viable nondestructive inspection technique for crack detection by demonstrating that clearly identifiable signals can be generated where known cracks exist in certain structures1,2. However, before a technique can be used in a field environment, the factors that affect the reproducibility of the technique must be evaluated and their effect on the results of the technique understood. This will enable the control of these factors in the execution of an inspection procedure at, for example, an Air Force Depot Maintenance facility. In this program, sponsored by the Air Force Research Laboratory, we are taking a Design of Experiments (DoE) approach to determine the effect of several key variables on the results obtained from Sonic IR testing. A set of small samples with known fatigue cracks was tested according to a statistically designed test matrix. The design of this test matrix, the experimental setup, the test results, and conclusions will be presented.
Rectal atresia and stenosis: unique anorectal malformations.

Abstract Introduction Rectal atresia/stenosis is a rare disorder in the spectrum of anorectal malformations and is particularly associated with a presacral mass. These patients are born with a normal anal canal but have a stricture or complete atresia located a few centimeters proximal to the dentate line. We present a surgical technique for the management of these patients, as well as their unique clinical concerns and outcomes. Methods We reviewed the records of 14 patients with rectal atresia and 3 with rectal stenosis. We describe a novel technique that we have developed for the preservation of the anterior dentate line that was performed in the last 13 patients. Results Rectal atresia/stenosis was associated with a presacral mass in 5 patients (29%). Definitive repair was completed using a circular rectorectal anastomosis in the first 4 patients and an anterior dentate line sparing procedure in the last 13. All patients older than 3 years have demonstrated the ability to have voluntary bowel movements. Conclusion With the largest reported series of rectal atresia/stenosis, we have demonstrated a safe and effective technique for repair. Preoperative evaluation must be thorough because a significant number of these patients will have an associated presacral mass.
Study of textured n-type silicon photoanodes: Electron microscopy, auger and electroanalytical characterization of chemically derivatized surfaces

Abstract Polished (111), (100) and textured (100) single-crystal, n-Si surfaces have been studied in relation to their use as photoanode materials in a photoelectrochemical device. Textured (100) Si is prepared by chemically etching the polished (100) surface. The textured surface consists of pyramids having (111) sides, necessitating the study of polished (111) Si as a comparison. Electron microscopy and Auger spectroscopy have been employed to characterize textured and polished surfaces functionalized with the electroactive reagents (1,1′-ferrocenediyl)dimethylsilane and (1,1′-ferrocenediyl)dichloosilane. Electrochemical techniques have been used to determine coverage of electroactive material, and the textured surface is found to bind about twice as much material as the polished surfaces. The chargetransfer properties of the surface-confined material on the polished (100) and (111) Si are virtually identical: the position of the photoanodic wave corresponding to uphill ferrocene oxidation is within 30 mV and the ferricenium reduction peak is also at the same potential. The textured (100) Si surface shows a slightly more positive (100 mV) photoanodic and dark cathodic peak. Photoelectrochemical cells based on textured (100) Si vs. polished (100) Si are about 20% better in overall efficiency due to lower reflection losses associated with the textured surface.
Strong Phases and Factorization for Color Suppressed Decays

We prove a factorization theorem in QCD for the color suppressed decays ${B}^{0}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{D}^{0}{M}^{0}$ and ${B}^{0}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{D}^{*0}{M}^{0}$ where M is a light meson. Both the color-suppressed and W-exchange or annihilation amplitudes contribute at lowest order in ${\ensuremath{\Lambda}}_{\mathrm{QCD}}/Q$ where $Q={{m}_{b}{,m}_{c}{,E}_{\ensuremath{\pi}}},$ so no power suppression of annihilation contributions is found. A new mechanism is given for generating nonperturbative strong phases in the factorization framework. Model-independent predictions that follow from our results include the equality of the ${B}^{0}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{D}^{0}{M}^{0}$ and ${B}^{0}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{D}^{*0}{M}^{0}$ rates and the equality of nonperturbative strong phases between isospin amplitudes, ${\ensuremath{\delta}}^{(\mathrm{DM})}={\ensuremath{\delta}}^{{(D}^{*}M)}.$ Relations between amplitudes and phases for $M=\ensuremath{\pi},\ensuremath{\rho}$ are also derived. These results do not follow from large ${N}_{c}$ factorization with heavy quark symmetry.
Decoherence bounds on the capabilities of cold trapped ion quantum computers

Using simple physical arguments we investigate the capabilities of a quantum computer based on cold trapped ions of the type recently proposed by Cirac and Zoller. From the limitations imposed on such a device by decoherence due to spontaneous decay, laser phase coherence times, ion heating and other possible sources of error, we derive bounds on the number of laser interactions and on the number of ions that may be used. As a quantitative measure of the possible performance of these devices, the largest number which may be factored using Shor`s quantum factoring algorithm is determined for a variety of species of ion.
A simple O(4,2) approximation of hydrogenic coulomb integrals

Abstract Repulsion integrals for electrons with hydrogenic wavefunctions are expressed in terms of operations of the Lie algebra of the group O(4,2) × O(4,2). The results is used to obtain approximate expressions for Coulomb integrals as functions of hydrogenic quantum numbers