cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The evolution of a clinical scholars program through a pediatric nursing academic-practice partnership.

Abstract Academic-practice partnerships have the potential to improve clinical outcomes through joint initiatives focusing on nursing. Nurses at the bedside are able to greatly impact care, but often they lack the resources (time, knowledge, and expertise) to enact and facilitate quality improvement initiatives. Through an academic-practice partnership, academic and practice partners can work collaboratively to develop innovative evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and research projects. The benefits of these partnerships are far reaching as they involve faculty, students, and clinicians within the practice. In this article, we describe the development and evolution of a pediatric clinical scholars program that increases nursing engagement for leadership in evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and research projects to improve health outcomes.
Predictive P-score for treatment ranking in Bayesian network meta-analysis.

Background Network meta-analysis (NMA) is a widely used tool to compare multiple treatments by synthesizing different sources of evidence. Measures such as the surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) and the P-score are increasingly used to quantify treatment ranking. They provide summary scores of treatments among the existing studies in an NMA. Clinicians are frequently interested in applying such evidence from the NMA to decision-making in the future. This prediction process needs to account for the heterogeneity between the existing studies in the NMA and a future study. Methods This article introduces the predictive P-score for informing treatment ranking in a future study via Bayesian models. Two NMAs were used to illustrate the proposed measure; the first assessed 4 treatment strategies for smoking cessation, and the second assessed treatments for all-grade treatment-related adverse events. For all treatments in both NMAs, we obtained their conventional frequentist P-scores, Bayesian P-scores, and predictive P-scores. Results In the two examples, the Bayesian P-scores were nearly identical to the corresponding frequentist P-scores for most treatments, while noticeable differences existed for some treatments, likely owing to the different assumptions made by the frequentist and Bayesian NMA models. Compared with the P-scores, the predictive P-scores generally had a trend to converge toward a common value of 0.5 due to the heterogeneity. The predictive P-scores' numerical estimates and the associated plots of posterior distributions provided an intuitive way for clinicians to appraise treatments for new patients in a future study. Conclusions The proposed approach adapts the existing frequentist P-score to the Bayesian framework. The predictive P-score can help inform medical decision-making in future studies.
EXPERIMENTAL AND THEORETICAL HYDRODYNAMIC FORCES ON A MATHEMATICAL MODEL IN CONFINED WATERS

Model tests in shallow water have been carried out using four different configurations of a mathematical hull form. The forces acting on the model due to a yaw angle, the effects of canal walls and the interactions with another stationary model were determined. In each configuration, various parameters such as B/T, h/T, speed, and wall position were varied. During individual test runs, all parameters were held constant and the models were restrained from sinkage and trim. Comparison of the experimental results with theoretical values computed using slender-body theory shows reasonable agreement.
PRELIMINARY DYNAMIC ASSESSMENT OF DEEPWATER PLATFORMS

For purposes of preliminary analysis and design, a relatively simple form for estimating dynamic response of bottom-founded deepwater structures is developed. The structural system is assumed to be linear and the sea state is assumed to be two-dimensional. Structural motion is assumed to be small in computing wave loading. The simple response algorithm has the property of providing a mechanism for the efficient introduction of probabilistic design theory. Reliability estimates can be performed relative to each mode of structural failure. Statistical information on all design factors such as ocean wave heights and frequencies of occurrence of sea states, wave forces on structures, soil strengths, and material and joint strengths can easily be treated without resorting to Monte Carlo techniques.
The Northwest's Phantom Pool: Superintendent Certificate Holders Who Do Not Plan to Apply and Why.

Responses gathered in a recent study of the superintendency in the Pacific Northwest suggest that less than 25% of sitting superintendents in the year 2000 were under the age of 50; and 40% of those who were 50 years or older planned to retire within the next four years. While the pool of potential applicants includes over 1,000 superintendent certificate holders, fewer than 150 of respondents in the same study planned to apply for upcoming vacancies. This article examines aspects of the position that serve as disincentives to seemingly qualified candidates and the policy ramifications of possible pool inadequacy within the given context. A recent national study suggested that 80% of current superintendents are at or near retirement. Sixty-eight percent of these superintendents are between the ages of 50 and 59 years; another 10 to 15% are over 60 (Cooper, Fusarelli, & Carella, 2000). This is not simply a big-city or large-district phenomenon. The graying of the superintendency extends to rural America as well. In The Superintendent Pool: Realities in the Northwest, researchers reported that in the five-state region (Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington) 75% of sitting superintendents in the year 2000 were over the age of 50, 40% of whom planned to retire within the next four years (Wolverton, Rawls, & Macdonald, 2000). If the more than 500 superintendents (60% of all superintendents in the region) who participated in the study are representative of the region, the Pacific Northwest may experience a sizeable exodus from superintendent positions by the year 2005.
Velocity and confinement of large-scale jets

I consider several issues connected with the velocities and confinement properties of kpc-scale jets in FRII sources. There is considerable evidence that large-scale jets are at least mildly relativistic. I discuss whether the Doppler-beaming interpretation of one-sidedness can be reconciled with Barthel's unified scheme, and consider modifications to the Doppler beaming formula due to the directionality of the magnetic field. The synchrotron-emitting regions of many FRII jets appear to be overpressured with respect to their surroundings, and yet seem to be effectively confined. I consider several possible confinement mechanisms, and discuss the implications of a small volume filling factor in the synchrotron emissivity. Finally, I argue that most lobe asymmetry could be due to environmental effects, and show that even a small asymmetry in the ambient intergalactic medium can lead to a large asymmetry in lobe/core separation.
Impaired Cytokine Signaling in Mice Lacking the IL-1 Receptor-Associated Kinase

Stimulation of the type 1 IL-1R (IL-1R1) and the IL-18R by their cognate ligands induces recruitment of the IL-1R-associated kinase (IRAK). Activation of IRAK leads in turn to nuclear translocation of NF-κB, which directs expression of innate and adaptive immune response genes. To study IRAK function in cytokine signaling, we generated cells and mice lacking the IRAK protein. IRAK-deficient fibroblasts show diminished activation of NF-κB when stimulated with IL-1. Immune effector cells without IRAK exhibit a defective IFN-γ response to costimulation with IL-18. Furthermore, mice lacking the Irak gene demonstrate an attenuated response to injected IL-1. Deletion of Irak, however, does not affect the ability of mice to develop delayed-type hypersensitivity or clear infection with the intracellular parasite, Listeria monocytogenes. These results demonstrate that although IRAK participates in IL-1 and IL-18 signal transduction, residual cytokine responsiveness operates through an IRAK-independent pathway.
Radon, Indoor and Remote Measurement of

The existing radon and radon progeny measurement instruments are described in this article. The various methods and instruments used depend on whether radon or radon/thoron progeny or daughter products are being measured, the duration of the measurement, whether short-term or long-term and the type of radiation being detected (alpha, beta, or gamma). The modes of detection used include the following: activated charcoal radon monitors, electret ion chamber, registration of nuclear tracks in solid-state materials, liquid scintillation, ionization chambers, scintillation detectors with zinc sulfide, ZnS(Ag), alpha particle spectrometers with silicon diodes, surface barrier or diffused junction detectors, and gamma-ray spectrometry with NaI(Tl) scintillation crystals or germanium lithium (GeLi) semiconductor detectors, fiber optics sensors and glass. The advantages and disadvantages will be described for various portable instruments used for measuring radon, thoron, and their daughter products. Comparison studies among the radon monitors will be included. The reader is referred in particular to George1 and National Council on Radiation Protection (NCRP) Report 972 for additional information.
Approaches to the Cognitive Rehabilitation of Children with Neuropsychological Impairment

Historically, clinical neuropsychology in North America has focused on the prediction and localization of cortical dysfunction (e.g., Boll, 1974; Reitan, 1974; Dean, 1985a). Although this emphasis on diagnosis continues, the growing sophistication of radiological techniques may deemphasize this diagnostic role. A number of authors have argued that clinical neuropsychology will focus on the understanding of the patient’s neurological deficits and the planning of rehabilitation approaches (Dean, 1982, 1985a; Diller & Gordon, 1981; Piasetsky, 1981). Cognitive rehabilitation involves the retraining of mental skills or abilities impaired as the result of neurological disorders. Along these lines, Diller and Gordon (1981) have stressed the utility of neuropsychology, with its foundation in brain—behavior relationships, in cognitive rehabilitation. Indeed, a recent survey of practicing neuropsychologists indicated that nearly 50% of the respondents reported cognitive rehabilitation to be part of their clinical practice (Seretny, Dean, Gray, and Hartlage, 1986). Thus, it appears that although the major focus in neuropsychology may continue to be on diagnosis, an increasing number of clinicians seem to be expanding their practice to include some form of cognitive therapy.
Oscillatory Modes of Energy Transport in Solar Magnetic Regions

It appears that it is necessary to look for oscillatory (i.e. overstable) instabilities as the cause of energy transport in sunspots. Making use of recent calculations on the hydromagnetic stability of thermally unstable layers with open boundary conditions, it is found that oscillatory modes can occur in the interior of sunspots. Some possible consequences of these oscillatory modes are discussed.
Optimal variable switching frequency scheme to reduce combined switching loss and inductor core loss of single phase grid connected inverter

Reducing the power loss of a converter without increasing volume or cost in hardware has always been a much sought-after, but challenging goal. This paper discusses a scheme to improve the system overall efficiency while still meeting a given THD requirement by implementing variable instantaneous switching frequency method without any hardware changes. This paper aims at minimizing the combined switching loss and inductor core loss by including different characteristics of the two types of losses relative to the instantaneous switching frequency in the optimization process. A 1kW H-bridge inverter using SiC MOSFETs and powdered iron core has been built to validate the theoretical analysis. Both constant switching frequency scheme (20 kHz) and optimal variable frequency scheme with simple code modification have been implemented in the experimental prototype using DSP TMS320f28335. The optimal variable switching frequency scheme shows a significant saving of 27.6% on the combined switching loss and inductor core loss compared with constant switching frequency scheme.
Imaging the Bariatric Patient

Acquiring diagnostic medical images in bariatric patients may be challenging. Although adjustments can be made to currently available imaging equipment to accommodate larger patients, these adjustments come at an increased risk to the patient, with increasing doses of radiation, and risks to technologists who have to move, adjust, and properly position the patient. Understanding the limitations of the various studies, properly deciding on which imaging modality to use, and adjusting imaging protocols can help address many issues encountered when imaging the bariatric patient.
The productive society

Without question, the citizen of today's technologically oriented nation is much better off materially than his nonindustrialized neighbor, who in turn is struggling to become a part of that ``better world.'' However, as an increasing number of our critics remind us, our productive society has its problems, many of which are by-products of the very system that has provided us our wealth and strength. By eliminating time and space, electronics has given modern man the capability to recognize these defects in his way of life. It is equally important that he recognize how truly far he has come?and, given the wisdom to do so, how much further he can go.
The alkaloids ofAspidosperma neblinae. An application of a directly coupled gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer

Die Analyse der Basenfraktion vonAspidosperma neblinae mit Hilfe eines mit einem Massenspektrometer gekuppelten Gas-Chromatographen fuhrte zur Identifizierung der folgenden Alkaloide: Aspidospermidin, 1, 2-Dehydroaspidospermidin, Deacetylpyrifolidin, 1, 2-Dehydrodeacetylpyrifolidin, Demethoxyaspidospermin, Aspidospermin, Demethylaspidospermin, Pyrifolidin, Aspidocarpin, Eburnamonin, und Neblinin.
Selection of Enterococcus faecium strains with stable and unstable resistance to the streptogramin RP 59500 using stepwise in vitro exposure

Therapy of vancomycin-resistant enterococcal infections is an increasing problem for many large medical centers. One promising agent for use against Enterococcus faecium is RP 59500 (Quinupristin/Dalfopristin). To assess the potential for emergence of resistant strains during clinical trials with this new compound, we collected and tested 11 vancomycin-resistant and three vancomycin-susceptible E. faecium strains. The strains were exposed to doubling dilutions of RP 59500, beginning at drug concentrations ranging from 0.25 to 16 micrograms/ml agar. A saturated swab with approximately 3 x 10(7) organisms/ml was spread as a lawn on agar containing RP 59500 and incubated at 35 degrees C for 48 h. Growth on the highest drug-containing plate was used to prepare the inoculum for the next series of resistance-selection experiments. After the final passage, the range of the highest RP 59500 plate concentration with growth was 32-512 micrograms/ml (initial resistance frequency ranging from 1 x 10(-6) to > 1 x 10(-4). After the selection of resistant strains, the organisms were passed twice weekly on antimicrobial agent-free media to determine resistance stability in the absence of drug. Resistance in strains with an RP 59500 MIC of > or = 16 micrograms/ml was stable after repeated passage for 4 weeks. These results indicate that stable resistance to RP 59500 can be selected in E. faecium when the organism is exposed to increasing drug concentrations only slightly above the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). This stable resistance is seen in strains exhibiting an MIC > or = 16 micrograms/ml, and unstable in those with resistance where the RP 59500 MIC is less than eight times the original drug MIC. Our observation suggests more than one mechanism of resistance is likely present when stable resistance to RP 59500 develops.
Differential Aggression in Genetically Different Morphs of the White‐throated Sparrow (Zonotrichia albicollis)

To see if genetic differences correlate with differences in agonistic behavior, 225 encounters within and between color morphs of the white-throated sparrow (Zonotrichia albicollis) were observed in feeding groups of different sizes and morphic compositions. Tan morphs lack the M chromosome that replaces either of two chromosomes in the white morph. The data were analysed using quantitative models accounting for the proportions of morphs present, and the principal finding was that morphs are equally frequent recipients of aggression but the white morph was the aggressor more frequently than by chance expectation — regardless of the morph of the recipient, the size of the group or the morphic composition of the group.
Targeted Maximum Likelihood Based Causal Inference: Part I

Given causal graph assumptions, intervention-specific counterfactual distributions of the data can be defined by the so called G-computation formula, which is obtained by carrying out these interventions on the likelihood of the data factorized according to the causal graph. The obtained G-computation formula represents the counterfactual distribution the data would have had if this intervention would have been enforced on the system generating the data. A causal effect of interest can now be defined as some difference between these counterfactual distributions indexed by different interventions. For example, the interventions can represent static treatment regimens or individualized treatment rules that assign treatment in response to time-dependent covariates, and the causal effects could be defined in terms of features of the mean of the treatment-regimen specific counterfactual outcome of interest as a function of the corresponding treatment regimens. Such features could be defined nonparametrically in terms of so called (nonparametric) marginal structural models for static or individualized treatment rules, whose parameters can be thought of as (smooth) summary measures of differences between the treatment regimen specific counterfactual distributions. In this article, we develop a particular targeted maximum likelihood estimator of causal effects of multiple time point interventions. This involves the use of loss-based super-learning to obtain an initial estimate of the unknown factors of the G-computation formula, and subsequently, applying a target-parameter specific optimal fluctuation function (least favorable parametric submodel) to each estimated factor, estimating the fluctuation parameter(s) with maximum likelihood estimation, and iterating this updating step of the initial factor till convergence. This iterative targeted maximum likelihood updating step makes the resulting estimator of the causal effect double robust in the sense that it is consistent if either the initial estimator is consistent, or the estimator of the optimal fluctuation function is consistent. The optimal fluctuation function is correctly specified if the conditional distributions of the nodes in the causal graph one intervenes upon are correctly specified. The latter conditional distributions often comprise the so called treatment and censoring mechanism. Selection among different targeted maximum likelihood estimators (e.g., indexed by different initial estimators) can be based on loss-based cross-validation such as likelihood based cross-validation or cross-validation based on another appropriate loss function for the distribution of the data. Some specific loss functions are mentioned in this article. Subsequently, a variety of interesting observations about this targeted maximum likelihood estimation procedure are made. This article provides the basis for the subsequent companion Part II-article in which concrete demonstrations for the implementation of the targeted MLE in complex causal effect estimation problems are provided.
Segregation of odor identity and intensity during odor discrimination in Drosophila mushroom body.

Molecular and cellular studies have begun to unravel a neurobiological basis of olfactory processing, which appears conserved among vertebrate and invertebrate species. Studies have shown clearly that experience-dependent coding of odor identity occurs in “associative” olfactory centers (the piriform cortex in mammals and the mushroom body [MB] in insects). What remains unclear, however, is whether associative centers also mediate innate (spontaneous) odor discrimination and how ongoing experience modifies odor discrimination. Here we show in naive flies that Gαq-mediated signaling in MB modulates spontaneous discrimination of odor identity but not odor intensity (concentration). In contrast, experience-dependent modification (conditioning) of both odor identity and intensity occurs in MB exclusively via Gαs-mediated signaling. Our data suggest that spontaneous responses to odor identity and odor intensity discrimination are segregated at the MB level, and neural activity from MB further modulates olfactory processing by experience-independent Gαq-dependent encoding of odor identity and by experience-induced Gαs-dependent encoding of odor intensity and identity.
The analysis of radon survey data

Observed radon gas levels typically demonstrate a skewed sampling distribution. Traditional analyses to compare mean or median radon levels among different demographic groups rely on transformations of these data. The logarithmic transformation is one that is traditionally employed. Unfortunately, transformations such as the logarithmic tend to de-emphasize extreme values. In radon gas research, these extreme values are of primary interest. The proposed methodology is based on characterizing the sampling distribution of radon levels by a non-normal distribution. The mean radon level is estimated based on the assumed sampling distribution. Comparisons among groups are considered through a weighted analysis of variance. Results of a survey conducted by the state of Kansas are used as an example.
Theory of Transport Effects in Semiconductors: Thermoelectricity

The phenomenological theory of the thermoelectric effects in a cubic or isotropic electronic conductor is developed. It is shown that, as a consequence of the appropriate Onsager relation, the "gauge" adopted here for the thermoelectric coefficients of a single substance is such that the second Kelvin relation takes a specially simple form for a single substance. The general formulas obtained are applied to the theory of thermoelectricity in a two-band semiconductor, and the formulas for the thermoelectric power stated in a previous paper are derived. The Onsager principle leads to a general relation between two phenomenological transport parameters for a single carrier band, one ($\ensuremath{\gamma}$) measuring the ratio of thermodiffusion coefficient to drift mobility, the other ($\ensuremath{\delta}$) specifying the thermal energy transported with the current due to an electric field. The modification of these results needed to take account of the variation of band-edge energies with temperature is discussed. The evaluation of thermoelectric data for mixed semiconductors, on the basis of the present results, is discussed: some experimental data for germanium are analyzed from the point of view arrived at. The effect of a strong magnetic field, and the effect of strain, on the thermoelectric power are treated. It is pointed out that shear strain should change the activation energy for an impurity binding a carrier in a "many-valley" band, by decoupling the orbitals associated with different valleys and interacting through the chemical shift effect, and that this change should, among other consequences, appreciably change the thermoelectric power at very low temperatures. Exact formulas for this decoupling effect are obtained for donors in germanium.
Co‐branding: brand equity and trial effects

Co‐branding is an increasingly popular technique marketers use in attempting to transfer the positive associations of the partner (constituent) brands to a newly formed co‐brand (composite brand). This research examines the effects of co‐branding on the brand equity of both the co‐branded product and the constituent brands that comprise it, both before and after product trial. It appears that co‐branding is a win/win strategy for both co‐branding partners regardless of whether the original brands are perceived by consumers as having high or low brand equity. Although low equity brands may benefit most from co‐branding, high equity brands are not denigrated even when paired with a low equity partner. Further, positive product trial seems to enhance consumers’ evaluations of co‐branded products, particularly those with a low equity constituent brand. Co‐branding strategies may be effective in exploiting a product performance advantage or in introducing a new product with an unfamiliar brand name.
The Myths of Managed Care: Surgical Perspectives

Managed care is the contemporary and near-future system of medicine in which we must learn to exist. Many are afraid of managed care only because they are not familiar with the concept. Misconceptions abound in the medical community concerning the sudden rise of managed care systems. Surgeons, their postgraduate training and experience, daily practice, multiple outside interests, and future governance of their craft are not at risk in the managed care environment. Arch Surg. 1996;131:1032-1036
Enzymatic properties of platelet actomyosin

Abstract The effects of various modifiers on the ATPase activity of bovine platelet actomyosin has been studied. The order of activation by monovalent cations was NH 4 + ⪢ K + > Li + > Na + . The order of activation by divalent cations was Ca 2+ > Mn 2+ = Sr 2+ > Ba 2+ > Co 2+ > Mg 2+ > Zn 2+ . Ethylenediaminetetraacetate inhibits. Activity increased with increasing concentrations of monovalent cations, except for inhibition by increasing concentrations of NH 4 + in the presence of Ca 2+ . Adenosine triphosphatase activity was increased by low concentrations of urea and trypsin, but was unaffected by low concentrations of N -ethylmaleimide. For all enzymatic properties where direct comparisons are possible, actomyosin from platelets is unlike that from skeletal muscle, but is similar to that from smooth muscle and non-muscle sources.
An urban canyon energy budget model and its application to urban storage heat flux modeling

Abstract To obtain a local-scale urban energy balance by either measurement or modeling it is necessary to determine storage heat flux (ΔQs). This flux cannot be measured directly due to the complexity of the urban surface. The Grimmond et al. Objective Hysteresis Model (OHM) [C.S.B. Grimmond, H.A. Cleugh, T.R. Oke, An objective urban heat storage model and its comparison with other schemes, Atmos. Environ., 25B (1991) 311–326] of local-scale ΔQs combines empirical equations for individual surface types in the proportion that they are present within the urban area. One surface type for which there is very limited field data is the urban canyon, which consists of the walls of adjacent buildings, the horizontal street-level area separating them (roadways, gardens, parking lots, etc.) and the enclosed air volume. Here the storage heat flux of an urban canyon and the resulting OHM parameters are investigated with a numerical model of a dry urban canyon energy budget. Substrate heat fluxes are derived from simulated surface and substrate temperatures; the latter evolve through time according to the finite difference form of the Fourier heat conduction equation. When compared against measured fluxes, the model performed satisfactorily. Numerical experiments show significant effects on the OHM parameters due to changes in the ratio of building height to separation distance and building wall thermal properties. Effects of intermediate significance were attributable to canyon orientation, wind speed and the timing of the between-building air temperature regime. Air temperature and the timing of the wind speed curve showed only minor significance.
Significance of periportal low-attenuation zones following blunt trauma in children.

The CT scans of 400 consecutive children evaluated with CT following blunt abdominal trauma were evaluated to determine the frequency of periportal lowattenuation zones, assess patterns of associated intraabdominal injury, and examine clinical outcome. Periportal low-attenuation zones were noted in 60 children (15%). The presence of these zones was associated with a significantly higher incidence of intraabdominal injury (60% versus 11%,p=0.0001). Injuries most frequently associated with zones of periportal low-attenuation included hepatic (n=23,38%), and adrenal (n=14,23%). Children who had periportal low-attenuation zones tended to be more physiologically unstable as evidenced by a lower Trauma Score (diffuse, 11.9; focal, 13.4) than children without the zones (15.1,p=0.0001). The presence of these zones was also associated with a significantly higher mortality rate (13% versus 1%,p=0.0001). Ten children who had periportal low-attenuation zones and no hepatic injury on CT had a normal appearing liver on gross inspection at surgery or autopsy. In conclusion, periportal lowattenuation zones are common in children who have hepatic injury. These zones may be seen in conjunction with non-hepatic visceral injury or in the absence of intraabdominal injury. The presence of zones of periportal lowattenuation is associated with a higher index of physiologic instability, and higher mortality.
Silencing of the Tropomyosin-1 gene by DNA methylation alters tumor suppressor function of TGF-|[beta]|

Loss of actin stress fibers has been associated with cell transformation and metastasis. TGF-beta induction of stress fibers in epithelial cells requires high molecular weight tropomyosins encoded by TPM1 and TPM2 genes. Here, we investigated the mechanism underlying the failure of TGF-beta to induce stress fibers and inhibit cell migration in metastatic cells. RT-PCR analysis in carcinoma cell lines revealed a significant reduction in TPM1 transcripts in metastatic MDA-MB-231, MDA-MB-435 and SW620 cell lines. Treatment of these cells with demethylating agent 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine (5-aza-dC) increased mRNA levels of TPM1 with no effect on TPM2. Importantly, 5-aza-dC treatment of MDA-MB-231 cells restored TGF-beta induction of TPM1 and formation of stress fibers. Forced expression of TPM1 by using Tet-Off system increased stress fibers in MDA-MB-231 cells and reduced cell migration. A potential CpG island spanning the TPM1 proximal promoter, exon 1, and the beginning of intron 1 was identified. Bisulfite sequencing showed significant cytosine methylation in metastatic cell lines that correlated with a reduced expression of TPM1. Together these results suggest that epigenetic suppression of TPM1 may alter TGF-beta tumor suppressor function and contribute to metastatic properties of tumor cells.
Edward Hitchcock, Jr.: Dean of the Profession

(1982). Edward Hitchcock, Jr.: Dean of the Profession. Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance: Vol. 53, No. 8, pp. 19-21.
Projected impact of twenty-first century ENSO changes on rainfall over Central America and northwest South America from CMIP5 AOGCMs

Due to the importance that the El Nino-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) has on rainfall over the tropical Americas, future changes in ENSO characteristics and teleconnections are important for regional hydroclimate. Projected changes to the ENSO mean state and characteristics, and the resulting impacts on rainfall anomalies over Central America, Colombia, and Ecuador during the twenty-first century are explored for several forcing scenarios using a suite of coupled atmosphere–ocean global climate models (AOGCMs) from the fifth phase of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5). Mean-state warming of eastern tropical Pacific sea surface temperatures, drying of Central America and northern Colombia, and wetting of southwest Colombia and Ecuador are consistent with previous studies that used earlier versions of the AOGCMs. Current and projected future characteristics of ENSO (frequency, duration, amplitude) show a wide range of values across the various AOGCMs. The magnitude of ENSO-related rainfall anomalies are currently underestimated by most of the models, but the model ensembles generally simulate the correct sign of the anomalies across the seasons around the peak ENSO effects. While the models capture the broad present-day ENSO-related rainfall anomalies, there is not a clear sense of projected future changes in the precipitation anomalies.
The strategic plan for preparedness and response to bioterrorism in Korea

Following the Anthrax bioterrorism attacks in the US in 2001, the Korean government established comprehensive countermeasures against bioterrorism. These measures included the government assuming management of all infectious agents that cause diseases, including smallpox, anthrax, plaque, botulism, and the causative agents of viral hemorrhagic fevers (ebola fever, marburg fever, and lassa fever) for national security. In addition, the Korean government is reinforcing the ability to prepare and respond to bioterrorism. Some of the measures being implemented include revising the laws and guidelines that apply to the use of infectious agents, the construction and operation of dual surveillance systems for bioterrorism, stockpiling and managing products necessary to respond to an emergency (smallpox vaccine, antibiotics, etc.) and vigorously training emergency room staff and heath workers to ensure they can respond appropriately. In addition, the government's measures include improved public relations, building and maintaining international cooperation, and developing new vaccines and drugs for treatments of infectious agents used to create bioweapons.
Physical interventions to manage patients with brain injury: an audit on its use and staff and patient injuries from the techniques.

Primary objective: To report the use of physical interventions (PI) used to manage aggressive behaviour in a neurobehavioural unit and any injuries that were sustained to patients and staff during its implementation.Research design: A retrospective audit was adopted utilizing a standard accident and incident recording database.Methods and procedures: Records of PI utilized to manage the aggressive behaviour of 75 adults with acquired brain injury were analysed over the course of one calendar year. In addition duration PI, frequency of use and injuries sustained to staff and patients from its application were investigated.Main outcomes and results: During the 12 month period records were audited, PI was used on 1427 occasions. The majority (90.1%) lasted less than 10 minutes. Injury rates to patients (0.98%) and staff (6.5%) were both considerably lower than those rates reported for other clinical populations.Conclusion: Use of PI with people who have an acquired brain injury is particularly challenging du...
Polyamide membrane precipitation studied by confocal backscattering microscopy

Abstract A wide variety of commercial polymeric membranes are manufactured by a non-solvent immersion precipitation process, yet the detailed mechanism and kinetics of membrane formation are poorly understood. We have used a confocal microscope, with fluorescence filters removed, to observe backscatter from precipitating nylon 6 films. Nylon 6 in formic acid/water solutions was spread on a glass substrate, which was then quickly immersed into water or water/formic acid non-solvent baths. Two slope-casting chambers were designed in order to observe the precipitation process from both the substrate side and the bath side (in separate experiments). From the substrate side, a scattering front was observed to form within a few seconds after immersion, and then to progress toward the substrate as the precipitated film formed. When observed from the bath side, the scattering front first moved toward the bath for approximately 5–10 s, then reversed direction and moved toward the substrate. This later motion toward the substrate can be explained by the contraction of the film as water is expelled. The initial motion toward the bath implies that the initial point of precipitation is not at the film surface, but rather at some depth (ca. 60+ μm) within the film. This new application of confocal microscopy has enabled measurements of the dynamics of nylon membrane precipitation with sufficient time and depth resolution to permit quantitative testing of models of the precipitation process.
Rehybridization of electronic structure in compressed two-dimensional quantum dot superlattices

Two-dimensional superlattices of organically passivated 2.6-nm silver quantum dots were prepared as Langmuir monolayers and transferred to highly oriented pyrolytic graphite substrates. The structural and electronic properties of the films were probed with variable temperature scanning tunneling microscopy. Particles passivated with decanethiol (interparticle separation distance of ∼1.1±0.2 nm) exhibited Coulomb blockade and staircase. For particles passivated with hexanethiol or pentanethiol (interparticle separation distance of ∼0.5±0.2 nm), the single-electron charging was quenched, and the redistribution of the density of states revealed that strong quantum mechanical exchange, i.e., wave-function hybridization, existed among the particles in these films.
Population of 10 Li by fragmentation

The decay structure of the particle-unstable nucleus ${}^{10}\mathrm{Li}$ was studied using the method of sequential neutron decay spectroscopy (SNDS) at 0\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}. The decay energies of ${}^{10}\mathrm{Li}$ can be derived from the relative velocity spectrum of the ${}^{9}\mathrm{Li}$ daughter and the neutron measured in coincidence. Evidence for low-lying s-wave strength was observed with a scattering length of $l\ensuremath{-}20\mathrm{fm},$ corresponding to a peak energy of $l50\mathrm{keV}.$
Sulfamides and sulfamide polymers directly from sulfur dioxide

SO2 gas is effectively used for the preparation of N,N′-diarylsulfamides and shape-persistent sulfamide polymers, which utilize a network of intermolecular N–H⋯OS hydrogen bonds to self-assemble into soft porous materials.
IVE (IMAGE VISUALIZATION ENVIRONMENT) : A SOFTWARE PLATFORM FOR ALL THREE-DIMENSIONAL MICROSCOPY APPLICATIONS

IVE (Image Visualization Environment) is a software platform designed from the outset to handle all aspects of modern computerized multidimensional microscopy. This platform provides users with an execution environment in which 5D data (XYZ, wavelength, and time) can be easily manipulated for the purpose of data collection, processing, display, and analysis. During the entire process, powerful data display functions are readily available for extracting complicated three-dimensional information through data visualization. By employing both the shared memory and multitasking features of the UNIX operation system, individual functions can be implemented as separate programs, and multiple programs can access the same data pool simultaneously. This enables users to combine the functionalities of different programs to facilitate each unique data analysis task. Furthermore, by defining an appropriate program execution model, commonly shared functional components such as data display, data I/O and user interface, etc. can be implemented using simple IVE library calls. This dramatically reduces the program development time and ensures consistency throughout the entire software system. As a result, users can quickly master the microscopy software system and new functions can be easily integrated, as different functional requirements arise for different research projects.
Carbonaceous objects resembling nannobacteria in the Allende meteorite

The carbon in Allende consists of balls ranging form 30 to 150 nm in diameter.Most are spheres, but some ovoid to worm- like forms occur. Grape-like clumps and rosary-like chains are the most dramatic mimics of terrestrial bacterial colonies. We propose that the carbon balls in Allende represent roasted corpses of nanobacteria because of their resemblance to nanobacteria on earth.
The Uses of Two-Dimensional Doppler Echocardiographic Techniques Preoperatively and Postoperatively in a Ventricular Septal Defect Caused by Penetrating Trauma

Doppler echocardiography was used to determine the site and size of a ventricular septal defect in a patient with a penetrating wound of the heart. Additional physiological measurements by Doppler study, including pulmonary artery pressure and degree of left-to-right shunting, were helpful in deciding on surgical closure of the defect as the definitive therapy in this patient. Associated intracardiac defects (e.g., mitral or tricuspid regurgitation) can be excluded by Doppler echocardiography.
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Other Psychological Sequelae Among World Trade Center Clean Up and Recovery Workers

We assessed the health of workers exposed to the World Trade Center (WTC) site and of a comparison group of unexposed workers, by means of a mail survey. Exposed workers reported higher frequency of symptoms consistent with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and other psychological problems, approximately 20 months after the disaster. PTSD was positively associated with traumatic on-site experiences and with respiratory problems. These findings may have important clinical and public health implications.
Possible Significance of Free-living Nematodes in Genetic Research

THE free-living nematodes of the sub-order Rhabditina are widespread in the soil1 and relatively easily cultivable2–4 on nutrient agar in the presence of bacteria and have short life-cycles (3–7 days from hatching to sexual maturity), with adult sizes up to 3 mm. in length. They offer, in our estimation, certain very interesting possibilities for the study of basic genetic phenomena—morphological, cytogenetic and physiological.
Tuning the Optical and Electrochemical Properties of M(CO)4(phenanthroline) Compounds via Substituents on the Phenanthroline Ligand:: An Upper-Division Inorganic Laboratory

This experiment involves the preparation and characterization of M(CO)4(L∧L) compounds, where L∧L is 1,10-phenanthroline or a related derivative and M is Cr or Mo. The purpose of the experiment is to study the effects of electron-withdrawing or electron-donating phenanthroline substituents on the resulting properties of the metal compound, analogous to current research being done on materials for dye-sensitized solar cells. The degree of electron donation is controlled via 3,4,7,8-tetramethyl (electron donating) or 5-chloro (electron withdrawing) substitution of phenanthroline. The compounds are studied using IR, UV−vis, and cyclic voltammetry. Trends are observed in these data as a function of the relative electron-donating character of the ligand. The effects of changing the central metal atom are also examined. This experiment follows a research-based model, which can be completed in a single six-hour session.
Extraction of information contained in scanning tunneling microscope images

Abstract The scanning tunneling microscope (STM) is capable of recording the atomic positions of adsorbates on surfaces. This type of “microscopic” information is fundamentally different from “macroscopic” information (such as total coverage). Methods previously used for extracting interaction energies among adsorbates from STM images have relied on Monte Carlo simulations. Here a new technique is presented which does not require Monte Carlo simulations yet extracts the available information with maximal precision.
IMPLICATIONS OF TRAIT‐ACTIVATION THEORY FOR EVALUATING THE CONSTRUCT VALIDITY OF ASSESSMENT CENTER RATINGS

Assessment centers have often been criticized for lacking evidence supporting the construct validity of dimension ratings. This study examines whether the poor convergence of assessment center ratings is a result of correlating ratings from exercises that differ in the extent that behavior relevant to personality traits can be observed. Using data from a promotional assessment center for law enforcement officers (n= 79), the convergence of assessment center ratings was evaluated within the context of the five factor model by comparing the average within-dimension correlation of ratings from exercises that allowed for more opportunity to observe trait-relevant behavior to the average of those involving exercises where there was less opportunity. For each personality trait, ratings from exercises judged by experts to be high in trait-activation potential displayed stronger convergence (mean r= .30) than did ratings from exercises that were low in activation potential for that trait (mean r= .15). Implications for evaluating the construct validity of assessment centers are discussed along with future directions for classifying exercises based on situational similarity.
Sulphide Production and Corrosion in Seawaters During Exposure to FAME Diesel

Experiments were designed to evaluate the corrosion-related consequences of storing/transporting fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) alternative diesel fuel in contact with natural seawater. Coastal Key West, FL (KW), and Persian Gulf (PG) seawaters, representing an oligotrophic and a more organic- and inorganic mineral-rich environment, respectively, were used in 60 day incubations with unprotected carbon steel. The original microflora of the two seawaters were similar with respect to major taxonomic groups but with markedly different species. After exposure to FAME diesel, the microflora of the waters changed substantially, with Clostridiales (Firmicutes) becoming dominant in both. Despite low numbers of sulphate-reducing bacteria in the original waters and after FAME diesel exposure, sulphide levels and corrosion increased markedly due to microbial sulphide production. Corrosion morphology was in the form of isolated pits surrounded by an intact, passive surface with the deepest pits associated with the fue...
Permanent Pacemaker for Atrioventricular Conduction Block After Operative Repair of Perimembranous Ventricular Septal Defect

Objectives This study sought to discover the incidence of permanent pacemaker (PPM) placement for atrioventricular conduction block (AV block) after operative repair of perimembranous ventricular septal defect (PMVSD) in a large multi-institutional database and in the subgroup of patients comparable to those considered for transcatheter device closure of PMVSD. Background Atrioventricular conduction block is a complication of operative repair of PMVSD and of device closure of this defect. Earlier reports do not report the incidence of AV block by VSD type. Methods The Pediatric Cardiac Care Consortium database was searched for all children who had operative PMVSD repair except those with abnormalities that increase risk of AV block. The patient group was searched for those with subsequent PPM placement for AV block. Demographic data and time to PPM placement were available for all patients. Results Of 4,432 patients with PMVSD repair, 48 (1.1%) underwent PPM placement for AV block. The PPM group was more likely to have Down syndrome (41% vs. 18%; p Conclusions Operative AV block and PPM placement occurred in 1.1% of patients in the total group and in 0.8% of patients comparable to those considered for device closure of PMVSD. A PPM placement is more likely in patients with Down syndrome. These data should be considered as devices are developed and in the future when counseling families about options for PMVSD closure.
In the air again: frequent flyer relationship programmes and business travellers' quality of life.

This research explores whether frequent flyer programmes somehow add to the quality of life of the frequent business traveller (defined in this study as business flyers who had flown round trip 26 or more times in the past 12 months). A questionnaire was mailed to subscribers of a newsletter for members of frequent air and hotel programmes. Results indicated that frequent flyer programmes contribute positively to frequent business travellers' lifestyles and to their quality of life, perhaps by countervailing some of the negative aspects of frequent business travel. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.