cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Band structure of nickel: Spin-orbit coupling, the Fermi surface, and the optical conductivity

A previous self-consistent calculation of energy bands in ferromagnetic nickel using the tight-binding method has been extended to include spin-orbit coupling. Exchange was incorporated using the $X\ensuremath{\alpha}$ method with $\ensuremath{\alpha}=\frac{2}{3}$. Energy levels were obtained at 1357 points in 1/16th of the Brillouin zone. The direction of spin alignment was taken to be [001]. The density of states was computed by a hybrid method. Cross sections of the Fermi surface were determined, and effective masses were obtained. The interband contribution to the conductivity tensor was calculated using matrix elements computed from wave functions including spin-orbit coupling. Results were obtained for both the diagonal and the off-diagonal elements of the conductivity tensor.
c-src tyrosine kinase is associated with the asialoglycoprotein receptor in human hepatoma cells.

The asialoglycoprotein (ASGP) receptor is expressed on hepatocytes and liver-derived cell lines and is responsible for the endocytosis of galactose-terminal glycoproteins via the coated pit pathway. Prior data showed that tyrosine kinase activity plays an important role in this endocytic process, though the critical kinase(s) responsible for this effect are unknown. We have detected a 60-kDa protein which coprecipitates with ASGP receptor in detergent-solubilized lysates of HepG2 cells. This protein autophosphorylates and binds radioactive ATP. It comigrates with authentic pp60 c-src and is recognized by a specific anti-src monoclonal antibody. The kinase associated with the ASGP receptor retains the ability to phosphorylate exogenous substrates on tyrosine. In conclusion, the tyrosine kinase c-src associates with the ASGP receptor, a protein of the coated pit pathway of endocytosis.
Spontaneous baryogenesis at the weak phase transition

Abstract We discuss baryogenesis during the weak phase transition in models with CP violation in the scalar potential. If the transition is first order, classical evolution of the scalar fields can split particle-antiparticle energy levels. A net baryon number will then be produced by anomalous weak baryon number violation. We can explain the observed value ϱ B S ≅10 −10 .
Partial Breaking of a Mature Seismic Gap: The 1987 Earthquakes in New Britain

To better understand the mechanics of subduction and the process of breaking a mature seismic gap, we study seismic activity along the western New Britain subduction segment (147°E-151°E, 4°S-8°S) through earthquakes with m b ≥ 5.0 in the outer-rise, the upper area of subducting slab and at intermediate depths to 250 km, from January 1964 to December 1990. The segment last broke fully in large earthquakes of December 28, 1945 (M s = 7.9) and May 6, 1947 (M s = 7.7), and its higher seismic potential has been recognized by McCann et al. (1979). Recently the segment broke partially in two smaller events of February 8, 1987 (M s = 7.4) and October 16, 1987 (M s = 7.4), leaving still unbroken areas.
Musicology: Bringing Personal Music into Shared Spaces

The Musicology project examines the user, ecosystem, and technology aspects necessary to enable playback of personal music in public spaces. User surveys, field interviews, and a technology prototype inform a discussion relating to privacy and identity, content control, and power consumption (among others). Understanding how mobile devices can be used to present personal content, initially with audio but eventually through photographs and other media, has the potential to open up new avenues for personal expression, bringing the motivations behind online content sharing websites into a publicly social arena.
Observation of infants with SFU Grades 3–4 hydronephrosis: Worsening drainage with serial diuresis renography indicates surgical intervention and helps prevent loss of renal function

Purpose Early pyeloplasty is indicated for ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJ) obstructions with reduced differential renal function (DRF) and/or no drainage on diuretic renography (DR). Optimal management of Society of Fetal Urology (SFU) Grades 3 and 4hydronephrosis with preservation of DRF and indeterminate drainage is less straightforward. We review our experience using serial DR to guide the management of kidneys with high-grade hydronephrosis, emphasizing preservation of DRF. Methods After IRB approval we reviewed the charts of 1398 patients <1-year-old referred for prenatal hydronephrosis. Only patients with SFU Grades 3 and 4 hydronephrosis without ureterectasis were included in the study. Initial evaluation included a baseline DR. Follow-up included DR or ultrasound (US). Results 115 patients (125 kidneys) were eligible for study inclusion. 27 kidneys underwent early surgery (median 64 days) due to reduced DRF and/or severely impaired drainage. 98 kidneys were initially observed. Of these, 21 underwent delayed surgery (median 487 days) due to worsening drainage. Only 2 patients had an irreversible decrease in DRF of >5%. 77 kidneys demonstrated improved drainage and stable DRF. Comparison of observation (n = 77) and surgery groups (n = 48) revealed more kidneys with SFU Grade 3 hydronephrosis in the observation group (p = 0.0001). Conclusion Infants with Grades 3 and 4 hydronephrosis and preserved DRF may be safely followed with serial DR. Patients with SFU Grade 4 hydronephosis are more likely to require surgery. Worsening drainage on serial DR is a useful indicator for surgical intervention which limits the number of pyeloplasties while preserving DRF.
A purely hyperbolic model for unsteady viscoelastic flow

Abstract A purely hyperbolic model for unsteady, two-dimensional viscoelastic flow is developed. The model uses a pressure-density relationship in the continuity equation to obtain a dynamic equation for the pressure, and the Giesekus constitutive equation with zero retardation time to describe the extra stress. The small degree of compressibility allowed by the model is negligible for practical purposes but important mathematically because it changes the unsteady governing equations from parabolic-hyperbolic to a purely hyperbolic system. This allows the application of a numerical method designed specifically for solving hyperbolic problems, and thus, to better treat the hyperbolic nature of the flow which is dominant at high Deborah numbers. The method is used to predict the velocity and stress fields in a square cavity. The results for the creeping, Newtonian limit compare well with previously published calculations. Viscoelastic flow computations are presented for Deborah numbers up to 4. Comparison of the results obtained on several grids show that the calculations increase in smoothness with mesh refinement, and that the scheme is numerically stable. The calculations predict flows exhibiting significant elastic effects. A transition from single vortex flow to flow containing multiple vortices, occurs under creeping flow conditions for Deborah numbers greater than 1.
Change in conformation of various DNAs on melting as followed by circular dichroism

The intensities of the CD bands at about 275 and 190 nm were monitored for DNAs with different G + C contents as a function of temperature. The 190-nm bands showed a nearly complete and cooperative collapse on melting of the DNA, demonstrating that the CD arises from base–base interactions. The small cooperative change on melting shown by the 275-nm bands indicates that base–base interactions do not contribute much CD intensity here. No significant difference in melting temperature was found between the two wavelengths, but the lack of premelting in the 190-nm bands contrasted with the significant premelting in the 275 nm bands. Since the 190-nm bands are particularly sensitive to base–base interactions, the relative positions of the bases must not change much during premelting. Still, changes in such interactions would be noticeable on top of the low intensity of the 275-nm bands. Premelting is discussed in the light of recent studies on DNA conformation.
Passive multistate surveillance for neutropenia after use of cocaine or heroin possibly contaminated with levamisole.

Study objective To characterize the demographic, clinical, and epidemiologic features of levamisole-associated neutropenia in cocaine or heroin users. Methods State health departments were recruited for participation when the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) was notified of potential cases by a clinician, a health department official, or a poison center between October 15, 2009, and May 31, 2010. A case was defined as a person with an absolute neutrophil count less than 1,000 cells/μL (or a WBC count Results Of the 46 potential cases reported from 6 states, half met eligibility criteria and had medical chart abstractions completed (n=23; 50%). Of these, close to half of the patients were interviewed (n=10; 43%). The average age was 44.4 years; just over half were men (n=12; 52%). The majority of patients presented to emergency departments (n=19; 83%). More than half presented with infectious illnesses (n=12; 52%), and nearly half reported active skin lesions (n=10; 44%). The majority of interview respondents used cocaine greater than 2 to 3 times a week (n=9; 90%), used cocaine more than 2 years (n=6; 60%), and preferred crack cocaine (n=6; 60%). All were unaware of exposure to levamisole through cocaine and of levamisole's inherent toxicity (n=10; 100%). Conclusion Physicians should suspect levamisole exposure in patients using illicit drugs, cocaine in particular, who present with unexplained neutropenia. Most patients reported chronic cocaine use and were unaware of levamisole exposure. Cocaine use is more prevalent among men; however, our results identified a higher-than-expected proportion of female users with neutropenia, suggesting women may be at higher risk. Emergency physicians and practitioners are uniquely positioned to recognize these patients early during their hospital course, elucidate a history of cocaine or other drug exposure, and optimize the likelihood of confirming exposure by arranging for appropriate drug testing.
Retinal pigment epithelial tears after intravitreal bevacizumab injection for exudative age-related macular degeneration

We report a series of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) tears after intravitreal bevacizumab therapy for choroidal neovascularization associated with age-related macular degeneration (ARMD). Retinal pigment epithelial tears were estimated to occur at an incidence of 1.6% in this patient population at our institution. Ophthalmologists should be aware of this rare but serious finding associated with exudative macular degeneration therapy.
Emergence of multitasking machining systems: applications and best selection practices

Purpose – Multitasking machining (MTM) systems have become increasingly sophisticated and expensive capital equipment. The lack of practical guidelines for selection of these machines can lead to significant undesirable machine attributes, application mismatch, and longer return on investment. The purpose of this paper is to provide an insight to numerous features and configurations of MTM systems and to present several application‐based selection guidelines.Design/methodology/approach – A taxonomy of MTM systems is developed based on the number of axes of motions, tooling and spindle systems. Practical guidelines for general and advance features are presented with special regard to multi‐axis and multi‐spindle features.Findings – MTM systems are capable of meeting several production goals such as cycle time reduction, minimizing non‐value added times and concurrent processing of multiple parts. However, they possess inherent programming challenges due to their complex configuration and simultaneous machi...
A Step Back: Hydrogen Abstraction from Methane Using a Semiempiracal Molecular Orbital Method

Several studies have now been completed using semiempirical molecular orbital methods1 to learn about various aspects of diamond growth.2–4 Whole reaction mechanisms for diamond epitaxy have been proposed on the basis of these calculations with supporting evidence from experiment. Attempts have been made to understand the roles of hydrogen atoms, methyl groups, acetylene groups and charged species in diamond film growth from both hot filament and plasma sources. Based on previous testing of the semiempirical molecular orbital method used here1 and in the previous studies, it seemed safe to assume that reasonable answers would be forthcoming.
Coding sequences of functioning human genes derived entirely from mobile element sequences

Among all of the many examples of mobile elements or "parasitic sequences" that affect the function of the human genome, this paper describes several examples of functioning genes whose sequences have been almost completely derived from mobile elements. There are many examples where the synthetic coding sequences of observed mRNA sequences are made up of mobile element sequences, to an extent of 80% or more of the length of the coding sequences. In the examples described here, the genes have named functions, and some of these functions have been studied. It appears that each of the functioning genes was originally formed from mobile elements and that in some process of molecular evolution a coding sequence was derived that could be translated into a protein that is of some importance to human biology. In one case (AD7C), the coding sequence is 99% made up of a cluster of Alu sequences. In another example, the gene BNIP3 coding sequence is 97% made up of sequences from an apparent human endogenous retrovirus. The Syncytin gene coding sequence appears to be made from an endogenous retrovirus envelope gene.
Production and Growth of Dairy Cows Reared on Silage or Hay Rations

Summary Butterfat, milk production, and body weights of heifers reared on hay or alfalfa silage rations were compared. Those reared on silage, with resulting smaller size at 2 yr. of age, produced somewhat less butterfat and milk during the entire first lactation than did the heifers reared on hay or hay and silage. These differences were not statistically significant. At later ages, the heifers reared on silage had nearly the same body weights as those reared on hay rations.
The comparative value of the schilling differential blood count and the sedimentation of the erythrocytes in acute rheumatic fever in childhood

Summary The Schilling blood count and the sedimentation rate and time of the red cells have been studied in twenty normal control cases and in twenty-five children, ill with acute rheumatic fever, with and without evident cardiac involvement. The greater sensitivity of the sedimentation test as an index of inactivity has been demonstrated, and its use as a guide for completed convalescence is urged.
Super-NOνA: a long-baseline ν experiment with two off-axis detectors

We consider here the NOνA experiment configuration and propose to place a second off-axis detector, with a shorter baseline, such that the type of neutrino mass hierarchy could be determined, by exploiting matter effects, with only the neutrino run. We show that the determination of this parameter is free of degeneracies, provided the ratio L / E , where L the baseline and E is the neutrino energy, is the same for both detectors.
A RANDOMIZED CLINICAL TRIAL OF TOPICAL CYSTEAMINE DISULFIDE (CYSTAMINE) VERSUS FREE THIOL (CYSTEAMINE) IN THE TREATMENT OF CORNEAL CYSTINE CRYSTALS IN CYSTINOSIS

Abstract In nephropathic cystinosis, corneal cystine crystals cause severe photophobia and corneal erosions. Topical cysteamine dissolves these crystals, but cannot be marketed because it rapidly oxidizes to the disulfide form, cystamine, at room temperature. Since cystamine itself could be used commercially, we compared the efficacy of cystamine and cysteamine with respect to cystine crystal dissolution in a randomized, double-masked clinical trial. One eye each of 14 patients with cystinosis was randomized to either cystamine or cysteamine, 0.5%, with 0.01% benzalkonium chloride; the companion eye was treated with the alternate preparation. Corneal crystals were photographed and a density score was assigned to each slide based on 13 standard slides. After 8–20 months, 6 patients showed significant reduction of the corneal crystal score in only one eye. In each case, the improved eye was the cysteamine-treated eye. Theoretically, cysteamine should dissolve both intracellular and extracellular crystals, whereas cystamine should dissolve only intracellular crystals because it must first be reduced to the free thiol by the cytoplasmic-reducing environment. Hence, the lack of efficacy of the disulfide cystamine suggests that some corneal cystine crystals in cystinosis patients are extracellular, and that another form of stable, topical cysteamine must be developed for cystinosis patients.
Staring Mosaic Sensor Noise Sources

Four noise sources occurring in an earth-viewing staring mosaic sensor mounted in a satellite are discussed. The four noise sources are (1) the internal system noise (detector and CCD), (2) the photon noise due to the background radiance level, (3) the noise due to background spatial characteristics scanned by an instability of the satellite, and (4) the noise due to the background temporal variations caused by cloud movement, solar movement, and scintillation. These four noise sources are affected by the particular sensor and their effect at the output of a sensor normally requires extensive calculations. A method of estimating bounds for each noise is demonstrated. This is done by approximating the actual functions by means of log-amplitude (Bode) plots.
Sodium nitroprusside potentiates the depressor response to the phosphodiesterase inhibitor zaprinast in rats.

To determine if the presence of an activator of guanylate cyclase alters the depressor response to a selective inhibitor of low Km cyclic GMP (cGMP) phosphodiesterase (PDE), zaprinast (3-30 mg/kg) was given i.v. to conscious, spontaneously hypertensive rats during a steady state of i.v. infusion of sodium nitroprusside (15 micrograms/kg per min). Sodium nitroprusside significantly increased the magnitude of the depressor response to zaprinast. In contrast, fenoldopam (20 micrograms/kg per min), an activator of adenylate cyclase, did not affect the depressor response to zaprinast. Zaprinast (10 mg/kg) significantly decreased mean arterial pressure (MAP) in rats given an infusion of sodium nitroprusside, an activator of soluble guanylate cyclase, at doses of 15 and 25 micrograms/kg per min but not at a dose of 5 micrograms/kg per min. However, in rats given atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP; 0.5, 1 and 2 micrograms/kg per min), an activator of particulate guanylate cyclase, zaprinast (10 mg/kg) did not affect MAP. In contrast to the potentiation of the depressor response to zaprinast, sodium nitroprusside (15 micrograms/kg per min) significantly attenuated the reductions in MAP produced by CI-930, a selective inhibitor of low Km cAMP PDE. It is concluded that sodium nitroprusside, but not ANP or fenoldopam, potentiates the depressor response to zaprinast. Furthermore, the potentiation of the depressor response to zaprinast is dependent upon the dose of sodium nitroprusside and is selective for zaprinast; the depressor response to CI-930 is attenuated by sodium nitroprusside.
Integrating the Study of Trigonometry, Vectors, and Force Through Modeling

In this case study, we have investigated the construction of understanding of the motion of an object down an inclined plane which takes place through the process of model building. This study was conducted in an integrated algebra, trigonometry, and physics class at an alternative public school. The components of the modeling process explored in the study are the action of building representations and relationships from physical phenomena, the use of a simulation environment to explore conjectures, and the iterative process of developing and validating a solution through the use of a multirepresentational analytic tool. Four major results related to student model building emerged from this study. First, students pursued problems with far more diversity in approaches than the problem itself might have initially suggested. Second, this analysis challenges conventional notions of closure and completeness. Third, the integration of the simulation environment provided access to an expert's model that could be used as the students built their own model of the phenomena being investigated. The fourth theme is that of progressive complexity in the student model as a structure that was built over an extended period of time. The implications of these results for both instruction and curriculum are discussed.
Polymatic: a generalized simulated polymerization algorithm for amorphous polymers

This work presents a generalized structure generation methodology for amorphous polymers by a simulated polymerization technique and 21-step molecular dynamics equilibration, which is particularly effective for high-Tg polymers. The essential framework and parameters of the techniques and algorithms are described in detail, and example input scripts are provided for use with the freely available Polymatic simulated polymerization code and LAMMPS molecular dynamics package. The capabilities of the methods are examined through application to six linear, glassy polymers ranging in functionality, polarity, and rigidity. Validation of the methodology is provided by comparison of the simulations and experiments for a variety of structural, adsorption, and thermal properties, all of which showed excellent agreement with available experimental data.
Acid rain and federal common law

When Illinois v. Milwaukee first came before the Supreme Court in 1972, the court decided, in recognizing the history of federal common law, that federal courts had power to fashion federal common law “when there is an overriding federal interest in the need for a uniform rule of decision or where the controversy touches basic interests of federalism” 406 U.S. at 105 N.6. When Illinois v. Milwaukee finally reached the Supreme Court again in 1981 after a rather lengthy federal court trial and appeal, the majority, on the basis of statutory amendments’ passed in the interim, decided that federal clean water legislative amendments preempted or displaced federal common law as that body of law could only be developed by the federal courts where congress had not spoken and occupied the field, and where the varying laws of the states required a uniform federally enunciated principle. The Clean Air Act, which is central to the acid rain dilemma also underwent major restructuring in 1977 and it can be comparativel...
Altered digit force direction during pinch grip following stroke

This study examined grip force development in individuals with hemiparesis following unilateral stroke. Eleven patients with chronic stroke with severe hand impairment and five age-matched neurologically intact subjects grasped an instrumented object between the index finger and thumb while fingertip forces, digit posture, and muscle electromyographic activity were recorded. We tested a range of different grip conditions with varying grip sizes, object stability, and grip force level. We found that fingertip force direction in the paretic digits deviated from the direction normal to the grip surface by more than twice as much as for asymptomatic digits. Additionally, the paretic thumb had, on average, 18% greater deviation of grip force direction than the paretic index finger. This large deviation of finger force direction for the paretic digits was consistently observed regardless of grip size, grip force level, and object stability. Due to the large deviation of the force direction from the normal direction, the paretic digits slipped and moved more than 1 cm during 55% of all grasping trials. A regression analysis suggests that this altered grip force direction was associated with altered hand muscle activation patterns, but not with the posture at which the digit made contact with the object. Therapies to redirect the force direction at the digits may improve stroke survivors' ability to stably grip an object.
Spectroscopic properties of Er3+-doped α-Al2O3

Abstract We present the results of comprehensive spectroscopic study of the recently successfully synthesized nanopowders and fully densified transparent ceramics of Er 3+ -doped α-Al 2 O 3 (corundum). Fluorescence and excitation spectra in a range of temperatures of 10–300 K were used to infer the energy level schemes of the ground state and the first three excited Er 3+ multiplets ( 4 I 15/2 , 4 I 13/2 , 4 I 11/2 , and 4 I 9/2 ) in this material. Obtained experimental data also allowed us to assess this material as a potential gain medium for high power laser applications in anticipation that it becomes available in the low-loss grain-aligned ceramic or single crystalline form in the near future.
Evaluating from a point of view

In recent years the concept of a point of view has come to play an important role in philosophical ethics. Writers such as Kurt Baier, William Frankena, Paul Taylor, Kai Nielsen, G.J. Warnock, and J.O. Urmson have all urged a view of the nature of morality according to which, in making a moral judgment, what a person is doing is expressing a preference from within a certain point of view. Different accounts are given of just how “the moral point of view” is to be distinguished from other points of view, but most of these writers – Baier, Frankena, Nielsen, and Warnock – say that it is distinguished at least in part by the fact that anyone taking this point of view is thereby committing himself to the impartial promotion of “the interests of everyone alike,” where no one’s interests (including those of the agent himself) are given more importance than anyone else’s interests. On this view, moral principles are easily and naturally contrasted with principles of prudence; the egoist, by definition, has no moral principles since he does not care about promoting “the interests of everyone alike.” As an egoist, he is only
The structures of clean nickel crystal surfaces

Abstract The clean (110) and (111) surfaces of nickel single crystals have been studied by LEED. Relative intensities of diffraction beams were accurately measured over a wide range of electron energies. Bombardment of the surfaces with negative argon ions did not extinguish the diffraction patterns. However, the normal Laue intensity maxima were suppressed relative to the fine structure produced by steps. Additional features of the (111) intensity distributions are attributed to a slight stacking fault at the surface. Resolution of the intensity maxima into three components as reported by Germer and MacRae was observed in only a relatively small number of instances. The spacing between the surface layer of atoms and the adjacent substrate layer, as determined by the separation between Laue maxima, is the same as the bulk value of the interplanar spacing, within the experimental error of about two percent.
The effect of cyclic true strain on the morphology, structure, and relaxation behavior of ultra high molecular weight polyethylene

Abstract Cyclic loading of total joint replacement bearing materials made of ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) can lead to fatigue failures and the generation of wear particles resulting from the accumulation of plastic strain. Susceptibility to damage processes can be further complicated by choice of sterilization method and shelf aging prior to implantation. The objective of this study was to characterize the effects of cyclic true tensile strain on the morphological evolution and mechanical relaxation behavior of both non-sterile and radiation sterilized medical grade UHMWPE. A γ-radiation sterilization process with several years of shelf aging was utilized in order to discern morphological changes and mechanical behavior resulting from oxidative degradation coupled with cyclic loading. A video-based true stress–strain measurement system was developed and validated to characterize the true stress–strain behavior of the UHMWPE. Non-sterile and sterilized specimens were each subjected to a range of true strain over a number of loading cycles. Following each test, strain recovery data was collected and final residual plastic strain was determined. Density gradient column measurements were conducted to provide evidence of structural changes that resulted from the cyclic strain tests. Scanning electron and field emission microscopy were utilized to provide further evidence of the morphological evolution of the UHMWPE. This study showed that the morphological evolution of both the non-sterile and sterile material groups could be correlated with the amount of true strain and the number of cycles. Furthermore, these differences in the behavior of the two materials could be attributed to their distinct initial microstructure. The results of this study have important implications for the development of constitutive and phenomenological models that may incorporate morphological evolution in UHMWPE and other semi-crystalline polymers.
Learning and Cognitive Disorders: Multidiscipline Treatment Approaches

This article provides a select review of treatments for addressing reading disorder, mathematics disorder, disorder of written expression, auditory processing disorder, and poor working memory. This information will be valuable to practitioners in determining the suitability of certain treatments for these various disorders and problems, which has direct implications for providing comprehensive, multidisciplinary treatment for youth.
Rapid dissolution of high-potency danazol particles produced by evaporative precipitation into aqueous solution.

Abstract High‐potency danazol particles with high dissolution rates were produced by evaporative precipitation into aqueous solution (EPAS). Aqueous suspensions formed by EPAS were centrifuged to remove the nonadsorbed surfactant. The resulting surfactant‐coated drug particles had extremely high drug‐to‐surfactant ratios greater than 5, corresponding to potencies (wt drug/wt drug + wt surfactant) as high as 93%. The mechanism of the high dissolution rates was characterized as a function of surfactant adsorption, particle size and surface area, drug crystallinity, and the contact angle for water on the drug surface. For danazol stabilized by polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) alone or with sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), small particle diameter and high surface area led to high dissolution rates with ∼90% drug dissolved in 2 min. The crystallinity of the danazol was typically 80%. The properties of the particles and the dissolution rates were mostly unchanged under a 2‐week thermal cycling stress test. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association J Pharm Sci 93:1867–1878, 2004
Gender Differences in Cardiovascular Reactivity and Game Performance Related to Sensory Modality in Violent Video Game Play1

This study examined the gender-specific cardiovascular and performance responses to playing the violent video game “DOOM” with and without the soundtrack. Men and women equally rated the game as more violent with the soundtrack. Men performed the game about twice as well with the soundtrack. Women's performance did not change at all. Only men's heart rates were significantly greater with the soundtrack, indicative of arousal. Only women's systolic and diastolic blood pressures were significantly greater with the soundtrack, indicative of stress. The game seemed to appeal more to men than to women. Moreover, women may possibly avoid violent video games, in part because they represent an undesirable stressor.
The impact of losing a child on the clinical presentation of complicated grief

Background It is unclear whether bereaved parents with Complicated Grief (CG) struggle with their grief differently than others with CG. This study addressed this question by comparing CG severity, CG-related symptoms, thoughts and behaviors, and comorbid psychiatric diagnoses of bereaved parents with CG to the diagnoses and symptoms of others with CG.
Depression and Retirement in Late Middle-Aged U.S. Workers

Objective To determine whether late middle-aged U.S. workers with depression are at an increased risk for retirement.
Julian M. Davidson. (April 15, 1931-December 31, 2001).

Abstract Julian Davidson was one of the three founding editors (with Frank A. Beach and Richard E. Whalen) of Hormones and Behavior and served in this capacity from 1969 to 1976. In addition, Julian made many significant research contributions to the field of behavioral neuroendocrinology. These included his studies on the neuroendocrine control of masculine sexual behavior, first in the rat and later in the human male. Julian Davidson was one of a small number of investigators who successfully bridged the divide between animal and human studies of sexuality and brain function. In light of his contributions to our field and his instrumental role in the creation of this journal, we are publishing a collection of remembrances by former students and fellows as well as colleagues and friends. Benjamin Sachs has overseen the solicitation and editing of these contributions. Michael J. Baum Editor
College Student Persistence: A Multilevel Analysis of Distance Learning Course Completion at the Crossroads of Disability Status

With over 15 million students enrolling in institutes of higher education, it is critical to understand the factors that lead to course completion and graduation. This becomes especially important ...
Affine adaptive filtering of CT data.

Abstract A novel method for resampling and enhancing image data using multidimensional adaptive filters is presented. The underlying issue that this paper addresses is segmentation of image structures that are close in size to the voxel geometry. Adaptive filtering is used to reduce both the effects of partial volume averaging by resampling the data to a lattice with higher sample density and to reduce the image noise level. Resampling is achieved by constructing filter sets that have subpixel offsets relative to the original sampling lattice. The filters are also frequency corrected for ansisotropic voxel dimensions. The shift and the voxel dimensions are described by an affine transform and provides a model for tuning the filter frequency functions. The method has been evaluated on CT data where the voxels are in general non cubic. The in-plane resolution in CT image volumes is often higher by a factor of 3–10 than the through-plane resolution. The method clearly shows an improvement over conventional resampling techniques such as cubic spline interpolation and sinc interpolation.
Mentoring—A complex relationship

Purpose: To address the process of mentoring the advanced practice nurse (APN) and provide suggestions for the formulation, implementation, and termination of the relationship. Data sources: Research studies from nursing as well as other disciplines and personal experience as a mentor and protege. Conclusions: Mentoring is a dynamic and complex relationship that can support growth, increase synergy, and develop ways to succeed as an APN. Before entering into the relationship, care should be taken to assure compatibility between the mentor and the protege. Major pitfalls include poor communication patterns and inadequate identification of objectives. Keys for repair or termination of the relationship include personal introspection, honest and nonblaming communication, and development of alternative support networks. Implications for practice: Successful mentoring relationships improve professional growth, competency, and productivity. They also form the basis for ongoing preparation of a new generation of APNs.
Using a modified nominal group technique to elicit director of nursing input for an osteoporosis intervention.

Background Barriers prevent osteoporosis care in nursing homes. Successful interventions designed to circumvent these barriers benefit from target recipient input during development. Objective To elicit suggestions for an osteoporosis quality improvement intervention designed for use by nursing home health care professionals. Design Modified nominal group technique. Setting Convenience sample of Alabama nursing home directors. Participants Fifteen Alabama nursing home directors of nursing were recruited by mailing. Sixty percent of respondents participated (n = 9). Measurements In the first phase conducted via teleconference, an experienced moderator used a preformulated question and elicited 41 suggestions to improve osteoporosis care in nursing homes. Substantively similar suggestions were combined and idiosyncratic suggestions were discarded resulting in the retention of 20 suggestions. In the second phase conducted by mail, the same participants rated the 20 suggestions based on perceived practicality and helpfulness. Elements were grouped into tertiles based on the ranking of the mean ratings of the 2 attributes and then cross-tabulated. Results All director of nursing (n = 9) participants completed both phases. The most practical, most helpful suggestions were information on fall prevention program implementation, osteoporosis treatment protocols, and osteoporosis medication information. Conclusions A modified nominal group technique provided useful information from nursing home directors of nursing for an osteoporosis intervention. The technique proved efficient and facile to perform.
ANOLINE DIVERSITY IN THREE DIFFERENTIALLY ALTERED HABITATS IN THE SIERRA DE BAORUCO, REPUBLICA DOMINICANA, HISPANIOLA

We examined three disturbed, but distinctly different, sites on the historically forested eastern slope of the Sierra de Baoruco, Provincia de Barahona, Republica Dominicana, in order to evaluate the impact of habitat alteration on the composition of anoline lizard communities. Five species of Anolis (A. bahorucoensis, A. barahonae, A. coelestinus, A. cybotes, A. distichus) are known to occur in the immediate area of our study sites. Only three were found in the most substantially altered clear-cut site, whereas all five species occupied the most heterogeneous habitat, a coffee plantation characterized by a three-tiered canopy. Similarly, numbers of individuals of all but one species were greatest in the plot that most closely resembled the natural forests in this area. Calculated niche breadths, based on analysis of stomach contents, of the three species found in all sites increased with the degree of habitat alteration. The higher number of A. coelestinus in more heavily altered sites may be attributed to density compensation.
Cytomegalovirus in semen: observations in selected populations.

We have previously demonstrated the presence and persistence of cytomegalovirus (CMV) in human semen [1, 2] and have suggested that C MV may be venereally transmitted in some instances. In a prior study the index patient was recuperating from heterophil-negative mononucleosis and had a history of a recent infection with Neisseria gonorrhoeae [1]. Virus was found in high titers in semen (primarily extracellularly) and persisted in diminished titers without associated symptoms for more than 14 months [2]. The results of collateral studies indicate that CMV is often present in semen. These findings lend support to the concept that CMV may be venereally transmitted in some instances.
Microsatellite Instability and Loss of Heterozygosity at Chromosomal Location 18q: Prospective Evaluation of Biomarkers for Stages II and III Colon Cancer—A Study of CALGB 9581 and 89803

Purpose Colorectal cancer (CRC) develops as a result of a series of accumulated genomic changes that produce oncogene activation and tumor suppressor gene loss. These characteristics may classify CRC into subsets of distinct clinical behaviors. Patients and Methods We studied two of these genomic defects—mismatch repair deficiency (MMR-D) and loss of heterozygosity at chromosomal location 18q (18qLOH)—in patients enrolled onto two phase III cooperative group trials for treatment of potentially curable colon cancer. These trials included prospective secondary analyses to determine the relationship between these markers and treatment outcome. A total of 1,852 patients were tested for MMR status and 955 (excluding patients with MMR-D tumors) for 18qLOH. Results Compared with stage III, more stage II tumors were MMR-D (21.3% v 14.4%; P < .001) and were intact at 18q (24.2% v 15.1%; P = .001). For the combined cohort, patients with MMR-D tumors had better 5-year disease-free survival (DFS; 0.76 v 0.67; P < .00...
Invisible Barriers to Clinical Trials: The Impact of Structural, Infrastructural, and Procedural Barriers to Opening Oncology Clinical Trials

Purpose To investigate the administrative barriers that impact the opening of clinical trials at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center (VICC) and at VICC Affiliate Network (VICCAN) sites. Methods VICC, a National Cancer Institute‐designated comprehensive cancer center, and three VICCAN community practice sites were studied. Methodology used was identification and mapping of existing processes and analysis of historical timing data. Results At course granularity, the process steps required at VICC and VICCAN main office plus local sites are 20 v 17 to 30 steps, respectively; this gap widens with finer granularity, with more than 110 v less than 60 steps, respectively. Approximately 50% of the steps are nonvalue added. For example, in the institutional review board (IRB) process, less than one third of the steps add value to the final protocol. The numbers of groups involved in the approval processes are 27 (VICC) and 6 to 14 (VICCAN home office and local sites). The median times to open a trial are 171 days (95% CI, 158 to 182 days) for VICC and 191 days (95% CI, 119 to 269 days) for the VICCAN sites. Contrary to expectations, the time for IRB review and approval (median, 47 days) is the fastest process compared with the scientific review committee review and approval (median, 70 days) and contracts and grants review (median, 78.5 days). Opening a cooperative group clinical trial is significantly (P .05) more rapid because they require fewer review steps. Conclusion There are numerous opportunities to remove nonvalue-added steps and save time in opening clinical trials. With increasing numbers of new agents, fewer domestic principal investigators, and more companies off-shoring clinical trials, overcoming such barriers is of critical importance for maintenance of core oncology research capabilities in the United States.
Hybrid feedback laws for a class of cascade nonlinear control systems

A stabilization problem for a class of nonlinear control systems is considered. Systems in this class can be viewed as a cascade connection of a linear time-invariant subsystem, a nonlinear time-periodic static subsystem, and an integrator. Hybrid logic-based feedback controllers are constructed to globally stabilize these systems to the origin. The controllers operate by switching between various time-periodic control functions at discrete-time instants. As specific applications, we consider stabilization of nonholonomic control systems in power form to the origin and stabilization of trajectories for a class of nonlinear control systems. Numerical examples of global stabilization and tracking are reported.
Sensitivity of herbivorous zooplankton to phosphorus‐deficient diets: Testing stoichiometric theory and the growth rate hypothesis

Stoichiometry and growth rate variation are related aspects of the ecology and evolution of consumer-resource interactions. In zooplankton, these concepts have been explored primarily in a few species of Daphnia. We used growth bioassays and changes in animal P content to quantify the sensitivity of four herbivorous cladoceran species to algal resources representing a gradient in C : P ratios ranging from 140 to 1,000, offered at both low and high food levels. Supplements of phosphate, Synechococcus, or P-sufficient algae were used to test for P, energy, and fatty acid limitation. Phosphorus assimilation was estimated by isotope techniques (32P) to test the hypothesis of digestion resistance in P-limited algae. The cladoceran species differed in sensitivity to P deficiency at both low and high food levels, although sensitivity was less at low food. The P content of the two Daphnia species changed substantially along the C : P ratio gradient, contradicting the notion of strict homeostasis, whereas the two other cladoceran species showed tight P homeostasis. Consistent with stoichiometric theory, the two species with the highest P content were also more sensitive to P deficiency. Growth rate was related to P content across the four species at the high food level and at low C : P ratios, supporting the growth rate hypothesis. The addition of supplements to P deficient algae improved animal’s growth rates, showing both P and energy limitation, but no evidence for fatty acid limitation. Lower assimilation efficiency for P-deficient algae suggests that digestion resistance can be a factor in the food quality of P-deficient resources.
Predictive power of cell-to-cell variability

Much of our current knowledge of biology has been constructed based on population-average measurements. However, advances in single-cell analysis have demonstrated the omnipresent nature of cell-to-cell variability in any population. On one hand, tremendous efforts have been made to examine how such variability arises, how it is regulated by cellular networks, and how it can affect cell-fate decisions by single cells. On the other hand, recent studies suggest that the variability may carry valuable information that can facilitate the elucidation of underlying regulatory networks or the classification of cell states. To this end, a major challenge is determining what aspects of variability bear significant biological meaning. Addressing this challenge requires the development of new computational tools, in conjunction with appropriately chosen experimental platforms, to more effectively describe and interpret data on cell-cell variability. Here, we discuss examples of when population heterogeneity plays critical roles in determining biologically and clinically significant phenotypes, how it serves as a rich information source of regulatory mechanisms, and how we can extract such information to gain a deeper understanding of biological systems.
Digital Controller for a Boost PFC Converter in Continuous Conduction Mode

This paper introduces a design process for a R-S-T digital controller for a power factor correction circuit (PFC). This method is based on pole placement via R-S-T polynomials. The design is based on the desired time domain specification of the current and voltage loops of a PFC presented as a discretized second order s domain transfer function for voltage and current loops. The voltage and current loop polynimials are designed to achieve the same behavior as in the s domain. Overall performance of both digital controller and its analog counterpart for PFC are investigated based on the effect of a step variation in output current, step variation and tracking of the reference voltage, and the quality of the reference current and its tracking. Furthermore, errors in the parameters identification are also taken into consideration to test the robustness of both controllers. The results confirm that digital R-S-T based controllers are able to be used for high performance PFC converters.
Optical models for direct volume rendering

This tutorial survey paper reviews several different models for light interaction with volume densities of absorbing, glowing, reflecting, and/or scattering material. They are, in order of increasing realism, absorption only, emission only, emission and absorption combined, single scattering of external illumination without shadows, single scattering with shadows, and multiple scattering. For each model the paper provides the physical assumptions, describes the applications for which it is appropriate, derives the differential or integral equations for light transport, presents calculation methods for solving them, and shows output images for a data set representing a cloud. Special attention is given to calculation methods for the multiple scattering model. >