cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Plasma stopping-power measurements reveal transition from non-degenerate to degenerate plasmas

Physically realized electron gas systems usually reside in either the quantum non-degenerate or fully degenerate limit, where the average de Broglie wavelength of the thermal electrons becomes comparable with the interparticle distance between electrons. A few systems, such as young brown dwarfs and the cold dense fuels created in imploded cryogenic capsules at the National Ignition Facility, lie between these two limits and are partially degenerate. The National Ignition Facility has the unique capability of varying the electron quantum degeneracy by adjusting the laser drive used to implode the capsules. This allows experimental studies of the effects of the degeneracy level on plasma transport properties. By measuring rare nuclear reactions in these cold dense fuels, we show that the electron stopping power, which is the rate of energy loss per unit distance travelled by a charged particle, changes with increasing electron density. We observe a quantum-induced shift in the peak of the stopping power using diagnostics that measure above and below this peak. The observed changes in the stopping power are shown to be unique to the transition region between non-degenerate and degenerate plasmas. Our results support the screening models applied to partially degenerate astrophysical systems such as young brown dwarfs. Transitions between non-degenerate and degenerate plasma are observed in laser-driven implosions of cryogenic capsules at the National Ignition Facility. The observed partially degenerate regime is relevant to the physics of young brown dwarfs.
Role of Glucose Metabolism Reprogramming in the Pathogenesis of Cholangiocarcinoma

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is one of the most lethal cancers, and its rate of occurrence is increasing annually. The diagnoses of CCA patients remain elusive due to the lack of early symptoms and is misdiagnosed as HCC in a considerable percentage of patients. It is crucial to explore the underlying mechanisms of CCA carcinogenesis and development to find out specific biomarkers for early diagnosis of CCA and new promising therapeutic targets. In recent times, the reprogramming of tumor cells metabolism has been recognized as a hallmark of cancer. The modification from the oxidative phosphorylation metabolic pathway to the glycolysis pathway in CCA meets the demands of cancer cell proliferation and provides a favorable environment for tumor development. The alteration of metabolic programming in cancer cells is complex and may occur via mutations and epigenetic modifications within oncogenes, tumor suppressor genes, signaling pathways, and glycolytic enzymes. Herein we review the altered metabolism in cancer and the signaling pathways involved in this phenomena as they may affect CCA development. Understanding the regulatory pathways of glucose metabolism such as Akt/mTOR, HIF1α, and cMyc in CCA may further develop our knowledge of this devastating disease and may offer relevant information in the exploration of new diagnostic biomarkers and targeted therapeutic approaches for CCA.
Formative study of non-credit students at Kingsborough Community College, City University of New York:

The study examined students’ needs and satisfaction at the Kingsborough Community College in Brooklyn, NY. Purposive sampling method was used to examine the needs and satisfaction of the allied hea...
A Food and Drug Administration analysis of survival outcomes comparing the Adjuvant Paclitaxel and Trastuzumab trial with an external control from historical clinical trials

Background Although the Adjuvant Paclitaxel and Trastuzumab (APT) trial has been adopted clinically, single-arm trials have limitations, and interest remains whether these patients with small node-negative human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-positive early breast cancer (EBC) would benefit from more intensive chemotherapy. This analysis explored whether external controls can contextualize single-arm studies to add to clinical decision making in the use of de-escalated therapy in patients with low-risk HER2-positive EBC. Patients and methods Patient-level data from five randomized trials supporting drug approval in adjuvant HER2-positive EBC were pooled, and patients with low-risk EBC were selected (n = 1770). Patients treated concurrently with trastuzumab and either anthracycline/cyclophosphamide/taxane/trastuzumab (ACTH) or taxane/carboplatin/trastuzumab (TCH; n = 1366) were matched (1:1) to patients treated with paclitaxel and trastuzumab (TH) in the APT trial (n = 406) using propensity scores. Patients treated with anthracycline/cyclophosphamide/taxane (ACT; n = 374) were also matched (1:1) to those treated with TH. Propensity scores were estimated using covariates of age, tumor stage, estrogen receptor status, progesterone receptor status, and histological grade. Results After matching, the estimated probabilities of invasive disease-free survival (iDFS) at 3 and 5 years were 98.6% and 96.5% in the TH arm, and 96.6% and 92.9% in the ACTH/TCH arm, respectively. The estimated probabilities of overall survival (OS) at 3 and 5 years were 99.7% and 99.3% in the TH arm, and 99.0% and 97.4% in the ACTH/TCH arm, respectively. Comparing the TH arm with the ACT arm in the matched sample, the estimated difference in iDFS was 7.5% (TH 98.8% and ACT 91.3%) at 3 years and 12.6% (TH 96.1% and ACT 83.5%) at 5 years. The estimated difference in OS was 2.6% (TH 100% and ACT 97.4%) at 3 years, and 5.3% (TH 99.3% and ACT 94.0%) at 5 years. Conclusions Our analyses suggest that patients' outcomes in both arms were in general similar, thus providing additional reassurance regarding de-escalation of therapy.
Assessment of burnout among postgraduate pharmacy residents: A pilot study

Abstract Introduction Health professional burnout has become a topic of growing interest given increased focus on mental health and well-being. The Maslach Burnout Inventory–Human Services Survey (MBI-HSS) has been commonly utilized to quantify health professional burnout, but the literature does not report burnout among pharmacy residents. The objective of this study was to quantify burnout status of pharmacy residents and to correlate burnout to professional conduct and career outlook. Methods Pharmacy residents completed an electronic, anonymous survey at a teaching and learning certificate meeting date. Burnout status was measured by a high score on either the emotional exhaustion or depersonalization subscales of the MBI-HSS tool. Results Forty-three of 58 surveys were completed (response rate 74.1%). The burnout rate among residents was 74.4%. No significant differences were seen in baseline demographics, except burned out subjects were more likely to report a “single” relationship status. Activities such as using sick days when not ill, falling asleep at work, overlooking others' breaches of institutional guidelines, and failure to follow-up in a timely fashion were significantly correlated to burnout status with moderate correlation coefficients. Conclusions The point prevalence of burnout among pharmacy residents is similar to that documented for practicing pharmacists and physicians. Expansion to a larger, more diverse sample size would provide additional power to differentiate independent risk factors for burnout and to better quantify associations to professional conduct among pharmacy residents.
Personality, Context, and the Roots of Autocratic Support in Latin America

Democracy is in danger, as fewer people seem to think of it as a desirable form of government. Current explanations based on economic development and governmental performance offer a narrow explanation for why some people reject democracy and subsequently support autocratic forms of governance. I offer a novel argument based on personality psychology. I argue that individuals who are low on the personality trait of openness – what I term closed personalities – are more supportive of autocracy. Closed personalities tend to seek political arrangements that repress diversity and enforce submission to authorities. Moreover, I hold that under conditions of crisis and civil disobedience threats, closed people activate their tendency to support autocracy. Using data from the 2010 AmericasBarometer and original survey experiments in Chile and Ecuador, I show how closed individuals tend to be highly supportive of autocracy and how conditions of crisis and civil disobedience affect closed personalities.
Interproximal contact loss between implant-supported restorations and adjacent natural teeth: A retrospective cross-sectional study of 83 restorations with an up to 10-year follow-up.

Abstract Statement of problem Interproximal contact loss between implant-supported restorations and adjacent natural teeth is a frequently encountered complication that could negatively affect surrounding tissues and/or patient satisfaction with treatment. The effect of interproximal contact loss on peri-implant tissue health and patient awareness of food impaction is currently unknown. Purpose The purpose of this retrospective cross-sectional study was to explore the effect of interproximal contact loss on peri-implant tissue health and determine whether interproximal contact loss leads to increased patient awareness of food impaction around the affected area. This study also aimed to identify whether specific patient or local factors could cause interproximal contact loss. Material and methods Eighty-three participants with posterior single-unit implant-supported restorations were examined. The mean follow-up time after prosthesis insertion was 4 ±2.2 years (range 4 months to 10.6 years). Interproximal contacts were evaluated by using waxed dental floss. Patient age, sex, implant location, opposing tooth status, presence of endodontically treated adjacent tooth, and regular use of an occlusal device at night were recorded. Peri-implant probing depths and the presence of bleeding on probing were also recorded. Each participant was asked to indicate whether they had noticed increased food impaction around their implant-supported restoration. Statistical analysis included nonparametric Mann-Whitney U tests, the Spearman rank-order correlation, the Pearson chi-squared tests, and the paired t test (α=.05). Results Among all examined mesial contacts, 34.1% were recorded as open, with an overall mesial interproximal contact loss (open and loose contacts combined) incidence of 48.8%. Restorations placed in premolar sites exhibited significantly tighter mesial interproximal contacts compared with those placed in molar sites (U=566, P=.041). A significant negative correlation was found between follow-up time after insertion and mesial contact tightness (rs=−0.226, P=.041). Conclusions Interproximal contact loss appears to increase over time, with more surfaces being affected after longer periods of service. This study did not find an association between interproximal contact loss and peri-implant inflammation as measured by bleeding on probing, with the exception of the distolingual implant surface. Participants with interproximal contact loss were more aware of food impaction around their implant crown. Use of an occlusal device at night did not prevent interproximal contact loss.
Picosecond, 1.06 Micron Laser-Induced Amorphous Phases in Thin, Single Crystal Silicon Membranes

Recent reports of laser-induced amorphous phases in crystalline silicon due to picosecond 532nm and 266nm radiation [1] and nanosecond 266nm radiation [2] raise questions regarding the dynamics of such a transition. These results may not be adequately described by equilibrium heat-flow analysis for several reasons.
Transforming game narrative through social media: Studying the mass effect universe of twitter

This paper explores the world of social media as a tool for interactive narrative in video games. From the perspective of fan fiction, this paper looks at ways games can be transformed through Twitter as a narrative tool. We perform a textual analysis on selected characters’ Twitter accounts drawn from the Mass Effect series. We show a number of findings having to do with how authors balance their character’s identities, Twitter as a narrative tool despite its unique constraints, the mutability of narrative time in this medium, and the ways authors create and navigate impossible situations created because of the conflict between their authorial intent and what occurs in the games. We argue this participatory and interactive form of narrative is a factor game designers must acknowledge and understand as social media continues to evolve and the boundary between consumer and producer deteriorates.
Bacterial contamination of drinking water supplies in a modern rural neighborhood.

On six occasions during a 15-month period, the private well and spring water supplies in a modern rural neighborhood of 78 households were examined for total coliforms, fecal coliforms, Staphylococcus aureus, and standard plate count bacteria. More than one-third of the water supplies were unsatisfactory on at least one occasion as judged by standard plate counts over 103/ml and the presence of coliforms, fecal coliforms, and/or S. aureus. Citrobacter freundii, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Escherichia coli were the most frequently isolated total coliforms. At least 12 other genera of bacteria were identified from standard plate count agar. Coliform contamination was found to be higher after periods of rainfall, and high standard plate counts were more prevalent during warmer weather. These observations probably reflect leakage of surface water into improperly sealed wells or aquifer contamination during winter and the lack of chlorination to control microbial regrowth during the warm season. An inverse correlation was found between the presence of high standard plate counts and incidence of coliforms. Consumer education and at least a twice yearly monitoring of private water supplies (winter and summer) are suggested methods to signal that treatment may be necessary to reduce the risk of waterborne disease.
Regulation of biosynthetic genes and antioxidant properties of vitamin B6 vitamers during plant defense responses

Vitamin B6, an essential cofactor in enzymatic reactions, has only recently been linked to cellular oxidative stress. We investigated the role of this vitamin as an antioxidant in oxidative responses linked to plant defense. B6 vitamers effectively quenched superoxide and had antioxidant activity when assayed in vitro. The de novo B6 biosynthetic genes (PDX1 and PDX2) were identified in Nicotiana tabacum cv. ‘Burley 21’ and their transcript abundance was assayed during defense responses. PDX1 and PDX2 transcript levels decreased following inoculation with the incompatible pathogen Pseudomonas syringae pv. phaseolicola and transiently increased in response to salicylic acid and methyl jasmonate. Excess vitamin B6 in tobacco leaves interfered with the development of a hypersensitive response caused by P. syringae pv. phaseolicola and increased disease severity caused by the compatible bacterium P. syringae pv. tabaci. Our findings indicate that during plant defense responses, vitamin B6 functions and its synthesis is regulated in a manner consistent with this vitamin’s activity as an antioxidant and modulator of active oxygen species in vivo. q 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Comparison of EuroSID-2 and SID-IIs in vehicle side impact tests with the IIHS barrier

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has recently developed and evaluated a new side impact barrier to represent the front profile of pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles for a new consumer information program. In the development of this program, two dummies were considered for assessing driver injury risk in side-struck vehicles: EuroSID-2 (50th percentile male dummy) and SID-IIs (5th percentile female dummy). The purpose of this study was to compare injury responses and kinematics for these two dummies in side impact crash tests. The findings suggest that SID-IIs will be more effective in driving relevant improvements in side impact crash protection.
Continuous Function Characterizations of Stratifiable Spaces

The insertion of a continuous function between pairs of semicontinuous functions in a monotone manner is investigated. In particular, it is established that a topological space is stratifiable if and only if for every pair of semicontinuous functions......
Distinct expression and shared activities of members of the hedgehog gene family of Xenopus laevis

The hedgehog family of signaling proteins is associated with a variety of spatial patterning activities in insects and vertebrates. Here we show that new members of this family isolated from Xenopus laevis are expressed embryonically in patterns suggestive of roles in patterning in the ectoderm, nervous system and somites. Banded hedgehog is expressed throughout the neural plate and subsequently in both the nervous system and in the dermatome of somites. Cephalic hedgehog is expressed in anterior ectoderm and endodermal structures, and sonic hedgehog is expressed in patterns which parallel those in other species. Injection of RNAs encoding Xenopus hedgehogs induces ectopic cement gland formation in embryos. Similar to reported activities of noggin and follistatin, Xenopus hedgehogs share a common ability to induce cement glands in animal cap explants. However, hedgehog activities in naive ectoderm appear capable of acting independently of noggin and follistatin since, although all three are induced by activin in animal cap explants, X-hh expression does not induce noggin or follistatin.
The ‘sliced-cylinder’ laboratory model of the wind-driven ocean circulation. Part 2. Oscillatory forcing and Rossby wave resonance

The response of the ‘sliced-cylinder’ laboratory model for the wind-driven ocean circulation is studied here in part 2 for the case of an oscillatory ‘wind’ stress. The model consists of a rapidly rotating right cylinder with a planar sloping bottom. This basin geometry contains no closed geostrophic contours, so that low frequency topographic Rossby wave modes possessing mean vorticity exist in the sliced-cylinder model by the physical analogy between topographic vortex stretching and the β effect for large-scale planetary flows. The interior flow in the laboratory model is driven by the time-dependent Ekman-layer suction produced by the periodic relative angular velocity of the upper lid. The frequency of the forcing is sufficiently small that the interior motion is quasi-geostrophic with the horizontal velocities being independent of depth. Simple two-dimensional analytic and numerical models are developed and compared very favourably with the laboratory results. The observed horizontal velocity field exhibits both (i) westward intensification and decreased horizontal scale when the forcing frequency is decreased, and (ii) a significant resonant magnification when the forcing frequency is tuned to the natural frequency of one of the lower inviscid topographic Rossby wave modes. The observed westward phase speed of the driven motion is accurately predicted and shows little dependence on the amplitude of the forcing. The instantaneous and mean Lagrangian fluid particle trajectories were measured in the laboratory model. The general derivation by Moore (1970) of the governing equations for the mean Lagrangian motion are extended to incorporate forcing and Ekman-layer dissipation. The results suggest that the mean Lagrangian flow should be significantly reduced near resonant frequencies, since the mean Eulerian motion is partially offset by the Stokes drift associated with the topographic Rossby wave modes. This result is consistent with the small observed amplitude of the mean Lagrangian motion. Also presented are the results for a laboratory experiment conducted using a combined steady and oscillatory ‘wind’ stress.
Multiscale image segmentation using Gibbs-Markov random fields

This paper presents an approach for multiscale image segmentation suitable for applications such as multiscale object recognition. The multiscale segmentation of the input image is obtained by segmenting the scale-space image in a bottom up fashion (i.e., from fine to coarse scale). The segmentation method used combines a Gaussian texture model and Gibbs-Markov contour model to produce an image segmentation which corresponds closely to the objects in the scale-space image. In order to obtain an accurate segmentation at multiple scales, the region labels from the preceding fine scales are propagated as initial conditions for the succeeding coarse scales. Results demonstrate that in general, there is a close similarity between the behavior of the contours derived by this segmentation method, and the behavior of edges found in conventional scale-space approaches. An advantage to this new technique is that the resulting contours are closed, as required by many machine vision algorithms. This is not guaranteed in conventional scale-space methods.
Voices in the hills of Rwanda: African press accountability of the 1994 pogrom

This study attempts to discern the frames that dominated the coverage of the 1994 Rwandan crisis and genocide in Kenya’s Daily Nation and Nigeria’s Guardian, two leading African dailies. The study found that there was a great deal of overlap between the two newspapers with regard to the major frames: bane of a nation, Rwandan national introspection, an(other) African cataclysm, together with world inaction and indifference emerged as the dominant themes. However, there were also differences in coverage. The national/regional interest emerged as a theme in the Daily Nation but did not develop in the coverage by The Guardian. Both papers also went to considerable lengths to explore the background to the crisis and its wider implications.
Transposon mutagenesis of the extremely thermophilic bacterium Thermus thermophilus HB27

Thermus thermophilus is an extremely thermophilic bacterium that grows between 50 and 80 °C and is an excellent model organism not only for understanding life at high temperature but also for its biotechnological and industrial applications. Multiple molecular capabilities are available including targeted gene inactivation and the use of shuttle plasmids that replicate in T. thermophilus and Escherichia coli; however, the ability to disrupt gene function randomly by transposon insertion has not been developed. Here we report a detailed method of transposon mutagenesis of T. thermophilus HB27 based on the EZ-Tn5 system from Epicentre Biotechnologies. We were able to generate insertion mutations throughout the chromosome by in vitro transposition and transformation with mutagenized genomic DNA. We also report that an additional step, one that fills in single stranded gaps in donor DNA generated by the transposition reaction, was essential for successful mutagenesis. We anticipate that our method of transposon mutagenesis will enable further genetic development of T. thermophilus and may also be valuable for similar endeavors with other under-developed organisms.
Methanol Elevates Cytosolic Calcium Ions in Cultured Canine Cerebral Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells: Possible Relation to CNS Toxicity

Acute exposure of cultured canine cerebral vascular smooth muscle cells to methanol (10-400 mM) results in concentration-dependent elevation of the concentration of intracellular free calcium ion ([Ca2+]i) as measured with the fluorescent indicator, fura-2, and digital imaging microscopy. The resting level of [Ca2+]i in the cerebral vascular smooth muscle cells was 89.3+/-5.3 nM. Exposure of these cells to 10 mM methanol for only 5 min resulted in significant elevation in [Ca2+]i (i.e., to 105.7+/-4.6) (p < 0.05). Methanol (10 mM) is a concentration found in the blood of victims demonstrating early CNS toxicity. Other, higher concentrations of methanol rapidly raised [Ca2+]i upwards of 60% over basal resting levels. These result suggest that methanol-induced cerebral vasospasm is a consequence of large rises in intracellular Ca2+. These events could play a crucial role in methanol-induced cerebral edema, brain hemorrhage, and cerebral and retinal infarcts, eventuating in severe deficits in brain blood flow and the known, subsequent CNS disturbances.
An Alternative End-of-Semester Questionnaire

quently, it is more appropriate to view the instrument as a survey of student perceptions that provides little in the way of objective observations (Hinton 1993; Kolitch and Dean 1999). Whatever position one embraces, even if one advocates surveying faculty rather than students (Hinton 1993, 568), efforts to increase accountability in and assessment of higher education will inevitably involve having students fill out evaluation forms, the results of which will play a significant role in determining a professor's professional success. For this reason, it has become important to develop an alternative end-of-semester instrument directly tied to a set of teaching and learning values and which provides professors with useful information. Traditional instruments have been criticized as poor measures of teaching effectiveness and as lacking convincing validity and reliability (see Hinton 1993; Langbein 1994; Wilson 1998). Professors often are frustrated as there is little, if any, connection between changes in teaching (such as incorporating critical thinking exercises or assigning superior readings) and the ensuing ratings. However, instructors can improve their scores by engaging in superficial behaviors and gestures, dressing casually, flattering the political biases of students, bribing them by canceling some of their classes, or teaching undemanding courses (see Trout 1997a). Other research suggests a charismatic style of delivery, even though the content may lack meaning, is the crucial factor for getting high ratings (Ambady and Rosenthal 1993; Williams and Ceci 1997). With respect to learning, the traditional instrument embodies a stu-
Feedback to internal medicine ward physicians from multidisciplinary antimicrobial use teams improves appropriate antimicrobial use

Commentary on: BC Camins, MD King, JB Wells, et al.. Impact of an antimicrobial utilization program on antimicrobial use at a large teaching hospital: a randomized controlled trial. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol2009;30:931–8.
Climate ethics and population policy

According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, human population growth is one of the two primary causes of increased greenhouse gas emissions and accelerating global climate change. Slowing or ending population growth could be a cost effective, environmentally advantageous means to mitigate climate change, providing important benefits to both human and natural communities. Yet population policy has attracted relatively little attention from ethicists, policy analysts, or policy makers dealing with this issue. In part, this is because addressing population matters means wading into a host of contentious ethical issues, including family planning, abortion, and immigration. This article reviews the scientific literature regarding voluntary population control's potential contribution to climate change mitigation. It considers possible reasons for the failure of climate ethicists, analysts, and policy makers to adequately assess that contribution or implement policies that take advantage of it, with particular reference to the resistance to accepting limits to growth. It explores some of the ethical issues at stake, considering arguments for and against noncoercive population control and asking whether coercive population policies are ever morally justified. It also argues that three consensus positions in the climate ethics literature regarding acceptable levels of risk, unacceptable harms, and a putative right to economic development, necessarily imply support for voluntary population control. WIREs Clim Change 2012, 3:45–61. doi: 10.1002/wcc.153 For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website.
In vitro polymerization of bacteriophage T4D tail core subunits

Abstract The in vitro polymerization of bacteriophage T4 core protein subunits (P19) onto baseplates is examined by electron microscopy. Procedures for purifying P19 and baseplates, both of which have in vitro complementation activity, are described. It is found that when P19 and baseplates are allowed to react over a wide range of initial concentration ratios, the most probable core length is about 1000 A, the length found in vivo. Very few structures longer than this are observed if the polymerization is not allowed to proceed for much longer than one hour. Some physical properties of the baseplates were determined. These are s20,W= 72 S, D20,W = 8.56 × 10−8 cm2/s, and Mr = 7.4 ± 0.3 × 106.
SU-F-BRF-15: Interfractional Dose Variations in Parotid and Submandibular Glands in IG-IMRT for Head and Neck Cancer

Purpose: To quantify interfractional anatomic changes and the dosimetric variations in the parotid and submandibular glands in image-guided IMRT for head and neck cancer. Methods: Daily diagnostic-quality CTs acquired during daily IGRT using an in-room CT (CTVision, Siemens) for 16 head and neck cancer patients treated with IMRT were analyzed. The contours of parotid glands and submandibular glands on dialy CTs were generated using an auto-segmentation tool (ABAS, Elekta) with manual editing by a single physician. The volumetric changes were measured and the center of mass (COM) of each gland was obtained. The positional changes of the glands were characterized by inter-parotid and inter-submandibular gland distances. The original plan was applied to each fraction CT with isocenter shifts based on the alignment of the tumor. The DVHs and commonly used dose volume parameters from daily plans were compared to the original plans. Results: From fraction 1 to fraction 31, the average volume reduction was roughly 25% for all glands. The changes of inter-parotid and inter-submandibular gland distances were significant, with these distances decreased by 1.7±4.3 mm and 1.4±2.7 mm in average from fraction 1 to fraction 31. The average distance changes between the glands to the isocenter were from 0.4 to 3.3 mm. The mean dose changes for the four glands were from 109 cGy to 265 cGy. Conclusion: Significant decreases in the volume, inter-gland distance were found during IG-IMRT for head and neck cancer. These changes result in significant variations in doses to these glands, indicating the need of adaptive replanning.
The quest for knowledge transfer efficacy: blended teaching, online and in-class, with consideration of learning typologies for non-traditional and traditional students.

The pedagogical paradigm shift in higher education to 24-hour learning environments composed of teaching delivery methods of online courses, blended/hybrid formats, and face-to-face (f2f) classes is increasing access to global, lifelong learning. Online degrees have been offered at 62.4% of 2,800 colleges and universities. Students can now design flexible, life-balanced course schedules. Higher knowledge transfer rates may exist with blended course formats with online quizzes and valuable class time set for Socratic, quality discussions and creative team presentations. Research indicates that younger, traditional students exhibit heightened performance goal orientations and prefer entertaining professors who are funny, whereas non-traditional students exhibit mastery profiles and prefer courses taught by flexible, yet organized, professors. A 5-year study found that amongst 51,000 students taking both f2f and online courses, higher online failure rates occurred. Competing life roles for non-traditional students and reading and writing needs for at-risk students suggest that performance may be better if programs are started in f2f courses. Models on effective knowledge transfer consider the planning process, delivery methods, and workplace application, but a gap exists for identifying the diversity of learner needs. Higher education enrollments are being compromised with lower online retention rates. Therefore, the main purpose of this review is to delineate disparate learning styles and present a typology for the learning needs of traditional and non-traditional students. Secondly, psychology as a science may need more rigorous curriculum markers like mapping APA guidelines to knowledge objectives, critical assignments, and student learning outcomes (SLOs) (e.g. online rubric assessments for scoring APA style critical thinking essays on selected New York Times books). Efficacious knowledge transfer to diverse, 21st century students should be the Academy’s focus.
Immunohistochemistry of neural markers for the study of the laminar architecture in celloidin sections from the human cerebral cortex

Morphometric studies of the cerebral cortex in celloidin sections provide reliable quantitative estimates of cytoarchitectural features in individual brain regions. To increase our knowledge about the morphology and distribution of neuronal and glial cell types using specific cellular markers, we compared two methods of celloidin removal/antigen recovery, and subsequent immunohistochemical staining of free floating sections with specific antibodies. The method based on methanol and NaOH for celloidin removal was the most adequate for optimal recovery of immunoreactivity of the neural markers NF200, MAP2, GFAP, calretinin, parvalbumin, calbindin-D28kD, and synaptophysin. The other method, based on a treatment with ethanol/ether and formic acid, gave good results in the immunostaining of NF200, GFAP and MAP2, but not the other markers named above. The immunostained sections were compared with nearby sections stained with cresyl violet in order to assign the immunoreactive structures to individual layers in the prefrontal cortex. Sections from blocks not embedded in celloidin showed a comparable distribution of all the antigens included in the present study. The present paper provides an antigen recovery technique for celloidin sections that can be applied to optimize studies on the cytoarchitecture and distribution of specific neural elements in the human cerebral cortex.
Efficiently decodable codes meeting Gilbert-Varshamov bound for low rates

We demonstrate a probabilistic construction of binary linear codes meeting the GV bound (with overwhelming probability) for rates up to about 10-4 together with polynomial time algorithms to perform encoding and decoding up to half the distance. The only previous result of this type (for rates up to about 0.02) suffered from sub-exponential time decoding [3].
Variability for biomass production and plant composition in Sericea lespedeza

Abstract Sericea lespedeza [ Lespedeza cuneata (Dumont de Courset) G. Don.] is a deep-rooted legume that is well adapted to the acid, eroded soils found throughout the southeastern region of the U.S.A. A field experiment aimed at measuring biomass yield and biomass composition of 81 genotypes of sericea lespedeza harvested once every season was conducted. Results indicated substantial differences for biomass yield among sericea lespedeza genotypes. However, dry matter percentage was the same. Genotype R194-79-290-9 had the highest mean biomass yield (9.0 Mg ha −1 ) and, consistently, ranked among the top four during the four years that this study was conducted. Other genotypes that also exhibited a good performance over the four years were the cultivar Serala (7.8 Mg ha −1 ) and the breeding line 75-2-3 (7.8 Mg ha −1 ). Differences in yield stability over time among genotypes were observed, hence, long term performance would need to be considered in a breeding program. These results suggested that sericea lespedeza genotypes with a consistently high biomass yield can be selected. No significant differences were found among genotypes for crude protein concentration. Crude protein concentrations were about 25% lower than those previously reported. Significant differences among genotypes for neutral detergent fiber, hemicellulose, and holocellulose concentration were observed. However, no significant differences for acid detergent fiber, lignin, cellulose concentration, and holocellulose yield were measured. In summary, there is variability and potential to select for biomass yield and quality traits that are considered important for biofuel production.
Application of convergent-beam collimation and simultaneous transmission emission tomography to cardiac single-photon emission computed tomography.

Single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) is the most commonly performed imaging technique for perfusion studies of the heart and brain. However, these organs are much smaller than the crystal surface of gamma cameras. SPECT sensitivity and resolution can be improved by using fan- and cone-beam collimators to magnify the image of these organs over a larger portion of the crystal face. Special orbits and reconstruction algorithms must be used with convergent-beam acquisitions to prevent image distortion. Differential attenuation of source activity in the chest is one of the most vexing problems in cardiac SPECT, especially with Thallium-201. Multi-headed cameras equipped with convergent-beam collimators allow a transmission image to be obtained at the same time as emission images. applying a transmission map of the chest attenuation values to the emission images produces a truer picture of source distribution in the heart. This article reviews the technical problems associated with convergent-beam geometry and simultaneous transmission emission tomography SPECT imaging of the heart.
Magnetic Shielding Larger Than the Lower Critical Field of Niobium in Multilayers

The current technology in superconducting radio frequency linear accelerators is based on the use of bulk niobium cavities. However, optimization of bulk technology is approaching the accelerating gradient limit set by the thermodynamic critical field of niobium, HC = 200 mT . In order to surpass niobium's ultimately achievable accelerating gradient, it has been proposed to use multilayer coatings to shield bulk niobium from higher fields. These multilayer coatings involve alternating superconducting and insulating layers. The superconductor used in this multilayer structure must have a higher HC than that of niobium. NbN is one such superconductor that has potential application in these multilayer coatings. Recently, it has been shown that NbN can sufficiently shield an underlying niobium layer. However, this reported shielding has never been shown to be above the lower critical field of niobium. In this work, we present NbN multilayers that for the first time are shown to be capable of shielding an underlying niobium layer beyond the lower critical field of bulk niobium.
SPITZER SPACE TELESCOPE VIEW OF DIFFUSE NEAR-INFRARED CONTINUUM EMISSION IN THE GALAXY

The Infrared Array Camera (IRAC) multiband images from the Spitzer Space Telescope First Look Survey of two 1° × 5' areas of diffuse interstellar medium (ISM) are used to study the near-infrared (NIR; 2-5 μm) continuum emission and its relation to the mid-infrared (6-10 μm) aromatic features in emission (AFEs). We illustrate that the high sensitivity and spatial resolution of IRAC make it possible to separate the extended emission from stars independently of any model of the distribution of stars in the Galaxy. It is shown that the two independently observed areas have similar colors. Taking into account the current IRAC calibration uncertainties, these colors agree with previous Cosmic Background Explorer measurements in the Galaxy and with Infrared Space Observatory spectra of the ISM in normal star-forming galaxies. Our results imply that the average 3-10 μm spectral shape of the ISM emission does not vary significantly from diffuse sources to star-forming regions, suggesting a close physical relation between the carriers of the NIR continuum and AFEs.
The role of substrate plasticity on the tribological behavior of diamond-like nanocomposite coatings

Abstract Finite-element modeling (FEM) was used to predict the contact stress at which the transition from elastic to plastic deformation occurs in a metallic substrate underneath a hard tribological coating. Using model systems of diamond-like nanocomposite (DLN) coatings on electroformed Ni, NiMn alloy and Inconel 718, friction measurements were made at contact stresses ranging from 540 to 1720 MPa. Cross-sections of wear scars suitable for visualization of friction-induced plastic deformation in the substrate were prepared by focused ion beam microscopy and analyzed by electron backscatter diffraction. At contact stresses below the FEM-predicted elastic–plastic limit, the coefficient of friction decreased linearly with increase in contact stress, suggesting that interfacial shear is the major mechanism of friction in DLN. Contact stresses above the FEM-predicted elastic–plastic limit resulted in plastic deformation of the metallic substrate, and in extreme cases fracture and removal of the coating resulting in a sudden increase in friction.
The development of lentigines within segmental achromic nevi

Abstract The classic definition of a nevus depigmentosus is a stable congenital leukoderma that may be localized, segmental, or less often, systematized. Herein we report 2 patients whose achromic nevi underwent an unusual change—the development of multiple lentigines. The lentigines ranged in size from 3 to 5 mm and the majority had an irregular outline. Although their color was darker than that of the normal surrounding skin, the most striking clinical finding was their limited distribution. The lentigines were present only within the confines of the nevus depigmentosus. They first appeared at age 3 years in 1 child and at age 1 year in the second. No new pigmented macules were noted in the older child after age 10 years and, by that time, greater than 90% of the nevus depigmentosus was "repigmented." One possible explanation would be the reversion of a mutation in 1 of the genes involved in pigmentation. (J Am Acad Dermatol 1998;39:330-3.)
Coexistence of Haldane-gap excitations and long-range order in R2BaNiO5 (R = rare earth)

R2BaNiO5 (R = rare earth) quasi-1-D antiferromagnets are structurally equivalent to the well-studied 1-D S = 1 Haldane-gap compound Y2BaNiO5. Unlike the Y-nickelate though, these materials undergo 3-D magnetic ordering at finite temperatures. Recent inelastic neutron scattering studies of Pr2BaNiO5 and (Nd(x)Y(1-x))2BaNiO5 revealed purely one-dimensional gap excitations that propagate exclusively on the Ni-chains and are strikingly similar to Haldane gap modes in Y2BaNiO5. In the ordered phase these excitations survive and actually coexist with conventional spin waves. The results suggest that the Haldane singlet ground state of the Ni-chains is not fully destroyed by Neel ordering.
Synthesis, Structures and Photoluminescence Properties of a Series of Alkaline Earth Metal-Based Coordination Networks Synthesized Using Thiophene-Based Linkers

Three new 3-D coordination networks were synthesized using alkaline-earth metal centers, calcium, and strontium, with 2,5-thiophenedicarboxylate (TDC) as the organic linker. [Ca2(TDC-2H)2(DMF)2]n [1, space group P21/n, a = 10.0704(3) A, b = 14.2521(3) A, c = 17.5644(6) A, β = 94.281(2)°] is composed of tetrameric calcium polyhedral clusters, which are connected by the organic linkers. Coordinated DMF molecules are present within the 1-D channel along the [010] direction. [Ca(TDC-2H)]n [2, space group Pbcm, a = 5.3331(5) A, b = 6.8981(4) A, c = 18.141(2) A] consists of chains of edge-sharing calcium octahedra, connected by organic linkers, to form a dense network. [Sr(TDC-2H)(DMF)]n [3, space group P21/n, a = 5.9795(3) A, b = 17.058(1) A, c = 11.3592(6) A, β = 91.257(1)°] forms a structural topology almost identical to compound 1 except that the chains are built by combinations of edge- and face-sharing polyhedra. Compounds 1 and 3 were synthesized using DMF as solvent, whereas compound 2 crystallizes usin...
Effect of tensile and shear stress on intimal permeability of the left coronary artery in dogs

Abstract The purpose of this study was to estimate the effect of transmural pressure, circumferential tensile stress and shearing stress on the permeability of the endothelium of the left coronary artery to T-1824 (Evans blue) dye-tagged albumin. The left coronary artery was perfused in situ at controlled pressure and flow with oxygenated blood containing Evans blue dye (9.04 mg/100 cc) for one hour. Blood was collected from the distal end of the left circumflex coronary artery (LCCA) and the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD). After the experiment was completed, the endothelial surfaces of the LCCA and LAD were examined with a reflectometer for blue staining. The endothelial surface of the right coronary artery was used as control. From these data, the staining density, ρ, was calculated as a measure of the intimal surface concentration of Evans blue dye. Results indicated that: (1) the value of ρ increased with an increase in transmural pressure or circumferential tensile stress or strain, as well as an increase in shear stress, and (2) the effect of circumferential tensile stress was more marked than that of shear stress.
Inferior Vena Cava Filter Retrieval: Effectiveness and Complications of Routine and Advanced Techniques

Purpose: To investigate the success and safety of routine versus advanced inferior vena cava (IVC) filter retrieval techniques. Materials And Methods: A retrospective review was performed of patients who underwent IVC filter placement and/or a retrieval attempt over a 10-year period. Retrieval technique(s), preretrieval computed tomography, preretrieval venography, and clinical/imaging follow-up for 30 days after retrieval were analyzed. Mean filter dwell time was 134 days (range, 0–2,475 d). Results: Filter retrieval was attempted 231 times in 217 patients (39% female, 61% male; mean age, 50.7 y), with success rates of 73.2% (169 of 231) and 94.7% (54 of 57) for routine and advanced filter retrieval techniques, respectively. The overall filter retrieval complication rate was 1.7% (four of 231); complications in four patients (with multiple complications in some cases) included IVC dissection, IVC intussusception, IVC thrombus/stenosis, filter fracture with embedded strut, IVC injury with hemorrhage, and vascular injury from complicated venous access. The rate of complications associated with filter retrievals that required advanced technique was significantly higher than seen with routine technique (5.3% vs 0.4%; P o .05). Longer dwell time, more transverse tilt, and presence of an embedded hook were associated with significantly increased rates of failed retrieval via routine technique (P o .05). Conclusions: IVC filters can be retrieved with a high overall success rate (98.2%) and a low complication rate (1.7%) by using advanced techniques when the routine approach has failed; however, the use of advanced techniques is associated with a significantly higher complication rate.
Climate and water

There is considerable consensus among the international scientific community that we are facing global warming due to increasing levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide, methane, CFCs and other greenhouse gases. The perceived wisdom is that the average global temperature has increased 0.5°–0.7°C since the turn of the century or, according to some, since the 1860s. Current estimates from models indicate that temperatures may increase 1°–3°C during the next 40–60 years. However, since there are considerable gaps in our knowledge and data availability, reliability of such models leaves much to be desired.
Effective medium theory of elastic waves in random networks of rods

We formulate an effective medium (mean field) theory of a material consisting of randomly distributed nodes connected by straight slender rods, hinged at the nodes. Defining novel wavelength-dependent effective elastic moduli, we calculate both the static moduli and the dispersion relations of ultrasonic longitudinal and transverse elastic waves. At finite wave vector k the waves are dispersive, with phase and group velocities decreasing with increasing wave vector. These results are directly applicable to networks with empty pore space. They also describe the solid matrix in two-component (Biot) theories of fluid-filled porous media. We suggest the possibility of low density materials with higher ratios of stiffness and strength to density than those of foams, aerogels or trabecular bone.