cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Language and education in Japan: Unequal access to bilingualism, by Kanno, Y.

Language and Education in Japan: Unequal Access to Bilingualism is one of the first and most comprehensive volumes that document bilingual education in non-English-speaking countries. Through ethno...
Double-Differential Beryllium Neutron Cross Sections at Incident Neutron Energies of 5.9, 10.1, and 14.2 MeV

We measured beryllium neutron-production cross sections using the time-of-flight technique at incident neutron energies of 5.9, 10.1, and 14.2 MeV, and at laboratory angles of 25, 27.5, 30, 35, 45,...
Constructions preserving Hilbert space uniform embeddability of discrete groups

Uniform embeddability (in a Hilbert space), introduced by Gromov, is a geometric property of metric spaces. As applied to countable discrete groups, it has important consequences for the Novikov conjecture. Exactness, introduced and studied extensively by Kirchberg and Wassermann, is a functional analytic property of locally compact groups. Recently it has become apparent that, as properties of countable discrete groups, uniform embeddability and exactness are closely related. We further develop the parallel between these classes by proving that the class of uniformly embeddable groups shares a number of permanence properties with the class of exact groups. In particular, we prove that it is closed under direct and free products (with and without amalgam), inductive limits and certain extensions.
Evidence for low-frequency waves of tropical rainfall inferred from microwave brightness temperature

Evidence for the 30-60-day oscillation was found in the rainfall data that were retrieved from Special Sensor Microwave/Imager (SSM/I) brightness temperatures from January to December 1989. Spectral analysis of daily rainfall showed that the strongest rainfall oscillations were located from 5 deg S to 5 deg N and extend from about 60 deg E to 180 deg. The oscillation propagated eastward at a speed of approximately 4 m/s along the equatorial Indian-western Pacific Ocean area. Northward propagation at a speed of about 1.5 m/s was also detected from 15 deg S to 30 deg N over the Indian Ocean between early May and late July.
Interaction between photon flux density and elevated temperatures on photoinhibition in Alocasia macrorrhiza

The effects of light and elevated temperatures on the efficiency of energy conversion in PSII [OPSII = (Fm′−Fs)/Fm′], pigment composition and heat tolerance of shade-acclimated Alocasia macrorrhiza were investigated. Leaf discs were exposed for 3 h to high light (HL; 1600 μmol photons · m−2 · s−1) or low light (LL; 20 μmol photons · m−2 · s−1) and a series of constant temperatures ranging from 30 to 49 °C. All HL treatments led to rapid and severe decreases in OPSII. During the 2-h recovery period (LL, 25 °C) following the HL treatments, fast and slow recovery phases could be distinguished. Leaf discs that had experienced HL and 30 °C recovered completely while no recovery of OPSII was seen after a 3-h exposure to HL and 45 °C. A 3-h exposure to 45 °C at LL led to a less severe decrease in OPSII and complete recovery was accomplished after less than 1 h. Under LL conditions a temperature of 49 °C was necessary to cause an irreversible decrease in OPSII, followed by necrosis the next day. Streptomycin had no effect on the degree of reduction and recovery in OPSII discs exposed to HL and 35–45 °C, but partially inhibited recovery in discs exposed to HL and 30 °C. Streptomycin led to a more severe decrease in OPSII at LL and 49 °C and completely inhibited recovery. Streptomycin had no effect on the conversion of the xanthophyll-cycle pigments during the treatment or the recovery. The epoxidation state was roughly the same in all leaf discs after a 3-h HL treatment (0.270–0.346) irrespective of the exposure temperature. The back-conversion of zeaxanthin into violaxanthin after a 2-h recovery period was only seen in leaf discs that had been exposed to HL and 30 °C. The thermotolerance of shade A. macrorrhiza leaves of 49.0 ± 0.7 °C (determined by fluorescence) coincided with the temperature at which damage occurred in leaf discs exposed to LL. However, under HL the critical temperature under which necrosis occurred was much lower (42 °C). The thermotolerance of A. macrorrhiza shade leaves could be increased by a short exposure (<20 min) to slightly elevated temperatures.
Inside Out: Action Research from the Teacher–Researcher Perspective

Teachers enrolled in the master of natural science program for high school science teachers at a large research university must complete a year-long action research study. This account, by the program’s action research coordinator, describes both process and outcomes of this research experience from the perspectives of the research coordinator and the teacher–researchers, shedding light on the organizational learning that takes place, and the ways in which the research experience affected individual teacher–researchers. Teachers reported that their action research experience changed them in fundamental ways, providing them with a framework for deepening their understanding of student thinking, challenging their folk wisdom about teaching and learning, building confidence in their abilities and renewing their commitment to teaching as a vocation.
Solubility of Benzodiazepines in Polyethylene Glycol 200 + Water Mixtures at 303.2 K

Experimental solubilities of chlordiazepoxide, diazepam, and lorazepam in polyethylene glycol 200 (PEG 200) + water mixtures at 303.2 K were reported. The solubility of each drug increased exponentially with the addition of PEG 200 and reached the maximum value in neat PEG 200. The Jouyban-Acree model was used to mathematically describe the experimental data, and the solubilities were predicted using a previously trained version of the Jouyban-Acree model for PEG + water mixtures and the solubility data in monosolvents. The overall mean relative deviations of the models were 3.7% and 18.3%, respectively, for the fitted model and the trained version. © 2010 American Chemical Society.
General relativity: frame-dragging confirmed.

According to a prediction of general relativity, the spinning mass of the Earth affects the motion of satellites. A measurement of this 'frame-dragging' effect confirms Einstein's theory.
Alternative Splice Variants of MYH9

MYH9 encodes a class II nonmuscle myosin heavy chain-A (NMHC-IIA), a widely expressed 1960 amino acid polypeptide, with a translated molecular weight of 220 kDa. The relatively large number of exons (40) that encode NMHC-IIA and the splice variants that have been documented for its two isoforms, MYH10 and MYH14, strongly suggest existence of alternative splicing for MYH9. In the current study, we perform a targeted search for Myh9 splice variants in two separate regions of the heavy chain that encode loop 1 and loop 2 subdomains within which alternative exons in MYH10 and MYH14 splice variants have been identified. The splice variant search was conducted using two strategies: amplification across the suspected exons directly or by amplification of putative splice variants identified through conserved sequence analysis of suspected intronic regions. Within loop 1, two separate insertions of 12 and 41 nucleotides were identified using conserved sequence analysis only. Each of these insertions, located within intron 4, resulted in premature termination of the variant transcript. Within loop 2, a 63-nucleotide-long in-frame insertion was identified using both strategies. The insertion is identical in length and displays 65% sequence identity with its Myh10 counterpart, but differs greatly from the 123-nucleotide-long insertion within Myh14 transcript identified in this study. Both loop 1 and loop 2 variants of Myh9 were detected in the cochlea, with the latter being most abundant in the brain. Expression of loop 1 variants with premature termination codon may reflect an alternate mode of regulating Myh9 expression, while the conserved sequence and selective expression of the loop 2 variant highlight its potential biological importance.
Understanding views of disability in the Cote d’Ivoire

While there are several international initiatives advocating for rights of individuals with disabilities in their community, many African countries lag behind in taking any actions. This is an ethnographic study conducted in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire in West Africa, and examines the current programs and services for children with disabilities, and views of disability among the public. It utilizes individual and group interviews, field observations, surveys and examination of governmental documents. There are tremendous needs and shortcomings regarding disability programs. This might be due not only to a lack of resources but to the views of disabilities held by society.
Long-term experience with interferon beta-1b (Betaferon®) in multiple sclerosis

The interferon beta-1b (IFNbeta-1b, Betaferon/Betaseron) molecule was cloned some 20 years ago. In a pilot dose-finding trial involving 30 multiple sclerosis (MS) patients, the 10 MS patients receiving 250 microg (8 MIU) IFNbeta-1b every other day at 6 months showed a reduced attack frequency relative to 6 patients receiving placebo. Based on these extremely preliminary results a Phase III placebo-controlled trial was undertaken. Treatment with IFNbeta-1b was shown to reduce attack frequency and severity and to markedly reduce magnetic resonance imaging-(MRI) measured activity and disease burden. IFNbeta-1b therapy was subsequently shown to reduce MRI activity within 2 weeks of starting treatment. The benefits of treatment with IFNbeta-1b observed in the original pivotal study are maintained in the longer term, with consistent treatment effects seen after 5 years. IFNbeta-1b has subsequently been shown to reduce accumulation of disability in MS patients with early active secondary progressive disease, to increase cerebral metabolism, and to improve cognitive performance.IFNbeta-1b therapy is generally well tolerated. Classical systemic side effects related to all beta interferons can effectively be managed by dose escalation, and the use of an autoinjector minimises injection site reactions. About one-third of MS patients receiving IFNbeta-1b develop anti-interferon antibodies, typically within the first year of therapy. These antibodies have variable titres that fall with time and ultimately disappear in most patients. The clinical consequences of the presence of antibodies are presently unclear and inconsistent-some patients without antibodies respond poorly to treatment, whereas others with high-titre antibodies respond well to treatment. It is possible that immune complexes formed when anti-interferon antibodies encounter IFNbeta may enhance some of the immunomodulatory actions of the drug by improving CD8 cell-mediated suppressor function. Until the clinical relevance of antibodies is better understood, treatment decisions should be based on clinical grounds only.
Data day: the anarchist and the barrister

Considers a hypothetical law school library, L.A. Law Lib, and its bid to become a leader in library automation. Discusses key issues for implementing on‐line access to its extensive catalogue, and carefully considers the open nature of the Internet and its implications for law libraries. Details problem of resolving conflicts between the needs of end‐users of the system and system managers.
Embodied Progress: A Cultural Account of Assisted Conception

Embodied Progress: A Cultural Account of Assisted Conception. SARAH FRANKLIN. London and New York: Roultedge, 1997. xii + 252 pp., bibliography, notes, index.
Inhibition of growth and reduction in tumorigenicity of UCI-107 ovarian cancer by antagonists of growth hormone-releasing hormone and vasoactive intestinal peptide

Purpose: To evaluate the tumor inhibitory activities of antagonists of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GH-RH) and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) in UCI-107 human ovarian cancer model, and to investigate the role of the insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system in the response. Methods: In the present study we investigated the effects of GH-RH antagonist JV-1-36 and VIP antagonist JV-1-52, on the growth and tumorigenicity of UCI-107 ovarian cell carcinoma xenografted into nude mice. Studies on the effects of hGH-RH(1-29)NH2, IGF-I, IGF-II, JV-1-36, and JV-1-52 on the proliferation of UCI-107 cells cultured in vitro were also performed. Results: After 22 days of therapy with JV-1-36 or JV-1-52 at the dose of 20 µg/day, the final volume of UCI-107 tumors was significantly (P<0.05) decreased by 50.5% and 56%, respectively, compared to controls. The concentration of IGF-II in tumors was reduced by 66% in the JV-1-36-treated group and by 62% in the group given JV-1-52 (both P<0.05). Exposure in vitro to 1 µM concentrations of JV-1-36 or JV-1-52 for 24 h decreased the tumorigenicity of UCI-107 cells in nude mice. All ten mice injected with cells treated with medium alone developed tumors within 23 days after cell inoculation, while only eight of ten and four of ten mice injected with cells exposed to JV-1-36 or JV-1-52, respectively, had tumors. In vitro exposure of UCI-107 cells to 5–35 ng/ml IGF-II produced a significant suppression in the rate of cell proliferation (P<0.01). Conclusion: Our results suggest that GH-RH and VIP antagonists inhibit the growth of UCI-107 ovarian cell carcinoma by mechanisms that appear to involve direct effects on the cancer cells.
Apoptosis pathways: turned on their heads?

Signaling pathways activated by cellular stress and death-inducing stimuli ultimately converge in activation of caspases, a family of cysteine proteases that act as common death effector molecules in various forms of cell death (Hengartner, 2000; Thornberry and Lazebnik, 1998). By induced proximity initiator caspases such as caspase-8 or -9 are activated in a multimeric complex, e.g. caspase-8 in the death-inducing signaling complex (DISC) at the cell membrane and caspase-9 at the cytoplasmatic apoptosome (Thornberry and Lazebnik, 1998). Effector caspases such as caspase-3 are activated by subsequent catalytic processing of the zymogens at specific cleavage sites (Thornberry and Lazebnik, 1998). Caspase activation can be initiated through different entry sites, e.g. at the plasma membrane by death receptor-mediated signaling (receptor pathway) or at the mitochondria (mitochondrial pathway). Stimulation of death receptors of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor superfamily such as CD95 (APO-1/Fas) or TRAIL receptors by their cognate ligands results in activation of caspase-8 or -10 at the DISCs. During stress-induced apoptosis, e.g. in response to DNA damage, cytochrome c, apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF), Smac/Diablo, Omi/HtrA2 or endonuclease G are released as apoptogenic factors from the mitochondrial intermembrane space (Ravagnan et al., 2002; Cory and Adams, 2002). The release of cytochrome c into the cytosol triggers caspase-9 activation through formation of the cytochrome c/Apaf-1/caspase-9-containing apoptosome complex (Cory and Adams, 2002). Caspase-9 constitutes the initiator caspase in the mitochondrial pathway. For most forms of cellular stress-induced apoptosis, e.g. following DNA damage, activation of the mitochondrial pathway is considered to be the key initiating event (Herr and Debatin, 2001). However, the mechanisms by which mitochondria become activated in response to cellular stress largely remained enigmatic so far.
Advancing Inflation Targeting in Central Europe: Strategies, Policy Rules and Empirical Evidence

This paper analyses the evolution of inflation targeting policies in Central European countries. The origins of their inflation targeting strategies are examined, above all the commitment to price stability as well as the inability of prior policy regimes to engender financial stability. Recent policy modifications toward greater flexibility of inflation targeting are reviewed and a system of targeting the differentials between the domestic and the euro area inflation forecast is advocated as conducive to achieving euro-convergence.
Alterations in the sialylation and sulfation of secreted mouse thyrotropin in primary hypothyroidism

Abstract We investigated the effect of in , vivo hypothyroidism on the sialylation and sulfation of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) secreted by mouse pituitary explants. Oligosaccharides from secreted thyroid-stimulating hormone from hypothyroid animals contained greater sialic acid relative to sulfate in both α and β subunits. Aging per , se had little effect on thyroid-stimulating hormone sialylation or sulfation. Variable sialylation and sulfation demonstrates a mechanism for charge microheterogeneity of thyroid-stimulating hormone, and the increasing sialylation observed with hypothyroidism may functionally mediate the prolonged metabolic clearance that has been noted previously.
Using Modular Psychotherapy in School Mental Health: Provider Perspectives on Intervention-Setting Fit

The "fit" or appropriateness of well-researched interventions within usual care contexts is among the most commonly cited, but infrequently researched, factors in the successful implementation of new practices. The current study was initiated to address two exploratory research questions: How do clinicians describe their current school mental health service delivery context? and How do clinicians describe the fit between modular psychotherapy and multiple levels of the school mental health service delivery context? Following a year-long training and consultation program in an evidence-based, modular approach to psychotherapy, semistructured qualitative interviews were conducted with 17 school-based mental health providers to evaluate their perspectives on the appropriateness of implementing the approach within a system of school-based health centers. Interviews were transcribed and coded for themes using conventional and directed content analysis. Findings identified key elements of the school mental health context including characteristics of the clinicians, their practices, the school context, and the service recipients. Specific evaluation of intervention-setting appropriateness elicited many comments about both practical and value-based (e.g., cultural considerations) aspects at the clinician and client levels but fewer comments at the school or organizational levels. Results suggest that a modular approach may fit well with the school mental health service context, especially along practical aspects of appropriateness. Future research focused on the development of methods for routinely assessing appropriateness at different stages of the implementation process is recommended.
Stress Relaxation and the Activation Energy for Plastic Flow in Solids: Commercially-Pure Aluminum

Activation energy measurement using stress relaxation for plastic flow in commercially pure Al compared with creep and tensile method
Gender differences in mortality after hip fracture: the role of infection.

Possible explanations for the observed gender difference in mortality after hip fracture were examined in a cohort of 804 men and women. Mortality during 2 years after fracture was identified from death certificates. Men were twice as likely as women to die, and deaths caused by pneumonia/influenza and septicemia showed the greatest increase. Introduction: Men are more likely to die after hip fracture than women. Gender differences in predisposing factors and causes of death have not been systematically studied. Materials and Methods: Participants (173 men and 631 women) in the Baltimore Hip Studies cohort enrolled in 1990 and 1991, at the time of hospitalization for hip fracture, were followed longitudinally for 2 years. Cause-specific mortality 1 and 2 years after hip fracture, identified from death certificates, was compared by gender and to population rates. Results and Conclusions: Men were twice as likely as women to die during the first and second years after hip fracture (odds ratio [OR], 2.28; 95% CI, 1.47, 3.54 and OR, 2.21; 95% CI, 1.48, 3.31). Prefracture medical comorbidity, type of fracture, type of surgical procedure, and postoperative complications did not explain the observed difference. Greatest increases in mortality, relative to the general population, were seen for septicemia (relative risk [RR], 87.9; 95% CI, 16.5, 175 at 1 year and RR, 32.0; 95% CI, 7.99, 127 at 2 years) and pneumonia (RR, 23.8; 95% CI, 12.8, 44.2 at 1 year and RR, 10.4; 95% CI, 3.35, 32.2 at 2 years). The magnitude of increase in deaths caused by infection was greater for men than for women in both years. Mortality rates for men and women were similar if deaths caused by infection were excluded (3.46 [1.79, 6.67] and 2.47 [1.63, 3.72] at 1 year and 0.96 [0.48, 1.91] and 1.26 [0.80, 1.98] at 2 years). Deaths related to infections (pneumonia, influenza, and septicemia) seem to be largely responsible for the observed gender difference. In conclusion, an increased rate of death from infection and a gender difference in rates persists for at least 2 years after the fracture.
IN VIVO ANALYSIS OF INTRON PROCESSING USING SPLICING-DEPENDENT REPORTER GENE ASSAYS

The mechanisms of intron recognition and processing have been well-studied in mammals and yeast, but in plants the biochemistry of splicing is not known and the rules for intron recognition are not clearly defined. To increase understanding of intron processing in plants, we have constructed new pairs of vectors, pSuccess and pFail, to assess the efficiency of splicing in maize cells. In the pFail series we use translation of pre-mRNA to monitor the amount of unspliced RNA. We inserted an ATG codon in the Bz2 (Bronze-2) intron in frame with luciferase: this construct will express luciferase activity only when splicing fails. In the pSuccess series the spliced message is monitored by inserting an ATG upstream of the Bz2 intron in frame with luciferase: this construct will express luciferase activity only when splicing succeeds. We show here, using both the wild-type Bz2 intron and the same intron with splice site mutations, that the efficiency of splicing can be estimated by the ratio between the luciferase activities of the vector pairs. We also show that mutations in the unique U-rich motif inside the intron can modulate splicing. In addition, a GC-rich insertion in the first exon increases the efficiency of splicing, suggesting that exons also play an important role in intron recognition and/or processing.
Consumer Choice Consistency in Transportation Decisions

This article develops and empirically determines a consistency index measuring the degree of loyalty that consumers show in their choice of transportation mode for different kinds of trips. Socio-economic-demographic, travel behavior, and attitudinal variables are examined as possible explanatory factors influencing the loyalty measure.
Internet Resources in Piano and Piano Pedagogy

Abstract Internet sites on the piano and piano pedagogy are numerous and may be difficult and time-consuming to evaluate.This annotated list of useful sites will be of interest to alltypes of pianists and piano teachers.The individual sites listed offer free materials andinformation in a concise and understandable format.
Acute toxicity of hydrogen peroxide treatments to selected lifestages of cold-, cool-, and warmwater fish

Abstract Hatchery personnel depend on therapeutant treatments to control diseases. Currently, hatchery managers in the United States are limited to one approved therapeutant (formalin) and three compounds of Low Regulatory Priority (sodium chloride, hydrogen peroxide, and acetic acid) to control external diseases of cultured fish. Hydrogen peroxide has been used to effectively control external columnaris and bacterial gill disease in rainbow trout, however, definitive safe treatment concentrations for hydrogen peroxide are lacking for a variety of species. We report the acute toxicity of hydrogen peroxide treatments to 11 species of fry and 13 species of fingerling freshwater fish. Most mortality occurred within the first 30 h after the first exposure to hydrogen peroxide with little change in the overall shape of survival curves over time. Our data predict that in an actual therapeutic application of hydrogen peroxide, most treatment-related mortalities would be observed shortly after the initial exposure. Coolwater species were more sensitive than coldwater species but were generally similar to warmwater species tested. Based on our mortality data, coldwater species and largemouth bass may be treated for 60 min at concentrations of ≤ 150 (μl/1 without harmful effects; all muskellunge, walleye, bluegill, channel catfish, yellow perch, pallid sturgeon fingerlings, fathead minnow fingerlings, white sucker fingerlings, and northern pike fry may be treated for 60 min at ≤ 100 μl/l; and northern pike fingerlings and white sucker, yellow perch and fathead minnow fry may be treated for 60 min at ≤ 50μl/l.
IP is dead, long live IP for wireless sensor networks

A decade ago as wireless sensor network research took off many researchers in the field denounced the use of IP as inadequate and in contradiction to the needs of wireless sensor networking. Since then the field has matured, standard links have emerged, and IP has evolved. In this paper, we present the design of a complete IPv6-based network architecture for wireless sensor networks. We validate the architecture with a production-quality implementation that incorporates many techniques pioneered in the sensor network community, including duty-cycled link protocols, header compression, hop-by-hop forwarding, and efficient routing with effective link estimation. In addition to providing interoperability with existing IP devices, this implementation was able to achieve an average duty-cycle of 0.65%, average per-hop latency of 62ms, and a data reception rate of 99.98% over a period of 4 weeks in a real-world home-monitoring application where each node generates one application packet per minute. Our results outperform existing systems that do not adhere to any particular standard or architecture. In light of this demonstration of full IPv6 capability, we review the central arguments that led the field away from IP. We believe that the presence of an architecture, specifically an IPv6-based one, provides a strong foundation for wireless sensor networks going forward.
Ruminating about Symbolic Conflict through Imagined Interactions

Functional theory, as conceptualized by Dance and Larson [1], provided the framework for examining how individuals utilize imagined interactions to link conflict episodes. Proactive and retroactive...
Preparation of SiO2 overlayers on oxide substrates by chemical vapor deposition of Si(OC2H5)4

Abstract The deposition of SiO2 onto ZrO2, TiO2, MgO, SiO2 and Al2O3 by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) of Si(OC2H5)4 was studied by temperature programmed desorption (TPD) and Auger electron spectroscopy (AES). TPD showed that Si(OC2H5)4, adsorbed at 300 K, decomposed on ZrO2, TiO2, MgO and Al2O3 to give ethene and H2O during the TPD. SiO2 did not adsorb Si(OC2H5)4 at 300 K. The decomposition of Si(OC2H5)4 on ZrO2 decreased as the amount of SiO2 grew. The Zr AES signals attenuated strongly while that of Si increased. We conclude that a SiO2 thin film about 10 A thick forms on ZrO2. This thin film was stable in vacuum up to 723 K but, at 823 K, either rearranged into small clusters or formed a solid solution with the surface of ZrO2. The decomposition activity of TiO2 for Si(OC2H5)4 did not decrease strongly as SiO2 deposition proceeded. This is accounted for if SiO2 clusters are produced leaving TiO2 sites exposed. Over both ZrO2 and TiO2 adsorption of CO2 was suppressed by the deposition of SiO2. There is no significant carbon buildup during deposition on ZrO2 but on all the other oxides its accumulation is important.
Spatiotemporal protein distribution of TGF-βs, their receptors, and extracellular matrix molecules during embryonic tendon development†

Tendon is one of the least understood tissues of the musculoskeletal system in terms of development and morphogenesis. Collagen fibrillogenesis has been the most studied aspect of tendon development, focusing largely on the role of matrix molecules such as collagen type III and decorin. While involvement of matrix molecules in collagen fibrillogenesis during chick tendon development is well understood, the role of growth factors has yet to be elucidated. This work examines the expression patterns of transforming growth factor (TGF) -β1, -β2, and -β3, and their receptors with respect to expression patterns of collagen type III, decorin, and fibronectin. We focus on the intermediate stages of tendon development in the chick embryo, a period during which the tendon micro- and macro-architecture are being established. Our findings demonstrate for the first time that TGF-β1, -β2, and -β3 have distinct spatiotemporal developmental protein localization patterns in the developing tendon and strongly suggest that these isoforms have independent roles in tendon development. Developmental Dynamics 237:1477-1489, 2008. Published 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Assemblages of algae and invertebrates in Southern California Phyllospadix-dominated intertidal habitats

Abstract The assemblages of macroalgae and macroinvertebrates that coexist in intertidal Phyllospadix beds at seven sites in San Diego County, California, are described quantitatively. Most of the algae are attached to benthic substrates (68 of 71 species); one of the 90 recorded invertebrates is restricted to the blades of Phyllospadix species. The composite data, considered to be characteristic of beds of both P. torreyi S. Watson and P. scouleri W. Hook. at the sites sampled, are compared qualitatively with the biota in various other adjacent and nearby habitats. With the exception of four epibiotic taxa, found only on blades of the surfgrass, the organisms are not uniquely associated with habitats where Phyllospadix plants are present. No patterns of seasonal fluctuation were evident in either species abundance or occurrences. Several ubiquitous species were consistently found in larger numbers, but most were observed infrequently.
Network friendly video streaming via adaptive LMS bandwidth control

In this research, we examine the problem of real-time video streaming over the Internet by introducing an adaptive least-mean-squares (LMS) bandwidth controller to adjust the amount of video data uploaded to the network so that the packet loss can be minimized in face of network congestion. The adaptive LMS bandwidth controller, which resides at the client end, sends a feedback signal to the server regarding the available bandwidth that can be supported by the network at a specified packet loss rate. The available bandwidth is continuously updated with the everchanging network conditions. Simulation results are provided to demonstrate the superior performance of the proposed LMS bandwidth controller.
Harbor shield program update: Underwater acoustic imaging of moving vessels

Battelle and Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC) Division Newport have developed a maritime security system called Harbor Shield, which can acoustically image the underhull of a vessel from a fixed location to detect potential threats while the vessel is underway. US Immigration and Customs Enforcement dive teams and other security personnel have recovered parasitic drug smuggling devices attached to hulls, and similar devices could be used to attach explosives. At present, the only way to detect such objects is through inspection of stationary vessels by divers, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) or autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). This method is resource intensive and disruptive to traffic, making 100% inspection of vessels a challenge. Harbor Shield will provide the ability to scan moving vessels; process and fuse data from multiple sensors (including side scan sonar); and interface with harbor security systems. This paper discusses recent results, future plans, and benefits of the system.
Finite element analysis for solder ball connect (SBC) structural design optimization

Solder Ball Connect (SBC) is a second-level surface mount electronics packaging technology in which ceramic modules containing one or more chips are joined to a circuit card (FR-4) by means of an array of nonhomogeneous solder columns. These columns consist of a high-temperature-melting 90%Pb/lO%Sn solder sphere attached to the module and card with eutectic solder fillets. The solder structures accommodate the bulk of the strain (which is due to the thermal-expansion mismatch between FR-4 and the 9211 ceramic of the modules) generated during power cycling. If the solder structures are not properly designed, the thermal strain can be a source of premature fatigue failure. In this work, finite element analysis is used to characterize the plastic strains that develop in the SBC interconnection during thermal cycling. Since plastic strain is a dominant parameter that influences low-cycle fatigue, it is used as a basis of comparison for various structural alternatives. Designed experiment techniques are used to systematically evaluate the thermal strain sensitivity to structural variables. Results are used to identify an optimally reliable structure that is robust in terms of assembly-process variables.
A novel amniocentesis model for learning stereotactic skills

Objective This study developed a lifelike amniocentesis model to allow effective acquisition of the stereotactic skills necessary and comfort level with this procedure. Study design An amniocentesis model is constructed using a formalin preserved gravid pig uterus. A large Ziploc freezer bag (Dow, Indianapolis, Ind) filled with ultrasound gel is placed on the uterus to simulate the skin and subcutaneous layer. Results Amniocentesis can be performed in the usual fashion using this lifelike model. No leak was observed in the Ziploc bag (Dow) or gravid uterus despite more than 50 needle insertions. The cost of 4 to 5 learning stations is approximately $50.00. This model enjoys the advantages of being changeable to reproduce a variety of real-life situations, including poly/oligo/anhydramnios, varied fetal positions and different thickness of subcutaneous tissue. Conclusion This low-cost novel model provides realistic tissue resistance and yields a sonographically accurate amniocentesis-training tool. The use of this model permits resident instruction in a nonthreatening environment.
Outcomes of inpatient mobilization: a literature review

Aims and objectives To review current research evidence on the outcomes of mobilising hospitalised adults. Background Although immobility is known to cause functional decline or complications, inpatient ambulation emerged as the most often missed element of nursing care. This study is designed to review research studies that give evidence as to the consequences of mobilising or not mobilising hospitalised adult patients. Design A literature review of published peer-reviewed empirical research was undertaken. Methods The electronic databases of MEDLINE (Ovid), CINAHL, and PubMed were accessed to search for relevant empirical articles, supplemented by a search of reference lists contained in retrieved articles and citation tracking. Results Thirty-six studies were identified for inclusion in the review. Four areas (study design, sample size, measurement and statistical analysis) were evaluated for methodological quality, and most studies showed strong quality. A synthesis of the findings generated four themes of the effects of inpatient mobilisation: (1) physical outcomes included pain, deep vein thrombosis, fatigue, etc.; (2) psychological outcomes included anxiety, depressive mood, distress, comfort and satisfaction; (3) social outcomes included quality of life and independence; and (4) organisational outcomes included length of stay, mortality and cost. Conclusion Mobilising hospitalised adults brings benefits for not only physical functioning, but also their emotional and social well-being. Moreover, ambulation yields important organisational benefits. These benefits of mobilisation on four areas required viewing the patient in a holistic manner. Even though each study approached different types of patients, illnesses and procedures, this review showed that most inpatients would benefit from mobilisation and would experience optimal functions. Relevance to clinical practice The importance of mobilisation for positive patient outcomes highlights the need to develop methods to ensure that this nursing action is completed on a systematic basis.
A Framework for Teaching, Learning, and Assessing Environmental Issues

Abstract A twelve-question framework for teaching, learning, and assessing environmental issues was created through analysis of environmental textbooks and interviews with professors and researchers who specialize in the environment. Concepts in the framework include: causes, scale, spatial distribution, longevity, consequences, risks, economic implications, solutions, obstacles, social values, stakeholders, political status, behavior changes, and personal actions. The twelve-question framework was submitted to a validity panel of geographers. Statistical analysis of responses from the panel indicates that the framework is valid.
Relative Humidity over the West Florida Continental Shelf

Observed relative humidity variations on the coastal ocean of the West Florida Continental Shelf (WFS) are examined over the 5-yr period 1998–2003. Despite considerable daily variability within seasons, the monthly mean values are nearly constant at about 75%. Summertime specific humidity is twice that during winter, so high air temperatures are responsible for the low summer monthly mean relative humidities. Winter has the greatest relative humidity variability; values range from less than 50% to over 100% as extratropical fronts move over the WFS. Saturation (and fog) occurs as warm moist air passes over colder water. Two different sensors, mounted on multiple moorings, were used to make these observations. Monthly mean values from the Rotronics MP-100F are higher than the Hygrometrix 1020SHT. In addition to sensor differences, a contributing cause to this offset appears to be the locations chosen for sensor deployment. NCEP reanalysis climatology over the WFS and land-based coastal data both show an annual cycle in monthly mean relative humidity, with higher values in summer, suggesting that the reanalysis field is influenced by land. Air–sea fluxes over the WFS are sensitive to small spatial variability in the coastal ocean and atmosphere. The large grid spacing of the NCEP reanalysis does not capture this variability. The lack of coastal ocean data for assimilation biases the NCEP reanalysis fields toward land-based measurements. Increased spatial coverage via evolving Coastal Ocean Observing Systems should remedy this problem by providing required information for describing and understanding the complicated ocean–atmosphere interactions that occur on continental shelves.
On the Schur Decomposition of a Matrix for Parallel Computation

An algorithm to solve the eigenproblem for nonsymmetric matrices on an N × N array of mesh-connected processors, isomorphic to the architecture described by Brent and Luk for symmetric matrices, is presented. This algorithm is a generalization of the classical Jacobi method, and, as such, holds promise for parallel architectures. The rotational parameters for the nonsymmetric case are carefully analyzed; many examples of a working program, simulating the parallel architecture, are given with experimental evidence of quadratic convergence.
A group-administered test of children’s metamemory

A group-administered test of children’s metamemory was assessed for retest reliability, internal consistency, sensitivity to age, and sensitivity to IQ. In all important psychometric respects, this group test was similar to previously published individually administered tests. The new test provides an easily administered, broad-based index of memory-related knowledge for young children.
RESPONSE TO AIR POLLUTION IN LJUBLJANA, YUGOSLAVIA*

The chief sources of air pollution in Ljubljana are emissions from home heating units, motor vehicles, and factories which combine with adverse atmospheric and topographic conditions to produce a serious hazard. Institutional barriers to effective control of pollution include inadequate legal restraint and a social emphasis on productivity. Residents are reasonably aware of the existence and distribution of air pollution, but fail to understand its components and natural relationships, or the important contribution made by home heating. People who perceive a local problem are more willing to make adjustments to reduce pollution or its negative effects. A long-shared experience with a chronic hazard reduced the variations in awareness and individual adjustment. Information on the existing status of public knowledge and ways of coping suggests specific areas of concentration in designing a community response to air pollution.
Zone-Boundary Acoustic Phonons in Adamantine Compounds from Far-Infrared Absorption Measurements

Optical-absorption studies in the far infrared at 4.2\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K have been made on single crystals of cubic ZnS, ZnSe, ZnTe, CdTe, and GaAs. Absorption peaks are seen which correspond to the creation of $2\mathrm{TA}(L)$ and $2\mathrm{TA}(X)$ phonons, allowed two-phonon processes in the zinc-blende structure. These same processes are forbidden in the diamond, rock-salt, and cesium-chloride structures. The $\mathrm{TA}(L)$, $\mathrm{TA}(X)$, $\mathrm{LA}(L)$, and $\mathrm{LA}(X)$ phonon energies for 12 different adamantine compounds can readily be correlated with the measured elastic constants by assuming that the phonon-dispersion curves for all the crystals are similar. From this correlation, some predictions are made for acoustic-phonon energies in GaSb, InP, and InAs. This correlation does not work well for either SiC or diamond crystals.
Order-disorder transition in a two-layer quantum antiferromagnet.

We have studied the antiferromagnetic order-disorder transition occurring at T=0 in a two-layer quantum Heisenberg antiferromagnet as the interplane coupling is increased. Finite-size scaling of quantum Monte Carlo results for the staggered structure factor gives the critical ratio ${\mathit{J}}_{\mathit{c}}$=2.51\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.02 between the interplane and in-plane coupling constants. The critical behavior is consistent with the 3D classical Heisenberg universality class. Results for the uniform magnetic susceptibility and the correlation length at finite temperature are compared with recent predictions for the (2+1)-dimensional nonlinear \ensuremath{\sigma} model.
INSPIRED High School Computing Academies

If we are to attract more women and minorities to computing we must engage students at an early age. As part of its mission to increase participation of women and underrepresented minorities in computing, the Increasing Student Participation in Research Development Program (INSPIRED) conducts computing academies for high school students. The academies are designed to increase students’ knowledge of and interest in computing and to encourage females and minorities to participate in computing. INSPIRED academies differ from others in several ways. They are relatively easy to organize and require relatively few resources; they focus on computing concepts and object-oriented programming; they expose students to successful female and minority computer scientists; and they actively engage university students from underrepresented groups to organize, coordinate, teach, and help assess the academies. This not only provides role models for the high school students but also helps engage the university students and promote their professional development. Our assessment results show that high school student participants have gained significant knowledge and interest in computing through participation in the academies. This article describes the organization, coordination, content, and assessment of the academies, along with suggestions for those who would like to design academies like these. It also discusses how to prepare university students for their roles in the academies and how their participation has helped in their professional development. It includes pointers to sites from which the instructional and assessment materials can be downloaded for those who wish to replicate or adapt these materials.
Migration through host cells activates Plasmodium sporozoites for infection

Plasmodium sporozoites, the infective stage of the malaria parasite transmitted by mosquitoes, migrate through several hepatocytes before infecting a final one. Migration through hepatocytes occurs by breaching their plasma membranes, and final infection takes place with the formation of a vacuole around the sporozoite. Once in the liver, sporozoites have already reached their target cells, making migration through hepatocytes prior to infection seem unnecessary. Here we show that this migration is required for infection of hepatocytes. Migration through host cells, but not passive contact with hepatocytes, induces the exocytosis of sporozoite apical organelles, a prerequisite for infection with formation of a vacuole. Sporozoite activation induced by migration through host cells is an essential step of Plasmodium life cycle.
Thin PDMS Films Using Long Spin Times or Tert-Butyl Alcohol as a Solvent

Thin polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) films are frequently used in “lab on a chip” devices as flexible membranes. The common solvent used to dilute the PDMS for thin films is hexane, but hexane can swell the underlying PDMS substrate. A better solvent would be one that dissolves uncured PDMS but doesn't swell the underlying substrate. Here, we present protocols and spin curves for two alternatives to hexane dilution: longer spin times and dilution in tert-butyl alcohol. The thickness of the PDMS membranes under different spin speeds, spin times, and PDMS concentrations was measured using an optical profilometer. The use of tert-butyl alcohol to spin thin PDMS films does not swell the underlying PDMS substrate, and we have used these films to construct multilayer PDMS devices.
Readability of Advance Directive Documents

Purpose: To assess the readability of advance directive documents. Design: Descriptive. Sample: Convenience, 10 advance directive documents from various sources. Methods: Advance directive documents were electronically scanned in 1994 then evaluated using three readability formulas: Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level, Flesch Reading Score, and Gunning's Fog Index. Findings: The average readability (in schoolgrade levels) of the 10 documents was 11.3 using the Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level and 18.2 using the Gunning's Fog Index. Conclusions: All documents were above reading levels usually recommended for patients. Clinical Implications: Patients must be able to read and understand advance directive documents before signing them. Refinement of the documents is recommended to support patient understanding and autonomy in end-of-life care.
Macrocycles in the construction of acyclic stereochemistry

Abstract The conformations of macrocyclic intermediates provide a useful medium through which distant chiral centers may control chemical reactions. In this paper, we show that macrocycles made by cyclization of simple acyclic starting materials with an auxiliary spacer may be used to prepare stereochemically complex acyclic products.