cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Light Emitting Diodes

Inorganic semiconductor light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are environmentally benign and have already found widespread use as indicator lights, large-area displays, and signage applications. In addition, LEDs are very promising candidates for future energy-saving light sources suitable for office and home lighting applications. Today, the entire visible spectrum can be covered by light-emitting semiconductors: AlGaInP and AlGaInN compound semiconductors are capable of emission in the red to yellow wavelength range and ultraviolet (uv) to green wavelength range, respectively. Currently, two basic approaches exist for white light sources: The combination of one or more phosphorescent materials with a semiconductor LED and the use of multiple LEDs emitting at complementary wavelengths. Both approaches are suitable for high efficiency sources that have the potential to replace incandescent and fluorescent lights. In this article, the properties of inorganic LEDs will be presented, including emission spectra, electrical characteristics, and current-flow patterns. Structures providing high internal quantum efficiency, namely, heterostructures and multiple quantum well structures, will be discussed. Advanced techniques enhancing the external quantum efficiency will be reviewed, including resonant-cavities, die shaping (chip shaping), omnidirectional reflectors, and photonic crystals. Different approaches to white LEDs will be presented and figures-of-merit such as the color rendering index, luminous efficacy, and luminous efficiency will be explained. Finally, the packaging of low power and high power LED dies will be discussed. Keywords: light-emitting diodes (LEDs); solid-state lighting; compound semiconductors; device physics; reflectors; resonant cavity LEDs; white LEDs; packaging
Computational Nanoscience: Applications for Molecules, Clusters, and Solids

Preface Part I. 1D Problems: 1. Variational solution of the Schroedinger equation 2. Solution of bound state problems using a grid 3. Solution of the Schroedinger equation for scattering states 4. Periodic potentials: band structure in 1D 5. Solution of time-dependent problems in quantum mechanics 6. Solution of Poisson's equation Part II. 2D and 3D Systems: 7. 3D real space approach: from quantum dots to Bose-Einstein condensates 8. Variational calculations in 2D: quantum dots 9. Variational calculations in 3D: atoms and molecules 10. Monte Carlo calculations 11. Molecular dynamics simulations 12. Tight binding approach to electronic structure calculations 13. Plane wave density functional calculations 14. Density functional calculations with atomic orbitals 15. Real-space density functional calculations 16. Time-dependent density functional calculations 17. Scattering and transport in nanostructures 18. Numerical linear algebra Appendix: code descriptions References Index.
High-performance molded composites using additively manufactured preforms with controlled fiber and pore morphology

Abstract In this work, large-scale multimaterial preforms produced by additive manufacturing (AM) underwent compression molding (CM) to produce high-performance thermoplastic composites reinforced with short carbon fibers. AM and CM techniques were integrated to control the fiber orientation (microstructure) and to reduce void content for the improved mechanical performance of the composite. The new integrated manufacturing technique is termed “additive manufacturing-compression molding” (AM-CM). For the present study, the most common materials were used for large-scale printing, i.e., acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), carbon fiber (CF)–filled ABS (CF/ABS) and glass fiber (GF)–filled ABS (GF/ABS). Three different manufacturing processes; (a) AM (b) extrusion compression molding (ECM), and (c) AM-CM were used to prepare four different panel configurations: (1) neat ABS, (2) CF/ABS, (3) overmold (CF/ABS over neat ABS), and (4) sandwich (neat ABS between two CF/ABS layers). The mechanical properties (tensile and flexural strength and modulus, and Izod impact energy) of samples prepared via all three manufacturing processes were compared. X-ray microcomputer tomography was employed to evaluate the fiber orientation distribution and the volumetric porosity content. The preform maintained high fiber alignment (≈ 82% of fibers within the range of 0–20° in the deposition direction), and the volumetric porosity was reduced by 50% from 3.79% to 1.91% after compression. The alignment of long pores along the deposition direction was also observed. The mechanical properties are discussed with correlation to the fiber alignment and void content in the samples. CF/ABS samples prepared by AM-CM showed significant improvement of 11.15%, 35.27%, 28.6%, and 74.3% in the tensile strength, tensile modulus, flexural strength, and flexural modulus, respectively, when compared with samples prepared by ECM. Unique aspects of this study are the demonstration of large-scale multimaterial AM and the use of multimaterials as preforms to make high-performance composites.
Improved reproducibility of CT calcium score using blind deconvolution

Our ultimate goal is to predict adverse cardiovascular events from CT calcium score exams using radiomics. Unlike the traditional whole heart Agatston score, our approach analyzes individual calcifications, creating a challenge for accurate/reproducible assessments. Optional preprocessing consisted of 3D blind deconvolution optimized on masked sharp structures, giving PSFs similar to measured ones, followed by noise reduction. In our experiment, we found that blind deconvolution improves the accuracy and reproducibility of CT calcium score evaluation. It is beneficial to use this to predict adverse cardiovascular event since it provides a robust and accurate evaluation of clinically relevant and pre-clinical calcifications. We conclude that for archived images where PSFs are unavailable, 3D blind deconvolution is a useful preprocessing step for improved radiomics assessments of CT-calcium-score images.
Caregiver and provider perspectives on dual VA and Medicare Part D medication use in veterans with suspected dementia or cognitive impairment.

Disclaimer In an effort to expedite the publication of articles , AJHP is posting manuscripts online as soon as possible after acceptance. Accepted manuscripts have been peer-reviewed and copyedited, but are posted online before technical formatting and author proofing. These manuscripts are not the final version of record and will be replaced with the final article (formatted per AJHP style and proofed by the authors) at a later time. Purpose Many older veterans with dementia fill prescriptions through both Veterans Affairs (VA) and Medicare Part D benefits. Dual VA/Part D medication use may have unintended negative consequences on prescribing safety and quality. We aimed to characterize benefits and drawbacks of dual VA/Part D medication use in veterans with dementia or cognitive impairment from the perspectives of caregivers and providers. Methods This was a qualitative study based on semistructured telephone interviews of 2 group: (1) informal caregivers accompanying veterans with suspected dementia or cognitive impairment to visits at a VA Geriatric Evaluation and Management clinic (n = 11) and (2) VA healthcare providers of veterans with dementia who obtained medications via VA and Part D (n = 12). We conducted semistructured telephone interviews with caregivers and providers about benefits and drawbacks of dual VA/Part D medication use. Interview transcripts were subjected to qualitative content analysis to identify key themes. Results Caregivers and providers both described cost and convenience benefits to dual VA/Part D medication use. Caregivers reported drawbacks including poor communication between VA and non-VA providers and difficulty managing medications from multiple systems. Providers reported potential safety risks including communication barriers, conflicting care decisions, and drug interactions. Conclusion Results of this study allow for understanding of potential policy interventions to better manage dual VA/Part D medication use for older veterans with dementia or cognitive impairment at a time when VA is expanding access to non-VA care.
Implementation of liquid secondary ion mass spectrometry on quadrupole mass spectrometers: Strategy, optimization, and evaluation

Abstract A detailed strategy for adding liquid secondary ion mass spectrometry (L-SIMS, similar to fast atom bombardment (FAB)) capability to a quadrupole mass spectrometer equipped with only electron ionization (EI) and chemical ionization (CI) sources is delineated. The complexity of modifications is held to a level whereby any moderately equipped machine shop could complete the work. The manufacturing of specific items to enable the reversible conversion of a Hewlett-Packard HP5985A EI/CI gas chromatography-mass spectrometry instrument to perform L-SIMS was kept to a minimum. The essential fabricated items consist of a source block, a lens assembly, and a sample probe. The rationale behind the construction, and the optimization of the size and placement of each part are described in detail. The new capabilities for L-SIMS experiments are demonstrated for selected biomolecules. Sensitivity evaluations demonstrate that protonated molecules of N 6 -methyladenosine can be readily detected from as little as two picomoles of analyte.
School-based interventions to improve children’s food choices: the Kid’s choice program

Abstract: This chapter briefly reviews problems faced by children who have overeating and/or fussy-eating patterns, and the benefits of school-based interventions to encourage them to make healthy food choices. Program components suggested by past theory and research are reviewed, then a more focused review is provided for the Kid’s Choice Program, which was designed as an easy-to-use, cost-effective school– home partnership to encourage children to develop healthy behaviors in their everyday environments. The chapter describes the new features included in the Kid’s Choice Program that are not typically included in other available school-based interventions, and the simple school procedures used in the Kid’s Choice Program are outlined. Documentation is provided for the program’s effectiveness for increasing children’s fruit and vegetable consumption and choice of low-fat and low-sugar healthy drinks for both children eating school-provided lunches and home-packed lunches, as well as the program’s effectiveness for improving food choices and weight status for overweight children embedded within the sample. Program acceptability ratings by children, parents, and school staff are described, program costs per child per month of application are estimated, and documentation is given for the effectiveness of the Kid’s Choice Program when delivered by small teams of four parent volunteers.
Environmental Litigation in China: A Study in Political Ambivalence

1. Post-Mao: economic growth, environmental protection, and the law 2. From dispute to decision 3. Frontiers of environmental law 4. Political ambivalence: the state 5. On the front lines: the judges 6. Heroes or troublemakers? The lawyers 7. Soft support: the international NGOs 8. Thinking about outcomes.
Thermodynamics of Chemical Systems: The third law of thermodynamics

The energy and entropy functions have been defined in terms of differential quantities, with the result that the absolute values could not be known. We have used the difference in the values of the thermodynamic functions between two states and, in determining these differences, the process of integration between limits has been used. In so doing we have avoided the use or requirement of integration constants. The many studies concerning the possible determination of these constants have culminated in the third law of thermodynamics . We can obtain a concept of the problem by referring to the discussion in Section 7.12. There we derive expressions for the thermodynamic functions for an ideal gas by expressing the energy and entropy in terms of the heat capacities and the required integration constants. The result is that the expression for the Gibbs energy contains the term (ẽ – T ), where ẽ and are the required integration constants for the energy and entropy, respectively. When we consider the difference between the values of the Gibbs energy of the ideal gas at two temperatures, ẽ cancels but the quantity ( T 1 – T 2 remains. Therefore, in order to make the calculation, we need to know the value of. The result is the same when we consider substances other than an ideal gas. We are, therefore, concerned with the possible determination of the absolute value of the entropy.
Modeling positive intake value overlap air charge response in camless engines

Camless engines are capable of maximizing torque and fuel efficiency over a broad range of engine speeds by independently controlling the engine valves. The valve timing and operating mode changes that are required to achieve these benefits can potentially generate significant steady state and transient variations in the air charge and burned gas fraction. An unthrottled camless engine air charge model is developed that is capable of simulating the steady state and transient air charge behavior. Simulation results are used to demonstrate the impact of valve timing and engine speed variations on the air charge and burned gas response and to motivate the use of such models in the camless engine control development process.
A moonlighting function of Mycobacterium smegmatis Ku in zinc homeostasis

Ku protein participates in DNA double-strand break repair via the nonhomologous end-joining pathway. The three-dimensional structure of eukaryotic Ku reveals a central core consisting of a β-barrel domain and pillar and bridge regions that combine to form a ring-like structure that encircles DNA. Homologs of Ku are encoded by a subset of bacterial species, and they are predicted to conserve this core domain. In addition, the bridge region of Ku from some bacteria is predicted from homology modeling and sequence analyses to contain a conventional HxxC and CxxC (where x is any residue) zinc-binding motif. These potential zinc-binding sites have either deteriorated or been entirely lost in Ku from other organisms. Using an in vitro metal binding assay, we show that Mycobacterium smegmatis Ku binds two zinc ions. Zinc binding modestly stabilizes the Ku protein (by ∼3°C) and prevents cysteine oxidation, but it has little effect on DNA binding. In vivo, zinc induces significant upregulation of the gene encoding Ku (∼sixfold) as well as a divergently oriented gene encoding a predicted zinc-dependent MarR family transcription factor. Notably, overexpression of Ku confers zinc tolerance on Escherichia coli. We speculate that zinc-binding sites in Ku proteins from M. smegmatis and other mycobacterial species have been evolutionarily retained to provide protection against zinc toxicity without compromising the function of Ku in DNA double-strand break repair.
Demand for Breach

These studies elicit behavioral evidence for how people weigh monetary and non-monetary incentives in efficient breach. Study 1 is an experimental game designed to capture the salient features of the efficient breach decision. Subjects in a behavioral lab were offered different amounts of money to break the deal they had made with a partner. 18.6% of participants indicated willingness to break a deal for any amount of profit, 27.9% were unwilling to breach for the highest payout, and the remaining subjects identified a break-point in between. Study 2 is an online questionnaire asking subjects to take the perspectives of buyers or sellers considering a profitable breach of contract. The results were consistent with Study 1, yielding a demand curve for breach. I conclude by proposing a research agenda that investigates in a systematic way how individuals make legal decisions in the face of competing norms.
A two-step model of acute CD4 T-cell mediated cardiac allograft rejection.

CD4 T cells are both necessary and sufficient to mediate acute cardiac allograft rejection in mice. This process requires “direct” engagement of donor MHC class II molecules. That is, acute rejection by CD4+ T cells requires target MHC class II expression by the donor and not by the host. However, it is unclear whether CD4+ T cell rejection requires MHC class II expression on donor hemopoietic cells, nonhemopoietic cells, or both. To address this issue, bone marrow transplantation in mice was used to generate chimeric heart donors in which MHC class II was expressed either on somatic or on hemopoietic cells. We report that direct recognition of hemopoietic and nonhemopoietic cells are individually rate limiting for CD4+ T cell-mediated rejection in vivo. Importantly, active immunization with MHC class II+ APCs triggered acute rejection of hearts expressing MHC class II only on the somatic compartment. Thus, donor somatic cells, including endothelial cells, are not sufficient to initiate acute rejection; but they are necessary as targets of direct alloreactive CD4 T cells. Taken together, results support a two-stage model in which donor passenger leukocytes are required to activate the CD4 response while direct interaction with the somatic compartment is necessary for the efferent phase of acute graft rejection.
Synchronous colonic carcinomas presenting as an inguinoscrotal hernial mass: a case report

A carcinoma within a hernia in the groin is uncommon, with an incidence of less than 0.5 percent of all excised sacs. This article describes a case of synchronous colonic carcinomas, one of which presented as an inguinoscrotal mass. A 69-year old man presented with a large, irreducible left inguinoscrotal hernia and symptoms of obstruction. On examination, there was an 8 cm palpable mass within the hernia sac. CT scan revealed small and proximal large bowel obstruction secondary to a large ingunoscrotal sac and synchronous colonic tumours of the transverse colon and the ascending colon. The former presented as an inguinoscrotal mass. Laparotomy revealed a large tumour mass arising from the transverse colon in the hernia sac. The procedure was followed by an extended right hemicolectomy, during which the second tumour in the ascending colon was also resected. This case demonstrates a rare but interesting occurrence of primary transverse colon carcinoma presenting in a hernia sac, in conjunction with a synchronous tumour of the ascending colon. Prognosis is comparable to patients with a solitary tumour of similar pathological staging when the resection is curative. The presence of an inguinal hernia itself does not signify an increased risk of colorectal malignancy. However, in the presence of obstruction, incarceration, and weight loss, malignancy should be suspected. Thorough clinical examination, flexible sigmoidoscopy or radiographic evaluation is necessary preoperatively in such patients. Surgical resection, with or without adjuvant oncological treatment, should be performed as soon as possible, using established techniques with modifications according to involvement of local structures.
Suppression of late-phase skin reactions by immunotherapy with ragweed extract.

Abstract The cutaneous late-phase reaction (LPR) to ragweed was studied in untreated ragweed-allergic individuals and patients receiving 3 to 5 years of immunotherapy demonstrating clinical improvement. The magnitude of immediate skin reactions and the initial levels of the specific IgE and IgG antiragweed antibodies were similar in both groups. The LPR was elicited by administering a skin test with ragweed extract at 10 times the concentration required to elicit a 4 + immediate reaction and appeared as an erythematous-edematous lesion associated with pruritus. In the untreated group 94% developed an LPR (59 ± 32 mm at 4 hours and 67 ± 30 mm at 8 hours) at this dose. In the treated group only one third developed an LPR, one third had partial response measurable at one of these two times, and one third failed to develop any LPR (21 ± 20 mm at 4 hours, p p p r = −0.52) but not with IgE antibody. Thus, in a retrospective analysis immunotherapy was associated with the suppression of the skin LPR, and the magnitude of the LPR was correlated with the level of IgG antiragweed. We suggest that the clinical efficacy of immunotherapy is related in part to effects on the LPR.
Measuring Complex Features of Science Instruction: Developing Tools to Investigate the Link Between Teaching and Learning

There is a growing national recognition that teachers and teaching are at the heart of successful educational reform. However, few tools exist for measuring classroom instruction. The primary purpose of this article is to describe methods we developed to measure and study teaching, specifically while teachers were using a multimedia intervention for promoting scientific problem solving. Lessons were videotaped, and coding schemes were developed to measure 2 aspects of teaching: (a) the lesson's organization, particularly whole-class instruction used to introduce problems and share students' work; and (b) the nature of tasks and questions given to students. Results showed that the coding schemes were reliable and that they detected differences in instruction across teachers. Qualitative analyses were consistent with the quantitative findings. The codes also captured features of teaching that would have been difficult to detect or verify with qualitative observations alone. Finally, we explored how these me...
Ultrastructural estimation of relative volume of extracellular space in brain slices

Abstract Ultrastructural estimation of the relative volume of the interstitial space in guinea pig cerebral cortex slices incubated under various experimental conditions has been made. The interstitial space volume was 3% in a slice incubated aerobically for 10 min in a medium enriched with 10 m M glucose as well as in an unincubated slice suspended in a medium lacking glucose. Under the optimal condition of 20 min aerobic incubation in a medium containing 10 m M glucose, the interstitial space volume was 7.5%. It was also 7.5% after 20 min anaerobiosis. However, the volume of intracellular compartment was much larger in the anaerobically-incubated slices. With longer aerobic incubation, the interstitial space volume was increased, reaching 13% at 1 h. The alterations in the size of the interstitial space caused by deprivation of glucose, or both glucose and oxygen were studied. The interstitial space volume was also determined in slices incubated in the presence of l -glutamic acid as substrate or in the combined presence of glucose and l -glutamic acid. Measurements were made of the astrocytic cytoplasm volume in electron micrographs prepared from slices incubated under optimal conditions. It is suggested that the extracellular space estimated by biochemical methods includes both the true interstitial space and the fluid compartment represented by astrocytic cytoplasm. This inclusion of astrocytic cytoplasm into a functional extracellular space is consistent with previously-reported ultrastructural evidence for a high sodium content of cortical astrocytes.
MRI sleep studies: Use of positive airway pressure support in patients with severe obstructive sleep apnea

Maintaining the patency of the upper airway during MRI sleep studies, without an artificial airway placement in sedated or anesthetized patients with severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a major challenge. We report two cases in which a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) was used instead of artificial airway to allow interpretation of the dynamic component of the study.
Selective text utilization and text traversal

Many large collections of full-text documents are currently stored in machine-readable form and processed automatically in various ways. These collections may include different types of documents, such as messages, research articles, and books, and the subject matter may vary widely. To process such collections, robust text analysis methods must be used, capable of handling materials in arbitrary subject areas, and flexible access must be provided to texts and text excerpts of varying size. In this study, global text comparison methods are used to identify similarities between text elements, followed by local context-checking operations that resolve ambiguities and distinguish superficially similar texts from texts that actually cover identical topics. A linked text structure is then created that relates similar texts at various levels of detail. In particular, text links are available for full texts, as well as text sections, paragraphs, and sentence groups. The linked structures are usable to identify important text passages, to traverse texts selectively both within particular documents and between documents, and to provide flexible text access to large text collections in response to various kinds of user needs. An automated 29-volume encyclopedia is used as an example to illustrate the text accessing and traversal operations.
Inhibition of prolyl hydroxylation during collagen biosynthesis in human skin fibroblast cultures by ethyl 3,4-dihydroxybenzoate.

Abstract The enzymatically catalyzed formation of 4-hydroxyproline plays a key role in the intracellular biosynthesis of collagen, since a critical number of 4-hydroxyprolyl residues is required for synthesis and secretion of triplehelical procollagen molecules under physiologic conditions. The enzyme catalyzing the conversion of prolyl residues to 4-hydroxyproline, prolyl 4-hydroxylase, requires ferrous ion, α-ketoglutarate, and ascorbate for its activity. 3,4-Dihydroxybenzoic acid has been known to act as potent competitive inhibitor of purified prolyl 4-hydroxylase with respect to one or several of the cofactors or cosubstrates of the enzyme. 3,4-Dihydroxybenzoic acid, however, is a poor inhibitor of prolyl hydroxylation in intact cells, probably due to its polarity not allowing it to enter the cells. In this study, several hydrophobic modifications of 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid were tested in human skin fibroblast cultures for their efficacy to inhibit the synthesis of 4-hydroxyproline. The results indicated that the ethylester of 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid was an efficient inhibitor of prolyl hydroxylation in fibroblast cultures, with K i of ∼0.4 mM. Ethyl 3,4-dihydroxybenzoate had little, if any, effect on the hydroxylation of lysyl residues, and it did not affect total protein synthesis or DNA replication in these cells. To test the hypothesis that ethyl 3,4-dihydroxybenzoate might serve as a potential antifibrotic agent, its efficacy in inhibiting prolyl hydroxylation in scleroderma fibroblasts was also tested. The results indicated that the synthesis of 4-hydroxyproline in scleroderma cell cultures was similarly reduced by ethyl 3,4-dihydroxybenzoate. Thus, structural analogs of the cofactors or cosubstrates of prolyl 4-hydroxylase, such as ethyl 3,4-dihydroxybenzoate tested here or its further modifications, may serve as inhibitors of posttranslational hydroxylation of prolyl residues also in vivo. These compounds could potentially provide a novel means of reducing collagen deposition in tissues in fibrotic diseases, such as scleroderma.
Electron impact ionization of SiCl 2 and SiCl

We measured absolute partial cross sections for the formation of all singly charged positive ions produced by electron impact on SiCl2 and SiCl from threshold to 200 eV using the fast-neutral-beam technique. Some of the cross section curves exhibit an unusual energy dependence with a pronounced low-energy maximum at an energy around 30 eV, which may be indicative of the presence of indirect ionization channels. Dissociative ionization channels are dominant for both species. The experimentally determined total single ionization cross sections for both species agree very well with calculated cross sections using the Deutsch-Mark (DM) formalism. A brief summary of the ionization cross sections determined for all four SiClx (x=1–4) species is given highlighting similarities and differences.
Earth Monitoring: Whole Earth comes into focus

To understand how our planet uses energy, we must integrate genetic data from microbial studies with satellite views of our planet.
Fluoxetine: a review of receptor and functional effects and their clinical implications

Downregulation of serotonin 5-HT1 receptors is the most frequently reported central nervous system neural effect of subchronic exposure to fluoxetine in rodents. However, downregulation of these receptors has not been universally demonstrated. Effects of subchronic exposure on 5-HT2 receptors are mixed. Fluoxetine exposure appears to have no effect on cholinergic muscarinic receptors. Effects on beta-adrenergic receptors are controversial, as only one laboratory has reported down-regulation. The majority of studies have failed to show an effect on beta-adrenergic-receptor-stimulated cAMP generation. Electrophysiologic studies support the concept that fluoxetine facilitates net serotonergic transmission through downregulation of presynaptic inhibitory autoreceptors. Data suggest that its subchronic specificity and selectivity distinguish fluoxetine from members of other classes of available antidepressants, making it a distinct therapeutic option.
The crystal structure of dehydrated NaX

Abstract The crystal structure of dehydrated NaX, composition Na 88 Al 88 Si 104 O 384 , a 0 = 25.099(5) A, has been determined using single-crystal X-ray diffraction methods and refined in space group Fd3. Diffraction symmetry and refined T - O distances indicate substantial ordering of Si and Al in the T sites. All Na + cations were located. Site occupancies on a unit cell basis are: site I = 2.9, site I′ = 29.1, site II = 31.0, and site III = 29.8. Na + ions in sites I′ and III are split between two and three closely related positions, respectively.
Seasonal patterns of ornithine decarboxylase activity and levels of polyamines in relation to the cytology of germinal cells during spermatogenesis in the sea star, Asterias vulgaris.

The activity of ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) and levels of polyamines were measured in the testes of Asterias vulgaris ncollected throughout an annual spermatogenic cycle. Samples of the testes were prepared for light and electron microscopy to observe the associated changes in the cytology of germinal cells. The specific activity of ODC increased at the onset of testicular growth, decreased during the coldest period of the winter when testicular growth was minimal, and increased again early in the spring when testes grew maximally. Increased activity of ODC resulted in increased levels of polyamines and was correlated with either mitotic or meiotic germinal cell divisions, or both. Spermine levels were always greater than putrescine, followed by spermidine. Highest levels of polyamine synthesis coincided with the onset of spermatogonial proliferation during the fall and with the period of meiotic differentiation and spermiogenesis in the spring. Mid-summer (July) testes were small (0.3n0.5 gonad index (GI)) and contained amitotic spermatogonia arrested in G 1 nof the cell cycle. Mitotic and pre-meiotic testes (October/November) increased slightly in size (0.3n1.4 GI) and contained actively dividing spermatogonia, most of which differentiated into primary spermatocytes. Testes from February and March were large (1n6.75 GI), but the proliferative status of their spermatogonia and primary spermatocytes varied. Spermatogonia and primary spermatocytes from early February testes were not dividing. In testes obtained in March, both spermatogonial mitosis and meiosis of spermatocytes resumed, coincident with increased field water temperatures.
Electromyography (EMG) Controlled Assistive Rehabilitation System

Electromyography (EMG) is a method for monitoring the electrical activity of skeletal muscles. The EMG signal is used to diagnose neuromuscular diseases and muscular injuries. EMG can also be utilized as an indicator of user intent for a muscle contraction for a specific motion. This input signal could be used to control powered exoskeleton prostheses. Limbs with impaired motor function tend to have increased disuse that may result in further muscle weakness. Therapy and other physical activities that increase the use of an impaired limb may contribute to some recovery of motor function. A device that helps to perform activities of daily living may increase usage and enhance recovery. The objective of this project is to make developments toward an EMG controlled assistive rehabilitation system that monitors EMG signals of the bicep and triceps muscles, and drives a motor to assist with arm motion. A motor is used to develop torque that would assist rotations of the arm about the elbow. A pair of EMG sensors (one pair near the biceps and the other near the triceps muscle) transmits electrical activity of the arm to a microcontroller (Raspberry Pi, Raspberry Pi Foundation, United Kingdom). For the prototype, the EMG signal is sampled and rectified within a moving time window to determine the root mean squared (VRMS) value. This value is used by the microcontroller to generate a pulse-width modulated (PWM) signal that controls the motor. Sensors for the motor provide information to an algorithm on the microcontroller. The generated PWM signal is based on the Vrms values for the EMG signal. Testing and analysis has shown a correlation between the EMG Vrms amplitude and muscle generated torque. The EMG controlled assistive rehabilitation system shows promise for assisting motor function for rotations about the elbow. Further algorithmic development is needed to determine the appropriate amount of assistance from the motor for the motor function indicated by user intent.© 2014 ASME
The Greenhouse Effect: Science and Policy

Global warming from the increase in greenhouse gases has become a major scientific and political issue during the past decade. That infrared radiation is trapped by greenhouse gases and particles in a planetary atmosphere and that the atmospheric CO(2) level has increased by some 25 percent since 1850 because of fossil fuel combustion and land use (largely deforestation) are not controversial; levels of other trace greenhouse gases such as methane and chlorofluorocarbons have increased by even larger factors. Estimates of present and future effects, however, have significant uncertainties. There have also recently been controversial claims that a global warming signal has been detected. Results from most recent climatic models suggest that global average surface temperatures will increase by some 2 degrees to 6 degrees C during the next century, but future changes in greenhouse gas concentrations and feedback processes not properly accounted for in the models could produce greater or smaller increases. Sea level rises of 0.5 to 1.5 meters are typically projected for the next century, but there is a small probability of greater or even negative change. Forecasts of the distribution of variables such as soil moisture or precipitation patterns have even greater uncertainties. Policy responses range from engineering countermeasures to passive adaptation to prevention and a "law of the atmosphere." One approach is to implement those policies now that will reduce emissions of greenhouse gases and have additional societal benefits. Whether the uncertainties are large enough to suggest delaying policy responses is not a scientific question per se, but a value judgment.
Use of Some "Discriminant Analysis" Computer Programs

The objective of this paper is to review the outputs of selected computer programs often used to carry out a "discriminant analysis" with respect to two purposes of such an analysis: (1) discrimination, and (2) classification. The programs selected are three BMD programs. Information provided by the programs in terms of requisite data conditions for each type of analysis is discussed. The information yielded directly by any of the programs is quite inadequate for either of the two purposes just mentioned. The obtaining of supplemental indicators is mentioned.
Transforming Teacher Constructs of Children and Families Who Are Homeless.

The focus of this article is on articulating the importance of teacher development of constructs about homeless children and families and examining factors that influence teachers’ perceptions of children and families who are homeless or at high-risk of becoming homeless. The article also explores some strategies to support teachers in transforming their perceptions of homeless children and provides case examples of how this process can work. Three case studies explore how teacher educators and practicing teachers can work together to reflect on their own perceptions of homeless children from high-poverty backgrounds and how educators were able to transform their own perceptions in being able to better serve their students.
Effect of β‐adrenergic receptor blockade or refractoriness induced by isoproterenol on growth of keratinocytes in virto

SUMMARY Almost complete suppression of β-adrenergic sensitivity of adenylate cyclase was produced in keratinocytes growing on collagen gels either by induction of refractoriness by isoproterenol or by receptor blockade by propranolol, these drugs being introduced 3 days post-plating and continuously thereafter. Neither of these two manoeuvres affected growth of the keratinocytes. Despite this suppression, basal levels of cyclic AMP never fall below the levels observed in untreated cultures. On the other hand, growth inhibition is observed if isoproterenol or propranolol is added on plating. When keratinocytes are seeded on 3T3 fibroblast feeder layers, isoproterenol enhances colony growth, as reported elsewhere, indicating that the effects of isoproterenol are therefore modulated by the culture surface. In either of these in vitro model systems studied (collagen or feeder layers), no mechanism was obvious that would account for propranolol-induced psoriasiform lesions observed in vivo.
Quantitative Characterization of the Morphology of Multiwall Carbon Nanotube Films by Small-Angle X-ray Scattering

Films of multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) grown by thermal chemical vapor deposition were studied using small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS). We assessed the extent of alignment of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) by examining relative SAXS intensities as a function of azimuthal angle. We also identified features in the SAXS patterns that correspond well to CNT diameters measured through high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. For the case of thick films, corresponding to CNTs with lengths on the order of a millimeter, we were able to study the morphology of the films as a function of distance from the catalyst substrate. We examined two different films in which the morphologies of CNTs range from vertically aligned to entangled and tortuous. We determined that the alignment of CNTs as well as their average diameter can vary significantly throughout the film, demonstrating the utility of SAXS for quantitative structural analysis of CNT films, indicating the potential to reveal new information about the CNT growth process, and relating variations in morphology to evolution of the catalyst and reaction conditions.
Dissociation energy of the HOOO radical.

The dissociation of the hydrotrioxy (HOOO) radical to OH and O2 has been studied theoretically using coupled-cluster methods. The calculated dissociation energy for the trans-HOOO isomer is 2.5 kcal mol−1 including zero-point corrections. The minimum energy path to dissociation has been explored and an exit barrier has been revealed, which may help to rationalize the apparent disagreement between theory and experiment on the magnitude of the bond energy.
Connective Tissue Growth Factor: What's in a Name?

Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is a member of the recently described CCN gene family which contains CTGF itself, cyr61, nov, elm1, Cop1, and WISP-3. CTGF is transcriptionally activated by several factors although its stimulation by transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) has attracted considerable attention. CTGF acts to promote fibroblast proliferation, migration, adhesion, and extracellular matrix formation, and its overproduction is proposed to play a major role in pathways that lead to fibrosis, especially those that are TGF-beta-dependent. This includes fibrosis of major organs, fibroproliferative diseases, and scarring. CTGF also appears to play a role in the extracellular matrix remodeling that occurs in normal physiological processes such as embryogenesis, implantation, and wound healing. However, recent advances have shown that CTGF is involved in diverse autocrine or paracrine actions in several other cell types such as vascular endothelial cells, epithelial cells, neuronal cells, vascular smooth muscle cells, and cells of supportive skeletal tissues. Moreover, in some circumstances CTGF has negative effects on cell growth in that it can be antimitotic and apoptotic. In light of these discoveries, CTGF has been implicated in a diverse variety of processes that include neovascularization, transdifferentiation, neuronal scarring, atherosclerosis, cartilage differentiation, and endochondral ossification. CTGF has thus emerged as a potential important effector molecule in both physiological and pathological processes and has provided a new target for therapeutic intervention in fibrotic diseases.
The role of gender and distance mentoring in the surgical education research fellowship.

Objective The nature of the mentor-mentee relationship is important in the pursuit of successful research projects. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the mentor-mentee relationships in the Surgical Education Research Fellowship (SERF) based on gender and geographical distances regarding program completion. We hypothesize that there are no differences for SERF program completion rates based on gender pairs and distances between pairs. Methods This was a retrospective study from 2006 to 2011. Mentor-mentee rosters were retrospectively reviewed for program completion, demographics, and PubMeD indexing. Time zone differences and geographic distances between pairs were found with online applications. Chi-square tests were used for categorical variables and nonparametric statistics were carried out using α = 0.05. Results Of the 82 individuals accepted into the SERF program, 43 (52%) completed the SERF program during the study period. There were no differences in program completion rates based on fellow gender and gender pairing (all p > 0.05). Different-gender pairs that completed the program ( n = 17) were indexed more frequently on PubMed than same-gender pairs that completed the program ( n = 24) (41% vs 12%, p=0.04). There were no differences in program completion based on time zone differences (p = 0.20). The median distance between pairs completing the program ( n = 35) was greater than that for pairs not completing the program ( n = 36) (1741km [IQR: 895-3117km] vs 991km [IQR: 676-2601km]; p=0.03). Conclusion Completion of the SERF program was independent of mentor-mentee gender pairs and time zone differences. There was greater geographical distance separating mentor-mentee pairs that completed the SERF program compared with pairs that did not complete the program. Distance mentoring is a successful and crucial element of the SERF program.
Prehospital intmenous fluid therapy in the pediatric trauma patent

Abstract The existing standard of care for pediatric hemorrhagic shock secondary to trauma mandates immediate aggressive fluid resuscitation. This standard of care has been scrutinized because of concerns that it could potentially harm patient outcome by worsening uncontrolled hemorrhage—hemorrhage from a site not immediately accessible to compression outside of the operating room. These concerns are supported by several arguments, ranging from an intuitive physiologic argumen to prospective, randomized clinical data from hypotensive adult trauma patients. Children, however, remain a physiologically unique and understudied subset of trauma patients. A new standard of care has yet to emerge.
Hypoxemia during outpatient general anesthesia.

Abstract A high incidence of arterial oxygen desaturation during outpatient general anesthesia was found when patients were continuously monitored with the ear oximeter. The incidence of hypoxemia is minimized by the use of supplemental oxygen.
Sex differences in methamphetamine seeking in rats: impact of oxytocin.

Summary Previous evidence in an animal model of drug self-administration and drug seeking showed that acute oxytocin decreased methamphetamine (meth) seeking in male rats, suggesting potential clinical efficacy for the treatment of psychostimulant addiction. However, based on the well-established role of oxytocin in reproduction and pair bond formation, it is important to know how this effect extrapolates to females. Here, we tested whether oxytocin (1 mg/kg, IP) would decrease meth seeking in female rats across various stages of the estrous cycle (Experiment 1). Freely cycling Long Evans female rats self-administered meth (IV) in 2-h daily sessions, followed by daily extinction sessions. Following extinction, rats received oxytocin (0, 0.3, or 1 mg/kg, IP) 30 min before a meth priming injection (1 mg/kg, IP) to assess reinstatement of meth seeking. Next, we examined the effects of oxytocin on motivated meth- and sucrose-taking and seeking in male and female rats. In separate experiments, males and females self-administered meth (Experiment 2) or sucrose (Experiment 3) until responding was stabilized along a fixed ratio (FR) 5
Changes in Intelligence Following Temporal Lobectomy: Relationship to EEG Activity, Seizure Relief, and Pathology

Pre- and posttemporal lobectomy measures of intelligence and memory in 36 patients with medically refractory complex partial seizures were compared with (1) various aspects of presurgical ictal and interictal EEG activity derived from surface and deep electrodes, (2) postlobectomy seizure relief, and (3) pathological findings in the resected lobe. With respect to interictal EEG data, bilaterally synchronous surface spikes (accompanied or unaccompanied by simultaneous deep spikes) and sharp waves were significantly correlated with lower prelobectomy intelligence scores and a drop in these scores following lobectomy. With respect to ictal EEG data, bilaterally synchronous and multifocal onsets were significantly correlated with a postlobectomy drop in intelligence scores. Patients with poor postlobectomy seizure relief tended to have lower presurgical intelligence scores and a drop in intelligence scores following lobectomy. The patients most likely to show a postlobectomy drop in intelligence were those demonstrating some combination of poor seizure relief, an absence of pathology in the resected specimen, or EEG signs indicative of poor seizure relief. Postlobectomy changes in intellectual status are therefore not necessarily exclusively attributable to the amount of postlobectomy seizure relief experienced by these patients, but might be due to a combination of factors.
Vocational assessment involvement and use of the self-directed search by school psychologists

This paper offers a justification for the school psychologist's involvement in the vocational assessment process and suggests the use of a vocational instrument entitled the Self-Directed Search (SDS). It is argued that use of this instrument can provide school psychologists with a psychometrically sound and time- and cost-efficient means of incorporating a vocational component into their secondary school psychoeducational assessments. The SDS, and the theory upon which it is based, is described. The integration of SDS data with other psychoeducational data to generate vocationally specific recommendations is also discussed.