cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Wettability of Calcium Phosphate Ceramics by Water

To evaluate the wettability of phosphate ceramics by water, contact angles of hydroxyapatite-tricalcium phosphate composite ceramics were measured by the sessile drop and adhesion tension methods. It was difficult to obtain an equilibrium contact angle by the sessile drop method. On the other hand, reproducible values were obtained by the adhesion tension method if the sample was ground to less than 0.6mm in thickness. The contact angles of hydroxyapatite and β-tricalcium phosphate ceramics were 30.7° and 23.5°, respectively. The contact angle of the composite ceramics obtained by mixing of hydroxyapatite with tricalcium phosphate increased suggesting that the hydrophilicity of the surface decreased. The wettability of the composite ceramics increased with increasing surface hydroxyl group density measured by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy.
Potential Co-Factor Role of Tobacco Specific Nitrosamine Exposures in the Pathogenesis of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder.

BACKGROUND Cerebellar developmental abnormalities in Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) are linked to impairments in insulin signaling. However, co-morbid alcohol and tobacco abuses during pregnancy are common. Since smoking leads to tobacco specific Nitrosamine (NNK) exposures which have been shown to cause brain insulin resistance, we hypothesized that neurodevelopmental abnormalities in FASD could be mediated by ethanol and/or NNK. METHODS Long Evans rat pups were intraperitoneal (IP) administered ethanol (2 g/kg) on postnatal days (P) 2, 4, 6 and/or NNK (2 mg/kg) on P3, P5, and P7 to simulate third trimester human exposures. The Cerebellar function, histology, insulin and Insulin-like Growth Factor (IGF) signaling, and neuroglial protein expression were assessed. RESULTS Ethanol, NNK and ethanol+NNK groups had significant impairments in motor function (rotarod tests), abnormalities in cerebellar structure (Purkinje cell loss, simplification and irregularity of folia, and altered white matter), signaling through the insulin and IGF-1 receptors, IRS-1, Akt and GSK-3β, and reduced expression of several important neuroglial proteins. Despite similar functional effects, the mechanisms and severity of NNK and ethanol+NNK induced alterations in cerebellar protein expression differed from those of ethanol. CONCLUSIONS Ethanol and NNK exert independent but overlapping adverse effects on cerebellar development, function, insulin signaling through cell survival, plasticity, metabolic pathways, and neuroglial protein expression. The results support the hypothesis that tobacco smoke exposure can serve as a co-factor mediating long-term effects on brain structure and function in FASD.
Examining Unlock Journaling with Diaries and Reminders for In Situ Self-Report in Health and Wellness

In situ self-report is widely used in human-computer interaction, ubiquitous computing, and for assessment and intervention in health and wellness. Unfortunately, it remains limited by high burdens. We examine unlock journaling as an alternative. Specifically, we build upon recent work to introduce single-slide unlock journaling gestures appropriate for health and wellness measures. We then present the first field study comparing unlock journaling with traditional diaries and notification-based reminders in self-report of health and wellness measures. We find unlock journaling is less intrusive than reminders, dramatically improves frequency of journaling, and can provide equal or better timeliness. Where appropriate to broader design needs, unlock journaling is thus an overall promising method for in situ self-report.
Dissecting resistance mechanisms in melanoma combination therapy

We present a compartment model that explains melanoma cell response and resistance to mono and combination therapies. Model parameters were estimated by utilizing an optimization algorithm to identify parameters that minimized the difference between predicted cell populations and experimentally measured cell numbers. The model was then validated with in vitro experimental data. Our simulations show that although a specific timing of the combination therapy is effective in controlling tumor cell populations over an extended period of time, the treatment eventually fails. We subsequently predict a more optimal combination therapy that incorporates an additional drug at the right moment.
Genetic approaches to malaria control: how long the road?

Abstract Malaria control schemes based on the yet untested concept of replacing vector populations with mosquitoes of the same species unable to transmit the parasite offer one more means of attacking this important public health problem. Research is underway in several laboratories aimed at defining factors that can act to interrupt the development of the malaria parasite in the mosquito host, the genetic basis for such refractory mechanisms, methods for introducing genes coding for refractory mechanisms into the mosquito genome, and methods for replacing vector populations in the field. The complexities of such an undertaking are many and varied, but the potential impact of a successful replacement strategy on the epidemiology of malaria in the target area could be significant.
EMOTIONS IN CLINICAL MEDICINE.

Since man's illnesses occur in the social setting of his human relationships, the physician must explore the psychosocial as well as the physiologic factors that contribute to his patients' symptoms. Only then will he be able to understand all the forces that conspire to produce or prolong human disease, and to provide a rational and complete program of treatment. These generalizations are illustrated by a case history, the common psychosocial factors influencing disease are reviewed, and general principles of patient management are outlined.
Aerosol application of cyanoacrylate adhesive.

Background Cyanoacrylate adhesive has been used to treat corneal perforations and stromal melting disorders. We examined the efficacy of aerosolization as a means of applying cyanoacrylate to the cornea. Methods Central corneal perforations were created with a 1-millimeter trephine in cadaver eyes. A small amount of N-butyl cyanoacrylate was delivered to the perforation site via aerosol. Experiments were also conducted with cadaver eyes which had received lamellar keratectomies to stimulate corneal thinning disorders. Results Adequate seal of the 1-millimeter perforation was achieved following aerosol application of cyanoacrylate adhesive. In experiments conducted with eyes which had been perforated and those which received lamellar keratectomies, smooth anterior surface contours were achieved using the aerosol technique. Conclusions Aerosolization may be an effective method of applying cyanoacrylate adhesive.
NEUROTROPHIC FACTORS IN ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE

ABSTRACT Since the discovery of neurotrophic factors in the early 1950s, and the subsequent finding in the 1980s that they can prevent neuronal death in the adult brain, it has been clear that these molecules represent potential means of treating progressive neuronal loss in the context of neurodegenerative disorders. The first neurotrophic factor identified, Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), prevents the death and stimulates the function of basal forebrain cholinergic neurons. Degeneration of cholinergic neurons occurs early in Alzheimer's disease (AD), raising the possibility that NGF could be a means of preventing or reducing cholinergic dysfunction and loss in AD. However, means of effectively and safely delivering NGF to the central nervous system became a limiting factor in transitioning to clinical trials. This chapter will review the development of NGF therapy for AD, from early rodent studies through the demonstration that NGF gene delivery exhibits trophic influences on cholinergic neurons in the AD brain.
Tolerance in the Polish Workplace Towards Gay Men and Lesbians

In spite of positive developments concerning the legal status of Polish lesbians, gay men, and bisexuals (LGB) that were set in motion on the eve of Poland’s accession to the European Union, LGB Poles are currently the subjects of more discrimination in Polish society and public life than any other group. This chapter describes the principal legal instruments that comprise the institutional environment of their rights in the workplace, and briefly discusses the legal status of discrimination on the basis of gender identity, which is not explicitly covered by Polish law. In addition, using recent, nationally representative survey data, the chapter examines the nature and etiology of public opinion regarding equal treatment of gay men and lesbians in all occupations. While the law implicitly protects bisexuals, the survey questions on which this chapter relies focus explicitly only on gay men and lesbians. The analysis of the sources of the more or less favorable views on workplace equality demonstrates that those views vary with respondents’ age, ideological self-placement, and opinions about Poland’s membership of the European Union. The closing section discusses the implications of the chapter’s findings for the future of Polish public opinion on workplace equality.
The Expected Gender Performance, Subversion of it, and Post-Colonial Discourse in the Grass is Singing

The aim of my research is to find out that how the black colonized society and the women irrespective of color have been oppressed by the male and the white colonizers. The Grass is Singing offers a form of oppression of women which ultimately ends up with the same result that is destruction and violence. Mary wants to torture the black men inferior to white men and women to fight back the white patriarch society. She subconsciously heads in the destruction of the colonization. She fights back the violence which is imposed on her. By subverting the expected gender role, a woman wants to find her own identity.
The Measure of Manliness: Disability and Masculinity in the Mid-Victorian Novel

Karen Bourrier discusses the “proliferation of masculine weakness and disability in the mid-nineteenth-century novel” (2) and then extends her insights to late nineteenth- and twentieth-century fic...
HNO Donors: Angeli’s Salt and Related Diazeniumdiolates

Diazeniumdiolates offer a versatile platform for development of both nitric oxide (NO) and nitroxyl (HNO) donors and have been vital to the study of chemical biology of nitrogen oxides. Derivatization of ionic diazeniumdiolates has been shown to improve the purification process, to dramatically slow the rate of spontaneous decomposition and to provide new therapeutic benefits as a function of addition of bioactive moieties. Decomposition of certain derivatized diazeniumdiolates can also yield acyl nitroso compounds as HNO donors. The breadth of HNO generation profiles from this donor class will allow continued analysis of the pharmacological effects of HNO and may facilitate the search for endogenous HNO. This chapter details the synthesis, structure, and mechanism of decomposition of the widely used HNO donor Angeli’s salt as well as related compounds in the diazeniumdiolate class.
Achondroplasia and Biliary Atresia: A Rare Association and Review of Literature

Achondroplasia (ACH) occurs in most cases as de novo mutations of the gene-encoding fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (FGFR3). Biliary atresia (BA) is a progressive neonatal inflammatory and fibro-obliterative cholangiopathy affecting the extra- and intrahepatic biliary tree to varying degrees, and it results in obstruction to bile flow and cholestatic jaundice in neonates. BA is thought to be a multifactorial disease, genome association studies have shown abnormalities in susceptibility genes, and levels of fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) and fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) have been noted to be increased. These two conditions occurring in the same patient has never been reported before.
Does Industry Self-Regulation of Consumer Data Privacy Work?

Data privacy and security have generated far less evaluative research to date about different policy interventions than many other industries. As the public, government, and industry continue to consider data privacy as a product subject to contract, transaction, and fair treatment, the need for practical assessments of privacy and security will grow. This will require the cooperation of multiple research disciplines and a demand for rigorous evaluation, regardless of whether the regulatory environment retains the status quo or shifts dramatically going forward.
Herbicide Use During Propagation Affects Root Initiation and Development

Abstract Two studies were conducted to evaluate the influence of herbicides on root initiation and development from stem cuttings of three woody landscape species. In the first experiment, Rhododen...
The Ethical Case for Charging User Fees in Education

User fees are used to fund government services like highway construction and maintenance, museums and parks. The advantage of user fees, from a fairness perspective, is that the only people who pay them are the ones who use the government service. The problem with educational funding is that it is done primarily through property taxes, income or sales taxes, which forces everyone to pay for the education of other people's children. This article explores the ethical case of using user fees as a source of educational funding, which has been ignored in the economics, public finance and ethical literature.
Oxygen distribution in isolated perfused liver observed by phosphorescence imaging.

The measurement of oxygen in intact tissues has proven to be full of technical difficulties. For example, the direct determination of oxygen in tissue using microelectrodes is subject to error in the low range of oxygen pressures (< 1 uM) and is restricted to fixed sites of evaluation (Silver, 1984). Moreover, insertion of the electrode damages the tissue and disturbs the local milieu. Indirect qualitative measurements using surface fluorescence of NADH indicate the presence of anoxia in tissue (Barlow and Chance, 1976) but lacks internal standardization (Koretsky et al., 1987). Spectrophotometric measurements of hemoglobin (Kekonen et al, 1987) and myoglobin (Fabel and Lubbers, 1965; Tamura et al., 1978) are useful for oxygen pressures near their P50 but are subject to optical interference from changes in light scattering and from absorbtion by other chromophores. Alternatively, cryomicrospectrophotometry of myoglobin (Gayeski and Honig, 1986) can provide an accurate method for calculating intracellular oxygen pressure in some tissues. Because this method requires freezing of the tissue, it is impractical for monitoring changes in oxygenation during any length of time.
Myasthenia Gravis Therapeutic Intervention Charges Comparison. A New York State Planning and Research Cooperation System Database Analysis (1998–2014) (P6.455)

Objective: To investigate the charges of Intravenous-Immunoglobulin (IVIG), Steroids, and Plasmapheresis in Myasthenia Gravis (MG) crisis treatment. Background: Plasmapheresis, IVIG, and Corticosteroids have been used for the treatment of MG Crisis. Design/Methods: We utilized data from the New York Statewide Planning and Research Cooperation System database for the 1998–2014 period. Data was analyzed using IBM PSPP software. Results: 969 patients over age of 18 years old with MG crisis were identified (mean age 61.6 years±18.5, 43.6% of whom were male) of which 49% were over age 65 years. 51.7% were treated with IVIG, 43% with plasmapheresis and 5% with steroids. More patients treated with plasmapheresis required mechanical ventilation compared to those treated with IVIG and steroids respectively (24% vs 10%, vs 12%). Plasmapheresis treated patients had longer average hospitalization stay as compared to IVIG treated and steroid treated patients (11 vs 5 vs 6 days respectively, p-values Conclusions: Our study demonstrated that hospitalization charges of MG crisis depend on disease severity and treatment modality with highest charges observed in the subgroup mechanically ventilated and treated with plasmapheresis. Work in progress to determine whether total average charge of MG crisis is related to the preferential treatment of patients with more severe disease with plasmapheresis and the influence of comorbid conditions on average total hospitalization charges. Study Supported by: Unrestricted Grant from RAM Capital Department Startup Fund Disclosure: Dr. Patel has nothing to disclose. Dr. Sheikh has nothing to disclose. Dr. Nasar has nothing to disclose. Dr. Souayah has nothing to disclose.
High Molecular Weight Kininogen Contributes to End-Organ Damage and Mortality in a Mouse Model of Sickle Cell Disease

Introduction: Recent advances in preventive care, such as hydoxyurea and prophylactic antibiotics, have reduced the mortality of children with sickle cell disease (SCD) s in developed countries. Yet, the chronic hemolytic anemia and recurrent vaso-occlusive crises result in systemic inflammation and coagulopathy. Markers of coagulation activation correlate with painful crises, acute chest syndrome, stroke, venous thromboembolism, pulmonary hypertension, left ventricular diastolic heart disease, and sickle nephropathy. These complications result in end-organ failure that causes increased morbidity and mortality in adult SCD patients. We have shown that tissue factor (TF), the primary initiator of extrinsic coagulation, contributes to inflammation and coagulation in mouse models of SCD. (1,2). It has also been demonstrated that long-term reduction in thrombin protects from cardiopulmonary dysfunction and reduces mortality of sickle cell mice (3). Recent work from our laboratory demonstrates that high molecular weight kininogen (HK) promotes thrombin generation and inflammation in sickle mice. HK is proteolytically cleaved into bradykinin and cleaved HK fragments (HKf) by kallikrein and other proteases. HKf induces TF expression and activity on monocytes dependent on Mac-1 (CD11b/CD18). We found that Mac-1 inhibition attenuates thrombin generation and inflammation in sickle cell mice. Hypothesis: Long-term HK deficiency in sickle cell mice will attenuate TF-mediated coagulation and inflammation, and protect against end-organ damage and mortality. Methods and Results: To evaluate the effect of long-term HK deficiency on outcomes in sickle cell disease, we used bone marrow from Townes sickle (SS) and wild type (AA) mice to generate chimeras in lethally irradiated HK+/+ (WT) and HK-/- (KO) mice to create AA/WT, AA/KO, SS/WT, and SS/KO mice. Efficient reconstitution of bone marrow was confirmed by hemoglobin electrophoresis. Eight months after chimeras were generated, endpoints were assessed. SS/WT mice had early mortality (median survival 209 days, 6/23 mice survived to 250 days); HK deficiency significantly prolonged survival in SS mice (median survival 240 days, 24/29 mice survived to 250 days; p Conclusions: These data indicate that HK deficiency attenuates chronic inflammation, kidney failure, and heart hypertrophy, and improves survival of sickle cell mice. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
The Age of “Amok”

The proliferation of mass-shootings in the United States since the 1960s has produced a character profile of largely unremarkable, middleclass male culprits who transform particular places of civil...
1369-P: Continuous Glucose Monitoring Interventions in Toddlers with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D)

Introduction: Achieving optimal glycemic control is difficult in children with T1D even with insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). Additional support focused on improving technology use may improve diabetes management. Methods: Children aged 2-6 years were enrolled in a 6-month adaptive study design (SMART) utilizing Dexcom G5 CGM. Monthly data were collected to assess time in range (70-180mg/dL) and adherence. If time in range was Results: Of 77 participants, 52.6% were male, mean age 4.94 ± 1.42y (2.03-7.00), diabetes duration 2.12 ± 1.13y (0.58-4.26). Each participant received an average of 3 intervention sessions. HbA1c decreased and psychological outcomes improved at statistically and clinically significant levels (Table). Conclusion: Providing interventions that address common diabetes management problem areas may help parents of young children with T1D improve glucose control and quality of life. More work is needed to identify which interventions were associated with the greatest benefit. Disclosure M.S. Lanning: None. L. DiMeglio: Research Support; Self; Amgen Inc., Caladrius Biosciences, Inc., Janssen Research & Development, Medtronic, Sanofi. Other Relationship; Self; Dexcom, Inc. S. Lange: Other Relationship; Self; Medtronic MiniMed, Inc. K.A. Driscoll: None. T.S. Hannon: Advisory Panel; Self; Eli Lilly and Company. A.M. Lagges: None. S. Woerner: None. B.A. Buckingham: Advisory Panel; Self; ConvaTec Inc., Novo Nordisk Inc., Profusa, Inc. Consultant; Self; Medtronic MiniMed, Inc. Research Support; Self; Beta Bionics, ConvaTec Inc., Dexcom, Inc., Insulet Corporation, Medtronic MiniMed, Inc., Tandem Diabetes Care. Other Relationship; Self; Insulet Corporation, Tandem Diabetes Care. K.K. Hood: Consultant; Self; Lilly Diabetes. Research Support; Self; Dexcom, Inc. Speaker9s Bureau; Self; Johnson & Johnson Diabetes Institute. Funding National Institutes of Health
NGS-based approach to determine the presence of HPV and their sites of integration in human cancer genome

NGS-based approach to determine the presence of HPV and their sites of integration in human cancer genome
Randomized controlled trial assessing the impact of everolimus and low‐exposure tacrolimus on graft outcomes in kidney transplant recipients

This was a single-center, randomized controlled trial assessing the impact of a 3-month (10-16 weeks) conversion to everolimus with low-exposure tacrolimus, as compared to remaining on full exposure tacrolimus with mycophenolate (NCT02096107). Adult kidney transplant recipients with a functioning graft were eligible for participation. Goal troughs in the intervention arm were 2-5 ng/mL for tacrolimus and 3-8 ng/mL for everolimus, with tacrolimus maintained at 5-12 ng/mL in the control arm; 60 were randomized (30 in each arm) and were well matched at baseline; mean age was 51 years and 57% were African-American. At 12-months, fibrosis scores (27.8% tacrolimus/mycophenolate vs 22.9% tacrolimus/everolimus, P = .391), acute rejection rates (7% tacrolimus/mycophenolate vs 3% tacrolimus/everolimus, P = .554), and graft function (mean eGFR tacrolimus/mycophenolate 56 ± 15 vs tacrolimus/everolimus 59 ± 14 mL/min/1.73 m2 , P = .465) were similar between arms. The everolimus arm had significantly lower rates of CMV infection, severe BK infection, and improved BK viral clearance kinetics, as compared to the MPA arm. In this population, including a significant number of African-Americans, an immunosuppression regimen of everolimus with low-exposure tacrolimus provided similar efficacy to tacrolimus and mycophenolate, with significantly lower rates of BK and CMV.
Genetic Engineering in the United States: Regulation of Crops and Their Food Products

In the United States, federal administrative agencies, including the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), implement statutes and regulations that govern genetically engineered plants and their products. US regulatory measures were developed in light of genetic modification using rDNA, before the advent of new technologies, including gene editing, that offer simple, elegant paths to genetic improvement in plants. After a brief review of global and US production of GE crops, this Chapter analyzes US policy and regulation of these crops and their food products, with emphasis on the role of USDA. The Chapter addresses significant issues raised by GE crops: coexistence of GE and non-GE crops, low-level presence, tort liability, and the new US labeling law for bioengineered foods. Recent policy statements encourage modernized science-based regulation, but some uncertainty applies to regulation of crops developed with new genetic technologies. The Chapter analyzes USDA’s governance of new crop varieties with a focus on the “Am I Regulated?” process, which determines whether new organisms are subject to USDA regulation. The USDA has declined regulatory jurisdiction for a number of products of gene editing and has indicated its intention not to regulate crops developed with certain new technologies. Finally, the Chapter outlines some regulatory challenges posed by advances in biotechnology.
A probabilistic upscaling of microstructural randomness in modeling mesoscale elastic properties of concrete

Abstract We present a modeling framework for propagating the uncertainty, stemming from random heterogeneity of concrete microstructure, to its mesoscale elastic properties at the level of statistical volume element. The microstructure of concrete is modeled as a three-phase composite, consisting of aggregates (inclusions) in mortar (matrix), and interfacial transition zone (ITZ), a thin high porosity zone surrounding aggregates. There is inherent randomness in the composition and mechanical properties of these constituents, which in turn causes spatial heterogeneity in the local material behavior. We present a statistical characterization process to quantify the uncertainty associated with local aggregate volume fraction and aggregate size distribution. We then adopt and test a probabilistic model based on the random matrix theory and maximum entropy principle to construct a stochastic description for bounded apparent elasticity tensors at the mesoscale level, in which the bounds are obtained through a computational calibration process based on the theory of micromechanics and numerical homogenization. The framework provides an efficient way to model and simulate the local statistical fluctuations of material properties that are linked to phenomena occurring at the subscale level of heterogeneity.
Those Who Subscribe: A Customer Profile Assessment of Apparel and Beauty Subscription Service Shoppers

There has been growing popularity in a retail business model called "subscription boxes" and it is changing the landscape of retailing space (Bala, 2012). The purpose of this study was to examine the appeal of subscription boxes through consumer profiles of apparel and beauty subscription shoppers. Data for this study were collected using a Qualtrics online consumer panel within the USA. A total of 222 surveys were completed. Respondents were in the past or during the study a member of an apparel or beauty retail subscription service. Existing scales from previous studies were adapted for use. The data were analyzed using exploratory factor analysis, with varimax rotation, followed by clustering (e.g. Hampson & McGoldrick, 2013; Jamal, Davies, Chudry & Al-Marri, 2006). Based on these results, three clusters were identified: Passionate Gifters, Trendy Differentiators, and Quality Seekers. These results will assist companies to market strategically.
Enhancements in laser-generated hot-electron production via focusing cone targets at short pulse and high contrast.

We report on the increase in the accelerated electron number and energy using compound parabolic concentrator (CPC) targets from a short-pulse ($\ensuremath{\sim}150$ fs), high-intensity ($g{10}^{18}$ W/${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$), and high-contrast ($\ensuremath{\sim}{10}^{8}$) laser-solid interaction. We report on experimental measurements using CPC targets where the hot-electron temperature is enhanced up to $\ensuremath{\sim}9$ times when compared to planar targets. The temperature measured from the CPC target is $\ensuremath{\langle}{T}_{e}\ensuremath{\rangle}=\phantom{\rule{4pt}{0ex}}4.4\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}1.3$ MeV. Using hydrodynamic and particle in cell simulations, we identify the primary source of this temperature enhancement is the intensity increase caused by the CPC geometry that focuses the laser, reducing the focal spot and therefore increasing the intensity of the laser-solid interaction, which is also consistent with analytic expectations for the geometrical focusing.
Dynamic Threshold Control and Higher-Order Processes for Magnetics Based Microwave Devices

We report three important results in this work. Firstly, we have demonstrated dynamic control of the nonlinearity threshold for the first time using the field-intensity of a secondary signal. Traditional approaches to controlling the threshold field intensity require replacing the magnetic sample and therefore are not dynamic. Secondly, we have described the effects of the higherorder magnon scattering processes on properties of interest like the magnetic-susceptibility - important for magnetics-based RF devices. Finally, this work features the first micromagnetics-based demonstration of microwave-induced magnetic hysteresis. The resulting bistability is interesting not just from a physics perspective but also for potential applications such as switches and memories. These results hold important implications for all the magnetics-based RF devices like Frequency Selective Limiters (FSLs), Signal-to-Noise-ratio Enhancers (SNEs), etc. Analytical explanations of these phenomena have also been provided, which have been verified using rigorous micromagnetic simulations.
Academic Accountability and University Adaptation: The Architecture of an Academic Learning Organization.

Over the last decade universities have been subjected to various forms of academic accountability designed to maintain or improve the quality of their teaching and learning. A shared perspective of many of these accountability processes is that universities should become skilled at creating knowledge for the improvement of teaching and learning, and at modifying their behavior to reflect this new knowledge. In short, that universities should become "learning organizations." What are the organizational characteristics of an academic learning organization? The paper will address this question by reviewing the adaptations in organizational structure and governance reported by universities attempting to improve the quality of their teaching and learning processes.
A Case Control Study of Adolescent Risky Sexual Behavior and Its Relationship to Personality Dimensions, Conduct Disorder, and Substance Use.

In comparison to the general adolescent population, adolescents with a history of externalizing behaviors including substance use and conduct disorder are younger at first intercourse, have a larger number of sexual partners, and use condoms less often when they engage in intercourse, placing them at higher risk for sexually transmitted diseases as well as unplanned pregnancy (Morris, R. E., Baker, C. J., Valentine, M., and Pennisi, A. J. (1998). J. Adolesc. Health 23: 39–48). A primary goal of this paper was to examine linkages between Cloninger's novelty-seeking, harm avoidance, and reward dependence dimensions and risky sexual behavior among 200 boys in treatment for substance abuse and delinquency compared to 200 boys recruited from the community, and matched on age, ethnicity, and geographic location. Analyses indicated that though there were mean differences on all personality constructs examined, these differences in personality failed to account for observed differences in risky sexual behavior. The structure of problem behavior also differed in the 2 groups.
Great School Milk Conspiracies Revisited: Rejoinder

A re-examination and analysis ofdata in court records covering sealed-biddingpractices, market shares, incumbency rates, andprofit margins of two dairies charged with bid-riggingdisclose that Scott's analysis is flawed in severalimportant respects: reliance on selective bid data,omission of relevant bid data, and errors in reportedbids. Accordingly, Scott's hypothesis (that twodairies may have been engaged in tacit collusioninstead of overt collusion) was found to be basedlargely on conjectures, not hard data, and thus shouldbe rejected.
An Alternative Eutectic System for Casting Aluminum Alloys II. Modification of the Eutectic Morphology

Based on their casting ability and tensile properties, the Al-Ni, Al-Fe, and Al-Fe-Ni eutectic systems have been shown to be potential alternatives to the Al-Si eutectic system for fabricating aluminum casting alloys. The micro structure of these eutectics consists of long fibers within an essentially pure aluminum matrix and it has been envisioned by many that modifying the micro structure by breaking down these fibers would lead to enhanced tensile properties. In this, the second of two papers, a method for effective modification of the micro structure of these eutectics is described and the resulting micro structures and tensile properties of the modified alloys are characterized. It is found that the ultimate tensile strength and yield strength of the modified alloys are lower than those of the unmodified alloys, but their ductility is higher.
Time-Marching Considerations for Response Prediction of Structures in Hypersonic Flows

This study examines time-marching procedures for fluid–thermal–structural analysis using time-accurate thermal and structural solvers combined with quasi-steady aerothermodynamic models. Four coupling schemes are considered, including a conventional scheme with explicit time integration, a basic loose coupling scheme with implicit time integration, a predictor-based implicit scheme, and a subiteration-based implicit scheme with strong coupling. The first three schemes also incorporate structural subcycling, in which the structural time step is smaller than the thermal time step. Convergence studies reveal that the conventional explicit and basic implicit schemes are first-order accurate in time, whereas the predictor implicit and strong implicit schemes retain second-order accuracy. Structural subcycling is found to preserve the order of accuracy for the predictor implicit scheme. Additional analysis of the long-term behavior of the solution of two configurations indicates that the conventional explicit a...
Invasion of Introduced Species

Species introduced deliberately or inadvertently by humans to areas outside their native ranges affect native species in many ways. Some impacts, such as predation and herbivory, are obvious, but others are subtle and may result from complex, sometimes indirect interactions of more than two species. No habitat or area is immune to impacts of introduced species, but some sorts of sites, such as anthropogenically disturbed areas and oceanic islands, are particularly prone to invasions. Arrival of a new invader may lead to evolution by both the invader and native species with which it interacts. Keywords: chain reaction; invasional meltdown; nonindigenous species; predation
Coagulation studies in the hypertensive toxemias of pregnancy.

Abstract Certain indices of the coagulation-fibrinolytic systems, studied in hypertensive pregnant patients, demonstrated changes consistent with mild disseminated intravascular coagulation. The changes were more marked in severe acute hypertension and included low platelet count, lower factor V, and prolongation of prothrombin, Stypven, partial thromboplastin, and thrombin times. There was acceleration of the retarded thromboplastin-generation test (RTGT). The plasminogen levels were decreased, suggesting a secondary response to intravascular coagulation since no increase in active fibrinolysis was observed. Uncomplicated chronic hypertension revealed certain trends suggesting intravascular coagulation which probably explain or contribute to the much higher incidence of acute toxemia in this group. These include high fibrinogen, marked acceleration of RTGT, and high levels of plasminogen and fibrinolytic inhibitors.
Constructing a Beowulf cluster as a pedagogical tool

This paper considers the construction and use of a Beowulf cluster to fulfill the senior project requirement in Computer Information Systems. The requirements for a senior project, as set by the author, is that the project must include concepts from at least three upper level courses and encompass a semester (three credit hour course) of work. It is required that the students learn new concepts and document the work. The goals are to lead the students to synthesize information from the degree programs into a single project, learn to use course material from the degree program as a stepping stone to expand their body of knowledge and to act as a capstone in the major. The construction and use of a Beowulf cluster is a very manageable project for one or two students in the context of a three credit hour course.
Portal-systemic shunting and the disruption of circadian locomotor activity in the rat.

Abstract To determine if the extent of portal-systemic shunting (PSS) influences the disruption of circadian function in chronic liver disease, locomotor activity was examined in two rat models with varying degrees of PSS, i.e., portal vein ligation (PVL) and end-to-side portacaval anastomosis (PCA). Animals were housed in individual activity cages under conditions of 12 hour light/12 hour darkness (weeks 0–3), then under conditions of constant dim light (weeks 4–7). Cages were equipped with running wheels connected to a continuous recorder, and daily tracings of running activity were recorded for 7 weeks. Computer analysis of wheel revolutions per hour with a χ 2 periodogram was used to calculate Qp, a measure of the amplitude of a circadian rhythm. The degree of PSS was measured by means of radioactive microspheres injected into the ileocolic vein and spleen. PVL rats were found to have PSS from the splenic and mesenteric territories of 88% and 27%, respectively; circadian periodicity was maintained in all PVL rats. PCA rats had complete shunting (>99%) and showed a range of disrupted circadian rhythms from blunting of the amplitude to complete absence of the locomotor activity rhythm. This spectrum of disorganization occurred in spite of similar degrees of liver atrophy and weight gain. Whereas PCA in rats markedly disturbs the circadian rhythm of locomotor activity, animals with considerably less PSS from PVL exhibit normal behavior. The extent of PSS could be a variable affecting the expression of circadian rhythms in liver disease.
A Reading Level Match Study of Nonword Reading Skills in Poor Readers with Varying IQ

This study evaluated the hypothesis that poor readers are characterized by poor nonword reading skills, but that a specific deficit, as opposed to a developmental lag, in nonword reading will be found only in subjects whose reading is discrepant from intellectual ability. To test this hypothesis, we measured nonword reading skills in 93 (64 male, 29 female) third-grade poor readers and 54 (37 male, 17 female) fifth-grade poor readers (with and without reading/IQ discrepancies) who were matched to 147 (81 male, 66 female) nondisabled first graders on word identification skills. Results showed third- and fifth-grade poor readers to be significantly more impaired than word-identification level match first graders on all measures on nonword reading. These findings were not related to the verbal IQ level within the poor reader groups and, thus, provide strong evidence for a deficit in nonword reading skills that is not explained by verbal intelligence.
Health Outcomes Research: Implications for Nursing Practice

Abstract Health because of outcomes research is the key to knowing not only what quality of care can be achieved but also how it can be achieved. When the care that patients receive is linked with the outcomes they experience, outcomes research can become the key to developing better ways to monitor and improve the quality of the nursing care that is provided. This article will assist the reader in gaining a basic knowledge of health outcomes research and its implications for nursing research.
Comorbidity in Adults with Attention‐Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

This paper describes the clinical manifestations of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adulthood, with particular emphasis placed on issues relating to comorbidity. Prospective and retrospective studies are reviewed to evaluate the degree to which adults with ADHD exhibit clinical features that mirror their childhood counterparts with analogous comorbid psychiatric (e.g., antisocial, mood, and anxiety) and/or cognitive (i.e., learning) disorders. We also address the question of whether comorbid disorders in adults represent independent diagnostic entities and whether the presence of psychiatric comorbidity varies as a function of ADHD subtype (i.e., inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, combined, and residual). As is the case for ADHD in childhood, comorbidity is not uncommon among adults with ADHD. However, the reported prevalence of comorbid conditions among adults with ADHD varies considerably depending upon whether the research used a prospective or retrospective design.
High growth rate fails to enhance adaptive immune responses of neonatal calves and is associated with reduced lymphocyte viability.

Abstract The objective of the study was to evaluate the effects of 3 targeted growth rates on adaptive (i.e., antigen-specific) immune responses of preruminant, milk replacer-fed calves. Calves (9.1±2.4 d of age) were assigned randomly to one of 3 dietary treatments to achieve 3 targeted daily rates of gain [no growth (maintenance) = 0.0kg/d, low growth=0.55kg/d, or high growth=1.2kg/d] over an 8-wk period. The NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dairy Cattle calf model computer program was used to estimate the milk replacer intakes needed to achieve target growth rates. All calves were fed a 30% crude protein, 20% fat, all-milk protein milk replacer reconstituted to 14% dry matter. Diets were formulated to ensure that protein would not be limiting. All calves were vaccinated 3wk after initiation of dietary treatments with Mycobacterium bovis, strain bacillus Calmette-Guerin and ovalbumin. Growth rates for no-growth (0.11kg/d), low-growth (0.58kg/d), and high-growth (1.16kg/d) calves differed throughout the experimental period. Blood glucose concentrations in high-growth calves increased with time and were higher than in low- and no-growth calves. Mononuclear and polymorphonuclear leukocyte percentages in peripheral blood were unaffected by growth rate but did change with advancing age. Percentages of CD4 + T cells increased with age in no-growth and low-growth calves, a characteristic of maturation, but failed to increase in high-growth calves. Growth rate did not affect the percentages of CD45RO + (memory) CD4 + and CD8 + T cells, antigen (i.e., ovalbumin)-specific serum IgG concentrations, or antigen (i.e., purified protein derivative)-induced IFN-γ and nitric oxide secretion by mononuclear cell cultures. Antigen-elicited cutaneous delayed-type hypersensitivity responses of no-growth calves exceeded responses of low-growth, but not high-growth, calves. In resting- and antigen-stimulated cell cultures, viabilities of CD4 + , CD8 + , and γδTCR + T cells from high-growth calves were lower than those of the same T cell subsets from no-growth and low-growth calves. Alternatively, resting cultures of mononuclear leukocytes from high-growth calves produced more nitric oxide than those from no-growth and low-growth calves. In conclusion, adaptive immune responses were affected minimally by growth rate. The results suggest that protein-energy malnutrition in the absence of weight loss is not detrimental to antigen-specific responses of neonatal vaccinated calves and that a high growth rate does not enhance these responses. The negative effect of a high growth rate on the viability of circulating T cell populations may influence infectious disease resistance of the calf.
Central Michigan University's Glacial Park: Instruction through Landscaping.

Abstract Concern for a better student understanding of glacial landforms prompted the idea of a model glacial landscape. A site plan depicting common continental glacial features such as moraines, drumlins, and eskers was developed. The plan became a reality with fill from a local road construction project. Student learning is maximized through a prepared series of interpretive questions relating to the model landscape. The glacial park has proven to be an effective outdoor laboratory with applicability to other campuses at all grade levels. At a minimum, a dump truck load of fill has the potential to turn an isolated campus corner into a micro scale glacial-scape.
Grafting of cell‐penetrating peptide to receptor‐targeted liposomes improves their transfection efficiency and transport across blood–brain barrier model

We report bifunctional liposomal delivery system, combining transferrin (Tf)-mediated receptor targeting and poly-L-arginine (PR)-facilitated cell penetration, which overcomes the drawback of saturation of delivery. PR was conjugated to the distal end of distearoyl phosphoethanolamine-polyethylene glycol (PEG) 2000 and was incorporated with other phospholipids in chloroform/methanol (2:1) to form PR liposomes using thin-film hydration technique. Tf-PEG phospholipid micelles were incorporated into PR liposomes using postinsertion technique to form Tf-PR liposomes. The bifunctional liposomes demonstrated significantly (p < 0.05) higher cellular uptake by brain endothelial cells (bEnd.3) and about eightfold higher transfection in primary culture of glial cells as compared with the Tf liposomes. Cell viabilities of Tf-conjugated and bifunctional liposomes were not markedly different; however, transport across in vitro blood-brain barrier model improved considerably after dual modification. The study underlines the potential of bifunctional liposomes as high-efficiency and low-toxicity gene delivery system for the treatment of central nervous system disorders.
Longitudinal plasma density variations at Saturn caused by hot electrons

[1] A non-thermal tail to the electron distribution function has been measured in the inner magnetospheres of both Jupiter and Saturn. These “hot” electrons are only a small fraction (<1%) of the total electron density, yet their influence on the gas tori at Jupiter and Saturn is significant. We explore the role of hot electrons in both systems using a simplified homogeneous physical chemistry model. Our results suggest that the hot electrons are a dominant source of energy input into the Io plasma torus. This energy input is required to sustain the ∼TW of power radiated in the UV and EUV as well as to sustain the high ionization state of the torus. At Saturn, the energy input is negligible, but the hot electrons dominate ionization. We propose that the observed azimuthal electron density modulation at Saturn is caused by an azimuthally varying hot electron abundance.