cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Modelling the effects of reserve size and fishing mortality for Caribbean queen conch Strombus gigas

Overfishing has led to declines in many populations of Caribbean queen conch Strombus gigas, leading to its listing on CITES Appendix II. No-take marine protected areas (MPA) are increasingly being used as a conservation tool for protecting stocks and sustaining fisheries. A reaction–diffusion model was developed to study queen conch population responses to various sizes of MPAs, differing spatial and temporal fishing mortalities, and fluctuating recruitment rates. Movement behaviour and demographic data from a protected conch population at Glover's Reef, Belize, were used to parameterize the model and assess simulation results. The model predicted increases in density ranging from 300% in an MPA encompassing one-tenth of the total habitat area to 450% in an MPA encompassing half of the habitat, agreeing with field observations. Queen conch stock in the fishing zone was predicted to decline 6-40% with MPAs encompassing proportions of 0.1–0.5 of habitat area. Spillover estimated from conch movement was expected to reduce these losses and supplement the fishery by 2–4%. Sensitivity analysis of fluctuating recruitment showed that larger reserves can sustain population buildup even with lower recruitment rates. Relatively small increases in recruitment rates can potentially reduce fishing losses to 0 from MPA closures. Opening MPAs to fishing periodically or permanently is expected to rapidly deplete the conch population in a fraction of the time necessary for the initial buildup at the current fishing mortality rate. These results support those of previous modelling studies but also showed complex dynamics for this case study. While MPAs reduce the stock available to the fishery, spillover can supplement the fishery, and increases in recruitment could increase fishery yield beyond pre-MPA levels. With high fishing mortality, it would not be prudent to open MPAs to fishing for queen conch in any situation. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Odette Leroux, Marion E. Jackson, and Minnie Aodla Freeman. Inuit Women Artists.

Inuit Women Artists: Voices from Cape Dorset. Edited by ODETTE LEROUX. MARION E. JACKSON. and MINNIE AODLA FREEMAN. Seattle: University of Washington Press, 1994. 256 pp., 208 illus., 53 in color, map, bibliography. $45.00 (cloth).
Individual factors that influence sleep after cardiac surgery

Background Up to 50% of patients who undergo cardiac surgery report problems with sleep after cardiac surgery. Knowledge about which individual factors are associated with sleep problems after cardiac surgery would help nurses identify patients who are at greater risk for sleep problems during hospitalization. Objective To compare patients perceptions of sleep before and during hospitalization for cardiac surgery and identify and analyze individual factors in relation to patients perceptions of sleep. Method A sample of 102 patients who underwent elective or emergent cardiac surgery were studied at a 300-bed teaching hospital in the northwestern United States. A few days before their anticipated discharge from the hospital, consenting patients completed questions about their sleep before hospitalization and the night before their interview. Results Patients reported that they slept fewer hours in the hospital than at home. No differences were found in patients perceived depth and sufficiency of sleep, or refreshment before and after surgery. Patients who slept poorly at home did not report any worse sleep after surgery than patients who slept well at home. Women's perceptions about the sufficiency, refreshment, and quality of sleep were consistent before and after surgery, but no relationships were found among men's ratings. The length of sleep at home was positively related to the length of sleep after surgery in older patients. Conclusions Sleep length is related to patients perceptions of sleep after cardiac surgery. Gender and age are also related to qualitative aspects of sleep before and after surgery and can be instrumental in an individualized assessment of sleep patterns anticipated after cardiac surgery.
Comparative Esr Studies of Solid Polycrystalline Alkali Metal Salts of Tcnq and Tcnqf4

Abstract The results of comparative ESR studies of the polycrystalline salts of alkali metal TCNQ and TCNQF4 are presented. The temperature dependence of the relative magnetic susceptibility as determined by ESR techniques is presented. All the TCNQ salts studied show a thermally activated paramagnetism, whereas, at least, one of the TCNQF4 salts follows Curie Law. The principal components of the g-tensors have been measured as a function of temperature. There is considerably more variation in both sets of measurements from alkali metal to alkali metal for the salts prepared from TCNQF4 than there is for those prepared from TCNQ.
Nonlinear Regression with Variance Components

Abstract The nonlinear model with variance components, which combines a nonlinear model for the mean with additive random effects, is applicable to split-plot and nested experiments. We propose two methods of estimation for the parameters of the nonlinear model for the mean: (1) estimated generalized least squares (EGLS), and (2) maximum likelihood (MLE) by the method of scoring. Using a generalization of Klimko and Nelson's theorem on strong consistency of least squares estimators, it is possible to show that both the MLE and the EGLS estimators are strongly consistent, asymptotically normal, and asymptotically efficient.
Fibulin is localized at sites of epithelial-mesenchymal transitions in the early avian embryo.

Fibulin is a 100-kDa calcium-binding, extracellular matrix (ECM), and plasma glycoprotein (Argraves et al., Cell 58, pp. 623–629, 1989; Argraves et al., J. Cell Biol. 111, 3155–3164). Immunoprecipitation analysis showed that antibodies against human fibulin react with an avian isoform (Mr 100,000). The spatial and temporal distribution of fibulin was examined in the early avian embryo using immunofluorescence microscopy. In stage 15–22 quail embryos fibulin is a constituent of most basement membranes. Areas undergoing epithelial-mesenchymal transitions such as the endocardial cushions, developing myotomes, and neural crest display especially prominent immunostaining. In the early heart fibulin expression was most pronounced in the cardiac jelly at sites where endocardial cushion cells begin the migrations that lead to the formation of valvular and septal primordia. Laser scanning confocal microscopy showed extensive extracellular accumulations of fibulin on the surface of endocardial mesenchyme cells that were motile at the time of fixation (stage 19). These data suggest that enhanced deposition of fibulin at sites of epithelial-mesenchymal transitions may influence cell behavior.
Interplays of excited state structures and dynamics in copper(I) diimine complexes: Implications and perspectives

Abstract Although they were discovered almost four decades ago, Cu(I) diimine complexes have emerged as a group of transition metal complexes that can play important roles in solar energy conversion and utilization, and have potential to replace the quintessential ruthenium polypyridyl complexes as light sensitizers, electron donors and catalytic centers. This review includes some recent photophysical studies and transient structural studies of Cu(I) diimine complexes using ultrafast optical transient absorption and emission as well as X-ray transient absorption spectroscopy. The main focus is on identifying the key structural factors that influence the excited-state properties, such as structural reorganization, intersystem crossing and solvent quenching, with these relatively new techniques on the ultrafast time scales. Ultimately, these structural factors can be used to rationally control the energetics and dynamics of the MLCT state during the light conversion processes. This insight will serve as guidance for material design using Cu(I) diimine complexes as building blocks.
Carbon isotope records in Wisconsin trees

The carbon isotope records of the growth rings of three Wisconsin bur oaks (Quercus macrocarpa) have been studied. In addition a study of the earlywood and latewood of one tree showed no significant difference in the ? 13 C values of the separate components. A small, but not statistically significant correlation was found between the average ? 13 C values for the three trees and an average summer temperature. The ? 13 C values for the trees did not show a steady downward trend with time as has been suggested to occur because of proposed long-term increases in the concentration of atmospheric CO 2 as the result of the burning of fossil fuels and forest clearing. DOI: 10.1111/j.2153-3490.1982.tb01838.x
Taxonomic notes on Myxomycetes, III

Lister (Mycetozoa ed. 3: 217. 1935) says of this species: "It is closely allied to Oligonema flavidum, of which it appears to be hardly more than a variety." Hagelstein (Mycologia 31: 341. 1939; 32: 377. 1940) notes its resemblance to A. nitens, from which it differs in its more golden color and the netted capillitium, in addition to the characteristic markings of the latter. Careful examination of a large number of collections of both 0. flavidum and 0. nitens and of a smaller but adequate number of collections of Calonema aureum failed to disclose any that I should regard as intermediate. In addition to the constant presence of a capillitial net, and the characteristic capillitial markings of the Calonema, both capillitium and sporangium wall turn a bright pinkish orange when a weak solution of potassium hydroxide is added to a mount, whereas the only effect of this solution on any Oligonema is to cause a slight intensification of the yellow-brown color of the sporangium wall.
Exploring bacterial cell biology with single-molecule tracking and super-resolution imaging

The ability to detect single molecules in live bacterial cells enables us to probe biological events one molecule at a time and thereby gain knowledge of the activities of intracellular molecules that remain obscure in conventional ensemble-averaged measurements. Single-molecule fluorescence tracking and super-resolution imaging are thus providing a new window into bacterial cells and facilitating the elucidation of cellular processes at an unprecedented level of sensitivity, specificity and spatial resolution. In this Review, we consider what these technologies have taught us about the bacterial cytoskeleton, nucleoid organization and the dynamic processes of transcription and translation, and we also highlight the methodological improvements that are needed to address a number of experimental challenges in the field.
Effects of halothane anesthesia on functional residual capacity and alveolar-arterial oxygen tension difference.

Functional residual capacity (FRC) and alveolarto-arterial oxygen tension difference (A-aDo2) were measured and compared in 16 patients prior to and during halothane: oxygen anesthesia with spontaneous respiration. After an hour of anesthesia (end-tidal halothane 1.0 per cent), FRC had decreased to 81 per cent of awake control values (range 50-104 per cent) and A-aDo2 had increased from a preoperative value of 145 to 232 torr. The decrease in FRC correlated inversely with the changes in A-aDo2 (r = 0.63, P
GALENOS as interactive telemedical network via satellite

In GALENOS (Generic Advanced Low-cost trans-European Network Over Satellite) a trans-European competence network via satellite, dedicated to telemedical applications, has been realized. Using off-the-shelf hardware components and a specially developed high-end software communication system (WinVicos) various telemedical applications, like teleteaching, intraoperative teleconsultation, have been realized.© (2001) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Reduction of disulfides in the milligram range with hypophosphorous acid and organic phosphites

Abstract A number of organic disulfides in the milligram range were reduced to the corresponding thiol by reaction with hypophosphorous acid at elevated temperatures in aqueous solvents. Reduction is extensive after several hours. Aromatic disulfides were reduced by triethyl phosphite and triphenyl phosphite at room temperature. Products were deterimned by polarographic and amperometric titration techniques.
Error and correction for MODIS-AM's spatial response on the NDVI and EVI science products

The accuracy of the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) end data products, such as the Vegetation Indices (VIs), are affected by MODIS's Spatial Response (SR). An error analysis is presented for the VI (MOD-13) product using Point Spread Response (PSR) data and improvement using a correction filter is demonstrated. The PSR data is a set of laboratory measurements that include electronic/optical cross-talk (pre-August 1998). The ensquared energy concept is applied to the PSR data to determine upper limits for the Far Field Response (FFR)(unwanted noise) that may be present in the MODIS data. The error is presented using spectral variation, Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI) which demonstrate that the science products are dependent on the sensor's SR. A correction filter for the MODIS SR shows a qualitative and quantitative improvement using a scene Railroad Valley scene, June 14 th 2001 in which Landsat 7 ETM+ is used as the reference.
Relationship of Gender, Depression, and Health Care Delivery With Antiretroviral Adherence in HIV-infected Drug Users

BACKGROUND: Antiretroviral adherence is worse in women than in men, and depression can influence medication adherence. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the relationship of gender, depression, medical care, and mental health care to adherence in HIV-infected drug users. DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study. SETTING: New York State Medicaid program. PARTICIPANTS: One thousand eight hundred twenty-seven female and 3,246 male drug users on combination antiretroviral therapy for more than 2 months in 1997. MAIN MEASURES: A pharmacy-based measure of adherence was defined as ≥95% days covered by at least 2 prescribed antiretroviral drugs. Independent variables were: depression, regular drug treatment (≥6 months), regular medical care (2+ and >35% of visits), HIV-focused care (2+ visits), psychiatric care (2+ visits), and antidepressant therapy. RESULTS: Women were less adherent than men (18% vs 25%, respectively, P<.001) and more likely to be diagnosed with depression (34% vs 29%). In persons with depression, the adjusted odds ratio (AOR) for adherence was greater for those with psychiatric care alone (AOR 1.52; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 1.03 to 2.26) or combined with antidepressants (AOR 1.49; 95% CI, 1.04 to 2.15). In separate models by gender in persons with depression, psychiatric care plus antidepressants had a slightly stronger association with adherence in women (AOR 1.92; 95% CI, 1.00 to 3.68) than men (AOR, 1.26; 95% CI, 0.81 to 1.98). In drug users without depression, antidepressants alone were associated with greater adherence (AOR, 1.23; 95% CI, 1.02 to 1.49) with no difference by gender. Regular drug treatment was positively associated with adherence only in men. CONCLUSIONS: In this drug-using cohort, women had worse pharmacy-measured antiretroviral adherence than men. Mental health care was significantly associated with adherence in women, while regular drug treatment was positively associated with adherence in men.
Leaky-mode effects in InAs quantum-dot infrared photodetectors coupled to metal photonic crystals

A metal photonic crystal integrated on the n+-doped top contact layer of an InAs quantum-dot infrared photodetector is investigated. The contact layer thickness impacts the photoresponse by the leaky mode characteristics of this antiguide structure.
Abundance of cosmic-ray elements from sulfur to nickel as a function of atmospheric depth

The measured elemental composition of cosmic rays with charge 16≤Z≤28 as a function of atmospheric depth was compared with a propagation calculation including energy loss. The resulting composition at the top of the atmosphere has better precision than previously possible on balloon borne experiments, and agrees well with the only satellite data available in this charge range. The extrapolation method also provides checks on assumed cross-sections for interactions of cosmic rays in air.
THE NEUROSCIENTIFIC STUDY OF RELIGIOUS AND SPIRITUAL PHENOMENA: OR WHY GOD DOESN'T USE BIOSTATISTICS

Abstract. With the rapidly expanding field of neuroscience research exploring religious and spiritual phenomena, there have been many perspectives as to the validity, importance, relevance, and need for such research. In this essay we review the studies that have contributed to our current understanding of the neuropsychology of religious phenomena. We focus on methodological issues to determine which areas have been weaknesses and strengths in the current studies. This area of research also poses important theological and epistemological questions that require careful consideration if both the religious and scientific elements are to be appropriately respected. The best way to evaluate this field is to determine the methodological issues that currently affect the field and explore how best to address such issues so that future investigations can be as robust as possible and can become more mainstream in both the religious and the scientific arenas.
Supernova blast waves in low-density hot media : A mechanism for spatially distributed heating

Most supernovae are expected to explode in low-density hot media, particularly in galactic bulges and elliptical galaxies. The remnants of such supernovae, although difficult to detect individually, can be profoundly important in heating the media on large scales. We characterize the evolution of this kind of supernova remnant, based on analytical approximations and hydrodynamic simulations. We generalize the standard Sedov solution to account for both temperature and density effects of the ambient media. Although cooling can be neglected, the expansion of such a remnant deviates quickly from the standard Sedov solution and asymptotically approaches the ambient sound speed as the swept-up thermal energy becomes important. The relatively steady and fast expansion of the remnants over large volumes provides an ideal mechanism for spatially distributed heating, which may help to alleviate the overcooling problem of hot gas in groups and clusters of galaxies, as well as in galaxies themselves. The simulations were performed with the FLASH code.
Polarization in p- 4 He Elastic Scattering at 0.56, 0.80, 1.03, 1.27, and 1.73 GeV

The polarization in $p$-$^{4}\mathrm{He}$ elastic scattering has been measured between 0.56 and 1.73 GeV in a range of the square of the four-momentum transfer between 0.006 and 1.2 ${(\mathrm{G}\mathrm{e}\mathrm{V}/\mathit{c})}^{2}$. The data are characterized by positive polarization maxima at $\ensuremath{-}t$ near 0.08 and 0.36 ${(\mathrm{G}\mathrm{e}\mathrm{V}/\mathit{c})}^{2}$. At 0.56 GeV, a sharp peak of large negative polarization at 0.23 ${(\mathrm{G}\mathrm{e}\mathrm{V}/\mathit{c})}^{2}$ is observed. This structure persists at higher bombarding energies, but is no longer negative and becomes increasingly shallower as the bombarding energy increases to 1 GeV and then is relatively unchanging.
Differential effects of ethanol on insulin-like growth factor-I receptor signaling.

Background: Activation of the insulin-like growth factor I receptor (IGF-IR) by its ligands IGF-I and IGF-II induces cell proliferation and protects against apoptosis. Ethanol inhibits IGF-IR tyrosine autophosphorylation, which subsequently interferes with the activation of key downstream signaling mediators including insulin-receptor substrate-1, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, and mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase. The ethanol-induced inhibition of IGF-IR signaling reduces mitogenesis and enhances apoptosis. In the current study, we demonstrate that the antiproliferative action of ethanol can be modulated by differential sensitivity of the autophosphorylation of the IGF-IR to ethanol. Methods: A series of subclones was generated from 3T3 cells that express the human IGF-IR. Results: There was considerable variability in the ability of ethanol to inhibit IGF-I-dependent IGF-IR tyrosine autophosphorylation and MAP kinase activation, despite equivalent IGF-IR expression. The IGF-IR was completely resistant to a high concentration of ethanol (150 mM) in several subclones. The sensitivity of IGF-IR autophosphorylation to ethanol correlated directly with the inhibition of IGF-I-mediated MAP kinase activation and cell proliferation. Resistant subclones exhibited features of the transformed phenotype including high MAP kinase activity, partial loss of contact inhibition, and the development of foci at confluency. The IGF-IR isolated from ethanol-resistant cells was similarly resistant to ethanol in autophosphorylation reactions in vitro, whereas ethanol inhibited the autophosphorylation of IGF-IR obtained from sensitive cells. Conclusions: Our findings are the first to demonstrate the modulation of ethanol sensitivity of a tyrosine kinase receptor, and they provide a molecular basis for differential effects of ethanol on cell proliferation.
A multicenter, single-blind, prospective randomized trial to evaluate the safety of a polyethylene glycol hydrogel (Duraseal Dural Sealant System) as a dural sealant in cranial surgery

Objective Incisional cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage after cranial surgery is a significant cause of morbidity due to poor wound healing and infection, meningitis, and pseudomeningocele formation. Many common dural closure techniques, such as sutures, autologous grafts, gelatin or collagen sponges, and fibrin glues, are used to achieve watertight closure, although none are US Food and Drug Administration approved for this use. DuraSeal Dural Sealant System is a polyethylene glycol (PEG) hydrogel approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for obtaining watertight dural closure when applied after standard dural suturing. This multicenter, prospective randomized study further evaluated the safety of a PEG hydrogel compared with common dural sealing techniques. Methods A total of 237 patients undergoing elective cranial surgery at 17 institutions were randomized to dural closure augmented with the PEG hydrogel or a control “standard of care” dural sealing technique after Valsalva maneuver demonstrated an intraoperative nonwatertight dural closure. Data were collected on complications resulting in unplanned postoperative interventions or reoperations, surgical site infections, CSF leaks, and other neurological complications within 30 days. Surgeons also provided data on the ease of use of the dural sealing techniques, as well as preparation and application times. Results The incidences of neurosurgical complications, surgical site infections, and CSF leaks were similar between treatment and control groups, with no statistically significant difference between the measures. In the PEG hydrogel group (n = 120), the incidence of neurosurgical complications was 5.8% (n = 7), the incidence of surgical site infections was 1.7% (n = 2), and the incidence of CSF leak was 0.8% (n = 1). In the control group (n = 117), the incidence of neurosurgical complications was 7.7% (n = 9), the incidence of surgical site infection was 2.6% (n = 3), and the incidence of CSF leak was 1.7% (n = 2). Sealant preparation time was less than 5 minutes in 96.6% of the PEG hydrogel group compared with 66.4% of controls (P Conclusions The PEG hydrogel dural sealant used in this study has a similar safety profile to commonly used dural sealing techniques when used as dural closure augmentation in cranial surgery. The PEG hydrogel dural sealant demonstrated faster preparation and application times than other commonly used dural sealing techniques.
Morphologic and functional adaptations of large bowel after small-bowel resection in the rat.

Seventy percent small bowel was resected in rats. Two and four weeks later transport of sodium, chloride, and water was examined in cecum and more distal large bowel (colon) using a well-establishedin vivo luminal perfusion technique. Sham-operated and unoperated rats served as controls. In cecum mucosa grew 29% by two weeks after resection but transport remained unchanged. There were no further adaptive changes by four weeks after resection. Unexpectedly, cecum of all rats secreted water and electrolytes. The mechanism remains unclear. In colon there were no adaptive changes by two weeks after resection but by four weeks colon mucosa increased 14% and luminal absorption increased proportionately. Separate studies showed hexose transport could not be induced in cecum or colon, although we have previously demonstrated its induction in contiguous remnant ileum.
The Evolution of the Seven Deadly Sins: From God to the Simpsons

7:00 I pressed the snooze button three times before dragging myself out of bed. Sloth. 7:11 I took an obscenely long, hot shower with no consideration for my sister, with whom I live. (Don't even bother mentioning the ecological implications.) Greed. 7:52 I noticed a pool of cat vomit on the floor and chose to ignore it, knowing that my sister would dutifully clean it up. Sloth. 8:22 I gave someone the finger after they cut me off in traffic. Wrath. 8:33 I helped myself to two complementary pastries at the office meeting (although I had breakfast only an hour before). Gluttony. 8:42 I flirted with the guy next to me, ignoring the speaker to whom I was supposed to be listening. Lust. 10:04 I ignored someone's incessant knocking on the door of the only restroom in the building where I work in order to spend more time putting on makeup in front of the mirror. Pride. 10:42 I lied and told a homeless person that I didn't have any change. Sloth. 11:02 I purposely got to class early so that I could take another student's usual seat, which was much better than mine. Envy. 11:27 I lied and told someone that I got an A on a paper, when in actuality, I only got a B. Pride. 11:49 I took three free movie passes, although the sign said to only take one. Covetousness.
Stochastic duels with round‐dependent hit probabilities

The effect of round dependent hit probabilities in the fundamental stochastic duel are examined. The general solution and several specific examples are derived where one side's hit probabilities are improved from round to round. For these specific cases the advantages of round to round improvement are explicitly displayed.
Capillary GC on-column injection of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins: elimination of peak splitting and distortion through injector temperature control

L'utilisation d'un injecteur «on column» en chromatographie phase gazeuse est decrite pour la separation d'un melange standard des dibenzo-p-dioxines (polychloro). Les conditions de temperature et de volume d'echantillon permettant une bonne resolution des pics sont etudiees
Reversible visual evoked potential abnormalities in vitamin E deficiency

A patient with cystic fibrosis and cirrhosis developed a progressive neurological syndrome associated with ataxia, proximal weakness, and ophthalmoplegia. Profound deficiencies of vitamins A, D, and E were present. Visual acuity and results of retinal funduscopy were normal. The pattern reversal visual evoked potential was initially abnormal (P100 latency, 136 and 130 ms from left and right eyes, respectively) but became normal (less than 3 standard deviations from mean control P100 latency) over a two-month period when vitamin E was administered. This case documents a potentially reversible visual evoked potential abnormality in a visually asymptomatic patient with vitamin E deficiency.
A comparison of mother and father involvement with their preschool age children

This study examined variations in mother and father involvement in childrearing activities. Subjects were 100 families whose oldest children were between the ages of 3 and 5 years. Three aspects of parental involvement (interaction, accessibility, and responsibility) and four predictors of paternal involvement (demographic backgrounds, marital quality, parental stress, and role perceptions) were measured. Results indicated that mothers participated in childrearing activities at a significantly higher rate than fathers. This pattern held true in both dual-earner and single-earner families. Mothers spent a significantly higher proportion of their interaction time in functional and work-related activities whereas fathers spent a significantly greater proportion of their interaction time in play activities. Implications are discussed for future research on father involvement.
Discovery and Optimization of Selective Nav1.8 Modulator Series That Demonstrate Efficacy in Preclinical Models of Pain

Voltage-gated sodium channels, in particular Nav1.8, can be targeted for the treatment of neuropathic and inflammatory pain. Herein, we described the optimization of Nav1.8 modulator series to deliver subtype selective, state, and use-dependent chemical matter that is efficacious in preclinical models of neuropathic and inflammatory pain.
Diagnostic and staging accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging for the assessment of sinonasal disease.

BackgroundConcerns over radiation exposure with paranasal sinus computed tomography (CT) have recently evolved. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be more advantageous in this regard, but the dia...
Improving second Language Speaking Proficiency via Interactional Feedback

Researchers have suggested that interactional feedback is associated with foreign/second language learning because it prompts learners to notice foreign/second language forms. Using Vygotskyâ€™s zone of proximal development and Longâ€™s interaction hypothesis as conceptual frameworks, this study explores the use of systematic explicit feedback to undergraduates (N = 1180) at three assessment points throughout one semester using digital voice recording technology for oral assessments. Results indicate that statistically significant differences were found in pronunciation, linguistic structure, and content from the first to last observation. Findings suggest serious implications for improving speaking proficiency, which promote the use of combining digital technology for oral language formative and summative assessment with quality, systematic, and in-depth feedback to students.
Adulthood Sequela of Adolescent Heavy Drinking among Mexican Americans

This study examines mental health and behavioral sequela of heavy drinking in adolescence among Mexican American adults between 18 and 59 years of age. Previous research with U.S. population samples has shown that role performance and role transitions in adulthood are impaired by adolescent substance abuse problems. To test this hypothesis, data from the Mexican American Prevalence and Services Survey were used. Using bivariate and multivariate analyses, early adolescent heavy drinkers were compared with adult heavy drinkers, light to moderate drinkers, and abstainers on various outcomes. Outcomes included DSM-III-R mood, anxiety, and drug abuse or dependence assessed by the Composite International Diagnostic Interview in a probability sample of 3,000 adults in Fresno, California. Whereas adolescent heavy drinkers had higher lifetime mood and drug abuse or dependence disorders, and higher rates of suicide attempts and behavior problems than abstainers or moderate drinkers, adult heavy drinkers also had high rates of mood disorders and arrests in bivariate comparisons. In multivariate contrasts, adolescent heavy drinkers were three times more likely to have lifetime drug abuse or dependence diagnoses than the other subgroups and were twice as likely to have attempted suicide. Implications for preventive interventions in the Mexican American population are discussed. Language: en
Regional changes in the intrarenal insulin-like growth factor-I axis in diabetes

Regional changes in the intrarenal insulin-like growth factor-I axis in diabetes. Since insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) has been shown to promote renal growth and as kidney IGF-I content increases during the early days after the onset of diabetes, it is likely that this growth factor contributes to initial diabetic renal hypertrophy. However, it is unclear whether IGF-I contributes to the continued renal growth that occurs in diabetes. Since IGF-I action is mediated through its receptor and as its bioavailability is regulated by IGF binding proteins (IGFBP), we postulated that changes in IGF-I receptor binding or IGFBP production may favor a role for IGF-I in diabetic renal growth when kidney IGF-I levels have returned to normal. To test this thesis, we studied kidneys of rats after seven days of streptozotocin diabetes. In diabetic cortex and medulla, growth hormone receptor mRNA levels and IGF-I and IGF-I receptor mRNA and protein product levels were unchanged. In cortex IGFBP-1 mRNA levels were increased while IGFBP-2 and -4 mRNA levels decreased. In medulla the only change was a fall in IGFBP-1 mRNA levels. Using Western ligand blot we observed an increase in a 32kDa plasma membrane-associated IGFBP. Insulin therapy reversed all changes except the elevated cortical IGFBP-1 mRNA levels, indicating the presence of regional heterogeneity in the IGFBP response to diabetes in the kidney. However, the Jack of change in IGF-I, IGF-I receptor and growth hormone receptor gene expression and protein products after one week of diabetes argues against a role for IGF-I in sustaining diabetic renal growth beyond the initial growth phase.
An approximation method for solving the sofa problem

A procedure for the solution of the two-dimensional sofa problem is described. A new class of polygons, angularly simple polygons, is defined as a class of permissible sofas. The pattern representationSr(xo) developed for this class of polygons has the advantage of allowing easy polygonal transformations. The procedure called GSPS, described here, gives a good approximate solution to the sofa problem in reasonable time. Slight modification of the procedure leads to an algorithm for the solution of the general sofa problem.
Prospective randomized trial of transthoracic echocardiography versus transesophageal echocardiography for assessment and guidance of transcatheter closure of atrial septal defects in children using the Amplatzer septal occluder.

Objectives This study sought to determine whether transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) can provide safety and efficacy equivalent to transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) for assessment and guidance of transcatheter atrial septal defect (ASD) closure in pediatric patients. Methods We performed a prospective randomized trial of ASD closure using the Amplatzer septal occluder (ASO) from March 2008 to April 2012. Inclusion criteria were isolated secundum ASD, age 2 to 18 years, and adequate TTE windows. Forty patients were enrolled and randomized to either TEE or TTE. In the TEE group, we used “stop flow” balloon sizing to determine device size. In the TTE group, we used the average ASD diameter times 1.2 (scaled). Patients were followed up to 1 year. Results Patient general and hemodynamic characteristics were similar in both groups. Procedural success was 100% in both groups. The average TEE stop flow diameter was similar to the scaled TTE diameter (15.35 ± 4.62 mm vs. 16.57 ± 5.47 mm; p = 0.46). Device size (16.0 ± 4.94 mm vs. 16.37 ± 5.05 mm, p = 0.82) and ratio of device to defect size (1.0 ± 0.06 vs. 0.99 ± 0.03, p = 0.52) were also similar. Total procedure (70.6 ± 22.98 min vs. 51.1 ± 17.61 min, p = 0.005), room (126.8 ± 28.41 min vs. 95.7 ± 20.53 min, p = 0.0004), and fluoroscopy (13.6 ± 6.17 min vs. 8.9 ± 8.45 min, p = 0.007) times were all significantly shorter in the TTE group. Neither group had significant complications during the procedure nor in follow-up. Rates of shunt resolution were similar between groups. Conclusions This study suggests that in selected pediatric patients, use of TTE is as efficacious and safe as TEE for assessment and guidance of ASD occlusion using the ASO. TTE also may offer the additional safety benefit of reduced fluoroscopy exposure.
SPECTROSCOPIC PROPERTIES OF COOL STARS (SPOCS). I. 1040 F, G, AND K DWARFS FROM KECK, LICK, AND AAT PLANET SEARCH PROGRAMS

We present a uniform catalog of stellar properties for 1040 nearby F, G, and K stars that have been observed by the Keck, Lick, and AAT planet search programs. Fitting observed echelle spectra with synthetic spectra yielded effective temperature, surface gravity, metallicity, projected rotational velocity, and abundances of the elements Na, Si, Ti, Fe, and Ni, for every star in the catalog. Combining V-band photometry and Hipparcos parallaxes with a bolometric correction based on the spectroscopic results yielded stellar luminosity, radius, and mass. Interpolating Yonsei-Yale isochrones to the luminosity, effective temperature, metallicity, and α-element enhancement of each star yielded a theoretical mass, radius, gravity, and age range for most stars in the catalog. Automated tools provide uniform results and make analysis of such a large sample practical. Our analysis method differs from traditional abundance analyses in that we fit the observed spectrum directly, rather than trying to match equivalent widths, and we determine effective temperature and surface gravity from the spectrum itself, rather than adopting values based on measured photometry or parallax. As part of our analysis, we determined a new relationship between macroturbulence and effective temperature on the main sequence. Detailed error analysis revealed small systematic offsets with respect to the Sun and spurious abundance trends as a function of effective temperature that would be inobvious in smaller samples. We attempted to remove these errors by applying empirical corrections, achieving a precision per spectrum of 44 K in effective temperature, 0.03 dex in metallicity, 0.06 dex in the logarithm of gravity, and 0.5 km s-1 in projected rotational velocity. Comparisons with previous studies show only small discrepancies. Our spectroscopically determined masses have a median fractional precision of 15%, but they are systematically 10% higher than masses obtained by interpolating isochrones. Our spectroscopic radii have a median fractional precision of 3%. Our ages from isochrones have a precision that varies dramatically with location in the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram. We plan to extend the catalog by applying our automated analysis technique to other large stellar samples.
Diagnostic utility of flow cytometric immunophenotyping in myelodysplastic syndrome

The myelodysplastic syndromes (MDSs) are characterized by bilineage or trilineage dysplasia. Although diagnostic criteria are well established for MDS, a significant number of patients have blood and bone marrow findings that make diagnosis and classification difficult. Flow cytometric immunophenotyping is an accurate and highly sensitive method for detection of quantitative and qualitative abnormalities in hematopoietic cells. Flow cytometry was used to study hematopoietic cell populations in the bone marrow of 45 patients with straightforward MDS. The results were compared with those obtained in a series of patients with aplastic anemia, healthy donors, and patients with a history of nonmyeloid neoplasia in complete remission. The immunophenotypic abnormalities associated with MDS were defined, and the diagnostic utility of flow cytometry was compared, with morphologic and cytogenetic evaluations in 20 difficult cases. Although morphology and cytogenetics were adequate for diagnosis in most cases, flow cytometry could detect immunophenotypic abnormalities in cases when combined morphology and cytogenetics were nondiagnostic. It is concluded that flow cytometric immunophenotyping may help establish the diagnosis of MDS, especially when morphology and cytogenetics are indeterminate.
Post-Carnegie Developments Affecting Teacher Education: The Struggle for Professionalism

Two post-Carnegie efforts to enhance the profession of teaching are examined: the knowledge base debates and teacher preparation reform initiatives from competing coalitions of noneducators and professional educators. Unprecedented public interest in education, academic partnerships at all levels, and NCATE's recent commitment to limit external regulation of teacher education provide a fleeting backdrop of support for the teaching profession. Teacher educators stand at a critical moment requiring an act of collective will to improve the profession.
Poverty: a worldwide form of injustice

As Bill Gates’ estimated wealth has reached the unimaginable mark of $100 billion, and other billionaires are being created daily, the problem of inequality is becoming more and more visible. But, lulled into the commonly stated maxim that “a rising tide lifts all boats”, we may assume that the rest of us are, or will be, benefitted by this general prosperity. It comes as a shock, therefore, to realize that even in the USA the income level of the lower echelons of society are actually declining. For the less developed countries the burden is even greater, with average income falling throughout much of Africa and in other areas as well. The move toward globalization, far from mitigating the problem, is actually adding to the disparities between rich and poor worldwide, while even the rich do not seem to be happier as a result of their wealth.
Experimental atherosclerosis in rabbits fed cholesterol-free diets Part 9. Beef protein and textured vegetable protein

Rabbits were fed a semipurified diet containing 40% sucrose, 25% protein, 15% fiber and 14% tallow. The proteins fed were beef (B), textured vegetable protein (TVP) and casein (C). One diet contained beef-TVP (1 : 1) and in another a soy carbohydrate fraction, spent flakes, was added to the diet; it provided 2.2% protein and 10.5% fiber. TVP provided 6.4% soluble carbohydrate and 10.5% fiber. The diets were fed from 8 months. Diets containing beef protein or casein gave significantly higher serum cholesterol levels and atherosclerosis and significantly lower serum HDL-cholesterol than did the other 3 diets. The beef-TVP (1 : 1) diet gave low serum cholesterol (67% below beef) levels and atherosclerosis (47% below beef). This effect is probably due to the protein. The diet containing spent flakes gave low serum cholesterol levels (44% below beef) and atherosclerosis (45% below beef). This effect is attributed to the different fiber. The lowest serum cholesterol levels and least severe atherosclerosis were observed in the rabbits fed TVP.
Electoral Geography of the Sino-Thai in Thailand's National Elections, 1979–1995

Comparison of Thai and Sino-Thai participation and success rates from the seven elections taking place since 1979 show Sino-Thai participation comparable to their proportion in the country's population. Assimilationist government minority policy and electorate acceptance have served to integrate this group into the mainstream political system. There is no pattern of support for a particular political party and there are no indicators of a separate Sino-Thai political element. Their highest success rates, however, occur in regions of the country that have historically had small Sino-Thai populations. This appears to be the result of factional politics and of monetary and organizational resources needed to garner votes at the provincial level.
Differences in Sexual Identity, Risk Practices, and Sex Partners between Bisexual Men and Other Men among a Low-Income Drug-Using Sample

Men who have sex with men and women (MSMW) represent an important target population for understanding the spread of HIV because of the inherent bridging aspect of their sexual behavior. Despite their potential to spread HIV between gender groups, relatively little recent data have been reported about this population as a subgroup distinct from men who have sex with men only. This paper analyzes data from the Chicago site of Sexual Acquisition and Transmission of HIV Cooperative Agreement Program to characterize 343 MSMW in terms of their demographics, drug use, sexual risk behavior, sexual identity, and sex partners. Results show the MSMW sample to be extremely disadvantaged; to have high rates of drug use, including injection and crack use; to report more female than male sex partners; to not differ from gay and heterosexual men in rates of condom use; and, for the most part, to report sexual identities that are consistent with their sex behavior. MSMW represent an important subpopulation in the HIV epidemic and should be targeted for risk reduction interventions.
P04.02. An Integrative Approach to Fertility and Preconception Care

Focus Areas: Integrative Approaches to Care, Pediatrics This session will focus on an Integrative approach to fertility and preconception care. Women having challenges getting pregnant often rely on integrative therapies to support them through conventional fertility management. A saying in TCM about fertility is that we must “cultivate the soil before planting the seed.” We will discuss the reproductive cycle as viewed through the lens of TCM and discuss the role of yoga and the plant-based diet in creating an environment for a healthy pregnancy and birth. Specific patient care strategies will be discussed.
A roadmap and vision for physical design

This invited paper offers "roadmap and vision" for physical design. The main messages are as follows. (1) The high-level roadmap for physical design is static and well-known. (2) Basic problems remain untouched by fundamental research. (3) Academia should not overemphasize back- filling and formulation over innovation and optimization. (4) The physical design field must become more mature and efficient in how it prioritizes research directions and uses its human resources. (5) The scope of physical design must expand (up to package and system, down to manufacturing interfaces, out to novel implementation technologies, etc.), even as renewed focus is placed on basic optimization technology.
Temporal variation in prehistoric Nubian crania

Much of the earlier work on the prehistory of Sudanese Nubia has emphasized discontinuity between early Nubian populations. However, recent investigations suggest the converse - that a remarkable degree of cultural and biological continuity exists among indigenous Nubian groups, perhaps as far back as the Paleolithic. Thus, cultural and biological differences between Nubian populations can be most effectively perceived as the result of in situ evolutionary development. The present analysis has two major purposes: (1) to describe the morphological differences in the craniofacial complex between indigenous Nubian populations extending from the A-Group (c. 3,400 B.C.) through the Christian (c. 1,500 A.D.) horizons; and (2) to account for these differences within an evolutionary framework. The multiple discriminant analysis of radiographically derived variables revealed a trend from a substantially lower and more elongated cranial vault to a shorter and taller vault throughout the almost 5,000 year time span. Associated with this pattern was a tendency for the face to become more inferiorly-posteriorly located with respect to the vault in the latter groups. Finally, the masseter and temporalis muscles underwent a reduction and slight relocation through time. We speculate that this trend may be associated with behavioral changes associated with transition from a hunting and gathering to a totally agricultural subsistence pattern.
Distributed Fault-Tolerant Computer Systems

Modular systems employing building-block VLSI circuits may provide fault tolerance to a variety of applications.