cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The effects of antisense to Giα2 on opioid agonist potency and Giα2 protein and mRNA abundance in the mouse

Abstract In this study, mice received a single intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) injection of an antisense oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) directed towards the mRNA of Giα2. Controls received a saline or a nonsense ODN injection. The subsequent effects on protein levels and mRNA of Giα2 were determined in mouse striatum, as well as, the effect on opioid ([ d -Ala2, d -Leu5]-enkephalin; DADLE) inhibition of cyclic AMP (cAMP) formation in striatum and morphine analgesic potency. At 48 h after treatment, maximal inhibition (Emax) of cAMP formation was significantly reduced for the antisense group compared to controls. Antisense ODN treatment only changed the Emax and did not significantly alter the IC50s of the dose–effect curves for inhibition of cAMP formation. Antisense ODN, but not nonsense ODN, significantly reduced morphine's analgesic potency by >2-fold, 48 h following treatment. Using a quantitative immunoblotting procedure, antisense treatment was shown to decrease striatal Giα2 protein 48 h after antisense injection, while there were no changes in protein levels at 2, 12 and 24 h. In contrast, no changes in Giα2 mRNA in mouse striatum were noted at any time after antisense treatment. Taken together, these data suggest that Giα2 mediates opioid-induced analgesia and opioid inhibition of cAMP production in the mouse. These data also suggest that antisense reduces target protein by a mechanism independent of changes in mRNA abundance.
Long-term experimental warming and nutrient additions increase productivity in tall deciduous shrub tundra

Warming Arctic temperatures can drive changes in vegetation structure and function directly by stimulating plant growth or indirectly by stimulating microbial decomposition of organic matter and releasing more nutrients for plant uptake and growth. The arctic biome is currently increasing in deciduous shrub cover and this increase is expected to continue with climate warming. However, little is known how current deciduous shrub communities will respond to future climate induced warming and nutrient increase. We examined the plant and ecosystem response to a long-term (18 years) nutrient addition and warming experiment in an Alaskan arctic tall deciduous shrub tundra ecosystem to understand controls over plant productivity and carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) storage in shrub tundra ecosystems. In addition, we used a meta-analysis approach to compare the treatment effect size for aboveground biomass among seven long-term studies conducted across multiple plant community types within the Arctic. We found that biomass, productivity, and aboveground N pools increased with nutrient additions and warming, while species diversity decreased. Both nutrient additions and warming caused the dominant functional group, deciduous shrubs, to increase biomass and proportional C and N allocation to aboveground stems but decreased allocation to belowground stems. For all response variables except soil C and N pools, effects of nutrients plus warming were largest. Soil C and N pools were highly variable and we could not detect any response to the treatments. The biomass response to warming and fertilization in tall deciduous shrub tundra was greater than moist acidic and moist non-acidic tundra and more similar to the biomass response of wet sedge tundra. Our data suggest that in a warmer and more nutrient-rich Arctic, tall deciduous shrub tundra will have greater total deciduous shrub biomass and a higher proportion of woody tissue that has a longer residence time, with a lower proportion of C and N allocated to belowground stems.
FcγRIIa (CD32): A Potential Marker Defining Susceptibility to Localized Juvenile Periodontitis

Epidemiologic studies indicate that blacks are at greater risk for development of localized juvenile periodontitis (LJP) than other ethnic groups. It has also been observed that, despite the relatively uncommon nature of this form of early-onset periodontitis, LJP often tends to cluster within families, which suggests that susceptibility to this disease may be inherited. Immunologic studies of a predominantly black population of LJP subjects have revealed that many of these patients mount a strong IgG response to Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans. A substantial proportion of this response is comprised of antibodies of the IgG2 subclass. IgG antibodies are required for efficient phagocytosis and killing of A. actinomycetemcomitans by human neutrophils. Recognition of bacteria coated with IgG antibodies is a process which is mediated by IgG Fc receptors (FcγR) expressed on mononuclear and polymorphonuclear phagocytes. A major class of FcγR found on neutrophils is a transmembrane receptor (FCγRII, or CD32) which binds IgG with low affinity. Recently, a genetically determined biallelic polymorphism has been described for this receptor. One allotype, termed H131, binds human IgG2 efficiently, whereas the alternative form, R131, does not. Neutrophils expressing the H131 allotype of FCγRII readily ingest and destroy IgG2-coated A. actinomycetemcomitans, whereas neutrophils bearing the R131 allotype do not. We hypothesize that the increased risk among blacks for development of LJP may be due to a combination of two factors, which include: 1) a tendency toward preferential synthesis of IgG2 antibodies to A. actinomycetemcomitans; and 2) an increased frequency of the R131 allele of FcγRIIa in this subject population. J Periodontol 1996;67:323-331.
A comparison of cerebral ischemic flow thresholds during halothane/N2O and isoflurane/N2O anesthesia in rats.

Isoflurane/N2O anesthesia has been reported to reduce the cerebral blood flow (CBF) threshold at which electroencephalographic changes occur in humans during carotid occlusion (when compared to halothane/N2O). To further evaluate this observation, normocapnic, normothermic rats were anesthetized with 0.75 MAC isoflurane or halothane in combination with 60% N2O. The electrocorticogram (ECoG) and the cortical DC potential were recorded using glass microelectrodes. Both carotid arteries were occluded, and mean arterial pressure (MAP) was reduced over 3–5 min (by phlebotomy) to predetermined values between 30 and 75 mmHg. This MAP was maintained for 10 min, and CBF was then measured in cortical gray matter using [9H]-nicotine. Flows were then correlated with ECoG changes and with the presence or absence of cortical depolarization (which reflects the loss of transmembrane ion homeostasis). In other rats, the cortical cerebral metabolic rate for glucose (CMRglu) was determined autoradiographically using [14C]-deoxyglucose. Finally, the time to depolarization was determined in rats killed with KC1 and in rats subjected to hypotension (MAP = 30–35 mmHg) followed by abrupt bilateral carotid occlusion. The distributions of CBF values in the anesthetic groups were essentially identical. The incidence of either major ECoG changes or isoelectricity did not differ between anesthetics. The CBF associated with major ECoG changes (excluding isoelectricity) were 35 ± 12 and 39 ± 18 ml·100 g-1 ·min-1 in the halothane/N2O and isoflurane/N2O groups respectively (mean ± SD, difference not significant [NS]). Isoelectricity was seen at 7 ± 4 ml · 100 g-1 · min-1 (median = 6.5) with halothane/N2O and 17 ± 19 ml · 100 g-1 · min-1 (median = 11) with isoflurane/N2O (again, NS). The incidence of sustained depolarization did not differ between anesthetics (9 of 25 for halothane/N2O, 8 of 24 with isoflurane/ N2O). CBF associated with sustained depolarization was 13 ± 12 ml·100 g-1· min-1 (median = 10) with halothane/N2O, compared with 9 ± 6 ml · 100 g-1 · min-1 (median = 9) for isoflurane/N2O (NS). In rats subjected to cardiac arrest, the time to depolarization was longer with isoflurane/N2O (102 ± 19 s vs. 77 ± 7 s). In rats subjected to carotid occlusion at a MAP = 30–35 mmHg, the time to depolarization was again longer with isoflurane/N2O (210 ± 78 s vs. 122 ± 44 s). Cortical CMRglu was lower with isoflurane/N2O (25 ± 5 μmol · 100 g-1 · min-1) than with halothane (43 ± 13 μmol · 100 g-1 · min-1, P = 0.03). The results indicate that isoflurane/N2O anesthesia delays the onset of ischemic cell depolarization. However, when ischemia was prolonged for 10 min, we found no differences in either the incidence of sustained depolarization or the CBF values associated with depolarization.
Use of Symbolic Computation in Petroleum Engineering

Abstract A new exciting field of computer science, known as symbolic computation, has emerged over the past ten years. Symbolic computations (SC) are fundamentally different from numerical computations that we normally perform on computers, they involve manipulation of symbols rather than or along with arithmetic operations on numbers. For example if we wanted to find the integral of 1 x , a symbolic system would return ln(x) - the same result as we would expect to find in a handbook of mathematical functions. Software currently available for SC can perform algebraic operations, manipulate functions, do calculus, and perform matrix operations. Some of the systems can also produce Fortran code. Such symbolic operations can be carried out on both mainframe and personal computers in a fraction of the time that an engineer or a mathematician may require to do the same job by hand. This paper reviews the relevant literature and summarizes our own experience with the application of this new technology to petroleum engineering problems. We illustrate the power of SC by applying one such system - Macsyma - to the evaluation of thermodynamic relations from an equation-of-state. While symbolic systems offer great opportunities, there are also certain limitations of the current technology. Difficulties were encountered in the evaluation of certain integrals and in the simplification of complicated expressions. These problems are discussed in the paper and some comments are made on the future of this technology, particularly in the field of reservoir simulation.
Efficacy of an external urethral device in women with genuine stress urinary incontinence.

The efficacy of a new external anti-incontinence device in patients with a videourodynamic diagnosis of genuine stress incontinence (GSI) in an open longitudinal study is reported. Fourteen women with GSI underwent assessment before and after 3–4 weeks of device use. Assessment consisted of visual analog scores (VAS), quality of life (QOL) questionnaires, urine for culture and a 1 hour pad test. VAS scores showed a significant improvement for the symptom of stress incontinence (P 2 g) without the device, 5 were dry (<2 g) with the device (P<0.05). These preliminary data suggest that this device is effective in women with GSI.
Exome sequencing: locating causative genes in rare disorders

Exome sequencing identifies the cause of a mendelian disorder Ng et al. (2009) Nature Genetics. Advanced online publication.
Emotionally Competent Behaviors and Nurse Bullying: Is There a Direct Link?

An abundance of literature spanning many years depicts the devastating effects of nurse bullying within the profession. The evidence suggests that bullying in general is a deliberate act aimed at another person. Conceptualizing nurse bullying appears to be a key ingredient in creating both awareness and preventative strategies. Emotional competence includes a set of behaviors which are unique to each individual. These behaviors according to Goldman (1995) include, but are not limited to emotional self-assessment, accurate self-assurance, self-confidence, emotional self-control, and empathy. The majority of researchers agree that emotionally competent behaviors are impacted by both positive and negative interactions and experiences. Thus, it is hypothesized that emotionally competent behaviors are continually cultivated throughout one’s life based upon lived experiences. This article assesses direct relationships between implementation of emotionally competent behaviors as a means of combatting nurse bullying within the profession. Creating awareness of these two areas can be initial steps in cultivating the needed tools and supportive interventions to assist nurses from novice to expert to professionally mentor and role model for generations to come.
Observed and modeled bio‐optical, bioluminescent, and physical properties during a coastal upwelling event in Monterey Bay, California

[1] During spring and summer time, coastal upwelling influences circulation and ecosystem dynamics of the Monterey Bay, California, which is recognized as a National Marine Sanctuary. Observations of physical, bio-optical properties (including bioluminescence) together with results from dynamical biochemical and bioluminescence models are used to interpret the development of the upwelling event during August 2003 in Monterey Bay, California. Observations and the biochemical model show the development of a phytoplankton bloom in the southern portion of Monterey Bay. Model results show an increase of nutrients in the southern portion of the bay, where nutrient-rich water masses are brought in by the southward flow and cyclonic circulation inside the bay. This increase in nutrients together with the sluggish circulation in the southern portion of the bay provides favorable conditions for phytoplankton growth. Our observations and models suggest that with the development of upwelling the offshore water masses with the subsurface layer of bioluminescent zooplankton were replaced by water masses advected from the northern coast of the bay with a relatively high presence of mostly nonbioluminescent phytoplankton. Inshore observations from autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) show consistent coincidence of chlorophyll, backscatter, and bioluminescence maxima during upwelling development. Offshore AUV observations (taken at the entrance to the bay) show a deeper bioluminescence maximum below the surface layers of high chlorophyll and backscatter values during the earlier stages of upwelling development. Later, the observed deep offshore bioluminescence maximum disappeared and became a shallower and much weaker signal, coinciding with high chlorophyll and backscatter values offshore. Based on the biochemical and bioluminescence models, a methodology for estimating the nighttime water-leaving radiance due to stimulated bioluminescence is demonstrated and evaluated.
Regional Metamorphism of Coal in Southeastern West Virginia

The general geology and stratigraphy of the coal field of southeastern West Virginia are discussed. The regional change in the rank (fixed-carbon content) of the Sewell and No. 3 Pocahontas coal beds is used to measure the regional metamorphism of the coal field. The various theories that have been proposed to account for such regional metamorphism are reviewed critically and their applicability to southeastern West Virginia is discussed. David White's theory of regional metamorphism of coal by tangential pressure is challenged and the validity of his sub-theory of relief of stress by overthrusting questioned. It is concluded that the regional variations in the rank of the coal beds in southeastern West Virginia is due to variations in the maximum depth of burial of those coal beds (load metamorphism). The present study indicates that if the carbon-ratio theory is valid it must apply both horizontally and vertically (with stratigraphic depth). Reeves has pointed out valid objections to applying the theory in vertical section and the present writer suggests that the theory may be based on insufficient evidence and (or) coincidence. A critical review of the theory is recommended.
Occupancy patterns and niche partitioning within a diverse carnivore community exposed to anthropogenic pressures

Abstract Although carnivores are in global decline, diverse carnivore communities are common in sub-Saharan Africa, where more than 20 species may co-occur. Though intraguild competition and predation can limit the set of species that coexist, most carnivores have traits that decrease the impacts of interspecific competition on fitness, a pattern that promotes coexistence. An increasing human population and demand for natural resources (e.g. farming) has fragmented landscapes, reduced available prey, and elevated rates of conflict. These anthropogenic pressures tend to eliminate large carnivores first, which can have cascading effects on ecosystem function (e.g. mesopredator release). Anthropogenic pressures might also affect mesocarnivores directly, but this hypothesis has received little research attention to date. Here, we used camera surveys to describe spatial and temporal patterns of carnivore occupancy in a mixed-use landscape in Kenya. This landscape included a community conservation area and seasonally occupied human settlement and livestock grazing areas. We detected 21 carnivore species and examined occupancy patterns for the 12 most frequently detected. Differences among species in responses to environmental conditions supported a hypothesis of spatial niche partitioning. Differences in the temporal activity patterns of the apex predators and mesocarnivores supported a hypothesis of temporal niche partitioning. Human land use altered occupancy patterns in 10 of 12 species. Apex predator occupancies were lower in more anthropogenically disturbed areas, but mesocarnivore occupancies were not inversely related to apex predators, contrary to the mesopredator release hypothesis. Our results suggest that a diverse carnivore community persists in this mixed use landscape because of seasonal variation in human land use.
Enhancement in immunity of tumor bearing mice by immunization against prostaglandin E2.

C57B1/6 mice hearing a palpable Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) were immunized against prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in order to prevent the immune suppression typical of tumor bearers. Proliferation in response to concanavalin A (Con A) by normal spleen cells cultured in the presence of PGE2 or by spleen cells of LLC-bearing mice cultured with Con A alone was suppressed. However, the mitogenic response of spleen cells from PGE2 immunized LLC-bearing mice was only partially suppressed. The random migration of normal macrophages cultured in the presence of PGE, or of macrophages from LLC-bearing mice cultured in medium alone was enhanced when compared to the random migration of normal macrophages cultured in the absence of PGE2. In contrast, the random migration of macrophages obtained from PGE2 immunized LLC-bearing mice was the same as that of normal macrophages cultured in the absence of PGE2.
A detailed analysis of frontal lobe seizure semiology in children younger than 7 years.

Summary: Purpose: We sought to analyze semiology of seizure onset and evolution in young children with frontal lobe epilepsy (FLE), compare this with adult reports, and assess age-related differences. Methods: We analyzed 111 videotaped seizures from 14 patients with FLE based on focal cortical dysplasia aged 3‐81 months (mean, 30 months). Ictal events were categorized into behavioral, consciousness, autonomic, and sensory features, as well as motor patterns, which included tonic, clonic, epileptic spasm, and myoclonic seizure components. We developed a time-scaled datasheet to record each epileptic event as onset, very early, early, or late manifestation. Results: Patients had a high seizure frequency with up to 40 attacks/day; half of them showed a cluster tendency. Fortyseven percent of the seizures started in sleep. Mean duration of seizures was short (29 s). Most common seizure components were motor manifestations, mostly tonic‐clonic seizures, and epileptic spasms. Behavioral change was frequent, and hypermotor seizures were not seen. In five patients, the motor features were contralateral to the epileptic focus, including two children with asymmetric epileptic spasms. Secondarily generalized tonic‐clonic seizures (SGTCSs) were not recorded, but had been reported in the history of two patients. Complex motor automatisms were not seen, whereas oral automatism appeared in three children. Conclusions: Motor features are common in young children with FLE, as reported in adults. The characteristics, however, differ. Epileptic spasms and subtle behavioral change were frequent. Hypermotor seizures and complex motor automatisms were not seen, and SGTCSs were unusual. Our results suggest that FLE in young children shows age-related features differing from those of adults. Key Words: Frontal lobe epilepsy— Seizure semiology—Children—Age.
Stochastic Weather Simulation: Overview and Analysis of Two Commonly Used Models

Abstract Two stochastic weather simulation models (USCLIMATE and CLIGEN) were compared for their performance in replicating observed precipitation, temperature, and solar radiation variables at six locations in the United States. Statistical tests of significance were performed on means and standard deviations of a variety of standard and derived daily weather variables over monthly and annual time periods. Model replication of extreme events also was evaluated. In general, mean monthly and annual values were well replicated by both models, but variance replication of temperature and solar radiation were found superior in USCLIMATE. Extreme-value replication, especially over short (24-h) time intervals, was highly a function of climatic element, location, and time of year but, in general, was judged only fair in both models. Suggestions for model improvement and enhancement are given, as are suggestions for model applications.
Phase equilibria and crystal chemistry in the ternary system BaOTiO2Nb2O5, I

Abstract A partial subsolidus phase diagram is presented of the BaOTiO2Nb2O5 ternary system. Ten compounds or solid solutions in the ternary system are described. BaTi3Nb4O17, BaTi5Nb4O21, BaTi7Nb4O25, and BaTi9Nb4O29 belong to a chemically and structurally homologous series AB2n+1O4n+5 with 3 ≦ n ≦ 6, the first member of which is isomorphous with KTi2Ta5O17. They all crystallize in the orthorhombic system, space group Cmcm with essentially constant a and b parameters (a = 6.6, b = 8.9 A). The c parameter varies approximately linearly with composition from 21.148 A for BaTi3Nb4O17 to 34.321 A for BaTi9Nb4O29. BaTiNb4O13, isomorphous with KTa5O13, could be considered as a member of the chemical series described above but it crystallizes in the orthorhombic system, space group Pbcm with unit cell parameters a = 5.640, b = 10.738, c = 16.488 A. A nonstoichiometric phase with a composition close to 3BaO:5TiO2:3Nb2O5 crystallizes in the monoclinic system, space group P2 1 c with parameters a = 9.991, b = 9.970, c = 7.311 A, β = 111°25′. Two other new phases are solid solutions extended on the quasi-binary join BaTiO3Ba5Nb4O15. Ba8Ti3Nb4O24 ( Ba 8 Ti 3+ 5x 4 Nb 4−x O 24 with 0 ≦ x ≦ 0.7) crystallizes with a primitive hexagonal cell with parameters a = 5.794 and c = 18.868 A. The other phase is an incommensurate solid solution which extends from Ba5Nb4O15 to the end member compound Ba6TiNb4O18 (Ba5+xTixNb4O15+3x with parameters 0 ≦ x ≦ 1) crystallizing in the rhombohedral system, space group R3m, parameters a = 5.765, c = 42.348 A. The three solid solutions previously described, Ba3Ti4Nb4O21 (Ba3Ti4+5xNb4−4xO21 with 0 ≦ x ≦ 0.3), Ba6Ti2Nb8O30 (Ba6−xTi2−2xNb8+2xO30), and BaTiO3 (BaTi1−5xNb4xO3 with 0 ≦ x ≦ 0.02) were confirmed and further studied.
State space analysis of electric power systems

The dynamic analysis of a balanced three-phase electrical power system comprised of a finite set of: (1) synchronous generators, (2) induction and/or synchronous devices, (3) transmission line networks, (4) RL (or RLC)-loads, and (5) mechanical loads is analyzed by use of the state variable approach. Each component of the electric power system is described by its own state model. These constituent component state models are then interconnected as dictated by the topology of the power system at hand, and the state model for the total system is derived. The resultant state model can then be solved on a digital computer. The state models of the energy converters, the RL-load, and the mechanical load are borrowed from [6, 7 and 8], and the state model of the transmission line is borrowed from [1]. Finally, the algorithm GEBVEM, developed in [1] is used to formulate the state model of the power system at hand and to provide solutions for the desired state variables.
The Role of Counterion Valence and Size in GAAA Tetraloop–Receptor Docking/Undocking Kinetics

For RNA to fold into compact, ordered structures, it must overcome electrostatic repulsion between negatively charged phosphate groups by counterion recruitment. A physical understanding of the counterion-assisted folding process requires addressing how cations kinetically and thermodynamically control the folding equilibrium for each tertiary interaction in a full-length RNA. In this work, single-molecule FRET (fluorescence resonance energy transfer) techniques are exploited to isolate and explore the cation-concentration-dependent kinetics for formation of a ubiquitous RNA tertiary interaction, that is, the docking/undocking of a GAAA tetraloop with its 11-nt receptor. Rate constants for docking (k(dock)) and undocking (k(undock)) are obtained as a function of cation concentration, size, and valence, specifically for the series Na(+), K(+), Mg(2+), Ca(2+), Co(NH(3))(6)(3+), and spermidine(3+). Increasing cation concentration acceleratesk(dock)dramatically but achieves only a slight decrease in k(undock). These results can be kinetically modeled using parallel cation-dependent and cation-independent docking pathways, which allows for isolation of the folding kinetics from the interaction energetics of the cations with the undocked and docked states, respectively. This analysis reveals a preferential interaction of the cations with the transition state and docked state as compared to the undocked RNA, with the ion-RNA interaction strength growing with cation valence. However, the corresponding number of cations that are taken up by the RNA upon folding decreases with charge density of the cation. The only exception to these behaviors is spermidine(3+), whose weaker influence on the docking equilibria with respect to Co(NH(3))(6)(3+) can be ascribed to steric effects preventing complete neutralization of the RNA phosphate groups.
The organization of pallidosubthalamic fibers in the monkey.

A study was made to determine the topographical organization of pallido-subthalamic fibers in the rhesus monkey. Streotaxic lesions were produced in: (1) the lateral pallidal segment (12 lesions in 10 animals), (2) the medial pallidal segment (6 lesions in 6 animals), and (3) both pallidal segments (4 lesions in 4 animals). Degeneration resulting from these lesions was studied in transverse, horizontal and sagittal sections stained by the Nauta and Gygax technic14. The following conclusions were drawn from this study: 1 Pallidosubthalamic fibers arising in the lateral pallidal segment are topographically organized so that: (a) rostral and central regions of this segment project fibers to the rostral two-thirds of the subthalamic nucleus, and (b) rostral parts of this segment project fibers to the medial half of the subthalamic nucleus and central parts of this segment project fibers to the lateral half of the nucleus. 2 Dorsal and ventral regions of the rostral and central parts of the lateral pallidal segment are organized topographically so that: (a) fibers from dorsal regions of the rostral part terminate in lateral areas of the medial half of the subthalamic nucleus, while ventral regions project to more medial parts of this half of the nucleus, and (b) dorsal and ventral regions of the central part of this pallidal segment project to corresponding dorsal and ventral regions of the subthalamic nucleus. 3 Caudal parts of the lateral pallidal segment project fibers to dorsolateral regions of the caudal part of the subthalamic nucleus. 4 Observations in the present study suggest that pallidosubthalamic fibers terminating in medial and caudal parts of the subthalamic nucleus probably are derived from the medial pallidal segment. The hypothesis is presented that pallidosubthalamic fibers are topographically organized so that: (a) the most medial and lateral regions of the lateral pallidal segment project fibers respectively to medial and lateral parts of the subthalamic nucleus, and (b) the medial segment of the globus pallidus projects a small number of fibers to the subthalamic nucleus which terminate in regions caudal and medial to those that receive fibers from the lateral pallidal segment.
Assessment of engineering student learning from structured computer game play

To create a culture for change in industry, students must begin to understand how to assess the tradeoffs among economic, technical, and environmental factors if they are to become socially, as well as fiscally, responsible designers and leaders. Because of their unique learning style and technological expertise, the Millennial Generation brings significant learning and teaching challenges to the classroom. A computer game was developed to teach the principles of environmental management and technology to engineering students. Assessment of the game explores the extent to which students increase their understanding of complex tradeoffs among environmental, economic, and technological issues in the automobile industry through repeated play of a collaborative cross disciplinary computer game.
Unsteady Flamelet Response in the Near Field of High-Reynolds-Number Jets

In this work, we perform numerical studies of the unsteady response of laminar diffusion flamelets relevant to the near field (x/d < 30) of high-Reynolds-number gaseous-fuel jets that are injected into high-pressure and high-temperature chambers. A large-eddy simulation database of a 70,000-Reynolds-number variable-density round jet is employed to compute turbulent time histories of the scalar dissipation rate in the near field. With this information, studies of diffusion flamelets subjected to scalar dissipation rate fluctuations are performed in which the unsteady flamelet equations are solved with the assumption of unity species Lewis number. The commonly employed diesel fuel surrogate n-heptane is chosen as the fuel, and its oxidation chemistry is modeled by a kinetic mechanism incorporating 159 species among 1540 reaction steps. Results show that in the simulated near field of the 70,000-Reynolds-number jet, transient temporary flame-weakening events followed by flame recovery are probable. Although the flame temperature, major species, and pollutants such as unburned hydrocarbons show a relatively fast response and good agreement with steady flamelet predictions, the pollutant, nitric oxide, responds with a significant phase lag, rendering steady flamelets inadequate. The analysis is extrapolated to higher-Reynolds-number jets with higher-intensity scalar dissipation rate fluctuations, in which transient flame-extinction/reignition events are observed. The applicability of steady flamelets to predict temperature and species responses during extinction/ reignition is assessed, and the implications of extinction/reignition events for jet near-field phenomena, such as flame liftoff, are explored.
Use of transesophageal echocardiography in the detection and consequences of an intracardiac bullet

A 17-year-old male sustained a gunshot injury to the chest. Transesophageal echocardiography showed the presence of a retained bullet in the pericardium and the absence of an intracardiac shunt, which provided important information for the treatment of the patient.
MODIS Thin Cirrus Retrievals Using the 1.38 µm Channel

Retrievals of ice cloud optical thickness using the 1.38 µm MODIS channel will be discussed. In particular, this will focus on the case of thin cirrus, in which the current MODIS retrievals have difficulty detecting.
Microscopic structure and dynamics of a partial bilayer smectic liquid crystal.

Cyanobiphenyls (nCB's) represent a useful and intensively studied class of mesogens. Many of the peculiar properties of nCB's (e.g., the occurrence of the partial bilayer smectic-A(d) phase) are thought to be a manifestation of short-range antiparallel association of neighboring molecules, resulting from strong dipole-dipole interactions between cyano groups. To test and extend existing models of microscopic ordering in nCB's, we carry out large-scale atomistic simulation studies of the microscopic structure and dynamics of the Sm-A(d) phase of 4-octyl-4'-cyanobiphenyl (8CB). We compute a variety of thermodynamic, structural, and dynamical properties for this material, and make a detailed comparison of our results with experimental measurements in order to validate our molecular model. Semiquantitative agreement with experiment is found: the smectic layer spacing and mass density are well reproduced, translational diffusion constants are similar to experiment, but the orientational ordering of alkyl chains is overestimated. This simulation provides a detailed picture of molecular conformation, smectic layer structure, and intermolecular correlations in Sm-A(d) 8CB, and demonstrates that pronounced short-range antiparallel association of molecules arising from dipole-dipole interactions plays a dominant role in determining the molecular-scale structure of 8CB.
Enhanced superconducting properties in epitaxial FeSe thin films with self-assembled Fe3O4 nanoparticles

Abstract In this paper we report epitaxial tetragonal iron selenide thin films grown on single crystal SrTiO 3 (STO) (0 0 1) and MgO (0 0 1) substrates by a pulsed laser deposition (PLD) technique. Deposition temperature and annealing process are found to be critical for achieving the tetragonal phase and the optimum superconducting properties of the films. The critical transition temperature of the thin films ranges from 2 K to 11.5 K depending on the deposition temperature and annealing condition. The samples with higher critical transition temperatures show better film crystallinity along with self-assembled Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles (∼15 nm in average particle size) in the films according to both X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis. Besides the better crystallinity achieved in the films, the formation of Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles could assist the formation of the tetragonal FeSe phase and thus lead to the enhanced superconducting properties.
Green-emitting diodes in vapor phase epitaxial GaP

Abstract Green light-emitting diodes (LEDs) have been fabricated by Zn diffusion into vapor phase epitaxial (VPE) GaP grown by the PH3HClGaH2 technique with nitrogen doping achieved by adding NH3 to the gas stream. The diffusion was carried out at 900°C using a totally vaporizing source of Zn and P in a closed ampoule. The junction depth, surface concentration and diode performance are reported as a function of Zn pressure during diffusion. The diode properties, such as capacitance-voltage and current- and flux-voltage characteristics, were investigated. The slope of the log I vs V plot was found to be ∼ 1 2 kT at low voltages. This component of the diode current was found to be nonradiative and to be purely a surface leakage current which disappears for diodes with large perimeter-to-area ratios. In these diodes with long lifetimes and low ND − NA, the effect of conductivity modulation was observed in the diode characteristics. The optimum conditions for high efficiency LEDs were found to be ND P A cm −1 and dislocation density
Discourse in a small class: the ‘diverge-converge pattern’ and ‘relaxed freedom’

In an attempt to uncover differences in student behavior as a function of class size, the author observed a small class and a large class for 15 hours each and conducted interviews with eight students who were members of both classes. Two trends emerged from these qualitative data. First, a ‘diverge-converge’ pattern was evident in the small class (absent from the large class) in which students were much more able to get back on task after becoming off-task or off-topic. Second, the atmosphere in the smaller class was more relaxed and had a very conversational tone.
A Study of Temporal Action Sequencing During Consumption of a Meal

Advances in body sensing and mobile health technology have created new opportunities for empowering people to take a more active role in managing their health. Measurements of dietary intake are commonly used for the study and treatment of obesity. However, the most widely used tools rely upon self-report and require considerable manual effort, leading to underreporting of consumption, non-compliance, and discontinued use over the long term. We are investigating the use of wrist-worn accelerometers and gyroscopes to automatically recognize eating gestures. In order to improve recognition accuracy, we studied the sequential dependency of actions during eating. Using a set of four actions (rest, utensiling, bite, drink), we developed a hidden Markov model (HMM) and compared its recognition performance against a non-sequential classifier (KNN). Tested on a dataset of 20 meals, the KNN achieved 71.7% accuracy while the HMM achieved 84.3% accuracy, showing that knowledge of the sequential nature of activities during eating improves recognition accuracy.
One step is not enough: Making better use of association norms to predict cued recall

Cued recall is strongly affected by the strength of the preexisting connection between the test cue and the information to be recalled, the target. In all past work, preexisting cue-to-target strength has been measured by the probability that the cue produced the target in free association. This paper presents four experiments showing that this use of such norms underestimates the strength of the connection and that a more accurate estimate can be obtained by incorporating indirect as well as direct connections in the estimate. Experiments 1 and 2 showed that in extralist cued recall both the strength and number of two-step indirect connections facilitate recall. Experiment 3 showed that three-step connections have negligible effects. Experiment 4 used an intralist task in which cue and target are first studied together, and the results showed once again that indirect connections can affect recall. In all of these experiments, indirect connections had an effect on recall that was larger when direct cue-to-target strength was weak than when it was strong. Implications for using association norms in research are described, and an algorithm for using association norms to measure cueto-target strength is proposed.
Michigan Assessment-Screening Test for Alcohol and Drugs (MAST/AD): Evaluation in a Clinical Sample

In this study, we sought to evaluate a modification of the Michigan Alcohol Screening Test designed to include problems associated with other drug abuse/dependence besides alcohol. Scores of the lifetime Michigan Assessment-Screening Test/Alcohol-Drug (MAST/AD) were compared to other lifetime measures of substance abuse and dependence and to psychiatric scales reflecting current or recent symptoms. Two university medical centers with alcohol-drug programs located within departments of psychiatry hosted 520 patients with alcohol-drug-related diagnoses. Patients completed their own MAST/AD using a paper-and-pencil format. Based on interviews with the patient, a research associate rated the patients' substance-related problems on the Minnesota Substance Abuse Problem Scale (M-SAPS) and obtained information on lifetime treatment for substance abuse. An addictions psychiatrist determined abuse or dependence and made a current diagnosis of alcohol abuse/dependence only, drug abuse/dependence only, and alcohol plus drug abuse/dependence. The MAST/AD was highly correlated with the M-SAPS and several other measures of substance abuse morbidity. Patients with alcohol-only and drug-only diagnoses did not differ from one another on the MAST/AD, although both groups had lower scores than those with alcohol plus drug diagnoses. Current psychosocial morbidity as assessed by the patient and the psychiatrist was associated with the MAST/AD, although less strongly than with lifetime substance abuse measures. The lifetime MAST/AD demonstrates reliability as a severity measure for alcohol and/or drug abuse. With minor modification, this standard measure can be expanded from alcohol diagnoses to all substance diagnoses. This study in a clinical population did not demonstrate its utility as a screening instrument; additional work is needed to reveal its utility for this purpose.
Gravitons and dark matter in universal extra dimensions

Models of universal extra dimensions (UED) at the TeV scale lead to the presence of Kaluza Klein (KK) excitations of the ordinary fermions and bosons of the standard model that may be observed at hadron and lepton colliders. A conserved discrete symmetry, KK-parity, ensures the stability of the lightest KK particle (LKP), which, if neutral, becomes a good dark matter particle. It has been recently shown that for a certain range of masses of the LKP a relic density consistent with the experimentally observed one may be obtained. These works, however, ignore the impact of KK graviton production at early times. Whether the ${G}^{1}$ is the LKP or not, the ${G}^{n}$ tower thus produced can decay to the LKP, and depending on the reheating temperature, may lead to a modification of the relic density. In this article, we show that this effect may lead to a relevant modification of the range of KK masses consistent with the observed relic density. Additionally, if evidence for UED is observed experimentally, we find a stringent upper limit on the reheating temperature depending on the mass of the LKP observed.
“Oops! I forgot HIV”: Resident physician self-audits and universal HIV screening

Summary Background Innovations are needed to increase universal HIV screening by primary care providers. One potential intervention is self-audit feedback, which describes the process of a clinician reviewing their own patient charts and reflecting on their performance. Methods The effectiveness of self-audit feedback was investigated using a mixed methods approach. A total of 2111 patient charts were analyzed in a quantitative pre-post intervention study design, where the intervention was providing self-audit feedback to all internal medicine residents at one institution through an annual chart review. Qualitative data generated from the subsequent resident focus group discussions explored the motivation and mechanism for change using a knowledge–attitude–behavior framework. Results The proportion of primary care patients screened for HIV increased from 17.9% (190/1060) to 40.3% (423/1051). The adjusted odds ratio of a patient being screened following resident self-audited feedback was 3.17 (95% CI 2.11, 4.76, p Conclusions Self-audit feedback is a potentially effective intervention for increasing universal HIV screening in primary care. This strategy may be most useful in settings where (1) baseline performance is low, (2) behavioral change is provider-driven, and (3) resident trainees are targeted.
Genetic Identification of Nascent Peptides That Induce Ribosome Stalling

Several nascent peptides stall ribosomes during their own translation in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes. Leader peptides that induce stalling can regulate downstream gene expression. Interestingly, stalling peptides show little sequence similarity and interact with the ribosome through distinct mechanisms. To explore the scope of regulation by stalling peptides and to better understand the mechanism of stalling, we identified and characterized new examples from random libraries. We created a genetic selection that ties the life of Escherichia coli cells to stalling at a specific site. This selection relies on the natural bacterial system that rescues arrested ribosomes. We altered transfer-messenger RNA, a key component of this rescue system, to direct the completion of a necessary protein if and only if stalling occurs. We identified three classes of stalling peptides: C-terminal Pro residues, SecM-like peptides, and the novel stalling sequence FXXYXIWPP. Like the leader peptides SecM and TnaC, the FXXYXIWPP peptide induces stalling efficiently by inhibiting peptidyl transfer. The nascent peptide exit tunnel and peptidyltransferase center are implicated in this stalling event, although mutations in the ribosome affect stalling on SecM and FXXYXIWPP differently. We conclude that ribosome stalling can be caused by numerous sequences and is more common than previously believed.
Detection of nitrous oxide in the neuronal nitric oxide synthase reaction by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry☆

Abstract Using headspace gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, we detected significant amounts of nitrous oxide in the reaction products of the monooxygenase reaction catalyzed by neuronal nitric oxide synthase. Nitrous oxide is a dimerization product of nitroxyl anion; its presence in the reaction products indicates that the nitroxyl anion is a product of the neuronal nitric oxide synthase-catalyzed reaction.
THE RELATION OF THE MOISTURE CONTENTS OF WOOD TO ITS DECAY. III

At the time of the last report upon the studies of the relation of the moisture contents of wood to its decay,1 it was hoped that a complete presentation of methods and results to date could soon be published, but between I925 and I928 little progress was made. The experimentation since I927 has been along the following lines: (i) the repetition of many of the earlier tests with the same fungi,2 some of them several times; (2) the use of the same fungi with three woods of higher specific gravities than those of the first tests; (3) tests with several wood-destroying fungi of other types than the group originally used; (4) attempts to correlate the airmoisture relations of Trametes subroseus and Fomes roseus.with other work upon these fungi already reported; 3 (5) attempts to determine if wooddestroying fungi can be classified on the basis of their air-moisture relations. In the article first cited, a brief outline of methods was given. In recent work, the same general procedure has been followed, with certain variations. The usual methods involve no steam sterilization of the test blocks, as explained previously, but the technique has been so improved that contamination has been rare in the later experiments. Recently, a method of "partial sterilization" has been reported in connection with similar work upon the sap-stain fungi,4 in which the blocks are heated in closed containers at 500 C. for 48 hours (therefore, moist heat). This type of technique was suggested to the writer some years ago by former experiments of his own 5 and was considered but not followed. Former and recent experiments showed that this partial sterilization did check the growth of molds considerably and therefore aided in the infection of all the blocks. From the cultural point of view, this is a distinct advantage, because some of the flasks have had to be discarded because of contamination. The real objection to the method, however, has been the old
Managerial Response to the May 2003 Dividend Tax Cut

We survey 328 financial executives to determine the effects of the May 2003 dividend tax cut on corporate payout policy. We find that the tax cut led to initiations and dividend increases at some firms, weakly more so at firms for which retail investors are particularly important. However, financial executives say that the tax rate reduction ranks behind stability of future cash flows and cash holdings (and for firms already paying dividends, taxes also rank behind the historic level of dividends) in a list of factors that affect dividend policy. Tax effects are of roughly the same importance as attracting institutional investors and the availability of profitable investments. We also search press releases and find that the dividend tax cut is only occasionally mentioned as the reason for an initiation, especially from 2004 onward. Overall, the evidence indicates that dividend tax rates are a second-order concern in setting payout policy.