cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Initiation of SV40 DNA Replicationin Vitro:Analysis of the Role Played by Sequences Flanking the Core Origin on Initial Synthesis Events

Abstract Replication initiation events are suppressed over the SV40 core origin in vitro; they are also greatly reduced over sequences flanking the origin which contain binding sites for several transcription factors. To address the biochemical basis for the gap in initiation events over the flanking sequences, initial synthesis events have been characterized on templates lacking these sequences. Herein, it is demonstrated that previously functional initiation sites are nearly inactive when moved to positions that are proximal to the core origin. Thus, the gap in initiation events depends, in part, on the proximity of the initiation sites to the SV40 core origin. Additional experiments demonstrate that removal of the flanking sequences had little or no effect on DNA unwinding or on the efficiency of initiation of DNA synthesis in vitro. These results indicate that, under our in vitro conditions, initiation of SV40 DNA synthesis is not enhanced by binding of transcription factors to the flanking sequences.
A method for determining the phosphorus sorption capacity and amorphous aluminum of aluminum-based drinking water treatment residuals.

A high amorphous aluminum or iron oxide content in drinking water treatment residuals (WTRs) can result in a high phosphorus (P) sorption capacity. Therefore, WTR may be used beneficially to adsorb P and reduce P loss to surface or ground water. The strong relationship between acid ammonium oxalate-extractable aluminum (Al(ox)) and Langmuir phosphorus adsorption maximum (P(max)) in WTR could provide a useful tool for determining P(max) without the onus of the multipoint batch equilibrations necessary for the Langmuir model. The objectives of this study were to evaluate and/or modify an acid ammonium oxalate extraction of Al(ox) and the experimental conditions used to generate P adsorption isotherms to strengthen the relationship between Al(ox) and P(max). The oxalate extraction solution to WTR ratio varied from 40:1, 100:1, and 200:1. Batch equilibration conditions were also varied. The WTR particle size was reduced from 50 mg Al kg(-1). No additional increase was found at 200:1. Reducing WTR particle size from <2 mm to <150 microm increased P(max) 2.46-fold. Extending the equilibration time from 17 h to 6 d increased P(max) by a mean of 5.83-fold. The resulting empirical regression equation between the optimized Al(ox) and P(max) (r(2) = 0.91, significant at the 0.001 probability level) may provide a tool to estimate the P(max) of Al-based WTR simply by measuring Al(ox). The accurate determination of WTR P(max) and Al(ox) is essential in using WTR effectively to reduce P loss in runoff or to reduce the solubility of P in agricultural soils or organic waste materials (biosolids, manure).
CLASSROOM RESEARCH AND EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING: THREE SUCCESSFUL EXPERIENCES‐THE IMPACT OF STUDENT WRITING IN LEARNING ACCOUNTING

As the knowledge base in all disciplines continues to grow, professors face the problem of incorporating even more essential, difficult, technical material into their already content‐filled courses. Furthermore, companies are hiring more selectively than ever, requiring not only superior technical skills but also good writing skills of the people they hire. How can faculty add more technical material plus extra writing practice into already bulging courses? One solution may be to supplement typical homework problems with daily written journals. In using these journals, the students would think about and better understand difficult concepts that are not being fully understood through homework problems. Also, a byproduct of writing in daily journals would be extra writing practice and, presumably, better writing skills. The purpose of this paper is to describe the results of research done in the Collin County Community College District in which four Principles of Accounting classes were used in an experimen...
Laser vocal cordectomy fails to effectively reduce respiratory noise in horses with laryngeal hemiplegia.

Objective— To report the effect of unilateral laser vocal cordectomy on respiratory noise and airway function in horses with experimentally induced laryngeal hemiplegia (LH). Study Design— Experimental study. Animals— Six Standardbred horses without upper airway abnormities at rest or during high-speed treadmill exercise. Methods— Respiratory sounds and inspiratory trans-upper airway pressure (PUi) were measured before (baseline) and 14 days after induction of LH by left recurrent laryngeal neurectomy, and again 30, 60, 90, and 120 days after endoscopically assisted laser cordectomy of the left vocal cord. Data were collected with the horses exercising on a treadmill at a speed producing maximum heart rate (HRmax). Results— In horses exercising at HRmax, induction of LH caused a significant increase in PUi, sound level (SL), and the sound intensity of formant 2 (F2) and 3 (F3). The sound intensity of formant 1 (F1) was unaffected by induction of LH. Laser vocal cordectomy had no effect on SL, or on the sound intensity of F1 and F3. At 30, 60, 90, and 120 days after surgery, PUi and the sound intensity of F2 were significantly reduced, but these variables remained significantly different from baseline values. Conclusions— Unilateral laser vocal cordectomy did not effectively improve upper airway noise in horses with LH. The procedure decreased upper airway obstruction to the same degree as bilateral ventriculocordectomy. Clinical Relevance— Currently, laser vocal cordectomy cannot be recommended for the treatment of upper airway noise in horses with LH.
Gap-fill type HSQ/ZEP520A bilayer resist process–(I): HSQ-coated ZEP520A CD shrinkage for 32-nm trench patterns

The CD shrinkage by thermal reflow technique was frequently used for the formation of contact hole (C/H) of fine size. However, such technique is seldom used for line (trench)/space type patterns with complicate layout, like 6T-SRAM pattern. One of the reasons is the shape distortion of the designed layout after thermal reflow which results in the difficulty in CD control. In this study ultra-thin hydrogen silsesquioxane (HSQ)-coated ZEP520A trenchs are used to investigate the CD shrinkage effect and integrity of the shape after thermal reflow. 6T-SRAM transistor gate with various width/length (W/L) ratios is used as the test pattern. HSQ diluted by methyl-isobutyl ketone (MIBK) with 1:3 and 1:14 volume ratios was coated on ZEP520A trenchs. Post-applied baking (PAB) conditions of non-HSQ coated ZEP520A are split to find the optimal CD uniformity. The effects of thickness of HSQ, dilution ratio, spin speed of HSQ on the CD and shape after thermal reflow at various temperatures for HSQ-coated ZEP520A trench patterns are also studied. Multiple thermal reflows at 160oC-180oC are applied to obtain the best shrinkage results. It is found that the non-HSQ coated ZEP520A trench with all W/L ratios shrunk at 160oC. The smallest shrunk trench of 33.6 nm top-CD with 1/50 W/L ratio is obtained for HSQ (1:14)-coated ZEP520A for two thermal reflows at 160 oC/90 sec while 35.8 nm top-CD of the same W/L ratio is obtained after one 180oC/90sec reflow. Both sizes could meet the CD requirement of 32nm node and beyond. Above all, the HSQ-coated ZEP520A keeps the shape of trench pattern after one or multiple thermal reflows.
Initiation in hydrocarbon autoxidation at elevated temperatures

Kinetic and mechanistic investigations of liquid phase autoxidation of hexadecane at 120 to 190°C have shown that, in the early stages of oxidation, the initiation process involves homolytic decomposition of hydroperoxides. The values of a composite first order rate constant for this decomposition, k 1 , have been determined in stirred flow reactor experiments from the rate of formation of termination products and in batch reactor studies using inhibitor methods. Arrhenius parameters derived from these studies (log (A/s −1 )=8.5 ane E a =26 kcal mol −1 ) allow calculation of k 1 as a function of temperature. This permits determination of the rate of initiation as a function of hydroperoxide concentration and facilitates determination of absolute rate constants for other oxidation reactions occurring in this system
Prefrontal engagement by cognitive reappraisal of negative faces.

Cognitive reappraisal has been associated with increased activation in prefrontal cortex (PFC) and cingulate regions implicated in cognitive control and affect regulation. To date, neuroimaging studies of reappraisal have primarily used emotionally evocative scenes, and it remains unclear whether the same cognitive strategy applied to emotional facial expressions would involve similar or different neural underpinnings. The present study used fMRI to examine brain activation during cognitive reappraisal of negatively valenced facial expressions relative to passive viewing of negative and neutral facial expressions. Twenty-two healthy adults completed a cognitive reappraisal task comprised of three different conditions (Look-Neutral, Maintain-Negative, Reappraise-Negative). Results indicated that reappraisal was associated with a decrease in negative affect and engagement of PFC brain regions implicated in cognitive control and affect regulation (DLPFC, mPFC, and VLPFC). Furthermore, individual differences in habitual reappraisal use were associated with greater DLPFC and mPFC activation, while suppression use was associated with greater amygdala activation. The present study provides preliminary evidence that facial expressions are effective alternative ‘targets’ of prefrontal engagement during cognitive reappraisal. These findings are particularly relevant for future research probing the neural bases of emotion regulation in populations for whom aversive scenes may be less appropriate (e.g., children) and illnesses in which aberrant responses to social signals of threat and negative feedback are cardinal phenotypes.
The petrology of Poás volcano lavas: basalt-andesite relationship and their petrogenesis within the magmatic arc of Costa Rica

Abstract Basalt, andesite and dacite from Poas volcano exhibit a distinct petrogenetic evolution. The basalts (Al 2 O 3 = 16–17.4%, K 2 O = 1.43–1.61%) are hypersthene-normative tholeiites with phenocrysts of labradorite, olivine, and two pyroxenes. Orthopyroxene (En 67-56 ) is generally rimmed by clinopyroxene (Fs 10–18 Wo 39–48 ). In all basalts and in a few andesites, pyroxene phenocrysts have Al- and Ti-rich salite rims that surround cores of orthopyroxene or augite having lower values. The Al z values (% of tetrahedral site occupied by Al) for these augites are above 6%, thus defining on the Al z vs. TiO 2 diagram an intermediate trend between arc-related cumulates and rift-related tholeiites and ophiolite-layered cumulates. Moreover, the presence of olivines with coronae of wormy intergrowths of orthopyroxene and Ti-magnetite (similar to those occurring in metagabbros of the granulite facies and characteristic of Arenal gabbroic xenoliths) together with anorthite megacrysts (An 94-91 ) suggest a possible contamination origin for these basalts. Sr-isotope ratios for the basalts are between 0.703816 and 0.703849 whereas andesites and dacites have lower ratios (0.703676–0.703715): these relationships together with the mineral compositions suggest that the basalts may have formed from basaltic andesites by contamination with olivine gabbros and anorthosites of the lower crust. Pearce element-ratio analysis confirms that the basalts had a different origin from the rest of the suite and that the dacite may be derived by crystal fractionation of the less silicic basaltic andesite with removal mainly of clinopyroxene and plagioclase.
Endocytosis of light chains induces cytokines through activation of NF-κB in human proximal tubule cells

Endocytosis of light chains induces cytokines through activation of NF-κB in human proximal tubule cells. Background In proteinuric states increased cytokine production through endocytosis of filtered proteins by proximal tubule cells (PTCs) has been proposed as a major mechanism mediating tubulointerstitial injury and progressive kidney disease. We studied the effects of six different light chains (LCs) on the production of cytokines in cultured human PTCs. Methods LCs were isolated and purified from the urine of patients with myeloma and human PTCs were exposed to either LC or human serum albumin (HSA) for up to 24 hours. LC endocytosis was monitored by immunocytochemistry. Cytokines were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in the supernatants and activation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) was detected by electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSA) and immunocytochemistry. Results Endocytosis of LCs induced the release of interleukins (IL) IL-6, IL-8 and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1); however, there was considerable variability among the six different LCs. In contrast, HSA had no effect on cytokine production even at very high concentrations. Removal of LC-containing media resulted in cessation of IL-6 release. LC-induced cytokine release was associated with nuclear translocation of NF-κB subunits p50 and p65, as demonstrated by both EMSA and immunocytochemistry. Inhibitors of NF-κB, aspirin and pyrrolidineditiocarbamate (PDTC) markedly suppressed LC-induced cytokine production. Conclusion LC endocytosis leads to production of inflammatory cytokines through activation of NF-κB. This may be an important mechanism of chronic tubulointerstitial inflammation process commonly seen in multiple myeloma. These findings also point out a potential role by filterable low-molecular-weight proteins, like LCs, in PTC injury during all proteinuric diseases.
Brain tissue pressure gradients in experimental infarction and space occupying lesions

Abstract Regional cerebral tissue pressures were recorded with multiple wick-type pressure transducers in 31 animals under different experimental conditions. In Group 1 infarction was produced by occlusion of the middle cerebral artery ( mca , in Group 2 iophendylate (Pantopaque R ) was injected directly into the mca , in Group 3 iophendylate was injected into the common carotid artery ( cca ), and in Group 4 one cerebral hemisphere was compressed by inflation of a balloon or injection of blood into brain tissue. Marked transient cerebral tissue pressure gradients were noted after injection of iophendylate into the mca and sometimes after injection of iophendylate into the cca . Moderate transient gradients were produced by rapid inflation of an extracerebral balloon. The slowly progressive edema caused by infarction after mca occlusion and edema caused by injection of blood in a cerebral hemisphere did not produce measurable cerebral tissue pressure gradients, despite generalized increases in intracranial pressure. The same was true if the extracerebral balloon was inflated slowly.
Prevention counseling practices of HIV care providers with patients new to HIV medical care: medical monitoring project provider survey, 2009.

Objectives:To determine the prevalence of prevention counseling discussions between HIV care providers and their patients who are newly linked to care and to assess factors that facilitate such dis...
Do Geriatricians Practice what they Preach?: Geriatricians' Personal Establishment of Advance Directives

Previous research has been conducted regarding preferences of physicians for life-sustaining treatments for themselves, but there is a dearth of data on personal use of advance directives (ADs) by geriatricians specifically. Using a phone survey, we contacted all graduates of the geriatric fellowship program to assess their personal use of advance directives and their personal preferences for life-sustaining treatment. Of the 124 living graduates of the Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care and Rehabilitation, 70 agreed to participate. One third of respondents had established ADs for themselves, with higher rates in women than men (p = .054). Older geriatricians were significantly more likely to have advance directives (exact trend test yields, p < .0001). In general, respondents did not inform their health care providers about their desires for end-of-life care. This study revealed that the majority of fellowship-trained geriatricians did not formally establish advance directives for themselves. Furthe...
The one-particle green's function: The minimal basis set description of the two-electron bond

Abstract The ionization potential (IP), electron affinity (EA), one-matrix and correlation energy of a two-electron chemical bond are calculated in a minimal basis set using one-particle, many-body Green's function theory. Results obtained using the second-order self-energy (Σ) and higher-order Σ's proposed by (1) Pickup and Goscinski, (2) Tsui and Freed, (3) Simons and Smith are compared with each other and with the exact values in the basis. The relationship between these methods and with configuration interaction is discussed and the consequences of making approximations in the context of Green's function theory are clarified.
Computational Investigations of Low-Discrepancy Point Sets II

Point sets and sequences with small L2, discrepancy are useful in the evaluation of multiple integrals. For example, the average error in integration of all continuous functions over the unit cube (with respect to the Wiener measure) is given by the L2 discrepancy of the point set being used. [6] The Koksma-Hlawka inequality and Zaremba’s related inequality also imply the usefulness of low-discrepancy point sets. [4,7]
Ion channel events simulated with the program SIMSTATE

Ion channel transitions between conducting (open) and non-conducting (closed) states are often described in terms of a chemical kinetic model, where the rate constants describing the transitions between states can be derived by analysing a data record and measuring channel dwell times. In this paper, a menu-driven program for IBM-compatible microcomputers, SIMSTATE, is described which permits simulations of one or more channels according to a user-specified set of transition rates. Rates can be constant, voltage- or ligand-activated, exhibit co-operativity, or dependent on the calcium concentration resulting from the opening of one or more nearby Ca channels. To illustrate the functionality of SIMSTATE, open and closed events are simulated for a well-known Ca channel model and an example of co-operative gating is examined. Furthermore, the control of a Ca-dependent K channel by a nearby Ca channel, which also opens and closes according to a user-specified transition rates, is described. Potential uses for SIMSTATE as a tool for theoretical analysis, education and experimental design are discussed.
Effects of surface and boundary diffusion on void growth

Abstract The coupled equations for boundary and surface diffusion that control the growth of a void along a grain boundary have been solved numerically for the limiting case where the slope of the cavity surface is always small. The resulting solutions are compared with asymptotic results for the same problem that have been developed earlier by other authors. It is shown that existing expressions for “crack-like” and “quasi-equilibrium” growth provide an excellent description of void growth over the entire range of possible conditions. The numerical results illustrate the transition between the two modes and the evolution of the cavity profile during growth. In particular, a wedge-shaped cavity is predicted to develop as a void grows across a grain boundary, even in the absence of crystallographic effects.
INTERNATIONAL CYBER‐JURISDICTION: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS

The challenge in determining if and when courts have jurisdiction over activities conducted on the Internet would not be great if the Internet were confined to a single geographical area, or if it were neatly divisible along territorial boundaries into distinct local networks. In order for a national court to adjudicate criminal and regulatory sanctions internationally, there must be some connection, or nexus, between the regulating nation and the crime or criminal. The most basic and common jurisdictional nexus is the territoriality nexus. The right of a country to exercise jurisdiction based on the nationality of a defendant is universally recognized. A country is assumed to have nearly unlimited control of its nationals, so its "treatment of its nationals is not ordinarily a matter of concern to other States or to international law". Continental European courts, as well as courts in other civil law countries, regularly rely on the protective nexus in assuming jurisdiction over foreign defendants.
Structural and functional characteristics of neonatal pancreas homografts in alloxan diabetic golden hamsters.

The present study extends preliminary investigations on the release of insulin-like activity (ILA) by pancreatic homografts. Neonatal pancreas was implanted into the cheek pouch of alloxan-diabetic golden hamsters maintained with insulin. Hosts were treated additionally with cortisone and tolbutamide either singly or in combination. Homografts were evaluated structurally (aldehyde fuchsin) and functionally (fat pad bioassay) at periodic intervals. In hosts receiving insulin alone, revascularization of the homografts occurred generally by seven days and complete exocrine degeneration by thirty days. The former process was delayed by cortisone and the latter accelerated by tolbutamide but delayed by cortisone. Cortisone prevented lymphocytic infiltration while tolbutamide significantly increased the number of islets with mitotic figures. The number of homografts with islets demonstrating ILA in vitro was increased when hosts were pretreated with cortisone and insulin one week before transplantation and tolbutamide and insulin after transplantation. Arbitrary scoring of the survival and functional capacity of the homografts indicated this treatment to be twenty-eight times more effective than treatment with insulin alone. The magnitude of ILA released per transplant was not significantly different as a result of different treatments. However, omission of tolbutamide for twelve days prior to bioassay significantly increased the number of homografts able to release ILA. This suggests that the functional deficiencies observed with uninterrupted tolbutamide treatment may have resulted from overstimulation above that occurring as a consequence of diabetic hyperglycemia.
The educational effectiveness of computer-based instruction

Abstract Although numerous studies have shown that computer-based education is effective for enhancing rote memorization, the impact of these tools on higher-order cognitive skills, such as critical thinking, is less clear. Existing methods for evaluating educational effectiveness, such as surveys, quizzes and pre- or post-interviews, may not be effective for evaluating impact on critical thinking skills because students are not always aware of the effects the software has on their thought processes. We review an alternative evaluation strategy whereby the student's mastery of a specific cognitive skill is directly assessed both before and after participating in a computer-based exercise. Methodologies for assessing cognitive skill are based on recent advances in the fields of cognitive science. Results from two studies show that computer-based exercises can positively impact the higher-order cognitive skills of some students. However, a given exercise will not impact all students equally. This suggests that further work is needed to understand how and why CAI software is more or less effective within a given population.
Cumulative yields of 40·1 min 123Sn, 9·6 min 125Sn and 128Sn from thermal-neutron induced fission of 235U

Abstract The yields of 40·1 min 123 Sn, 9·6 min 125 Sn and 128 Sn from thermal-neutron induced fission of 235 U have been determined to be 0·0140±0·0011, 0·0192±0·0017 and 0·333±0·024 per cent, respectively. The yields were determined by comparison of the gamma-ray intensities with a Ge(Li) detector of these fission products in chemically separated tin samples with intensities of gamma rays from 97 Zr( 97 Nb) and 132 Te( 132 I) in chemically separated samples. The new yield values for 40·1 min 123 Sn and 128 Sn are in agreement with previously reported values, but the new value for 9·6 min 125 Sn is considerably larger than the previously reported value. However, the new value is consistent with the difference between the 125 Sb and 9·6 day 125 Sn yields. The recommended values for the yields of 40·1 min 123 Sn, 9·6 min 125 Sn and 128 Sn are: 0·014±0·001, 0·018±0·002 and 0·325±0·015 per cent, respectively.
Text-To-Speech Using LPC Allophone Stringing

A low cost voice response system is presented, which performs text-to-speech conversion of any English text. The system is built around an LPC synthesizer chip and a microprocessor. Text-to-allophone rules are used to convert an input string of ASCII characters into allophonic codes. LPC parameters are then drawn from an allophone library, which takes very little storage space, and concatenated using a fast and simple algorithm to produce natural sounding speech.
Analysis and approximation of optimal co-scheduling on chip multiprocessors

Cache sharing among processors is important for Chip Multiprocessors to reduce inter-thread latency, but also brings cache contention, degrading program performance considerably. Recent studies have shown that job co-scheduling can effectively alleviate the contention, but it remains an open question how to efficiently find optimal co-schedules. Solving the question is critical for determining the potential of a co-scheduling system. This paper presents a theoretical analysis of the complexity of co-scheduling, proving its NP-completeness. Furthermore, for a special case when there are two sharers per chip, we propose an algorithm that finds the optimal co-schedules in polynomial time. For more complex cases, we design and evaluate a sequence of approximation algorithms, among which, the hierarchical matching algorithm produces near-optimal schedules and shows good scalability. This study facilitates the evaluation of co-scheduling systems, as well as offers some techniques directly usable in proactive job co-scheduling.
The Paranoid and the Schizophrenic: The Case for Distinct Cognitive Style

The paranoid has traditionally been considered schizophrenic except for some rare cases which exhibit delusions but none of the other signs such as cognitive disorganization. We attempt to show that considering the paranoid as independent of schizophrenia and exhibiting varying degrees of pathology is more consistent with current research. Furthermore, we believe that there is enough description of the underlying cognitive process unique to the paranoid and distinct from the schizophrenic to warrant a separate inclusive category, and possibly the consideration of a particular personality, at least in terms of cognitive processes. We review the research in information processing and hemispheric functioning to demonstrate distinctive cognitive processing, and finally, we offer a higher order integration construct to explain the etiology of schizophrenia and paranoia in terms of thought processes.
Towards large-area photovoltaic nanocells: experiences learned from smart window technology

This investigation covers two technologies which have different applications but have many similar characteristics. One is the nanocell photoelectrochemical solar cell, the other is the electrochromic window
Fuzzy cluster validity in magnetic resonance images

Individual cluster validation has not received as much attention as partition validation. This paper presents two measures for evaluating individual clusters in a fuzzy partition. They both account for properties of the fuzzy memberships as well as the structure of the data. The first measure is a ratio between compactness and separation of the fuzzy clusters; the second is based on counting a contradiction between properties of the fuzzy memberships and the stucture of the data. These two measures are applied and compared in evaluating fuzzy clusters generated by the fuzzy c-means algorithm for segmentation of magnetic resonance images of the brain.
A 40-mW 55 Mb/s CMOS equalizer for use in magnetic storage read channels

A monolithic active equalizer in 2-/spl mu/m CMOS technology is described, suitable for use in magnetic storage read channels employing peak-detection. Computer simulation of the channel and numerical optimization of equalizer performance have led to a 4-pole equalizer which outperforms conventional 7-pole linear-phase pulse-slimming equalizers. Circuits with matched and scaled stray capacitances use low transconductance amplifiers, with a total on-chip power dissipation of 40 mW (excluding output buffers). A master-slave architecture tunes filter pole frequencies and quality factors (Q) to their nominal values against process and temperature variations. >
The impact of multiple endpoint dependency on Q and I(2) in meta-analysis.

A common assumption in meta-analysis is that effect sizes are independent. When correlated effect sizes are analyzed using traditional univariate techniques, this assumption is violated. This research assesses the impact of dependence arising from treatment-control studies with multiple endpoints on homogeneity measures Q and I2 in scenarios using the unbiased standardized-mean-difference effect size. Univariate and multivariate meta-analysis methods are examined. Conditions included different overall outcome effects, study sample sizes, numbers of studies, between-outcomes correlations, dependency structures, and ways of computing the correlation. The univariate approach used typical fixed-effects analyses whereas the multivariate approach used generalized least-squares (GLS) estimates of a fixed-effects model, weighted by the inverse variance–covariance matrix. Increased dependence among effect sizes led to increased Type I error rates from univariate models. When effect sizes were strongly dependent, error rates were drastically higher than nominal levels regardless of study sample size and number of studies. In contrast, using GLS estimation to account for multiple-endpoint dependency maintained error rates within nominal levels. Conversely, mean I2 values were not greatly affected by increased amounts of dependency. Last, we point out that the between-outcomes correlation should be estimated as a pooled within-groups correlation rather than using a full-sample estimator that does not consider treatment/control group membership. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Achieving 100% National Certification Rates for Registered Nurses on a Pediatric Inpatient Unit

and clinical data, a fall risk assessment tool was developed. Factors were categorized according to low, moderate, or high risk for association with a fall, with appropriate interventions for each level. The fall risk assessment and prevention program involved hospital-wide education. A self-learning module with case presentations was provided, as well as unit-based education and competency assessment to assure consistent utilization of the program. Program evaluation using incident reports and chart review at quarterly intervals is being conducted. Findings: An evidence-based fall risk assessment and prevention program was implemented. The program increased staff and parent awareness of fall risk and interventions to prevent falls. Conclusion/Discussion: Ongoing evaluation of the data will guide necessary revisions to the fall assessment and prevention program. As a result of this research, nurses will better understand the causes of falls in children versus adults and tailor interventions for the pediatric population to decrease risk and injury.
THE DUST CLOUD AROUND THE WHITE DWARF G 29-38. II. SPECTRUM FROM 5 TO 40 μm AND MID-INFRARED PHOTOMETRIC VARIABILITY

We model the mineralogy and distribution of dust around the white dwarf G29-39 using the infrared spectrum from 1 to 35 μm. The spectral model for G29-38 dust combines a wide range of materials based on spectral studies of comets and debris disks. In order of their contribution to the mid-infrared emission, the most abundant minerals around G29-38 are amorphous carbon (λ < 8 μm), amorphous and crystalline silicates (5-40 μm), water ice (10-15 and 23-35 μm), and metal sulfides (18-28 μm). The amorphous C can be equivalently replaced by other materials (like metallic Fe) with featureless infrared spectra. The best-fitting crystalline silicate is Fe-rich pyroxene. In order to absorb enough starlight to power the observed emission, the disk must either be much thinner than the stellar radius (so that it can be heated from above and below) or it must have an opening angle wider than 2°. A "moderately optically thick" torus model fits well if the dust extends inward to 50 times the white dwarf radius, all grains hotter than 1100 K are vaporized, the optical depth from the star through the disk is τ║ = 5, and the radial density profile α r ^(–2.7); the total mass of this model disk is 2 × 10^(19) g. A physically thin (less than the white dwarf radius) and optically thick disk can contribute to the near-infrared continuum only; such a disk cannot explain the longer-wavelength continuum or strong emission features. The combination of a physically thin, optically thick inner disk and an outer, physically thick and moderately optically thin cloud or disk produces a reasonably good fit to the spectrum and requires only silicates in the outer cloud. We discuss the mineralogical results in comparison to planetary materials. The silicate composition contains minerals found from cometary spectra and meteorites, but Fe-rich pyroxene is more abundant than enstatite (Mg-rich pyroxene) or forsterite (Mg-rich olivine) in G29-38 dust, in contrast to what is found in most comet or meteorite mineralogies. Enstatite meteorites may be the most similar solar system materials to G29-38 dust. Finally, we suggest the surviving core of a "hot Jupiter" as an alternative (neither cometary nor asteroidal) origin for the debris, though further theoretical work is needed to determine if this hypothesis is viable.
Arrhythmias Associated with Acute Respiratory Failure in Patients with Chronic Airway Obstruction

Electrocardiograms of 70 patients with chronic airway obstruction were examined from 148 consecutive admissions for acute respiratory failure. Forty-seven percent of the patients had major supraventricular or ventricular arrhythmias. These arrhythmias were documented on 36 percent of hospital admissions. Supraventricular arrhythmias were slightly more common than ventricular arrhythmias, the most frequent being atrial tachycardia and multifocal atrial tachycardia. Supraventricular arrhythmias tended to recur. Ventricular arrhythmias were often preceded by premature ventricular contractions, supraventicular arrhythmias, or other ventricular arrhythmias. Ventricular arrhythmias were associated with a poor prognosis; 70 percent of patients with ventricular arrhythmia died during the hospital admission and none survived to the end of the study period. These data suggest that continuous electrocardiographic monitoring of chronic airway obstruction patients with acute respiratory failure would be of value in predicting prognosis and identifying patients likely to develop serious arrhythmias; these findings may have therapeutic implications.
The Use of Aqueous Enzymatic Polymerization of Amphyphilic Alkyl Tyrosine Derivatives as Environmentally Benign Coatings in the Microelectronics Industry

The surface coating properties of enzymatically polymerized decyl esters of d-tyrosine from aqueous solutions onto gold surfaces have been investigated utilizing the complementary techniques of Potentiometeric Titration, UV-VIS Spectroscopy, and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS). The aqueous-based coatings are of interest as environmentally friendly and cost-effective replacements for epoxy-based coatings currently employed in the microelectronics industry for both chemical protection and electrical insulation of gold-covered metallic conductors. Experimental results with respect to polymerization pH, immersion pH, and immersion time are presented and compared to the ionization behavior of the monomers in solution. Optimum processing conditions have been established, which yield uniform aqueous-based polymeric coatings on gold conductor surfaces.
Computational study on structures, thermochemical properties, and bond energies of disulfide oxygen (S–S–O)-bridged CH3SSOH and CH3SS(=O)H and radicals

Cleavage of disulfide bonds is a common method used in linking peptides to proteins in biochemical reactions. The structures, internal rotor potentials, bond energies, and thermochemical properties (ΔfH°, S°, and Cp(T)) of the S–S bridge molecules CH3SSOH and CH3SS(=O)H and the radicals CH3SS•=O and C•H2SSOH that correspond to H-atom loss are determined by computational chemistry. Structure and thermochemical parameters (S° and Cp(T)) are determined using density functional Becke, three-parameter, Lee–Yang–Parr (B3LYP)/6-31++G (d, p), B3LYP/6-311++G (3df, 2p). The enthalpies of formation for stable species are calculated using the total energies at B3LYP/6-31++G (d, p), B3LYP/6-311++G (3df, 2p), and the higher level composite CBS–QB3 levels with work reactions that are close to isodesmic in most cases. The enthalpies of formation for CH3SSOH, CH3SS(=O)H are −38.3 and −16.6 kcal mol−1, respectively, where the difference is in enthalpy RSO–H versus RS(=O)–H bonding. The C–H bond energy of CH3SSOH is 99.2 kcal mol−1, and the O–H bond energy is weaker at 76.9 kcal mol−1. Cleavage of the weak O–H bond in CH3SSOH results in an electron rearrangement upon loss of the CH3SSO–H hydrogen atom; the radical rearranges to form the more stable CH3SS· = O radical structure. Cleavage of the C–H bond in CH3SS(=O)H results in an unstable [CH2SS(=O)H]* intermediate, which decomposes exothermically to lower energy CH2 = S + HSO. The CH3SS(=O)–H bond energy is quite weak at 54.8 kcal mol−1 with the H–C bond estimated at between 91 and 98 kcal mol−1. Disulfide bond energies for CH3S–SOH and CH3S–S(=O)H are low: 67.1 and 39.2 kcal mol−1. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Conceptual Models for Cumulative Risk Assessment

In the absence of scientific consensus on an appropriate theoretical framework, cumulative risk assessment and related research have relied on speculative conceptual models.We argue for the importance of theoretical backing for such models and discuss 3 relevant theoretical frameworks, each supporting a distinctive “family” of models. Social determinant models postulate that unequal health outcomes are caused by structural inequalities; health disparity models envision social and contextual factors acting through individual behaviors and biological mechanisms; and multiple stressor models incorporate environmental agents, emphasizing the intermediary role of these and other stressors.The conclusion is that more careful reliance on established frameworks will lead directly to improvements in characterizing cumulative risk burdens and accounting for disproportionate adverse health effects.
Association of Serum Bilirubin Concentration with Risk of Coronary Artery Disease

Background: Lipid oxidation and formation of oxygen radicals are important elements of arterial plaque formation and atherosclerosis, and are involved in the pathophysiology of coronary artery disease (CAD). Because bilirubin has antioxidant properties, it has been suggested that it may have a protective role in the atherosclerotic process. Approach: This review examines in vitro and in vivo studies indicating that bilirubin inhibits lipid oxidation and oxygen radical formation. Experimental and epidemiological evidence is presented that suggests that bilirubin may serve as a physiological antioxidant providing protection against atherosclerosis and CAD. Special attention is focused on studies that noted an inverse relationship between plasma bilirubin concentration and cardiovascular morbidity. Content: Serum bilirubin concentrations in the upper portion of the reference interval reportedly reduce atherogenic risk and provide protection against CAD. In contrast, serum bilirubin concentrations in the lower portion of the reference interval may be associated with increased risk of ischemic heart disease. Summary: Taken together, the evidence presented in this review supports the concept that bilirubin, via its antioxidant potential, has antiatherogenic properties and that an inverse relationship exists between circulating bilirubin concentrations and risk of CAD.
CGS 10746B, a Novel Dopamine Release Inhibitor, Blocks the Establishment of Cocaine and MDMA Conditioned Place Preferences

Cocaine and methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), two drugs self-administered by humans and laboratory animals, have previously been shown to produce conditioned place preferences (CPPs) among rats, an index of drug-reward relevant events. Both of these agents increase functional levels of dopamine that may be critical to their rewarding properties. Here, the effects of doses of CGS 10746B, an agent reported to attenuate the release of dopamine without occupying dopamine receptors, are assessed on cocaine and MDMA's ability to produce a CPP. CGS 10746B dose dependently blocked the establishment of a MDMA CPP. A 30 mg/kg dose of CGS 10746B, which completely blocked the MDMA CPP, also blocked the establishment of a cocaine CPP. Release of dopamine appears critical to the ability of these agents to establish a CPP.
Purification and Characterization of a Rat Liver Protein That Recognizes CCAAT-Homologous Sequences of the Metallothionein Promoter andtrans-Activates This Promoter

C'BP-1, a protein that binds to the MRE-c' region (-135 to -110) of the mouse metallothionein-I (MT-I) gene in metal-independent manner, was purified from rat liver nuclear extract by ion exchange and affinity chromatography. Analysis by SDS-PAGE, UV cross-linking, and glycerol gradient sedimentation, taken together, showed that C'BP-1 is a dimer of the 34-kDa polypeptides. Affinity-purified C'BP-1 could significantly stimulate transcription from mouse MT-I gene promoter. DNase I footprinting with the purified protein identified two binding sites for C'BP-1 located at positions -135 to -100 and -210 to -175 with respect to the start site of MT-I gene transcription. Both C'BP-1 binding sequences were found to contain imperfect dyad of the CCAAT homology. C'BP-1 was shown to make critical contacts with the CCAAT homology by methylation interference analysis and competition electrophoretic mobility shift assay with mutants harboring alterations in the CCAAT homology. An antibody that specifically recognizes C/EBP delta partially supershifted C'BP-1/MRE-c' complex, suggesting that C'BP-1 is identical to C/EBP delta or is closely related to C/EBP delta.
Methods for microsurgical production of mammalian somatic cell hybrids and their analysis and cloning.

Publisher Summary This chapter presents methods for fusing cells by microsurgery and for analyzing and cloning the fusion products of mammalian somatic cells of the same and different cell types and species. These methods, applied to murine somatic cells, extend the microsurgical methodology evolved for human somatic cells in culture. Human and murine somatic cells of fibroblastic or epithelioid morphology and of normal or abnormal origin are used. The human cell types include HeLa clone (HC), human fetal (HF), fibroblasts carrying translocations (T and GM73), Lesch–Nyhan (LN), and diploid (141) cells. The murine cell types include mouse L (L), fibroblastic (A9 and CL1D), neuroblastoma (N), teratoma (Ter), and Ehrlich ascites (EA) cells. For cells of the same type, invert the microculture growing on an 18-mm-square cover slip on the microsurgical chamber. If properly done, this whole operation yields three individual cells—two unfused cells and one bicellular cell hybrid. For cells of different types or species, the microsurgical chamber should be prepared in a sterile hood. This operation yields three individual cells—two unfused sisters, one of each cell type or species, and one bicellular hybrid cell (made up of two different nuclei and two different types of cytoplasm).
Re-Balancing Fitness, Fairness, and Finality for Sentences

This Essay examines the issue of “sentence finality” in the hope of encouraging more thorough and reflective consideration of the values and interests served — and not served — by doctrines, policies, and practices that may allow or preclude the review of sentences after they have been deemed final. Drawing on American legal history and modern penal realities, this Essay highlights reasons why sentence finality has only quite recently become an issue of considerable importance. This Essay also suggests that this history combines with modern mass incarceration in the United States to call for policy-makers, executive officials, and judges now to be less concerned about sentence finality, and to be more concerned about punishment fitness and fairness, when new legal developments raise doubts or concerns about lengthy prison sentences.
Food-Finding Capability of Grape Root Borer (Lepidoptera: Sesiidae) Neonates in Soil Column Bioassays

Abstract Grape root borer, Vitacea polistiformis (Harris), is an economically important and potentially destructive pest of grape vines in portions of the eastern United States. Its oligophagous larvae feed on the roots of cultivated and wild Vitis species. In commercial vineyards, adult females oviposit on aboveground parts of vines and other vegetation in vine rows. The loosely attached eggs are thought to drop to the ground and, upon eclosion, neonates quickly burrow into the soil to search for grape roots. Although vineyard infestation by grape root borer is ultimately dependent upon larval success at finding and establishing on vine roots, little is known about larval movement capabilities in the soil. In this study, soil column bioassays were used to evaluate neonate movement in the horizontal and vertical dimensions, the influence of grape root stimuli on the rate and frequency of food-finding, and the distance over which the neonates responded to these stimuli. Grape root borer neonates moved bot...
Spatial Characteristics of Contact Pin-Printed Silanes and Bioconjugates on Oxidized Porous Silicon

Porous silicon (pSi) exhibits strong, visible photoluminescence (PL) at room temperature. To stabilize the pSi PL and simultaneously impart chemical functionality we oxidize pSi (ox-pSi) and then contact pin-print organically modified silanes onto the ox-pSi surface. This strategy allows rapid microarray production for numerous applications; however, spot size and chemical homogeneity across the spot are crucial factors controlling microarray spot density and utility. In this article we used a 200 μm diameter solid tungsten pin to contact pin-print 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES-) and butyraldehydetriethoxysilane (BATES-) derived spots onto ox-pSi and then used PL and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) imaging to characterize the spot size, shape, and spatial homogeneity. The APTES-derived spots formed >30× faster and spread ∼15% further in comparison to BATES-derived spots; however, the majority of feature spreading is attributed to an oxidized, silane-free halo, which surrounds the sil...