cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
What does ‘safe’ look and feel like?

Abstract In this paper, the authors answer the question and help readers to form a view of ‘what does safe look and feel like’? Five important aspects of safety are addressed logically: Safety Culture, Safety Awareness, Safety Function, Processes, and Training. In each part, rather than just address what elements are involved and the importance of every element, this paper also provides general ideas and examples to help improve the level of safety. While safety culture is to a large extent influenced by the leadership; a best-in-class safety culture can be self-perpetuating particularly if the initial journey to best-in-class safety culture embeds the concepts of safety awareness, safety functions, processes and training in the organization. The paper provides an overview of safety related actions, tools, and processes that High Reliability Organizations follow, and should serve as a benchmark for other organizations of all sizes in search of safety improvement.
Gain in weight and length during early infancy

Although rate of growth is generally recognized as a valuable indicator of health status, few reference data are available for gain in weight or length during the period of most growth in infancy. We have therefore summarized our data concerning gains in length and weight of 203 breast-fed males, 216 breast-fed females, 380 formula-fed males, and 340 formula-fed females. Seven sets of measurements (at ages 8, 14, 28, 42, 56, 84 and 112 days) were made with each infant. The 5th, 10th, 25th, 50th, 75th, 90th and 95th centile values together with the means and standard deviations are presented for selected age intervals on a feeding-specific (i.e. breast-fed or formula-fed) and sex-specific basis. We believe that these data will be useful as a reference for interpreting results of infant studies.
Electron spin resonance of Gd in the intermetallic compounds YCu, YAg, and LaAg: Wave vector dependence of the exchange interaction

Abstract The discrepancy between the Gd EPR g shift and linewidth in YCu, YAg, and LaAg is resolved using a wave vector dependent exchange parameter J(k,k'). Various experimentally observable quantities are related to J(k,k') using a partial wave expansion.
The nation-state, Paris and cartography in eighteenth- and nineteenth-century France

Abstract Developments in French cartography in the eighteenth century produced an image of the country which was more integrated and centralized than was the reality at the time. These innovations in map-making contributed to efforts to re-order the nation's political structure during the Revolution. The upheavals at that time affected the status of Paris as the urban focus of the nation state. Just as cartography had been related to efforts to eliminate spatial and institutional frictions in the country as a whole, it was also used to create a more unified spatial order within Paris itself. French cartography was thus intimately bound up with the political evolution of France from the eighteenth century, and in particular with the changing structure of the French urban system.
Factorizations of Km,n into Spanning Trees

We establish necessary and sufficient conditions for the existence of a spanning tree factorization of the complete bipartite graph Km,n.
Cyclic variations in white cell subpopulations in the human menstrual cycle: Correlations with progesterone and estradiol

Cyclic variations in white cell subpopulations were studied in serial blood samples from 18 female volunteers (14 ovulatory and 4 nonovulatory cycles) and 2 males. Total white blood cells (WBC), lymphocytes, total and active T cells (TEt, TEa), monocytes, and granulocytes were counted, and levels of estradiol (E2), progesterone, and luteinizing hormone (LH) were measured. In the ovulatory cycles, lymphocyte counts at midcycle (Day 0) reached a minimum, coinciding with the maximum level of E2 peak (35 ng%). In daily samples, the minimum lymphocyte counts coincided with the preovulatory E2 surge (P < 0.01). Similar but less significant negative correlations (P < 0.05) were found between E2, WBC, and TEt. In contrast, TEa did not show cyclic variations. Monocyte and granulocyte counts were significantly higher in the luteal than in the follicular phase (P < 0.05); their pattern followed closely that of progesterone (P < 0.05) but not of E2. Daily evaluations of hematocrit, hemoglobin content, red blood cell count, and mean corpuscular volume failed to show cyclic variations. For the females with nonovulatory cycles and for the males studied (with sex steroid profiles corresponding to the follicular phase), no cyclic variations were found in white cell subpopulations.
Mechanism of DNA translocation in a replicative hexameric helicase

The E1 protein of papillomavirus is a hexameric ring helicase belonging to the AAA + family. The mechanism that couples the ATP cycle to DNA translocation has been unclear. Here we present the crystal structure of the E1 hexamer with single-stranded DNA discretely bound within the hexamer channel and nucleotides at the subunit interfaces. This structure demonstrates that only one strand of DNA passes through the hexamer channel and that the DNA-binding hairpins of each subunit form a spiral 'staircase' that sequentially tracks the oligonucleotide backbone. Consecutively grouped ATP, ADP and apo configurations correlate with the height of the hairpin, suggesting a straightforward DNA translocation mechanism. Each subunit sequentially progresses through ATP, ADP and apo states while the associated DNA-binding hairpin travels from the top staircase position to the bottom, escorting one nucleotide of single-stranded DNA through the channel. These events permute sequentially around the ring from one subunit to the next.
Epinephrine-induced dysrhythmias: comparison during anaesthesia with narcotics and with halogenated inhalation agents in dogs

The effects of epinephrine-induced dysrhythmias were evaluated in sixteen 15-20 kg mongrel dogs anaesthetized with halogenated inhalation agents, nitrous oxide and pancuronium and with narcotics, nitrous oxide and pancuronium. Group I consisted of eight animals which received 1.2 MAC halothane, enflurane or methoxyflurane in nitrous oxide and oxygen (2.5/2.5 litres) and Group 2 of eight animals which received morphine (1 and 2 mg·kg-1), fentanyl (0.01 and 0.02 mg·kg-1) and meperidine (10 and 20 mg·kg-1) with nitrous oxide and oxygen (2.5/2.5 litres). Pancuronium (0.2 mg·kg-1) was administered to both groups. Each animal in Group 1 or 2 was studied three times but only once a week and one anaesthetic regimen per study. The order of administration of the anaesthetic regimen was randomized for both groups.
Shaping Fluorescence Emission Spectrum Using Plasmonic Nanocavities Created by Double-Nanoimprint Technique

We demonstrated a continuous frequency tuning of fluorescence enhancement spectra using 3D plasmonic nanocavities with accurately controlled resonance frequencies based on the Moire pattern created by a double-Nanoimprint based technique.
Effect of prepro TRH antisense on thyrotropin-releasing hormone synthesis and viability of cultured rat diencephalic neurons

To investigate a possible neurotropic role for thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) in the central nervous system, we used recombinant antisense TRH adenovirus (TRHav) to “knock out” TRH in cultured 17-d fetal rat diencephalon. The morphology along with β-galactosidase (β-gal) enzyme histochemistry (X-gal staining) and TRH content (femtomoles/well) were used to measure the effect of antisense TRH virus. Control adenovirus mediated β-gal transfection efficiency was nearly 85%, as shown by positive X-gal staining, and was without effect on cell morphology, TRH content, or the normal response to glucocorticoid (dexamethasone) exposure with enhanced TRH expression. A significant 90% decline in TRH content as well as changes in neuronal morphology (shrunken cell bodies and short dendrites) were observed after 14 but not 7 d following TRHav treatment. The addition of synthetic TRH peptide at 2.5 μM along with TRHav, but not dexamethasone, partly prevented the morphologic changes. No morphologic changes were seen in wild-type AtT20 cells, a pituitary cell line that does not produce TRH. To investigate whether neuronal death from loss of pro TRH was owing to apoptosis, neuronal DNA change by means of fluorescent dye H-33342 staining, TUNEL staining, and DNA laddering analysis was examined. Eighty to 90% positive H-33342 and TUNEL staining as well as a 180- to 200-bp DNA fragment on DNA laddering analysis were found as compared to control. These results indicate that proTRH gene expression prevents neuronal apoptosis and may play a role in neuronal development and function.
A spatial frequency effect on perceived depth.

We report a spatial frequency influence on perceptual organization. If regions filled with relatively higher spatial frequency sinusoidal gratings are adjacent to regions containing relatively lower spatial frequency gratings, the regions with the higher frequency will appear closer in depth than those containing the lower frequency. This depth effect is evident even when conflicting stereo information is present.
Topological jamming and the glass transition in a frustrated system

The relationship between extended structures, glassy dynamics and an underlying critical point is examined in the context of a lattice model of fluctuating lines. Monte Carlo simulations are used to construct an effective, coarse-grained dynamics for the “order parameter” near the critical point. Analysis of the effective dynamics reveals that the critical point is associated with diverging barriers leading to the observed Vogel-Fulcher divergence of the relaxation times. A direct connection is established between the presence of extended structures and the activated dynamics.
The immune system in minimal change nephrotic syndrome

Numerous examples of abnormal immune responsiveness have been described in minimal change nephrotic syndrome (MCNS). The association of MCNS with allergy and with certain genetic markers of immune responsiveness, as well as the excellent response of proteinuria to immunomodulatory agents, has suggested a causal relationship between the immunological and renal abnormalities. However, the nature of this relationship is uncertain. Before it can be clarified, the basic mechanism(s) involved in disturbed immunity in patients with MCNS must be better characterized. Studies of humoral and cellular immune function support the hypothesis that immune regulation is abnormal. However, conclusive evidence of participation by a defined immunoregulatory system in the events leading to immune dysfunction has not been obtained. Thus, considerable work remains to be done in determining the nature and cause of abnormal immunity in MCNS prior to investigating its potential role in the pathogenesis of proteinuria.
Magnesium as a donor impurity in silicon

Abstract Observations of the optical and electrical properties of magnesium doped silicon have been made. The results show that magnesium is a divalent donor in silicon.
A “sluice” model of the circulation in lungs with shunts☆

Abstract A model of the interaction between “sluice” pressure (Pw) and circulation in lungs with shunts was analyzed. (Pw is closely related to and controlled by alveolar air pressure.) The basic assumptions were that “sluice” blood channels through open alveoli interacted with Pw like Starling resistors; shunt channels (resistance = Rs) through closed alveoli acted in parallel with the “sluice” channels but were unaffected by Pw. With these assumptions the model lung was divided into four main zones of different pressure-flow relationships. Overall pressure-flow equations for the lung were obtained by combining the equations derived for the separate zones. Some digital computer solutions of the overall equations were given, for different values of Pw, gravitational froce (G), Rs, resistance upstream (Ra) and downstream of the parallel channels, and for different lung shapes. In particular, at constant flow (Qt) and constant Rs, Q s Q t was increased by increasing Pw or Ra, Q s Q t was less affected by Pw at high G. The model is useful for studying experimentally inaccessible states.
Contamination Monitoring Using Surface Photovoltage and Application to Process Line Control

Surface photovoltage (SPV) measurements of lifetime and charge are used by the silicon industry for real-time, non-contact monitoring of alkalide and heavy metal contamination during IC processing. Information about contamination present at the surface or in the bulk of a silicon wafer is derived from their effects on measured electronic characterization. Identification and detection, with a sensitivity of ppq (107 cm-3), of Fe and Cr in the bulk of p-type silicon is possible via monitoring of their decomposition/pairing kinetics with boron. We will show the most important examples of the application of SPV to monitor critical IC processing steps. The allowable contamination thresholds in IC processing lines are a very strong function of technology and are different for various metals.
Comparison of two speech content authentication approaches

Speech content authentication, which is also called speech content integrity or tamper detection, protects the integrity of speech contents instead of the bitstream itself. In this work, two major approaches for flexible speech authentication are presented and compared. The first scheme is based on content feature extraction that is integrated with CELP speech coders to minimize the total computational cost. Speech features relevant to semantic meaning are extracted, encrypted and attached as the header information. The second method embeds fragile watermarks into the speech signal in the frequency domain. If the speech signal is tampered, the secret watermark sequence is also modified. The receiver detects the fragile watermark from received data and compares it to the original secret sequence. These two approaches are compared in terms of computational complexity, false detection rate, and tolerance to mis-synchronization and content preserving operations. It is shown that each approach has its own merits and shortcomings.
An evaluation of errors in US energy forecasts: 1982–2003

Planners, policy-makers, and the private sector rely on energy forecasts to help make policy and investment decisions. In the US, the federal Department of Energy (through the Energy Information Administration and its predecessors) has conducted national forecasts of energy production and consumption for decades. This paper explores US energy forecasts in order to uncover potential systemic errors in US forecasting models. We apply an error decomposition technique to forecasts within each major energy sector (commercial, industrial, residential, and transportation) made during the period 1982 to 2003. We find that low errors for total energy consumption are concealing much larger sectoral errors that cancel each other out when aggregated. For example, 5-year forecasts made between 1982 and 1998 demonstrate a mean percentage error for total energy consumption of 0.1%. Yet, this hides the fact that the industrial sector was overestimated by an average of 5.9%, and the transportation sector was underestimated by an average of 4.5%. We also find no evidence that forecasts within each sector have improved over the two decades studied here.
Temperature fluctuations affect offspring sex but not morphological, behavioral, or immunological traits in the Northern Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta)

Evolutionary theory predicts that when phenotypic variation arises during development that differently influences the fitness of each sex, selection should favor the maternal ability to match offsp...
Structure and organization of the histidine-rich protein gene of Plasmodium lophurae.

Abstract Recombinant cDNA clones representing the carboxy-terminal portion of the histidine-rich protein of Plasmodium lophurae and the 3′ untranslated region of the mRNA have been sequenced. Histidine accounts for 78% of the predicted amino acid sequence. The DNA and protein sequences in this region differ significantly from published sequences deduced from cloned genomic DNA of P. lophurae . Sequence data from two independent cDNA clones, comparison of restriction endonuclease sites present in genomic DNA, genomic and cDNA clones, gene titrations, S1 nuclease digestion of cDNA-mRNA hybrids and comparison of predicted and published data for the amino acid composition of the histidine-rich protein all suggest that P. Iophurae contains one histidine-rich protein gene and that the sequence of the 3′ coding region of this gene has been correctly deduced from the cDNA clones.
Learning to live in a global commons: socioeconomic challenges for a sustainable environment

Ecologists, economists and other social scientists have much incentive for interaction. First of all, ecological systems and socioeconomic systems are linked in their dynamics, and these linkages are key to coupling environmental protection and economic growth. Beyond this, however, are the obvious similarities in how ecological systems and socioeconomic systems function, and the common theoretical challenges in understanding their dynamics. This should not be surprising. Socioeconomic systems are in fact ecological systems, in which the familiar ecological phenomena of exploitation, cooperation and parasitism all can be identified as key features. Or, viewed from the opposite perspective, ecological systems are economic systems, in which competition for resources is key, and in which an evolutionary process shapes the individual agents to a distribution of specialization of function that leads to the emergence of flows and functionalities at higher levels of organization. Most fundamentally, ecological and socioeconomic systems alike are complex adaptive systems, in which patterns at the macroscopic level emerge from interactions and selection mechanisms mediated at many levels of organization, from individual agents to collectives to whole systems and even above. In such complex adaptive systems, robustness must be understood as emergent from selection processes operating at these many different levels, and the inherent nonlinearities can trigger sudden shifts in regimes that, in the case of the biosphere, can have major consequences for humanity. This lecture will explore the complex adaptive nature of ecosystems, and the implications for the robustness of ecosystem services on which we depend, and in particular examine the conditions under which cooperative behavior emerges. It will then turn attention to the socioeconomic systems in which environmental management is based, and ask what lessons can be learned from our examination of natural systems, and how we can modify social norms to achieve global cooperation in managing our common future. Of special interest will be issues of intragenerational and intergenerational equity, and the importance of various forms of discounting.
In vivo tissue reactivity of radiation-cured silicone rubber implants.

Silicone rubber implants are clinically used in large numbers and elicit a mild tissue reaction. An occasional patient develops an accentuated reaction, an observation which has stimulated clinicians to try to understand this process more fully. The chemistry of medical silicone implants, including quantitative composition, is reviewed. This in vitro laboratory study show less tissue reaction from radiation-cured pure silicone polymer, as compared with radiation-cured silicone with SiO2 filler. A proposed system for fabrication and curing of a silicone implant, with the qualities of strength and diminished tissue reactivity, is discussed.
State transformation in event driven explicit simulation

This paper presents a general method for incorporating state transformation in event driven explicit simulation. One inherent assumption in this type of simulation algorithm is the state independence, which allows the algorithm to process the states independently in an event driven manner at the transistor level. Numerical problems arise when an inappropriate state representation of the circuit, in which the states are not truly independent, is chosen. In principle, any similarity transformation of the state equation can be employed to transform the circuit into a more convenient state space for numerical solution. This paper develops a systematic scheme to derive an appropriate state transformation, and to incorporate the state transformulation in such a way to maintain the efficiency of event driven explicit simulation algorithms.
Testing independence and goodness-of-fit in linear models

We consider a linear regression model and propose an omnibus test to simultaneously check the assumption of independence between the error and predictor variables and the goodness-of-fit of the parametric model. Our approach is based on testing for independence between the predictor and the residual obtained from the parametric fit by using the Hilbert–Schmidt independence criterion (Gretton et al., 2008). The proposed method requires no user-defined regularization, is simple to compute based on only pairwise distances between points in the sample, and is consistent against all alternatives. We develop distribution theory for the proposed test statistic, under both the null and the alternative hypotheses, and devise a bootstrap scheme to approximate its null distribution. We prove the consistency of the bootstrap scheme. A simulation study shows that our method has better power than its main competitors. Two real datasets are analysed to demonstrate the scope and usefulness of our method.
Automated analysis of macular degeneration

The purpose of this project was to design, develop, and build a working prototype device for detecting and measuring the changing conditions of macular degeneration in a patient. This is important because there are not any current quantitative devices for measure such changes to assist with early detection.
Putin, Erdogan and Orbán: Band of Brothers?

In 1990, right after the Berlin Wall fell, NPQ published our Spring edition, titled “The New World Disorder,” about the nationalistic chaos and up-in-theair sensibility of that fraught new historical moment. Nearly a quarter of a century later, the regime of globalization that had supplanted the Cold War world of blocs is itself coming apart at the seams. Even Henry Kissinger these days says “the world order is crumbling.” Will this New World Disorder 2.0 revert to a system of conflicting blocs, as during the Cold War, or will we be mature enough to save the interdependence of plural identities that is the foundation of a new global civilization? In this section our contributors offer their perspectives on what the future holds.
The Effect of Whole, Dialyzed and Heated Female Genital Tract Fluids on Respiration of Rabbit and Ram Spermatozoa

A series of experiments was conducted to determine the effects of whole or altered female genital tract fluids from rabbits and sheep on respiration of spermatozoa. Incubation of rabbit spermatozoa with oviduct or uterine fluids from estrous does increased respiration as compared to control spermatozoa incubated in Krebs-Ringer phosphate buffer. Incubation of spermatozoa with dialyzed or heated fluids resulted in significant stimulation of respiration, but to levels below those found with whole fluid. A combination of dialysis and heating of tract fluids removed significant stimulatory properties. mn vitro preincubation of rabbit or ram spermatozoa with whole tract fluids from does or ewes stimulated subsequent respiration in phosphate buffer. Preincubation in heated fluids also stimulated respiration, but to a lesser extent. Incubation of rabbit spermatozoa in the oviduct or uterus of estrous does stimulated respiration to a greater degree than any in vitro treatment. The data suggest that female tract fluids stimulate sperm respiration both by supplying substrates and by a non-dialyzable, heat labile factor which affects spermatozoa in vivo or in vitro.
Power management: enabling technology for next-generation electronic systems

All electronic systems rely on power electronics to a varying extent. However, we have entered an era of electronics that is more intimately involved with power electronics than ever before. Whether the electronic system is the latest computer, a portable wireless product or an automobile, the intelligent and efficient management of power will determine not only the operating cost and useful operating time but more and more will impact the ability to achieve overall system performance. This paper discusses the trends and semiconductor technologies for managing power in the next and future generations of desktop PCs, wireless appliances and automobiles.
STUDIES ON EASTERN EQUINE ENCEPHALOMYELITIS VI. FACILITATION OF INFECTION IN THE MOUSE

50 per cent glycerine injected intraperitoneally, intramuscularly, or intravenously, greatly enhances the activity of equine encephalomyelitis virus injected intramuscularly, increasing its virulence up to 100-fold. The same effect is produced by very concentrated sodium chloride. The result appears due to dehydration of the nervous system, suddenly produced. Gradual withdrawal of body fluids, produced by depriving animals of drinking water, results in sharp concentration of the blood, equal to that produced by glycerine or salt. But such deprivation of water alone does not result in significant dehydration of the brain, nor does it have any effect on virus action. The facilitation effect is not produced by drastic procedures involving shifts of electrolytes without loss of total water from the brain. Glycerine has no facilitating action when the virus is administered intranasally or intraocularly, suggesting a fundamental difference in pathogenesis between these routes and the intramuscular.
An interactive multiblock approach to meshing the spine

Finite element (FE) analysis is a useful tool to study spine biomechanics as a complement to laboratory-driven experimental studies. Although individualized models have the potential to yield clinically relevant results, the demands associated with modeling the geometric complexity of the spine often limit its utility. Existing spine FE models share similar characteristics and are often based on similar assumptions, but vary in geometric fidelity due to the mesh generation techniques that were used. Using existing multiblock techniques, we propose mesh generation methods that ease the effort and reduce the time required to create subject-specific allhexahedral finite element models of the spine. We have demonstrated the meshing techniques by creating a C4-C5 functional spinal unit and validated it by comparing the resultant motions and vertebral strains with data reported in the literature.
Measuring the Adequacy of Home Care for Frail Elders

Community elders (N = 330) were interviewed by telephone twice at baseline using both computer-assisted telephone interviews (CATI) and nurse clinicians, and at four-month follow-up using CATI to collect alternative paraprofessional home care adequacy measures. Measurement format influenced both reliability and observed levels of adequacy but alternative adequacy measures converged and were not closely linked to functional status. The predictive validity of measures based on clinical standards with respect to health outcomes was also demonstrated. These findings support emerging approaches in primary care and home health quality measurement that consider multiple dimensions of user response to formal and informal care.
Interaction of the enteropathogenic Escherichia coli protein, translocated intimin receptor (Tir), with focal adhesion proteins.

When enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) attach and infect host cells, they induce a cytoskeletal rearrangement and the formation of cytoplasmic columns of actin filaments called pedestals. The attached EPEC and pedestals move over the surface of the host cell in an actin-dependent reaction [Sanger et al., 1996: Cell Motil Cytoskeleton 34:279 ‐287]. The discovery that EPEC inserts the protein, translocated intimin receptor (Tir), into the membrane of host cells, where it binds the EPEC outer membrane protein, intimin [Kenny et al., 1997: Cell 91:511‐520], suggests Tir serves two functions: tethering the bacteria to the host cell and providing a direct connection to the host’s cytoskeleton. The sequence of Tir predicts a protein of 56.8 kD with three domains separated by two predicted trans-membrane spanning regions. A GST-fusion protein of the N-terminal 233 amino acids of Tir (Tir1) binds to alpha-actinin, talin, and vinculin from cell extracts. GST-Tir1 also coprecipitates purified forms of alpha-actinin, talin, and vinculin while GST alone does not bind these three focal adhesion proteins. Biotinylated probes of these three proteins also bound Tir1 cleaved from GST. Similar associations of alpha-actinin, talin, and vinculin were also detected with the C-terminus of Tir, i.e., Tir3, the last 217 amino acids. Antibody staining of EPEC-infected cultured cells reveals the presence of focal adhesion proteins beneath the attached bacteria. Our experiments support a model in which the cytoplasmic domains of Tir recruit a number of focal adhesion proteins that can bind actin filaments to form pedestals. Since pedestals also contain villin, tropomyosin and myosin II [Sanger et al., 1996: Cell Motil. Cytoskeleton 34:279 ‐287], the pedestals appear to be a novel structure sharing properties of both focal adhesions and microvilli. Cell Motil. Cytoskeleton 47:307‐318, 2000. © 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Integrating Theory and Practice to Increase Scientific Workforce Diversity: A Framework for Career Development in Graduate Research Training

Few, if any, educational interventions intended to increase underrepresented minority (URM) graduate students in biological and behavioral sciences are informed by theory and research on career persistence. Training and Education to Advance Minority Scholars in Science (TEAM-Science) is a program funded by the National Institute of General Medical Sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Madison with the twin goals of increasing the number of URM students entering and completing a PhD in BBS and increasing the number of these students who pursue academic careers. A framework for career development in graduate research training is proposed using social cognitive career theory. Based on this framework, TEAM-Science has five core components: 1) mentor training for the research advisor, 2) eight consensus-derived fundamental competencies required for a successful academic career, 3) career coaching by a senior faculty member, 4) an individualized career development plan that aligns students' activities with the eight fundamental competencies, and 5) a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats personal career analysis. This paper describes the theoretical framework used to guide development of these components, the research and evaluation plan, and early experience implementing the program. We discuss the potential of this framework to increase desired career outcomes for URM graduate trainees in mentored research programs and, thereby, strengthen the effectiveness of such interventions on participants' career behaviors.
Influence of membrane composition on the enhancement of factor VIIa/tissue factor activity by magnesium ions.

Influence of membrane composition on the enhancement of factor VIIa/tissue factor activity by magnesium ions -
Assessing Outputs, Outcomes, and Barriers in Collaborative Water Governance: A Case Study

As freshwater supplies become increasingly threatened by overuse, pollution, and changes in climate, governing bodies have begun to recognize the urgent need for flexible, sustainable solutions to water use and management. Collaborative governance of water resources has arisen as a widespread strategy to develop such solutions in a way that integrates diverse stakeholder needs and works to create consensus-driven management actions. Directly linking the outputs of collaborative processes to improved water sustainability is difficult even on a local scale. However, examining diverse collaborative governance processes, particularly the outputs and outcomes produced and barriers faced, is necessary as these processes continue to flourish at a multitude of scales and settings. In 2005, the state of Colorado initiated a collaborative governance process to assess its existing water resources and future water needs; the information gathered through this endeavor is now being used to inform the creation of Colorado's first statewide water plan. Using data from 28 in-depth interviews with key participants in this process, this paper highlights not only what outputs and outcomes may be produced through a high-stakes collaborative process, but also what barriers exist to producing desired outputs (and therefore, consequent outcomes). Gaining a better understanding of outputs, outcomes, and barriers within a statewide collaborative water governance process can provide insight into improving future decision-making processes and evaluations of those processes in a variety of natural resource arenas.
Electron microscope and ultracentrifugation studies on the rat reticulocyte.

Reticulocytosis was induced in rats by the daily injections of phenylhydrazine. The reticulocytes were studied by supravital staining, ultracentrifugation and phase-contrast and electron microscopy. Electron micrographs of sectioned reticulocytes reveal the presence of hemoglobin, polyribosomes, mitochondria, micropinocytosis vesicles, tubules of varying size and, in some cases, Heinz body material. When subjected to ultracentrifugation these materials are readily stratified in the order of their relative densities from the centrifugal to the centripetal end as follows: hemoglobin, mitochondria, ribonucleoprotein material (ribosomes) and Heinz body material. The centrifuged reticulocytes may be stretched two or three times their normal diameter and even pulled into two parts without hemolysis. Of interest is the observation that in ultracentrifuged reticulocytes, the ribosomes are not displaced from the region of the cortex, a condition which is interpreted as strong evidence that this region is of a greater consistency (viscosity) than the remainder of the cell. Evidence was observed to show that as maturation of the reticulocyte occurs, the cell gradually decreases in size and increases in density; concomitantly with these changes is a progressive degradation of the mitochondria and ribonucleoprotein material, so that by the time the erythrocyte stage is reached, these materials seem to have completely disappeared.
The relationship between science process skill and formal thinking abilities

The purpose of this study is to examine integrated process skill and formal thinking abilities of middle and high school students and determine the relationship, if any, between the two. A relationship was thought to exist since both sets of skills strongly emphasize conducting fair experiments as well as other abilities. Pencil and paper measures of formal operational and integrated process skill achievement were given to almost 500 grade 7–12 students. Resulting correlations showed a strong relationship between achievement on the two meansures (r = 0.73) and all subtests of both measures. Factor analysis data corroborate the correlational evidence. One potential inference to be drawn from these results is that process skill teaching might influence formal thinking ability. A follow-up experimental study will determine this.
Examining the Use of Classroom Observations in the Evaluation of Special Education Teachers

A primary focus of recent educational policymaking has been on improving measures of teaching effectiveness, attributable in part to recent federal policies such as the Race to the Top initiative a...
Spectroscopic and Topographic Investigations of Nanoparticle Abrasive retention in Polyurethane CMP Pads for Cu CMP

A spectroscopic and topographic investigation of abrasive nanoparticle retention in polyurethane chemical mechanical planarization (CMP) pads has been carried out as a function of ex situ pad conditioning parameters for Cu CMP. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and scanning electron microscope energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) were utilized to quantitatively characterize the presence of alumina nanoabrasive in the pad following Cu CMP. As expected, conditioning did not modify the overall pad morphology but did increase local asperity roughness with increasing conditioner downforce. As expected, the magnitude of the conditioner downforce reduced the overall average alumina nanoabrasive retention, albeit weakly, as determined via XPS. However, local EDS analysis revealed that increased downforce does significantly reduce nanoabrasive retention at pad asperities. In contrast, increased downforce increased the amount of nanoabrasive present in the polyurethane pad surface pores. Moreover, overall conditioning time was shown to be a more dominant parameter compared to conditioner downforce regarding removal of abrasive particles from both pad asperities and pores.
Minimal "Self" Peptides That Inhibit Phagocytic Clearance and Enhance Delivery of Nanoparticles

Foreign particles and cells are cleared from the body by phagocytes that must also recognize and avoid clearance of "self" cells. The membrane protein CD47 is reportedly a "marker of self" in mice that impedes phagocytosis of self by signaling through the phagocyte receptor CD172a. Minimal "Self" peptides were computationally designed from human CD47 and then synthesized and attached to virus-size particles for intravenous injection into mice that express a CD172a variant compatible with hCD47. Self peptides delay macrophage-mediated clearance of nanoparticles, which promotes persistent circulation that enhances dye and drug delivery to tumors. Self-peptide affinity for CD172a is near the optimum measured for human CD172a variants, and Self peptide also potently inhibits nanoparticle uptake mediated by the contractile cytoskeleton. The reductionist approach reveals the importance of human Self peptides and their utility in enhancing drug delivery and imaging.
Making Connections: Science Experiments for Algebra Using TI Technology.

Using science experiments in life science, chemistry, and physics, helps ground students' understanding of abstract algebra concepts in real-world applications. Hands-on activities connect mathematics with science in a way that is accessible to teachers and students alike. Each activity explores a scientific phenomenon, connecting it to algebra concepts such as quadratic functions and trigonometry. Students understand abstract algebra concepts by experiencing how scientists solve problems and use mathematical models to design experiments. They apply a variety of techniques to verify their experimental results and develop conjectures. These activities: use the Calculator Based Laboratory, CBL2™, with different probes, common science equipment, and basic tools, in addition to calculators. The experiments can be used as hands-on activities or demonstrations. We know that real-life applications, especially, visual and hands-on demonstrations enhance students' learning of the material, meet needs of kids with different learning styles, and create additional motivation for learning a discipline. The use of experiments allows students to create visual image and practical understanding of abstract mathematics concepts and relationships. Experimental demonstrations and lab activities in the course of mathematics make mathematics more interesting and appealing to students. Real experimentation with mathematical concept adds students' emotional component to the learning process. Coincidence of the experimental and theoretical results is equivalent to the Archimedes' "Eureka!". In this article I would like to share with you two of several science experiments that I designed for algebra class. In the first experiment students develop understanding of the graph of cosine function by using fan cart, in the second one students learned properties of parabolas by using projectile launcher. Suggested experiments are designed for students taking different
Botulinum Toxin Type A Injections for the Treatment of Continent Catheterizable Ileal-colic Urinary Diversion Muscularis Overactivity.

Introduction Continent catheterizable diversions can exhibit long-term complications such as high pressures and involuntary unit contractions within the urinary reservoir, rendering them similar to neurogenic bladders. Given the similarity of these issues to neurogenic detrusor overactivity, the use of Botox injections is a logical treatment option to explore. Technical Considerations A patient with a contracted Indiana pouch continent catheterizable diversion was treated with intra-pouch Botox injections after failing maximal doses of oral anticholinergic medications. This patient underwent four consecutive percutaneous Botox pouch injections every 11-12 months under general anesthesia. Flexible cystoscope via the catch stoma was attempted first on the first two surgeries, but the scope could not reach the majority of the pouch. Thus, percutaneous access was obtained under fluoroscopic guidance, and the injections were performed through a suprapubic tube access sheath. Two hundred to four hundred units of Botox (stained with methylene blue) were visually injected in 20-40 separate injection sites. Of note, the initial dose used was 200 units and was increased to 300 units then 400 units on subsequent treatments to improve results and durability. After each round of Botox injections, the patient noted resolution of her symptoms. Postinjection urodynamic studies showed normal filling with no evidence of muscularis overactivity, even at high volumes of 600 cc. Conclusion Botox injections may be an excellent long-term treatment option for contracted continent catheterizable diversions, or at least used as a temporizing measure before surgical augmentation. Further studies are needed to verify the durability, complications, and long-term outcomes of this procedure.
Changes in coronary endothelial cell Ca2+ concentration during shear stress- and agonist-induced vasodilation.

Increases in intraluminal shear stress are thought to cause vasodilation of coronary arterioles by activation of Ca2+-dependent endothelial nitric oxide synthase followed by release of nitric oxide...
Categorizing Students' Response Patterns using the Concept of Fractal Dimension.

We show how students’ response patterns can be quantified both globally and locally using the concept of fractal dimension. This metric allows us to identify students who respond to a series of questions and problems in a persistent or anti-persistent manner with implications for personalized just-in-time teaching and learning.
Exploring the Link Between Completion of Accreditation Prerequisites and Local Health Departments' Decision to Collaborate With Tax-Exempt Hospitals Around the Community Health Assessment.

CONTEXT Community health assessments (CHAs) are a core function of local health departments (LHDs). Recently, completing a CHA has become a prerequisite for LHDs seeking accreditation by the Public Health Accreditation Board (PHAB). Similarly, under the Affordable Care Act, nonprofit hospitals are required to conduct periodic community health needs assessments (CHNAs). Opportunities thus exist for LHDs and hospitals to jointly complete CHAs/CHNAs. OBJECTIVE This study examined existing LHD-hospital collaborations around CHAs/CHNAs, focusing specifically on the relationship between LHDs' level of engagement with PHAB accreditation activities and their collaboration with hospitals around CHAs/CHNAs. DESIGN Data came from the 2013 NACCHO (National Association of County & City Health Officials) Profile Study and the Area Health Resource File. Complete data were available for 1332 LHDs that participated in the 2013 NACCHO Profile Study. Logistic regression explored the relationship between LHDs' completion of accreditation prerequisites, in particular completion of a CHA, community health improvement plan, and strategic plan, and their involvement in collaborations with tax-exempt hospitals around CHAs/CHNAs. RESULTS LHDs that collaborated with tax-exempt hospitals on CHAs/CHNAs were larger, more likely to be locally governed, and more likely to have a local board of health. Bivariate analysis showed that CHA/CHNA-related collaboration with hospitals was significantly correlated (P < .01) with an LHD's completion of accreditation prerequisites. In multivariate regression analysis, completion of all 3 PHAB accreditation prerequisites significantly increased the odds of LHDs collaborating with hospitals when controlling for other LHD and community-level characteristics. CONCLUSION PHAB accreditation prerequisites together with IRS requirements for hospitals foster potential for collaboration around CHAs/CHNAs. Joint completion of CHAs/CHNAs not only allows partners to complete the assessment more efficiently but has also been shown to produce higher-quality assessments, thus building a strong foundation for continued collaboration to improve community health.
A Study of Combination Bicalutamide and Raloxifene for Patients With Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer

Abstract Background Prostate tissue expresses 2 estrogen receptor (ER) isoforms, ER-α and ER-β, and estrogen-based therapies have shown activity in preclinical studies. Raloxifene, a selective ER modulator, has inhibited the growth of prostate cancer xenograft models and was tested in a phase II trial of castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), with some patients achieving stable disease. However, no studies have examined the safety of the combination of bicalutamide plus raloxifene for CRPC. Therefore, we investigated the safety of treatment with bicalutamide plus raloxifene in patients with CRPC in an initial study. Materials and Methods We conducted a study to evaluate the toxicity (primary endpoint) of the combination of bicalutamide (50 mg) and raloxifene (60 mg) in 28-day cycles (maximum, 6 cycles) in men with progressive CRPC. The secondary endpoint, quality of life (QOL), was assessed by patients using a 6-item linear analog self-assessment or hormonal domain scale of the Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite. Results We enrolled 18 patients with CRPC in the study to evaluate the safety of, and patient assessment of QOL (mental, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual) with, bicalutamide plus raloxifene therapy. No grade 3 or 4 adverse events occurred. None of the 18 patients required dose reductions. The patient assessment of QOL showed no statistically significant changes after 2 treatment cycles. The median progression-free survival with bicalutamide plus raloxifene was 1.9 months (95% confidence interval, 1.8-2.8 months). Conclusion The results of the present study have shown that bicalutamide/raloxifene treatment is well tolerated. However, limited clinical activity occurred in men with CRPC who had previously undergone secondary hormonal therapy or chemotherapy.