cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fractal analysis of region-based vascular change in the normal and non-proliferative diabetic retina.

Purpose. Evaluation of normal and abnormal vascular pattern in the human retina using a novel method: quantitative region-based fractal analysis. Methods. Binary (black/white) vascular patterns of the human retina originating at the optic disc were obtained by semi-automatic computer processing of digital images from 60-degree fundus fluorescein angiography of 5 normal eyes and 5 eyes with non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR). As determined by image resolution, vascular patterns included vessels with diameters =50 µm and excluded small vessels and capillaries. The density of linearized (i.e., skeletonized) vascular patterns in the macular region versus paramacular region (termed “region-based” linearized vascular pattern) was quantified with the fractal dimension (D f) and confirmed by grid intersection (? v) . Results. By region-based quantification, D f and ? v were significantly higher in the normal macular region than in the NPDR macular region (p = 0.008 and p = 0.019, respectively). However...
The influence of 21-acylation of corticosterone on its binding affinity for corticosteroid-binding globulin

Abstract The influence of 21-acylation of corticosterone, particularly the size of the straight chain acyl group, on its binding affinity for rat serum corticosteroid-binding globulin (CBG) was investigated in steroid ligand competition experiments entailing a dextran-coated charcoal procedure. The relative binding affinity, corticosterone ester/corticosterone, for CBG was expressed as a ratio of the respective equilibrium association constants. Most of the binding affinity was retained by the acetyl and propionyl derivatives of corticosterone but further increase in the size of the acyl group resulted in a sharp decline in the binding affinity.
The religious world of Kīrti Śrī : Buddhism, art, and politics in late medieval Sri Lanka

In this interdisciplinary inquiry, John Clifford Holt seeks to uncover how Buddhism was understood and expressed during the waning years of indigenous political power in Asia's oldest continuing Buddhist culture. Holt focuses on King Kirti Sri Rajasinha and how, despite powerful and persistent Dutch colonial threats and a deeply suspicious Kandyan Buddhist Sinhalese aristocracy, he successfully revived Sinhalese Theravada Buddhism. As Holt demonstrates, Kirti Sri succeeded in formulating his vision of an orthodox Buddhism in a number of ways: through the patronage of monastic sanha and re-establishing traditional lines of ordination, translating the Pali suttas into Sinhala, sponsoring public Buddhist religious rites, and refurbishing almost all Buddhist temples in the Kandyan culture region. The ultimate aim of Holt's study is to describe and interpret Kirti Sri's articulation of a normative Buddhist world, the essentials of which remain normative for many Buddhists in the Kandyan region of Sri Lanka today. Scholars and students will find The Religious World of Kirti Sri is an indispensable resource for the understanding of orthodox Buddhism at this important historical juncture, as well as the present day.
The Role of Thermal Pressurization and Dilatancy in Controlling the Rate of Fault Slip

Geophysical observations have shown that transient slow slip events, with average slip speeds v on the order of 10−8 to 10−7 m/s, occur in some subduction zones. These slip events occur on the same faults but at greater depth than large earthquakes (with slip speeds of order ∼ 1 m/s). We explore the hypothesis that whether slip is slow or fast depends on the competition between dilatancy, which decreases fault zone pore pressure p, and thermal pressurization, which increases p. Shear resistance to slip is assumed to follow an effective stress law τ = f (σ− p) ≡ f σ. We present two-dimensional quasi-dynamic simulations that include rate-state friction, dilatancy, and heat and pore fluid flow normal to the fault. We find that at lower background effective normal stress (σ), slow slip events occur spontaneously, whereas at higher σ, slip is inertially limited. At intermediate σ, dynamic events are followed by quiescent periods, and then long durations of repeating slow slip events. In these cases, accelerating slow events ultimately nucleate dynamic rupture. Zero-width shear zone approximations are adequate for slow slip events, but substantially overestimate the pore pressure and temperature changes during fast slip when dilatancy is included.
Binding in the Electronic Environment

This article describes how electronic resources have impacted the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) Libraries' binding operation and how the libraries have responded to the resulting challenges, including the need for updated collection development and preservation/conservation policies, a comprehensive bindery contract, and a fully functional in-house binding capability. The evaluation of the binding process must continue as libraries move from a predominantly print to a predominantly electronic environment. Librarians, scholars, and binders should work together to preserve and bind library collections that will be valuable to future generations.
Kaposi's Sarcoma-Associated Herpesvirus Virions Inhibit Interferon Responses Induced by Envelope Glycoprotein gpK8.1

The Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) envelope glycoprotein gpK8.1 contributes to cellular attachment through binding cell surface heparan sulfate proteoglycans. By using a soluble recombinant form of gpK8.1, we discovered that a consequence of gpK8.1 interaction with human fibroblasts is the induction of an antiviral response, as characterized by the activation of interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF-3), production of interferon beta (IFN-β), and expression of interferon-stimulated antiviral genes. In contrast, neither IFN-β expression nor a functional antiviral response is observed in cells treated with KSHV virions. The interferon response induced by soluble gpK8.1 can be inhibited by simultaneous treatment with UV-inactivated virions, while the induction of an indicator inflammatory cytokine, interleukin-6, was readily evident in the response to both gpK8.1 and KSHV. In addition, KSHV virions abrogate gpK8.1-mediated activation of IRF-3, an early transcriptional regulator for cellular antiviral responses. Although innate immune responses are initiated during contact between gpK8.1 and cellular receptor(s), these results suggest that the virion contains one or more structural elements that selectively repress an effective antiviral response while allowing cellular responses favorable to the KSHV life cycle.
A comparison of inhaled nitric oxide and milrinone for the treatment of pulmonary hypertension in adult cardiac surgery patients.

Objective: To investigate the relative effects of milrinone and nitric oxide on pulmonary and systemic hemodynamic responses in cardiac surgery patients with a history of pulmonary hypertension. Design: Prospective and randomized. Setting: University hospital. Participants: Forty-five adult cardiac surgery patients. Interventions: Cardiac surgery patients with pulmonary hypertension were randomly assigned to one of three study groups: Group 1 patients (n = 15) were treated with intravenous milrinone on separation from cardiopulmonary bypass, group 2 patients (n = 15) with 20 ppm of inhaled nitric oxide, and group 3 patients (n = 15) with 40 ppm of inhaled nitric oxide. Heart rate, right ventricular ejection fraction, and pulmonary vascular resistance were measured throughout the perioperative period at specific data points. Measurements and Main Results: There were no significant differences in demographics, anesthesia, surgery, or baseline hemodynamics among the groups. The group receiving 40 ppm nitric oxide had a significantly higher (p < 0.05) right ventricular ejection fraction on arrival in the intensive care unit (40% v30% for the milrinone group and 33% for the nitric oxide 20 ppm group). The milrinone group required significantly more phenylephrine in the intensive care unit (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Treatment of pulmonary hypertension in adult cardiac surgery patients with inhaled nitric oxide compared with milrinone is associated with lower heart rates, higher right ventricular ejection fraction, and a lower requirement for treatment with vasopressor agents.
The effect of urea on staphylococcal nuclease digestion of chromatin

Abstract The digestion of chromatin by Staphylococcal nuclease has been studied under a variety of conditions chosen to vary the structure and solubility of the nucleoprotein. The production of a precise and discrete series of fragments of limit DNA-ase-resistant DNA is not dependent upon the maintenance of specific secondary structure of the chromatin.
Pregnancy Outcomes by Pregnancy Intention in a Managed Care Setting

Objectives Published studies show poor pregnancy outcomes associated with unintended pregnancies are disproportionately higher than in planned pregnancies and place a burden on the health care system. This study was designed to compare pregnancy intention rates, compare sociodemographic characteristics of women by pregnancy intention and compare pregnancy outcomes in a managed care setting. Methods A large managed health care organization in California conducted a retrospective medical record review of 1,784 women seeking prenatal care in 2002 to learn how women self-reported their pregnancy intention, compare pregnancy intention rates between this health plan to the national data, and to compare antecedents and pregnancy outcomes based on pregnancy intention. Results Overall, 62.1% of pregnancies were self-reported as intended with 26.4% mistimed and 11.4% unwanted. Being young, single, having lower educational attainment, having other living children, consuming alcohol and being a woman of color were the greatest predictors of having an unintended pregnancy. Despite these predictors, birth outcomes for unintended pregnancies in this setting showed no statistical difference from planned pregnancies. Conclusion Awareness of pregnancy intention of the women who are at greatest risk may be an important contributor to improving birth outcomes and health plan decisions about reproductive care services. Early entry to prenatal care and integrated services that decrease substance abuse and support high-risk pregnancy management are important contributors to reducing poor pregnancy outcomes.
Mentoring in doctoral education

Mentoring has historically been common among men. Recently, however, mentoring has emerged as a popular concept in nursing and more and more references in the nursing literature describe the importance of a mentor to the nurse. Mentoring is also an important concept in doctoral education in nursing. This paper discusses both the development of mentoring and its use in nursing today. Furthermore, six important characteristics of the mentoring relationship which can vitally contribute to the development of the nurse leader are discussed. A mentoring relationship between a doctoral student and a more experienced professional can enable the development of leadership potential and significantly contribute to the development of competent professionals in nursing.
Using generalizability theory in behavioral observation

Generalizability theory provides a comprehensive method for assessing the sources of variability in observed scores, and can assist the researcher and clinician in designing assessment procedures so that limited resources can be allocated to maximize precision of dependent variables. An example of the application of these procedures is provided in the development of a method for measuring adolescents' eating behaviours at home. The utility of these procedures in designing clinicial assessment strategies and group and single-subject studies is discussed.
Growth of Single Crystals of Silver Halides in Silica Gels at Near Ambient Temperatures

THE growth of single crystals by controlled diffusion in gels at near ambient temperatures offers intriguing advantages for substances which are sparingly soluble in the gel medium or which dissociate at the high temperatures so frequently employed for crystal growth1, or both. The gel diffusion growth method has been described as most applicable to materials with solubilities in aqueous solutions in the order of 10−1 to 10−2 weight per cent at ambient temperatures2. We report the successful application of the gel growth method to substances, the solubilities of which range from 10−5 to 10−7 weight per cent, thus enhancing its use for preparing single crystals of quite low solubility substances.
A HyperCard-based tool for studying cognitive processes in complex problem solving

A computer-based system for research in decision making, based on the concept of human problem solvers as builders and users of mental models, is described. This description is presented in three sections: (1) an overview of the behaviors that constitute the cornerstones of human problem solving in realistically complex domains; (2) a brief discussion of the substantive domain selected for studying these behaviors (financial problem solving), detailing the rationale behind its selection; and (3) a comprehensive description of the computerized decision-making system itself. The merits of using HyperCard in such research are discussed in terms of the efficacy and type of data collection engendered.
Tamoxifen hormonal effects.

Excerpt To the editor: The report by Patterson and colleagues in the December issue (1) provides access to clinical data on adverse drug effects occasionally reported in association with tamoxifen ...
Lipids, lipases, and lipid-modifying enzymes in plant disease resistance.

Lipids and lipid metabolites influence pathogenesis and resistance mechanisms associated with plant-microbe interactions. Some microorganisms sense their presence on a host by perceiving plant surface waxes, whereas others produce toxins that target plant lipid metabolism. In contrast, plants have evolved to recognize microbial lipopolysaccharides (LPSs), sphingolipids, and lipid-binding proteins as elicitors of defense response. Recent studies have demonstrated that the plasma membrane provides a surface on which some plant resistance (R) proteins perceive pathogen-derived effectors and thus confer race-specific resistance. Plant cell membranes also serve as reservoirs from which biologically active lipids and precursors of oxidized lipids are released. Some of these oxylipins, for example jasmonic acid (JA), are important signal molecules in plant defense. Arabidopsis thaliana is an excellent model plant to elucidate the biosynthesis and metabolism of lipids and lipid metabolites, and the characterizati...
Evolutionary expressed sequence tag analysis of Drosophila female reproductive tracts identifies genes subjected to positive selection.

Genes whose products are involved in reproduction include some of the fastest-evolving genes found within the genomes of several organisms. Drosophila has long been used to study the function and evolutionary dynamics of genes thought to be involved in sperm competition and sexual conflict, two processes that have been hypothesized to drive the adaptive evolution of reproductive molecules. Several seminal fluid proteins (Acps) made in the Drosophila male reproductive tract show evidence of rapid adaptive evolution. To identify candidate genes in the female reproductive tract that may be involved in female–male interactions and that may thus have been subjected to adaptive evolution, we used an evolutionary bioinformatics approach to analyze sequences from a cDNA library that we have generated from Drosophila female reproductive tracts. We further demonstrate that several of these genes have been subjected to positive selection. Their expression in female reproductive tracts, presence of signal sequences/transmembrane domains, and rapid adaptive evolution indicate that they are prime candidates to encode female reproductive molecules that interact with rapidly evolving male Acps.
Measuring coping flexibility

Abstract The present study examined coping flexibility and correlates of this style of approaching stressful situations. Two methods for assessing coping flexibility, the Flex (Schwartz and Daltroy, 1991) and a modification of the Ways of Coping Checklist (Folkman and Lazarus. 1980) were administered to 28 men and 32 women, who were also asked questions about their age, gender, style of impression management (self-monitoring and social desirability), and basic personality variables from the Multidimensional Personality Questionnaire (Tellegen. 1982). Subjects responded to four common scenarios described by a 2 (social/nonsocial) × 2 (minor/major) matrix. Gender differences were not found for the Flex, but men exhibited more flexibility than did women when determined by the WOC range score. Older subjects exhibited smaller ranges on both the Flex and the WOC, suggesting that they were less flexible in coping than were younger subjects. Correlations with the Self-Monitoring scale approached significance for...
Discriminability-Based Transfer between Neural Networks

Previously, we have introduced the idea of neural network transfer, where learning on a target problem is sped up by using the weights obtained from a network trained for a related source task. Here, we present a new algorithm, called Discriminability-Based Transfer (DBT), which uses an information measure to estimate the utility of hyperplanes defined by source weights in the target network, and rescales transferred weight magnitudes accordingly. Several experiments demonstrate that target networks initialized via DBT learn significantly faster than networks initialized randomly.
Population Status of the Eastern Hellbender (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis alleganiensis) in Indiana

Abstract Studies that assess current and historical population densities accurately provide valuable information for management of wildlife species, particularly those in need of immediate conservation concern. The Eastern Hellbender (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis alleganiensis) has experienced drastic declines throughout its range during the previous few decades. This study documents its continued decline over the past 25 years in the last known remaining population in southern Indiana. We conducted mark–recapture surveys from June 2008 to October 2008 and July 2009 to September 2009 at 35 sites. Despite a considerable increase in effort over previous surveys, we documented fewer total captures and extremely low population densities. Density was estimated at 0.06 individuals/100 m2, and catch per unit effort was 0.05 individuals/person hour throughout the entire study area. This represents not only a significant decline in numbers from the historical study, but also is well below that reported for populat...
Optical properties of shallow tropical cumuli derived from ARM ground-based remote sensing

This paper presents results from ground-based remote sensing of optical properties of shallow convective clouds over the Nauru ARM site using the technique developed in McFarlane et al. (J. Geophys. Res. 2002). Herein, the results of a pilot study are presented with analysis of about six months of cloud data. The effective radius (re) shows large spatial variability, with the frequency of occurrence relatively narrow near the cloud base, and gradually widening aloft. Available column data for LWC and re allow derivation of the pdf of the optical thickness tau. The pdf shows that clouds with tau in the range 5 to 10 are most frequent, but there is a long tail with clouds up to tau = 100. These results are discussed in the context of traditional observations of cloud microstructure using an instrumented aircraft.
Infiltration of liquid water in an acid-leached zeolite

Through acid-leaching treatment, the degree of hydrophobicity of a zeolite β can be controlled in a broad range. As the treatment time increases, the nanopore surface can change from hydrophilic to hydrophobic, leading to the formation of an infiltration plateau in sorption isotherm curve. The infiltration pressure and hysteresis are dependent on the testing temperature. As temperature rises, the effective degree of hydrophobicity is lowered, while the defiltration is much more pronounced.
Multiscale lens design

While lenses of aperture less than 1000lambda frequently form images with pixel counts approaching the space-bandwidth limit, only heroic designs approach the theoretical information capacity at larger scales. We propose to use the field processing capabilities of small-scale secondary lens arrays to correct aberrations due to larger scale objective lenses, with an ultimate goal of achieving diffraction-limited imaging for apertures greater than 10,000lambda .We present an example optical design using an 8 mm entrance pupil capable of resolving 20 megapixels.
EFFICIENT ALGORITHM FOR OPTIMAL MATRIX ORTHOGONAL DECOMPOSITION PROBLEM IN INTENSITY-MODULATED RADIATION THERAPY

In this paper, we study an interesting matrix decomposition problem that seeks to decompose a "complicated" matrix into two "simpler" matrices while minimizing the sum of the horizontal complexity of the first sub-matrix and the vertical complexity of the second sub-matrix. The matrix decomposition problem is crucial for improving the "step-and-shoot" delivery efficiency in Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy, which aims to deliver a highly conformal radiation dose to a target tumor while sparing the surrounding normal tissues. Our algorithm is based on a non-trivial graph construction scheme, which enables us to formulate the decomposition problem as computing a minimum s-t cut in a 3-D geometric multi-pillar graph. Experiments on randomly generated intensity map matrices and on clinical data demonstrated the efficacy of our algorithm.
Quantification of Macroscopic Subaerial Exposure Features in Carbonate Rocks

ABSTRACT The macroscopic features that characterize subaerial exposure surfaces in carbonates are well known, but their significance has not been quantitatively evaluated. This study presents such an analysis in the lower Oligocene Suwannee Limestone of west-central Florida. Eleven cores were point counted on a foot-by-foot basis for the abundance of caliche, rhizoliths, karst breccia, open vugs, infiltrated sediment, fractures, and pedogenic alteration. These features occur at and below intraformational exposure surfaces, which represent hiatuses estimated at 104 to 105 years, and an uppermost sequence-bounding unconformity representing 0.5 Myr, as revealed by Sr-isotope data. Statistical analyses of the point-count data reveal only a few significant relationships. (1) The hierarchy of exposure surfaces, and by inference duration of exposure, is differentiated only at a marginally significant level by sediment-filled vugs preferentially associated with the sequence boundary. Duration of exposure did not have a significant impact on the relative abundance of all other features. (2) Proximity ( 5 ft) to both types of surfaces. Fractures, open vugs, and infiltrated sediment show no proximal or distal preference for either type of surface. (3) Depositional texture has no statistically significant affect on the presence or abundance of the exposure features, with the exception that rhizoliths and open vugs are preferentially more abundant in packstones relative to grainstones. This is interpreted to be the result of a soil-moisture effect. Factor analysis defines four factors that explain 46% to 52% of the total variance in the abundance data relative to the sequence boundary and the intraformational surfaces, respectively. The loading of each exposure feature on each factor is the same with respect to both types of surfaces, which is further evidence that the abundance of exposure features is independent of duration of exposure. Factor 1 is interpreted to be the amplitude of base-level changes and controls the abundance of karst breccia. Factor 2 is interpreted to be abundance of vegetation and relates to the abundance of rhizoliths and fractures. Factor 3 is interpreted to be a combination of soil-zone PCO2 and the availability of water and affects the abundance of pedogenic overprinting, caliche, and open vugs. Factor 4 is stratigraphic proximity to the sequence boundary, which controls the presence of sediment-filled voids. The amount of uncorrelated unique variance associated with infiltrated sediments, pedogenic overprinting, caliche, and open vugs is large (> 60%), meaning that feature abundance is also influenced by other unidentified site-specific factors. These results demonstrate that quantifying the abundance of macroscopic subaerial exposure features in limestones has the potential to yield more insight into the significance of those features than a mere qualitative assessment. This is particularly true when assessing the potential role of the many variables that can affect the development of these features.
The Surprising Zionist: Senator Robert A. Taft and the Creation of Israel

In early 1951, the Israeli Knesset Library arranged to dedicate a series of the American Congressional Record to Senator Robert A. Taft, who “was unquestionably a major factor in the shaping of Pre...
Costs and cost-effectiveness of routine transesophageal echocardiography in congenital heart surgery

Abstract Background The safety and efficacy of transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) during congenital heart surgery is well established. The economic costs and benefits associated with its routine use in this setting are, however, uncertain. We sought to analyze the impact that routine intraoperative TEE had on echocardiographic costs in the setting of congenital heart surgery. Methods and Results A retrospective, case-controlled analysis of echocardiographic costs during the operative and postoperative periods was performed for 63 children undergoing elective, complex intracardiac repair. Similar analysis was performed for a smaller group of patients undergoing simple repairs. To ascertain whether any additional cost savings was realized through the use of TEE, we documented the impact that operative TEE had on altering surgical strategy as well as whether TEE use was associated with any intraoperative complications. Despite the additional expense, routine TEE, in the setting of complex repair, resulted in no significant increases in echocardiographic costs, suggesting the superior information provided may in fact reduce the need for additional postoperative studies in the intensive care setting. Although no child required a return to cardiopulmonary bypass, surgical therapy was altered by TEE findings in 2 (3%) of 63 patients. Complications were rare and self-limited, usually occurring with positioning of the probe in smaller patients. Conclusions The findings of improved surgical outcomes in a percentage of patients, coupled with the lack of any significant increment in echocardiographic costs, confirm that intraoperative TEE is a beneficial and cost-effective intervention in children requiring complex cardiac repair. (Am Heart J 1999;138:771-6.)
Illuminating Sets of Constant Width

The problem of illuminating the boundary of sets having constant width is considered and a bound for the number of directions needed is given. As a corollary, an estimate for Borsuk’s partition problem is inferred. Also, the illumination number of sufficiently symmetric strictly convex bodies is determined.
The role of hypoxic-inducible factor (HIF1α) and aldolaseC protein in endometrial carcinogenesis: a retrospective study of 279 patients

Objectives Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF1α) plays an integral role in response to hypoxia, controlling dozens of target genes including aldolaseC (ALDC), an important enzyme in the glycolytic pathway. It also induces angiogenesis, allowing survival and proliferation of cancer cells. The aims of our study were to evaluate the expressions of HIF1α and ALDC in patients with endometrial cancer (EC) and define their association with disease outcome and to determine the existence of an association between HIF1α and ALDC proteins. Design This is a population-based retrospective cohort study using the gynaecological-oncology database. The authors identified all women with EC with adequate follow-up. Immunohistochemistry using antibodies to ALDC and HIF1α was performed on paraffin-embedded tissue from 279 patients. To test the association between ALDC /HIF1α protein using immunohistochemistry (IHC) (positive and negative) and the clinical parameters, Fisher9s exact test was performed for categorical parameters and the logistic regression model was used for continuous ones. Pearson correlation was used to check the association of IHC between ALDC and HIF1α. Setting Academic referral centre. Participants Women with EC from 2000 to 2010 obtained from the gynaecological-oncology database. Outcome measures The disease outcome is defined by alive with no evidence of disease versus all other outcomes. Results ALDC and HIF1α were overexpressed in the vast majority of EC cases (78% and 76%, respectively). There was a strong positive association between HIF1α and ALDC (p=0.0017). There was a significant association between ALDC and depth of myometrial invasion (p=0.0438), and between HIF1α and tumour grade (p=0.0231) and tumour subtype (p=0.018). However, there was no association between neither ALDC nor HIF1α and disease status. Conclusions ALDC and HIF1α play an important role in endometrial carcinogenesis. Their expression by the majority of EC makes inhibition of HIF1α a very attractive therapeutic option for treating patients with EC and we suggest that it will be prospectively validated in future studies.
The Design of Management Information Systems an Information Analysis Approach

This paper describes a methodology for management information systems design which employs a formalized framework for significantly involving manager-users in the design process. The process seeks to develop a system design on the basis of a criterion which considers both technical cost-benefit considerations and the manager's perception of the potential utility of the system. A key element of the methodology is the development of descriptive and normative system models which are based on the concept of a “linear responsibility chart.” These models serve as the basis for the negotiated development of a consensus system model which defines the framework for the decision-oriented analysis of information requirement. The process of information analysis involves joint manager-analyst activities which are aimed at the explication of the implicit decision models which are used for decision making.
Metal/Self-Assembled Monolayer/Metal Junctions for Magnetoelectronic Applications.

Metal/organic self-assembled monolayer/metal junctions were investigated for junction areas 10-2 to 102 μm2. Several types and thickness of monolayers are investigated, and magnetic electrodes were made. Electroless deposition was used to make the top metal without disrupting the organic film. This deposition is activated with Pd clusters obtained by evaporation or by chemical reduction of a Pd-based catalyst. This method allows us to obtain a high yield of junctions that are not electrically shorted and are mechanically and electrically stable over a wide temperature range. Low-temperatures investigations reveal strong non-linearity in the IV curves and an increase of resistance with decreasing temperature. Zero bias anomalies observed at low temperatures are attributed to a Coulomb blockade associated with the Pd clusters.
Multi-Sensor Detection and Estimation of Gaps When Drilling CFRP Composite Stacks

To avoid the uncertainty of the presence of gaps between CFRP stacks and to eliminate the inspection for gaps after every drilled hole, a novel approach for on-line gap detection and estimation when drilling CFRP composite stacks through various signal profiles was proposed. Experimental investigation of the proposed method was conducted using thrust force, vibration, acoustic emission, and audio signals, which were collected using dynamometer, accelerometer, acoustic emission sensors, and an air-coupled audio microphone respectively. A predetermined gap was introduced between the stacks of CFRP plates in the investigation. The results from this experimental study reveal the potentials of the proposed approach for on-line detection and estimation of gap when drilling CFRP composite stacks.Copyright © 2014 by ASME
DIDS inhibits Na-K-ATPase activity in porcine nonpigmented ciliary epithelial cells by a Src family kinase-dependent mechanism

The anion transport inhibitor DIDS is known to reduce aqueous humor secretion but questions remain about anion dependence of the effect. In some tissues, DIDS is reported to cause Na-K-ATPase inhibition. Here, we report on the ability of DIDS to inhibit Na-K-ATPase activity in nonpigmented ciliary epithelium (NPE) and investigate the underlying mechanism. Porcine NPE cells were cultured to confluence on permeable supports, treated with drugs added to both sides of the membrane, and then used for (86)Rb uptake measurements or homogenized to measure Na-K-ATPase activity or to detect protein phosphorylation. DIDS inhibited ouabain-sensitive (86)Rb uptake, activated Src family kinase (SFK), and caused a reduction of Na-K-ATPase activity. PP2, an SFK inhibitor, prevented the DIDS responses. In BCECF-loaded NPE, DIDS was found to reduce cytoplasmic pH (pHi). PP2-sensitive Na-K-ATPase activity inhibition, (86)Rb uptake suppression, and SFK activation were observed when a similar reduction of pHi was imposed by low-pH medium or an ammonium chloride withdrawal maneuver. PP2 and the ERK inhibitor U0126 prevented robust ERK1/2 activation in cells exposed to DIDS or subjected to pHi reduction, but U0126 did not prevent SFK activation or the Na-K-ATPase activity response. The evidence points to an inhibitory influence of DIDS on NPE Na-K-ATPase activity by a mechanism that hinges on SFK activation associated with a reduction of cytoplasmic pH.
Comprehensive design procedure and spreadsheet for internally cooled cabled superconductors

A comprehensive procedure has been set up to consider together the various phenomena influencing the design of an Internally Cooled Cabled Superconductor (ICCS). Sensitivity studies done for TFCX show the relative order of importance of conduit structural behavior assumption, dump circuit design, and nuclear heating rate on the cavity current density. Although none of these is completely specified or known presently, the TFCX TF coil design goal of 3500 A/cm2at 10 Tesla appears achievable using moderately optimistic assumptions. The study was done in an automated manner using spreadsheet software on a personal computer, which proved to be extremely convenient and flexible.
Results of a Nutrition and Physical Activity Peer Counseling Intervention among Nontraditional College Students

Health promotion efforts targeting nontraditional college students (older, part-time enrollment, and working) may be an optimal way to reach large populations that potentially face health disparities. A randomized trial was undertaken to examine the feasibility of a nutrition and physical activity behavioral intervention among nontraditional undergraduate college students at a large urban public university. Over 8 weeks, participants received either (1) a brief tailored feedback report plus three motivational interviewing-based calls from trained peer counselors (intervention; n = 40) or (2) the report only (control; n = 20). Participants mean age was 32 years (SD = 10), 58 % were female, 47 % were racial/ethnic minorities, and 25 % reported receiving public health insurance. Most (78 %) intervention group participants completed at least two of three peer counseling calls. At follow-up, those in the intervention vs. control group self-reported beneficial, but non-statistically significant changes in fruits and vegetables (+0.7 servings/day), sugary drinks (−6.2 oz/day), and fast food visits (−0.2 visits/week). For physical activity, there was a non-statistically significant decrease in moderate-vigorous physical activity (107.2 min/week) in the intervention vs. control group. Overall satisfaction with the program was high, although there were recommendations made for improving the structure and number of calls. Findings indicate that the intervention was feasible with promising effects on nutrition behaviors and the need to better target physical activity behaviors. Future work entails implementation in a larger sample with objectively measured behaviors.
Get moving! Physical activity counseling in primary care

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to present strategies to improve the effectiveness of physical activity counseling for adults in primary care settings. Adoption of physical activity can be part of a healthy lifestyle to prevent or manage many chronic and debilitating conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension, and obesity. Data sources: Original research articles reporting results from descriptive studies and clinical trials testing the effectiveness of physical activity counseling in primary care. Journal articles and Web sites are cited as patient and professional resources. Conclusions: Despite conflicting research findings on the effectiveness of physical activity counseling in primary care, the importance of an active lifestyle in promoting health and well-being is well known. Yet, only one third of all Americans attain adequate daily physical activity. Implementing physical activity counseling in primary care is one method to promote active lifestyles. Some strategies to promote physical activity counseling in primary care settings are identified, including use of the Five A’s approach and printed materials. Suggestions to manage the barriers primary care providers experience with physical activity counseling include brief counseling sessions involving all members of the health team. Implications for practice: The implementation of a brief physical activity counseling intervention in primary care settings is presented as a promising method to promote physical activity in adults. Nurse practitioners can deliver this counseling in a succinct, well-planned session to promote physical activity and reduce the potential devastating consequences associated with a sedentary lifestyle.
Gastrointestinal Manifestations of Diabetes

Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders are exceedingly common in diabetics and are reported by as many as 75% of patients.1 Symptoms may be underappreciated by patients and their physicians, as they are considered minor as compared to retinopathy, nephropathy, and other complications of diabetes. Some patients may be asymptomatic but still have underlying GI dysfunction.
Ultra-Low-Power Cryogenic SiGe Low-Noise Amplifiers: Theory and Demonstration

Low-power cryogenic low-noise amplifiers (LNAs) are desired to ease the cooling requirements of ultra-sensitive cryogenically cooled instrumentation. In this paper, the tradeoff between power and noise performance in silicon–germanium LNAs is explored to study the possibility of operating these devices from low supply voltages. A new small-signal heterojunction bipolar transistor noise model applicable to both the forward-active and saturation regimes is developed from first principles. Experimental measurements of a device across a wide range of temperatures are then presented and the dependence of the noise parameters on collector–emitter voltage is described. This paper concludes with the demonstration of a high-gain 1.8–3.6-GHz cryogenic LNA achieving a noise temperature of 3.4–5 K while consuming just ${\hbox{290}}~\mu{\hbox{W}}$ when operating at 15-K physical temperature.
Correlates of Compliance With Measurement Protocols in a Latino Nutrition-Intervention Study

Introduction It is well known that attrition and noncompliance in longitudinal health intervention studies contribute to bias in both internal and external validity. However, little is known about rates and correlates of compliance with measurement protocols among Latinos. This article investigates correlates of compliance with follow-up physical measurement protocols among Latino subjects in a nutrition-oriented cardiovascular disease prevention program targeting low-English literate adults. Methods Correlates of compliance, measured at baseline, included four classes of variables: demographic characteristics, physical measures, health behaviors, and nutrition-related psychological variables. Subjects were categorized into one of three compliance groups: on-time compliers, late or “reluctant” compliers, and noncompliers. Approximately 36% of subjects complied on time, 25% complied late, and 39% did not comply. Results Analyses showed that, relative to on-time and late compliers, noncompliers tended to be male, younger, of lower income and Spanish-literacy level, to drink more alcohol, to be less physically active, and to have lower dietary fat avoidance scores. No significant differences were found for other factors considered (e.g., physical health measures). Conclusions These results generally reflect those of non-Hispanics that indicate that individuals at greater “risk” are less likely to comply with study protocols. Such results may be useful for designing culturally appropriate cohort maintenance strategies for longitudinal studies with Latinos.
The Mole and Amount of Substance in Chemistry and Education: Beyond Official Definitions

The definition of the mole in the current SI and the draft definition for the “new SI” are reviewed. Current textbook treatments of the mole are compared to these official definitions. For historical perspective, the treatment of the mole and amount of substance in textbooks before and after those quantities were introduced into the SI in 1971 is reviewed. Textbook definitions have not always matched the official definitions, but they reflect the common usage of chemists. Textbook definitions will likely resemble the official definition more closely if the new SI is adopted, because the draft definition is closer than the current official definition to what is found in many textbooks. The SI base quantity amount of substance, however, will likely continue to pose problems for chemistry educators and to be widely ignored by practitioners of chemistry if it is retained. Official definitions and expert usage of some terms related to the mole (particularly amount of substance) do not always coincide.
Standardization of Microtus Home Range Calculation

A population of Microtus pennsylvanicus of high density, one of medium density, and one of low density were live-trapped in the summers of 1960 to 1962. Home ranges were calculated by several methods (minimum boundary, exclusive boundary, and inclusive boundary), and differences between the results of the three methods are presented. Individual ranges were determined by the number of different stations at which the vole was trapped. This method eliminates the factor of trap-habituation that appears when ranges are determined by the number of captures, and is conducive to better intra- and interspecific comparisons.
Gregorian Adaptation in the Augustinian Mission to England

Do the letters of Gregory I to Augustine and his missionary party in England reveal the early missiological reflection of a Benedictine or the practical realism of papal responsibility? Both, says ...
Credit Scoring Systems: A Critical Analysis:

The currently fashionable credit scoring systems are described and subjected to critical analysis. Public policy issues concerning the use of these systems are discussed.
Management of kidney stones: how new technology has affected the indications for intervention.

Now that stones can be treated noninvasively on an outpatient basis, intervention is often less expensive and more humane than to "wait and see."
Review of frequency stability for islanded power system

It is of great significance to study the islanding operation, which is a working condition under the extreme case of power system. Based on the analysis of the islanded grid’s structure and the concept of islanded power grids,the state of the art of islanding operation and stability control at home and abroad are summarized in detail.The frequency characteristics of islanding operation and the contributions of primary frequency control,OPC,over frequency generator tripping and UFLS made to islanding operation are introduced.The trend of stability control technology for islanded power grids is also reviewed combining with the energy strategy and power development staus quo of China.
Significance and measures of operation with service power after the units sending power across grids fast cut back

In view of some special problems existing on the generating units which send power across grids first through dedicated long distance transmission lines, this paper analyzes the important roles in the aspects of ensuring the self-safety, economy and convenience etc., when the units operates with service poweronly after the units fast cutback. Combining with the actual problems and testing results, this paper approaches some measures for raising the reliability of operation with service power only after units fast cut back from the angles of set-up of control system, matching of technological system and operation of auxiliary equipment etc..
Conceptual moderator studies for the Spallation Neutron Source short-pulse second target station.

Candidate moderator configurations for a short-pulse second target station (STS) at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) have been identified using a global optimizer framework built around the MCNPX particle transport code. Neutron brightness metrics were selected as the figure-of-merit. We assumed that STS would use one out of six proton pulses produced by an SNS accelerator upgraded to operate at 1.3 GeV proton energy, 2.8 MW power and 60 Hz repetition rate. The simulations indicate that the peak brightness can be increased by a factor of 5 and 2.5 on a per proton pulse basis compared to the SNS first target station for both coupled and decoupled para-hydrogen moderators, respectively. Additional increases by factors of 3 and 2 were demonstrated for coupled and decoupled moderators, respectively, by reducing the area of neutron emission from 100 × 100 mm2 to 20 × 20 mm2. This increase in brightness has the potential to translate to an increase of beam intensity at the instruments’ sample positions even though the total neutron emission of the smaller moderator is less than that of the larger. This is especially true for instruments with small samples (beam dimensions). The increased fluxes in the STS moderators come at accelerated poison and de-coupler burnout and higher radiation-induced material damage rates per unit power, which overall translate into lower moderator lifetimes. A first effort was undertaken to group decoupled moderators into a cluster collectively positioning them at the peak neutron production zone in the target and having a three-port neutron emission scheme that complements that of a cylindrical coupled moderator.
Lack of rating scale normalization and a socioeconomically advantaged population limits the generalizability of preadolescent transgender findings

The article by Olson et al1 exploring the mental health of preadolescent transgender children residing in families that are supportive of their identity attempted to address questions Olson recently raised in a Clinical Perspectives piece published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry .2 We read the current article in Pediatrics with great interest, and their effort was laudable. An enhanced understanding of the symptoms and phenomenology of transgender preadolescents is critical, as this material could inform interventions for this marginalized population. Olson et al ambitiously examined symptoms of anxiety and depression in both … E-mail: mckean.alastair{at}mayo.edu