cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Transmembrane helix 1 contributes to substrate translocation and protein stability of bile acid transporter SLC10A2.

The human apical sodium-dependent bile acid transporter (hASBT, SLC10A2) plays a critical role in the enterohepatic circulation of bile acids, as well as in cholesterol homeostasis. ASBT reclaims bile acids from the distal ileum via active sodium co-transport, in a multistep process, orchestrated by key residues in exofacial loop regions, as well as in membrane-spanning helices. Here, we unravel the functional contribution of highly conserved transmembrane helix 1 (TM1) on the hASBT transport cycle. Consecutive cysteine substitution of individual residues along the TM1 helix (Ile29–Gly50), as well as exofacial Asn27 and Asn28, resulted in functional impairment of ∼70% of mutants, despite appreciable cell surface expression for all but G50C. Cell surface expression of G50C and G50A was rescued upon MG132 treatment as well as cyclosporine A, but not by FK506 or bile acids, suggesting that Gly50 is involved in hASBT folding. TM1 accessibility to membrane-impermeant MTSET remains confined to the exofacial half of the helix along a single, discrete face. Substrate protection from MTSET labeling was temperature-dependent for L34C, T36C, and L38C, consistent with conformational changes playing a role in solvent accessibility for these mutants. Residue Leu30 was shown to be critical for both bile acid and sodium affinity, while Asn27, Leu38, Thr39, and Met46 participate in sodium co-transport. Combined, our data demonstrate that TM1 plays a pivotal role in ASBT function and stability, thereby providing further insight in its dynamic transport mechanism.
Is there a Higgs isotriplet in minimal SUSY

Abstract If recent LEP data are applied to the two-Higgs-doublet sector of the minimal SUSY version of the standard model, it would appear that either (1) the charged scalars and the heavy neutral scalar have almost the same mass or (2) there would occur a strong limitation on the allowed parameter values. Such a mass degeneracy would also reduce substantially the Higgs-Higgs contribution to the one-loop ϱ-correction.
Acute Kidney Injury Associated with High Nephrotoxic Medication Exposure Leads to Chronic Kidney Disease after 6 Months

Objective To assess the development of chronic kidney disease (CKD) after high nephrotoxic medication exposure-associated acute kidney injury (NTMx-AKI) in hospitalized children. Study design We performed a retrospective cohort study of children exposed to an aminoglycoside for ≥3 days or ≥3 nephrotoxic medications simultaneously for the development of CKD at 6 months. Follow-up data >6 months after acute kidney injury (AKI) were retrieved from electronic health records. Outcomes in children with NTMx-AKI were compared with patients of same age and primary service distribution who were exposed to nephrotoxic medications but did not develop AKI (controls). Results One hundred patients with NTMx-AKI were assessed (mean age of 9.3 ± 6.9 years). Commonly involved services were bone marrow transplantation/oncology (59%), liver transplantation (13%), and pulmonary (13%). Pre-AKI estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was 119 ± 14.5 mL/min/1.73 m 2 (range 90-150 mL/min/1.73 m 2 ). Mean discharge eGFR was 105.1 ± 27.1 mL/min/1.73 m 2 . At 6 months after NTMx-AKI, eGFR (n = 77) was 113.8 ± 30.6 mL/min/1.73 m 2 . Sixteen (20.7%) had eGFR of 60-90, 2 (2.6%) had eGFR 150 mL/min/1.73 m 2 (hyperfiltration). Twenty-four (68.5%) of 35 patients who were assessed for proteinuria had a urine protein-to-creatinine ratio >0.3 mg/mg, and 29 (37.6%) had hypertension. Twenty-six (33.7%) patients had CKD (proteinuria or eGFR 2 ). An additional 28 (36.3%) were considered to be at risk for CKD with hypertension, eGFR between 60 and 90 mL/min/1.73 m 2 , or eGFR >150 mL/min/1.73 m 2 . CKD, hypertension, and proteinuria were more common in the AKI cohort than in controls. Conclusions Six months after NTMx-AKI, 70% of patients had evidence of residual kidney damage (reduced eGFR, hyperfiltration, proteinuria, or hypertension). Few underwent a complete evaluation for CKD. With studies showing an association between AKI and CKD, we suggest systematic comprehensive follow-up in children after NTMx-AKI.
Strain-induced electronic property heterogeneity of a carbon nanotube

We have studied the effect of strain on the electronic properties of multiwall carbon nanotubes using scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy. While small elastic strain causes no change of the electronic properties of the nanotubes, tubes under large strain by lying over an inter-grain boundary of the Au substrate show drastic electronic heterogeneity. The observed variation in local electronic property is explained in terms of the mechanical relaxation of the outer most layer of the tube. This provides first evidence of the effect of mechanical modification on local electronic structure of a carbon nanotube.
Sharp Interface LES of Breaking Waves by an Interface Piercing Body in Orthogonal Curvilinear Coordinates

A sharp interface LES methodology on orthogonal curvilinear grid for breaking waves produced by an interface-piercing body at high Reynolds number is presented. Both gas and liquid phases are considered for the strong interactions between two phases, such as spray dispersion and bubble entrainment. The level-set based ghost fluid method is adopted for sharp interface treatment and a volume-of-fluid method in orthogonal curvilinear coordinates is coupled with the level set method for enhanced interface tracking. A Lagrangian dynamic Smagorinsky subgrid-scale model is used for the spatially filtered turbulence closure. Several numerical tests are conducted in order to validate the code. Wave breaking around a wedge-shaped bow is simulated with the results compared with the experimental measurement.
Topical dual-stain fluorescence imaging for intra-operative margin detection enhances tumor-to-normal tissue contrast in excised fresh specimens

We demonstrate a novel, topical dual-stain fluorescence imaging approach for identifying tumor tissue in excised specimens during surgery. Applying this approach to excised tumor tissue resulted in tumor-to-adipose contrast of 6:1.
Retailing and channel considerations in developing countries: A review and research propositions

Abstract This study critically examines retailing and channels of distribution considerations in developing countries. It is comprised of a comprehensive review of the literature and integrates the fragmented body of knowledge in the area. Nine research propositions are offered that can guide hypothesis generation for future research. Research priorities and managerial implications are discussed.
INITIAL VALIDATION OF A NEW MEASURE OF LEADERSHIP

In recent years, theorists and practitioners have become critical of the popular conceptualization of leadership as composed of task and relationship types of behaviors for two reasons: (a) other leadership behaviors, such as creating a mission and vision and employee empowerment, are not included in this conceptualization, and (b) under a strict definition of leadership, task-oriented behaviors are more “management” than truly “leadership” behaviors. Gill’s (R. Gill, 2006, Theory and Practice of Leadership, Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage) conceptualization of leadership may give researchers and practitioners an alternative way to approach the measurement of leadership behaviors. The current study acquired evidence to support the validity of a measure of the leadership behaviors presented by Gill, which include vision and mission; shared values; strategy; empowerment; and influence, motivation, and inspiration. In comparing the new measure to a preexisting measure of leadership and these measures’ respective relationships with organizational commitment, organizational citizenship, and CWBs, results showed support for the criterion and construct validity of the new assessment tool.
MODELING THE EVOLUTION OF SALT STRUCTURES USING NONLINEAR ROCKSALT FLOW LAWS

Abstract We analyzed the evolution of a single wavelength (λ = 13.4 km) salt structure of initial amplitude A o = 100 m by means of a 2D finite-volume numerical model. The model incorporated two laboratory-derived rheological laws for rocksalt: a low-stress, dislocation-creep power law (e˙ασ 3.4 ) and a fluid-assisted diffusion creep law (e˙ασ/Td 3 ), in whiche˙is strain rate, σ is the equivalent stress, T the absolute temperature and d the grain size. Our model also accounts for salt thermal conductivity dependence on temperature. The models comprised 3.6 km of sediments overlying a 1.2-km-thick salt layer with a density difference between sediments and salt of 100 kg/m 3 and sediments viscosity μ 2 = 3.0 × 10 19 Pa s. We assumed that deformation is driven solely by buoyancy forces. Results predict that salt structures evolve faster (2- to 3.5-fold) in fluid-assisted models than in dislocation creep models. Equivalent stresses and viscosities predicted by the fluid-assisted law are lower than those predicted by the power law, by factors of 3, and 1 to 2 orders of magnitude, respectively, depending on the degree of structural maturity. In contrast, strain rates predicted by both rheological laws are nearly the same, near 10 −14 s −1 for similar degrees of structural maturity. Temperature distribution in the model domain was controlled by the thermal conductivity contrast between salt and sediments, the shape of the salt structure and thermal conditions imposed at model boundaries. At the early stages of evolution, a positive thermal anomaly of +30°C developed at the top of the salt structure. At more advanced stages (e.g., diapiric stage), the thermal anomaly decreased, maintaining values between +5°C and +20°C.
FLORAL ANATOMY OF IDIOSPERMUM AUSTRALIENSE (IDIOSPERMACEAE)

A B S T R A C T The floral anatomy of Idiospermum australiense (Diels) S. T. Blake is described from studies on relatively mature but unopened flower buds. The vascular system and general morphology of the flower is compared with that of Calycanthus and Chimonanthus (Calycanthaceae), especially with Calycanthus, the genus in which Diels originally placed Idiospermum. Inverted cortical bundles are present in both taxa but occur in different patterns. The tepals of Calycanthus are all 3-trace, whereas in Idiospermum only the upper tepals have three traces, the lower tepals having five to seven. All tepals of Calycanthus are spirally arranged; the lower tepals of Idiospermum are opposite or decussate in 1-3 pairs. The axial and recurrent bundle systems in Calycanthus are discrete except where the axial system turns downward, but in Idiospermum these systems, together with cortical bundles, are largely intermixed. The vascular supply to the carpel of Idiospermum, while possibly a modification of that of the carpels of Calycanthus, could also be interpreted as having an independent origin. Other differences and resemblances are described.
Situating Computational Thinking with Big Data: Pedagogy and Technology (Abstract Only)

As Computational Thinking becomes pervasive in undergraduate programs, new students must be educated in meaningful, authentic contexts that they find both motivating and relatable. I propose working with big data as a novel context for introductory programming, authentic given its importance in diverse fields such as agriculture, history, and more. Big data is considered difficult to use because of its inherent technical obstacles. To overcome these difficulties, I introduce a new project: CORGIS - a "Collection of Real-time, Giant, Interesting, Situated Datasets". The CORGIS project comprises a collection of libraries that provide an interface to big data for students, architectures for rapidly enabling new datasets, and a web-based textbook platform for disseminating relevant course materials. This textbook features an online block-based programming environment, real-time collaborative text editing, and continuous server-side storage. In this poster, I describe the educational theory guiding this work, the novel technolgy created and deployed, and the initial, promising results.
Fistula following continent ileostomy

A patient who developed a fistula secondary to Marlex mesh in the nipple valve of a continent ileostomy is reported. Etiology and management of fistula following continent ileostomy are discussed. Fistula formation should be recognized as a potential hazard of the use of prosthetic material to stabilize the nipple valve of a continent ileostomy.
The Cholesterol Wars: The Cholesterol Skeptics vs the Preponderance of Evidence

Daniel Steinberg 227 pages. New York, NY: Academic Press; 2007. $69.95. ISBN 978-0123739797 I consider The Cholesterol Wars by Daniel Steinberg to be required reading for every serious student of atherosclerosis and lipidology. It is written in an authoritative, scholarly, yet readable style. Steinberg has carefully reviewed the material for which he previously laid the groundwork with a series of articles in the Journal of Lipid Research . His subject is one about which he knows a great deal and in which he himself played a major role over the last 5 decades. I remember first hearing him speak about the subject matter of the book during the 2001 Drugs Affecting Lipid Metabolism meeting during a dinner at the Russian Tea Room in New York the night before 9/11. Everyone present that night remembers both the scintillating talk as well as where they were on that particular occasion. I will make a few comments, observations, and an occasional critical remark that is not intended to detract from the quality of this publication. First, Steinberg begins by discussing the early cholesterol-feeding experiments of Nikolai Anitschkow and rightly points out that they followed studies on the toxicity of feeding large amounts of protein to rabbits. I believe that part of the failure to accept the cholesterol hypothesis on the basis of Anitschkow’s work is related to the extreme conditions of the experiment and to the very high levels of cholesterol obtained in the blood, which raised doubts about its relevance to humans. We now know with the benefit of hindsight that one can develop atherosclerosis even with lesser degrees of cholesterol elevation, but many also suspected that the cholesterol-feeding experiments might have induced an inflammatory response that was separate …
MR imaging of hepatic hemangiomas of infancy and changes seen with interferon alpha-2a treatment

The purpose of this study was to describe the appearance on magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of hepatic hemangioma, and how the appearance changes in infants who have received interferon alpha-2a (IFN) treatment. We retrospectively studied 16 MR examinations in seven infants (mean age 3.2 months; range 5 days to 13 months) who were symptomatic with hepatic hemangiomas. Five of these seven patients had MR examinations both before and after treatment with IFN. In six of the seven patients, the hepatic hemangiomas were multicentric; they were usually discrete, well-defined nodules, best seen on T2-weighted images as high intensity lesions. One patient had a large solitary heterogeneous lesion. They all exhibited fast flow (seen as flow voids on spin-echo images and high signal intensity structures on gradient-recalled echo images) and enlarged hepatic arteries and veins. There was enlargement of the proximal abdominal aorta with distal tapering. Treatment was followed by accelerated regression of the hemangiomas in size and number and variable shrinkage of the enlarged vessels. As the tumor nodules regressed, they were replaced by normal-appearing hepatic parenchyma; neither fat nor fibrosis was detected by MR imaging.
Activity and selectivity of histidine-containing lytic peptides to antibiotic-resistant bacteria

Lytic peptides are a group of membrane-acting peptides that are active to antibiotic-resistant bacteria but demonstrate high toxicity to tissue cells. Here, we reported the construction of new lytic peptide derivatives through the replacement of corresponding lysine/arginine residues in lytic peptide templates with histidines. Resulting lytic peptides had the same lethality to antibiotic-resistant bacteria, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, but showed greatly improved selectivity to bacteria. When incubated with co-cultured bacteria and tissue cells, these histidine-containing lytic peptide derivatives killed bacteria selectively but spared co-cultured human cells. Membrane insertion and peptide-quenching studies revealed that histidine protonation controlled peptide interactions with cell membranes determined the bacterial selectivity of lytic peptide derivatives. Compared with parent peptides, lytic peptide derivatives bound to bacteria strongly and inserted deeply into the bacterial cell membrane. Therefore, histidine-containing lytic peptides represent a new group of antimicrobial peptides for bacterial infections in which the antibiotic resistance has developed.
Chemically-mediated host selection in a parasitic mite

MITES parasitise a broad spectrum of metazoans—molluscs, arthropods and vertebrates, including man. They transmit various pathogens to these hosts, and may cause severe medical and economic damage1,2. Host preferences are commonly restricted to one or a few species3, and parasitism may result in profound ecological or biological effects, for example, the regulation of clutch size in birds4. Such effects have prompted some investigators to suggest the use of acarine parasites as natural control agents5,6. In spite of all these factors, little is known about how mites select their hosts. We studied host discrimination in a typical acarine parasite, Proctolaelaps nauphoetae (Womersley)7,8, and report that it uses a chemical sense to guide it to its only host, the cockroach Nauphoeta cinerea (Olivier).
Quality circles: Square deal for productivity

Abstract A 7:1 savings/cost ratio was projected from the results of the six-month pilot program in quality circles at General Dynamics Pomona Division. Productivity in six circles was monitored in terms of reduced attrition, higher performance, improved quality, increased employee suggestions and specific projects. Less quantifiable, but equally impressive indications of better morale, tremendous team spirit, and more harmonious management/employee relations were present. These favorable results stimulated implementation plans for all General Dynamics' aerospace divisions, one marine division and several subsidiaries. Training material and programs for facilitators, leaders, and members were developed. The application of this concept as both a management and employee development tool was demonstrated. The responsibility for success of this program lies in the commitment, dedication, and support of all participants, particularly management.
CodY-mediated regulation of Streptococcus pyogenes exoproteins

Background The production of Streptococcus pyogenes exoproteins, many of which contribute to virulence, is regulated in response to nutrient availability. CodY is a transcriptional regulator that controls gene expression in response to amino acid availability. The purpose of this study was to identify differences in the expression of streptococcal exoproteins associated with deletion of the codY gene.
Analyzing the performance of optical multistage interconnection networks with limited crosstalk

Analytical modeling techniques can be used to study the performance of optical multistage interconnection network (OMIN) effectively. MINs have assumed importance in recent times, because of their cost-effectiveness. An N?N MIN consists of a mapping from N processors to N memories, with log??2 N stages of 2?2 switches with N/2 switches per stage. The interest is on the study of the performance of unbuffered optical multistage interconnection network using the banyan network. The uniform reference model approach is assumed for the purpose of analysis. In this paper the analytical modeling approach is applied to an N?N OMIN with limited crosstalk (conflicts between messages) up to (log??2 N?1). Messages with switch conflicts satisfying the constraint of (log??2 N?1) are allowed to pass in the same group, but in case of a link conflict, the message is routed in a different group. The analysis is performed by calculating the bandwidth and throughput of the network operating under a load l and allowing random traffic and using a greedy routing strategy. A number of equations are derived using the theory of probability and the performance curves are plotted. The results obtained show that the performance of the network improves by allowing limited crosstalk in the network.
A review of the evolving perceptual model of hillslope flowpaths at the Maimai catchments, New Zealand

Abstract The Maimai catchment has been the site of ongoing hillslope research since the late 1970s. These studies have facilitated the development of a detailed perceptual model of hillslope hydrology at Maimai. This perceptual model has grown in complexity beyond analytical description; nonetheless it provides a very useful case study of hillslope hydrological processes and encapsulates much of what field hydrologists have come to recognize as the dominant hillslope runoff processes in steep, humid catchments. No single research approach has resolved the complexities of streamflow generation in this highly responsive catchment. Yet, each data set reviewed in this paper adds to the cumulative understanding of catchment behavior by providing alternative (and sometimes conflicting) interpretations of hillslope subsurface flow. Initial dye tracer studies of macropore flow provided insight into hillslope flow processes, but suffered from the limitations of a single-method approach. Subsequent water isotopic tracing studies showed clearly that stored soil water and groundwater comprised the majority of channel stormflow; notwithstanding, isotope-oriented approaches did not enable the development of a mechanistic understanding of hillslope processes. An integration of tensiometer recording and tracer techniques was required for later reconciliation of different process interpretations concerning the role of macropores and old/new water ratios. Although single throughflow pits continued to be the indicator of subsurface flow timing and magnitude for several published studies at Maimai, subsequent whole hillslope trench studies showed that flow varied widely across a slope section—making the single pit observations of the previous studies suspect. Most recent observations demonstrate that small depressions in the bedrock surface may exert a significant control on water mobility and mixing. In particular, the bedrock topography appears to determine spatially the pathway of rapid saturated subsurface water flow and tracer breakthrough at the hillslope scale. The Maimai catchments in New Zealand provide a historical perspective on the issues faced by hillslope/small catchment hydrologists since the mid 1970s and highlights the advantages of multiple repeat experiments for testing hypotheses and improving our mechanistic understanding of subsurface flow.
Self-healing traumatic bone cysts

Abstract The etiology and pathogenesis of traumatic bone cyst are still far from being conclusively established with multiple theories, names, and forms of management being proposed and used. The rarity of these lesions in the older age groups suggests that self-healing can occur. This article presents two well-documented cases of what clinically and radiographically were consistent with so-called “traumatic bone cyst” of the mandible, which have appeared to heal without surgical intervention, thus providing additional information to our understanding of the biologic nature of this entity. Case 1 involved a 14-year-old boy with a lesion of the anterior left mandible that was monitored for 7 years and 5 months. Case 2 involved a 19-year-old female patient with a lesion of the right mandible that was monitored for 2 years and 9 months. In both cases, intraosseous biopsy or other surgical procedures were not undertaken. By the time both patients approached age 22, their lesions had resolved and the trabecular bone pattern radiographically approached normal.
Comet Hale-Bopp in outburst: Imaging the dynamics of icy particles with HST/NICMOS ✩

Abstract Comet Hale–Bopp was imaged at wavelengths from 1.87 to 2.22 μm by HST/NICMOS in post-perihelion observations starting on UT 1997 August 27.95. Diffraction-limited (∼0 . ″ 2) images were obtained at high signal-to-noise (∼1500) to probe the composition and dynamics of the inner coma and also the size and activity of the nucleus. The velocities of several unusual morphological features over a 1.7 h period, indicate that a significant outburst occurred 7.4 h prior to these images while the comet was at a heliocentric distance of 2.49 AU. Similar features are also apparent after re-analysis of pre-perihelion ground-based images. The inner coma (radius ≲ 2500 km ) is dominated by an “arc” feature, which expanded and became more diffuse with time. This feature can be modeled as the bright central portion of a “jet of outburst” from a near-equatorial region of the nucleus. Less prominent, time-variable linear and circular morphologies are also apparent. The expansion rates of both the arc feature and the circular morphologies imply a common origin and also suggest a grain size distribution with two broad maxima. In addition, several static linear features extend to the edge of the field of view (21,100 km). Radial brightness profiles are highly asymmetric and only approach a ρ −1 decline at distances ⩾15,000 km. Images in a narrow-band filter at 2.04 μm exhibit a ∼4% absorption feature relative to nearly simultaneous images at wavelengths of 2.22, 1.90, and 1.87 μm. This absorption is attributed to H2O ice in the coma grains. The spatial distribution and expansion velocity of the absorption at 2.04 μm indicate that these grains are associated with the outburst. The constancy of the absorption feature indicates no appreciable sublimation over 1.7 h. The unresolved nucleus has a flux density consistent with a 40 ± 10 km diameter assuming a 4% geometric albedo.
Electroactive polymer-based MEMS for aerospace and medical applications

Electroactive polymers (EAP) demonstrate advantages over some traditional electroactive materials such as electro-ceramics and magneostrictive materials for electromechanical device applications due to their high strain, light weight, flexibility, and low cost. Electroactive polymer-based microelectromechanical systems (EAP-MEMS) are increasingly demanded in many aerospace and medical applications. This paper will briefly review recent progress in the developments and applications of EAP- MEMS. In the past few years, several new configurations of micromachined actuators/transducers have been developed using electroactive polymers. The performance of these micromachined EAP-based devices has been evaluated for both fluid and air conditions. The performance of EAP-MEMS has also been theoretically modeled based on material properties and device configurations. In general, the results obtained from modeling agree with the experimental measurements. Critical process issues, including patterned micro-scale electrodes, molded micro/nano electroactive polymer structures, polymer to electrode adhesion and the development of conductive polymers for electrodes will be discussed. The challenges to develop complete polymer MEMS will also be addressed.
Current and Novel Treatment Options for Actinic Keratosis

Actinic keratosis (AK), located on sun-exposed areas of the skin, is an increasing global health burden. Multiple ablative and topical treatment options are available to manage this disease; however, topical treatment options are receiving significant interest because AK is commonly associated with areas of substantial photodamage, and destructive modalities cannot effectively treat subclinical AK. Several topical therapies, including 0.5% and other 5-fluorouracil concentrations, photodynamic therapy, 3% diclofenac sodium gel, and imiquimod 5% cream, are indicated in the treatment of AK. This article will review key data on the efficacy and safety of several topical therapies in the treatment and management of AK. The review includes discussions of imiquimod 5% cream, approved in 2004 in the treatment of AK of the face or scalp. Whether administered as monotherapy or adjunctive therapy, topical therapies provide the opportunity to effectively manage AK and will likely emerge as an important tool for healthcare providers.
Seasonal changes in the intestinal immune system of hibernating ground squirrels

Hibernation is associated with a prolonged fast (5-8 mo) which has the potential to affect intestinal immunity. We examined several aspects of the intestinal immune system in summer (non-hibernating) and hibernating ground squirrels. Peyer's patches were largely unaffected by hibernation, but numbers of intraepithelial lymphocytes (IEL) and lamina propria leukocytes (LPL) were greater in hibernators compared with summer. Hibernator IEL were less mature as demonstrated by low numbers of cells expressing activation-associated markers and co-receptors. Compared with summer, the percentage of B cells was higher and percentage of T cells was lower in the hibernator LPL. Hibernation was associated with greater mucosal levels of IFN-gamma, TNF-alpha, IL-10 and IL-4, but IL-6 and TGF-beta were unchanged. Mucosal IgA levels were greater in entrance and torpid hibernators compared with summer. The results suggest that modifications of the intestinal immune system during hibernation may help preserve gut integrity throughout the winter fast.
Using Bogner and Wiseman’s Model of Ecological Values to measure the impact of an earth education programme on children’s environmental perceptions

Investigating the effects of educational programmes on children’s environmental perceptions has been hampered by the lack of good theoretical models and valid instruments. In the present study, Bogner and Wiseman’s Model of Ecological Values provided a well‐developed theoretical model. A validated instrument based on Bogner’s Environmental Perception (ENV) scale was used to examine the effects of the Sunship Earth programme on the environmental perceptions of fifth and sixth grade students in the US. Paired sample t‐tests showed a statistically significant change toward more pro‐environmental perceptions for all factors described in the model for children who participated in Sunship Earth but not for a control group. Additionally, perceptions were shown to be stable over time for a smaller sample of students.
Primary presidential election campaign messages in 2004: A functional analysis of candidates’ news releases

Abstract This study content analyzed news releases from six candidates in the 2004 Democratic presidential primary campaign. These news releases focused mainly on acclaims (70%) followed by attacks (29%). Defenses were rarely employed and used only by Kerry. Candidates focused most on policy (55%), followed by character (34%) and campaign-related topics (10%). When they attacked, these candidates aimed most of their criticism at President Bush (76%), with relatively few attacks targeted toward fellow Democrats (7%). The media, the status quo generally, and others were also attacked less frequently. When they addressed policy, the candidates discussed past deeds (38%), future plans (32%), and general goals (29%). When they talked about character, they focused on personal qualities (37%), ideals (32%), and leadership ability (31%). Results were compared with 2004 Democratic primary TV spots and debates.
Excess dark current due to saw damage in semi-insulating GaAs

Logarithmic plots of current or carrier concentration vs inverse temperature in semi-insulating GaAs samples are nearly always well characterized by straight lines with a donor activation energy of 0.76±0.02 eV, as long as the surfaces are well polished or etched and the edges are cleaved. However, edges cut with common dicing saws produce an excess conductance which can dominate the bulk conductance at room temperature and below. This excess conductance is due to carrier hopping between defects in a surface layer of approximately 2000A thickness, which can be easily removed by etching. Some polished surfaces also exhibit this same effect.
Chloramine T-mediated radiolodination of proteins on intact polyacrylamide slab gels

Abstract A simple, inexpensive method is described here for the radioiodination of proteins on intact, developed polyacrylamide gels. The method is based on the chloramine T iodination procedure which yields proteins containing 125 I label specifically in tyrosine residues. When employed with intact polyacrylamide gels, our method allows detection of proteins in amounts too small to be observed by chemical stains, including Coomassie blue. The procedure should, therefore, be useful for analyzing protein mixtures where only a small amount of material is available or for assaying trace contaminants in purified protein preparations. Proteins radioactively labeled by our method are suitable for further analysis by proteolytic cleavage followed by peptide mapping or “fingerprinting.”
Antispasmodic compound 8-88 in relapsing peptic ulcer.

The interval treatment of chronic relapsing peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum with Antispasmodic Compound 8–88 appears to extend the duration of the remission period (over 1 year) in a large percentage of cases. This therapeutic effect does not result from a decrease of the secretory activity of the gastric glands, since no significant changes in the output of gastric juice and all the glandular secretory products of the stomach (acid, pepsin, mucoprotein) were observed following this treatment. Anticholinergic drugs and antacids are more effective than Compound 8–88 in the treatment of peptic ulcer during the period of relapse. The tolerance to the treatment with Compound 8–88 in a daily dose of 50 mg. 4 times a day or 100 mg. 3 times a day was good and side effects were slight.
Influence of coronary heart disease on morbidity and mortality after carotid endarterectomy: a population-based study in Olmsted County, Minnesota (1970-1988)

To evaluate the prognostic importance of coronary artery disease among patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy, 177 residents of Olmsted County, Minnesota who underwent carotid endarterectomy during the period 1970 through 1988 were followed up to July 1, 1989. Patients were stratified as to the presence (n = 64) or absence (n = 93) or overt coronary artery disease or prior myocardial revascularization (n = 20) at the time of endarterectomy. At 30 days after carotid endarterectomy, there were no significant differences between patients with or without coronary artery disease in the occurrence of death, myocardial infarction or stroke. Kaplan-Meier estimate of 8-year relativesurvival after carotid endarterectomy (assessed as a percent of survival in age- and gender-matched control subjects) was 89% in those without and 75% in those with overt coronary artery disease. Of the 59 total deaths, 29 (49%) had a cardiac cause and 4 (7%) were due to stroke (p < 0.0001). The cumulative incidence of a cardiac event at 8 years after carotid endarterectomy was greater in those with than in those without overt coronary artery disease (61% vs. 25%, p < 0.0001). In multivariable analysis, uncorrected coronary artery disease and diabetes were the only independent predictors of subsequent cardiac events, whereas age was the only independent predictor of death. These population-based data suggest that carotid endarterectomy can be safely undertaken in patients with stable coronary artery disease. In long-term follow-up of these patients, coronary rather than cerebral vascular disease is the most frequent cause of morbidity and mortality. Thus, these data lend strong support to the concept of early identification and management of coronary artery disease in patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy.
Are residents' work schedules related to their in-training examination scores ?

Objective To study the relationship between residents' pre-test available study time and subsequent examination performance. Methods We compiled rotation schedules and in-training examination performances for all residents enrolled in the two University of Texas Medical School-Houston obstetrics and gynecology residencies between 1993 and 1995. Services on which the residents had rotated were ranked by surveying all enrolled residents as to their perceived available study time while on those services. A mean available study time rating was computed for each service, which was used to describe each resident's schedule. Pearson correlations between available preparation-time preceding the in-trainng examination and examination performance were calculated. “Tough” and “easy” rotation subgroups were defined; two-tailed t tests were performed to compare the in-training examination performance of these subgroups. Results No significant correlation was found between available study time and subsequent examination scores beyond that which could be accounted for by year of training. Scores of residents in the “tough” subgroup were not significantly different from those in the “easy” subgroup on any examination performance measure. For correlations at the one-tailed .05 level, statistical power to detect relationships predicting 16% of variance ranges from approximately 85% for samples of 42 to 68% for samples of 27. Conclusion Residents' in-training examination performance was not significantly affected by their service obligations. Altering resident monthly schedules is not likely to improve in-training examination performance.
Impact of Low Salinity Porewater on Seafloor Electromagnetic Data: A Means of Detecting Submarine Groundwater Discharge?

Submarine groundwater discharge has been recognized as an important process in coastal and shelf environments, but, due to the diffuse nature of the process, methods to identify and map zones of discharge still need development. Vertical profiles of subseafloor salinity from two locations off the east coast of the U.S. and from a coastal embayment in Cape Cod, MA, have been used to model seafloor electromagnetic (EM) responses to changes in porewater salinity. Ordinarily, porewaters of salinity close to that of seawater will be electrically conductive. Replacement of this conductive porewater by a body of fresh groundwater will reduce the electrical conductivity of the porewater and, hence, that of the seafloor. Based on in situ measurements of porewater salinity and reasonable estimates of sediment porosity, our modelling quantifies the changes in EM apparent porosity measurements that might be expected over coastal and nearshore regions of fresh water discharge. Given the results obtained, we demonstrate that existing EM technology might be used to map zones of fresh water in conjunction with other methods.
The improvement of faculty teaching through evaluation: a follow-up report.

Abstract A follow-up on a program to improve the quality of faculty teaching through evaluation has been presented. Sixteen faculty members who participated in an evaluation, learned the results of that evaluation, and then were reevaluated demonstrated statistically significant improvement in their overall teaching profiles and in four of the five separate teaching categories.
The Efficient, Enantioselective Synthesis of Aza Sugars from Amino Acids. 1. The Polyhydroxylated Pyrrolidines.

Beginning with (+)-serine or (−)-serine, as appropriate, convenient, high-yield, enantioselective synthesis of all eight stereoisomeric 2-hydroxymethyl-3,4-dihydroxypyrrolidines (the enantiomeric pairs of iminoribitol, -arabinitol, -xylitol, and -lyxitol) can be effected. The absolute configuration of the starting amino acid defines the set of azasugars produced.
Buffer minimization using max-coloring

Given a graph G = (V,E) and positive integral vertex weights w : V → N, the max-coloring problem seeks to find a proper vertex coloring of G whose color classes C1,C2,...,Ck, minimize Σki = 1maxν∈Ciw(ν). This problem, restricted to interval graphs, arises whenever there is a need to design dedicated memory managers that provide better performance than the general purpose memory management of the operating system. Specifically, companies have tried to solve this problem in the design of memory managers for wireless protocol stacks such as GPRS or 3G.Though this problem seems similar to the wellknown dynamic storage allocation problem, we point out fundamental differences. We make a connection between max-coloring and on-line graph coloring and use this to devise a simple 2-approximation algorithm for max-coloring on interval graphs. We also show that a simple first-fit strategy, that is a natural choice for this problem, yields a 10-approximation algorithm. We show this result by proving that the first-fit algorithm for on-line coloring an interval graph G uses no more than 10.x(G) colors, significantly improving the bound of 26.x(G) by Kierstead and Qin (Discrete Math., 144, 1995). We also show that the max-coloring problem is NP-hard.
Dealing with the Spiritual Issues of Chronically Ill Clients in the Context of Couples Counseling: A Unique Application of Cognitive Behavioral Analysis System of Psychotherapy (CBASP)

Spiritual issues routinely surface in doing individual and couples therapy when chronic illness is present. In fact, there is a predictive pattern of spiritual and life meaning issues that clients face in coming to terms with chronic illness. These issues can be effectively processed in therapy with a modified form of Cognitive Behavioral Analysis System of Psychotherapy (CBASP). The article describes this pattern of spiritual issues and then illustrates this therapeutic intervention with a case study including a session transcription.
Expression of Functional P-Selectin Glycoprotein Ligand 1 on Hematopoietic Progenitors Is Developmentally Regulated

T cell development requires periodic importation of hematopoietic progenitors into the thymus. The receptor-ligand pair P-selectin and P-selectin glycoprotein ligand 1 (PSGL-1) are critically involved in this process. In this study, we examined the expression of functional PSGL-1 on bone marrow hematopoietic progenitors. We demonstrate that functional PSGL-1 is expressed at low levels on hematopoietic stem cells, but upregulated on the cell surface of progenitors that bear other homing molecules known to be important for thymic settling. We found that progenitors able to home to the thymus expressed high levels of PSGL-1 transcripts compared with hematopoietic stem cells. We further demonstrate that hematopoietic progenitors lacking fucosyltransferase 4 and 7 do not express functional PSGL-1, and do not home efficiently to the thymus. These studies provide insight into the developmentally regulated expression of a critical determinant involved in progenitor homing to the thymus.
Can Natural Language Processing Fulfill the Promise of Electronic Medical Records

Electronic medical records (EMRs) are now common in United States health care settings, although their implementation has not always been welcomed by providers. The promised great improvements in efficiency and quality of care have not occurred, and many have argued that such benefits will only be realized when provider notes are structured with the use of check boxes or dropdown menus. Although such a method of documenting will allow easier analysis, the effort needed to enter all relevant data in this way is substantial and unattractive to clinicians. However, such electronic data are already needed to report quality metrics to payers and accrediting organizations, and facilities have resorted to hiring abstracters to collect data from chart review. The cost of data abstraction by hand is high and markedly limits the ability of facilities to participate in quality improvement activities, registries, and research collaborations. A solution to this growing need for electronic data that limits the burden on providers and hospitals is the use of natural language processing (NLP). The process of NLP starts with unstructured (raw) text and determines the presence and meaning of certain words or word combinations. Neighboring words are also examined to determine if they negate the finding such as ‘‘no’’ in ‘‘no edema,’’ or falsely negate the finding such as the ‘‘no’’ in ‘‘no change in edema.’’ The accuracy is determined with the use of trained chart reviewers,and revisions are made until an acceptable sensitivity (known as ‘‘recall’’ in NLP terminology) and specificity are reached. Given the potential for such iterations to lead to ‘‘overfitting’’ the optimized NLP algorithm is then tested in an independent data set.
Cryomesh™: A New Substrate for Cryo-Electron Microscopy

Here we evaluate a new grid substrate developed by ProtoChips Inc. (Raleigh, NC) for cryo-transmission electron microscopy. The new grids are fabricated from doped silicon carbide using processes adapted from the semiconductor industry. A major motivating purpose in the development of these grids was to increase the low-temperature conductivity of the substrate, a characteristic that is thought to affect the appearance of beam-induced movement (BIM) in transmission electron microscope (TEM) images of biological specimens. BIM degrades the quality of data and is especially severe when frozen biological specimens are tilted in the microscope. Our results show that this new substrate does indeed have a significant impact on reducing the appearance and severity of beam-induced movement in TEM images of tilted cryo-preserved samples. Furthermore, while we have not been able to ascertain the exact causes underlying the BIM phenomenon, we have evidence that the rigidity and flatness of these grids may play a major role in its reduction. This improvement in the reliability of imaging at tilt has a significant impact on using data collection methods such as random conical tilt or orthogonal tilt reconstruction with cryo-preserved samples. Reduction in BIM also has the potential for improving the resolution of three-dimensional cryo-reconstructions in general.
A meta-analysis of thromboembolic prophylaxis in total knee arthroplasty.

Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) is common in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Because of the rarity of the most serious outcomes, most randomized controlled trials lack the power to analyze these outcomes. A meta-analysis was performed for agents used in DVT prophylaxis in TKA employing a Medline literature search. Study inclusion criteria were randomized controlled trials comparing prophylactic agents in elective TKA with mandatory screening for DVT by venography. Fourteen studies (3,482 patients) met inclusion criteria. For total DVT, all agents except dextran and aspirin protected significantly better than placebo (P < .0001). For proximal DVT rates, low-molecular-weight heparin was significantly better than warfarin (P = .0002). There was a trend that aspirin was better than warfarin (P = .0106). No significant difference was found for symptomatic pulmonary embolism, fatal pulmonary embolism, major hemorrhage, or total mortality.
All-Optical Technique to Correlate Defect Structure and Carrier Transport in Transferred Graphene Films

Chemical vapor deposition of graphene on copper foil is an attractive method of producing large-area graphene films, but the electronic performance is limited by defects such as creases from the film transfer process, wrinkles due to the thermal expansion coefficient mismatch, and grain boundaries from the growth process. Here we present an all-optical technique to correlate defect structure with electronic properties using spatially resolved Raman spectroscopy and transient absorption microscopy. This technique is especially attractive since it does not require any lithographic steps to probe the electronic properties of the graphene film. As a first demonstration, we focus on the effects of both wrinkles and creases while averaging over many small grains. It was found that wrinkles and creases may decrease the charge carrier diffusion coefficient by over 50% due to increased defect scattering. This technique may easily be extended to large grain graphene films in order to study the effect of different types of grain boundaries.