cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Adenosine Receptor Localization in Rat Testes: Biochemical and Autoradiographic Evidence for Association with Spermatocytes*

[3H]Cyclohexyladenosine ( [3H]CHA) labels adenosine receptors in rat testes. Testicular adenosine receptors are regulated by guanine nucleotides and divalent cations in a similar fashion to brain adenosine receptors. Endocrine manipulations which selectively decrease sperm cells reduce biochemically determined numbers of [3H]CHA labeled adenosine receptors, whereas adenosine receptor number is not affected by manipulations that primarily influence Leydig cells. Autoradiographic analysis of [3H]CHA binding in the rat testes reveals a localization within seminiferous tubules. Receptor related silver grains occur within tubular epithelium as well as in the lumen of tubules but are absent in interstitial tissue and blood vessels. These data suggest an association of adenosine receptors with spermatocytes within the seminiferous tubule epithelium.
Angiogenesis correlates with metastasis in melanoma.

Background: Angiogenesis has been correlated with melanoma progression, but its role in melanoma metastasis is unclear. Methods: To determine whether angiogenesis correlates with the presence of melanoma metastases, we compared the number of microvessels in the primary melanomas of 12 patients presenting with metastases to those of 13 patients without metastases. Patient groups were matched for gender, age, tumor depth, and histological type and anatomical location of the primary melanoma. Microvessels were stained with factor VIII antibody and counted. Results: Microvessel counts were significantly greater for the metastatic than the nonmetastatic melanomas (51.63 ± 14.95 vs. 24.86 ± 8.415; P < .0001). One hundred percent of the metastatic melanomas had a mean microvessel count of ≥ 37, whereas only 8% of the nonmetastatic melanomas had a mean microvessel count of ≥ 37 (sensitivity = 1.00, specificity = .92). Interestingly, patients with lymph node metastases had significantly lower microvessel counts than did patients with distant metastases (42.00 ± .482 vs. 58.50 ± 16.40; P < .05), and significantly higher microvessel counts than did patients without metastases (42.00 ± 3.482 vs. 24.86 ± 8.415; P < .001). Conclusions: An increased number of microvessels in the primary tumors of patients with melanoma correlates with the simultaneous presence of metastases. This suggests that angiogenesis may be important in the process of melanoma metastasis.
Alteration of visual cortex from environmental asymmetries.

Wiesel and Hubel have shown that if normal simultaneous binocular vision is prevented during a period when an animal is particularly sensitive to the nature of its visual input, substantial changes can occur in the visual system1–3. A dramatic extension of the influence of visual deprivation was made a few years ago. Kittens were reared viewing contours of a given orientation, and physiological studies showed that their visual cortical neurones had become tuned to the orientation they had experienced4,5. In a related study, kittens were raised with prisms that caused vertical disparities between the images of the two eyes. Later it was found that the distribution of optimal disparities for which binocular cortical neurones were most responsive had undergone a shift, apparently to compensate for the rearing condition6. There is now an indication that the modifications can occur from an exceedingly brief selective exposure7,8 and recent behavioural data complement the original physiological finding9.
ATM-Dependent and -Independent Gene Expression Changes in Response to Oxidative Stress, Gamma Irradiation, and UV Irradiation

Abstract Heinloth, A. N., Shackelford, R. E., Innes, C. L., Bennett, L., Li, L., Amin, R. P., Sieber, S. O., Flores, K. G., Bushel, P. R. and Paules, R. S. ATM-Dependent and -Independent Gene Expression Changes in Response to Oxidative Stress, Gamma Irradiation, and UV Irradiation. Radiat. Res. 160, 273–290 (2003). Ataxia telangiectasia (AT) is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by progressive cerebellar degeneration, immunodeficiencies, telangiectasias, sensitivity to ionizing radiation, and high predisposition for malignancies. The ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM) gene encodes a protein (ATM) with serine/threonine kinase activity. DNA-double strand breaks are known to increase its kinase activity. While cells from individuals with AT are attenuated in their G1-, S- and G2-phase cell cycle checkpoint functions in response to γ irradiation and oxidative stress, their response to UV irradiation appears to be equivalent to that of wild-type cells. In this study, we investigated changes in gene...
Sjögren‐Larsson syndrome: Seven novel mutations in the fatty aldehyde dehydrogenase gene ALDH3A2

Sjogren-Larsson syndrome (SLS) is an inherited neurocutaneous disease caused by mutations in the ALDH3A2 gene that codes for fatty aldehyde dehydrogenase (FALDH), an enzyme involved in lipid metabolism. We performed mutation analysis in probands or fetuses from 13 unrelated SLS families and identified seven novel ALDH3A2 mutations. Two mutations involved an insertion or deletion of a single guanine nucleotide at the same position in exon 9: c.1223delG and c.1223_1224insG. A 66-bp duplication in exon 2 probably arose from unequal crossing over within a mispaired 10-bp sequence that is normally repeated within the exon. Based on RT-PCR of fibroblast RNA, the c.1107+2T>G donor splice-site mutation in intron 7 produced two mRNA transcripts, one skipping exon 7 and the other skipping exons 6-8. Expression of the c.1139G>A mutation in exon 8, which is predicted to cause an amino acid substitution (Ser380Asn) in an evolutionarily conserved region of the FALDH catalytic domain, resulted in a protein with profoundly reduced enzymatic activity. By analyzing single nucleotide polymorphisms within the ALDH3A2 gene, we detected four different haplotypes among the new mutant alleles. These results demonstrate a rich diversity of mutations and haplotype associations in SLS.
Primary production of marine snow during and after an upwelling event1

Marine snow (flocculent macroscopic particles) collected during an upwelling event near Santa Barbara, California, was recently formed and inhabited by phytoplankton physiologically similar to those free-living in the water. At least 20% of all primary production, Chl a, and phytoplankton occurred on this marine snow, suggesting that a significant fraction of new organic carbon entering the upwelling food chain is available to large-particle feeders or passes directly through the detrital food chain on particles. In contrast, marine snow collected 2 weeks after the upwelling event was inhabited by a physiologically distinct community of aging, senescent phytoplankton; <1% of total primary production and Chl a occurred on this marine snow. High dark fixation rates, high RUBPCase activity on photosynthetically depressed snow, and high ammonium concentrations within this snow suggest that chemoautotrophic bacteria, possibly nitrifying bacteria, may be particularly active on these macroscopic particles.
Statistical analysis for experimental models of ocular disease: continuous response measures

Experimental designs in ophthalmologic research frequently treat both eyes of a subject in the same fashion: e.g., therapy with a specific drug or control. In these two-eye designs, observations from the same subject are often positively correlated. Failure to account for this correlation is a serious error which overstates the precision of studies, resulting in falsely significant results. This paper reviews the statistical methods appropriate for studies where endpoints are quantitative. We present: (1) the use of analysis of variance (t-test when there are 2 treatment conditions) to estimate differences between all experimental treatments, (2) the use of contrasts to estimate differences between specific treatments, and (3) methods for analysis of data from multiple experiments. Because of the ubiquity of incorrect analysis of data from two-eye designs in the ophthalmologic research literature and the serious consequences of this error, we propose a limited statistical review of manuscripts to ascertain if the statistical analysis matched the experimental design.
Enabling High Performance Wireless Communication Systems Using Reconfigurable Antennas

The use of multiple antenna systems (MIMO, etc.) and signal combining techniques (Maximal Ratio, Spatial, etc.) can create significant advantages in situations requiring a high degree of system agility. Furthermore, the ability to resolve coherent information channels in the context of electrically hostile environments (e.g., noise or jamming sources and complex scattering and/or multi-path environments) can be of significant importance in both logistic and battlefield environments. This work focuses on the combination of radiation reconfigurable antennas and signal processing techniques, focusing on their applications in advanced wireless communication systems and mobile or ad hoc networks. Experimental data demonstrating these concepts will be provided for a canonical structure capable of integrating multiple reconfigurable radiation antennas that have been designed to switch between broadside and endfire radiation characteristics (operating over a common impedance bandwidth). This work reveals both the possibilities and the importance of using reconfigurable radiation antennas, and gauges the potential impact on applications requiring a high degree of performance from the radiating structure(s).
Where Is Waldo? [Microwave Surfing]

Professor Pendry's (Imperial College, London) observation [1] from 2006 is an example of the excitement in the electromagnetic research community on the potential of metamaterials to create the equivalent of Harry Potter's invisibility cloak. Back then, a research group at Duke University demonstrated [2] how a twodimensional (2-D) structure composed of ten fiberglass rings covered with subwavelength arrays of copper elements could help "channel" an incident electromagnetic (EM) wave in the microwave frequency range around a copper cylinder, minimizing a scattered signal. Earlier this year, a group at the University of California (UC)?Berkeley [3] raised the stakes by fabricating the "cloak" using nanotechnology (for the subwavelength elements) so that the target could be made to "disappear" at wavelengths approaching the visible spectrum. Exciting as these metamaterial-based developments have been, they remain far from real-life applications. A recent report in The Economist [4] discusses what is achievable in practice using the current hide-and-seek military technology. Here are some highlights from the report [4].
Developmental exposure to endocrine disruptors and the obesity epidemic.

Xenobiotic and dietary compounds with hormone-like activity can disrupt endocrine signaling pathways that play important roles during perinatal differentiation and result in alterations that are not apparent until later in life. Evidence implicates developmental exposure to environmental hormone-mimics with a growing list of health problems. Obesity is currently receiving needed attention since it has potential to overwhelm health systems worldwide with associated illnesses such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Here, we review the literature that proposes an association of exposure to environmental endocrine disrupting chemicals with the development of obesity. We describe an animal model of developmental exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES), a potent perinatal endocrine disruptor with estrogenic activity, to study mechanisms involved in programming an organism for obesity. This experimental animal model provides an example of the growing scientific field termed “the developmental origins of adult disease” and suggests new targets of abnormal programming by endocrine disrupting chemicals.
Unique biological aspects of radiation hazards--an overview.

Abstract Low orbit, geostationary, and deep-space flights differ from one another with respect to particle radiation environment, participating population size, mission duration, and biological risks other than radiation. It is proposed that all of these factors be considered in the setting of safety standards and, in particular, that the rem-dose concept is applicable only to radiations having low and intermediate linear energy transfer (electrons, protons, and helium ions), whereas the incidence of microlesions is a more meaningful indicator of the hazard due to higher-Z, high energy (HZE) particles. A microlesion is the biological injury inflicted in a specific tissue by a single HZE particle, and it is still in need of quantitative biological definition for specific mammalian tissues. If for example, a microlesion is taken as due to a HZE particle track 10 cell diameters long with LET > 200 KeV/μm in its core and > 25 rad dose in its penumbra at a distance of 10 μm, then the microlesion dose rate in geostationary orbit, for example, is about 9,000 microlesions per cm 3 of tissue per month.
Beliefs and Usage of Vitamin/mineral Supplements by Graduate Students

Abstract LEARNING OUTCOME: To examine vitamin/mineral supplementation habits of graduate students by gender The vitamin/mineral supplementation habits of 88 female and 88 male graduate students, 22-45 years, nonpregnant and nonlactating, were compared. All but four rated their health as excellent or good. Thirty-two percent of the women and 17 % of the men reported taking supplements regularly, while 35 % of women and 35 % of men took them occasionally or seldom. A larger percentage of women than men (P=.09) reported taking supplements. Subjects taking supplements indicated that the reasons they did were (descending order) for present illness or to prevent future disease, inadequate diet, increase energy/makes me feel better, to improve athletic performance/build muscle, self-determined health risk, prescribed/recommended by health professional, recommended by nonhealth professional, smoker or other tobacco user, media, and other. A significantly larger (P
New results in realization theory for linear time-varying analytic systems

The realization of linear time-varying systems specified by an analytic weighting pattern is approached in a novel manner using an algebraic framework defined over the ring of analytic functions. Realizations are given by a state representation consisting of a first-order vector differential equation and an output equation, both with analytic coefficients. Various new criteria for realizability are derived, including conditions given in terms of the finiteness of modules over the ring of analytic functions generated by the elementary rows or columns of a (generalized) Hankel matrix. These results are related to local criteria for realizability specified in terms of the rank of matrix functions, as developed in the work of Silverman and Meadows [5], [8], [9] and Kalman [7]. It is shown that the construction of minimal realizations reduces to the problem of computing a basis for a finite free module defined over the ring of analytic functions. A minimal realization algorithm is then derived using a constructive procedure for computing bases for finite free modules over a Bezout domain. The Silverman-Meadows realization algorithm [5] is a special case of the procedure given here. In the last part of the paper, the realization algorithm is applied to the problem of system reduction.
Inequality, Social Comparison, and Relative Deprivation

In this article I present a formal model of relative deprivation and demonstrate its implications concerning the relationship between inequality and political instability. The model, which is based on assumptions similar to those of Nagel (1974), implies that the relationship of instability to inequality can be either curvilinear, as Nagel found, or linear, as Russett (1964) found, although under different conditions. In both cases the model implies that reducing inequality reduces the level of relative deprivation, thereby enhancing the prospect for political stability. However, changes in the tendency of individuals to compare their lot with that of others can also substantially affect the level of relative deprivation in a society.
Force control for planar spring-mass running

In this paper, we present a novel control strategy for spring-mass running gaits which is robust to disturbances, while still utilizing the passive dynamic behavior of the mechanical model for energy economy. Our strategy combines two ideas: a flight phase strategy, which commands a hip angle trajectory prior to touchdown, and a stance phase strategy, which treats the spring-mass system as a force-controlled actuator and commands forces according to an ideal model of the passive dynamics. This combined strategy is self-stable for changes in ground height or ground impedance, and thus does not require an accurate ground model. Our strategy is promising for robotics applications, because there is a clear distinction between the passive dynamic behavior and the active controller, it does not require sensing of the environment, and it is based on a sound theoretical background that is compatible with existing high-level controllers.
Chip-package-board co-design of a 45nm 8-core enterprise Xeon processor

This work describes the steps in designing the highperformance package for the Nehalem-EX microprocessor, a 45 nm 8-core Intel® Xeon® server product [1]. Nehalem-EX is a complex processor for the expandable/scalable server market which includes 8 cores, 24 MB of cache, 4 point-to-point Quick Path Interconnect (QPI) links, and 4 channels of Scalable Memory Interface (SMI) links — with all links capable of running at 6.4 GT/s. Four separate power supplies, a large die size, power gates for each core, and a 130W thermal design power level all present major packaging challenges. This paper emphasises chip-package-board co-design as being critical to the success of a highperformance package design. A method cost-performance optimization is presented which helps in keeping the package size, layer count and capacitor cost low.
Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and cardiovascular diseases.

Heparin is among the most frequently prescribed medications in the United States with 12 million patients treated annually. Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is an important adverse drug reaction to heparins characterized by thrombocytopenia and may also be associated with venous or arterial thrombosis (HITT). HIT occurs in 1% to 5% of all patients receiving heparin, and 25% to 50% of these patients may develop HITT. Among cardiovascular patients, approximately 100000 patients develop thrombocytopenia in the United States annually, and 25000 to 50000 patients develop HITT among them. Recent data from the CATCH registry suggest that b10% patients with thrombocytopenia receive diagnostic evaluation of HIT. We discuss the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of patients with HIT and cardiovascular diseases.
Influence of Limit-Setting and Participation in Physical Activity on Youth Screen Time

OBJECTIVES: To examine the associations of demographics, rules associated with television-viewing, and physical activity with daily screen time (including television, non–school-related computer use, and video games) in children and adolescents. METHODS: We analyzed data from a telephone survey of 7415 youth aged 9 to 15 years from the Youth Media Campaign Longitudinal Survey. We used logistic regression models to calculate odds of exceeding recommended screen-time limits (>120 minutes/day) according to demographics, rules, and physical activity. RESULTS: Odds that children would exceed recommended screen-time limits were positively associated with age and black race/ethnicity and negatively associated with income level. Children and adolescents who reported that they really agreed that their parents had rules about time spent watching television and playing video games were less likely to exceed recommended limits than those who strongly disagreed that their parents had rules. Similarly, when parents reported always or very often having limits on television watching (versus rarely or never) and when parents correctly identified the recommended limits, children were less likely to exceed recommended limits. Children whose parents reported consistent limits and who themselves reported consistent rules about time spent watching television had the lowest prevalence of exceeding recommended limits. Odds that children would exceed recommended limits decreased as physical activity in the previous week increased. CONCLUSIONS: Parental rules regarding screen time and participation in physical activity play a role in the amount of screen time among children and adolescents. Programs that encourage limit-setting by parents and promote physical activity may reduce screen time among youth.
The Fall Armyworm Triose Phosphate Isomerase (Tpi) Gene as a Marker of Strain Identity and Interstrain Mating

Fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith), is a significant agricultural pest in the United States, affecting most notably sweet corn, Zea mays L., and turfgrass. Two strains exist that differ physiologically and behaviorally but are morphologically indistinguishable. Polymorphisms within the fall armyworm Triose phosphate isomerase gene (Tpi; EC 5.3.1.1) were characterized and used to develop a polymerase chain reaction-based method for discriminating fall armyworm strains. The Tpi markers were used in multilocus analysis to estimate interstrain hybrid frequency and their distribution in populations from the United States and Brazil. The results were compared with previous studies using different marker combinations to test hypotheses about interstrain mating behavior and to explain earlier observations of unusual strain distribution patterns. The importance of understanding the frequency and consequences of interstrain hybridization to deciphering the mechanism of strain divergence and the distribution of fall armyworm subpopulations in different habitats are discussed.
Leisure Constraints: A Replication and Extension of Construct Development

This research replicates and extends previous work on leisure-constraints construct development by applying constraints data from a sample of adults with mental retardation. Factor analysis extends definitions for three constraint categories (intrapersonal, interpersonal, structural), confirming the nonhomogeneous nature of leisure constraints. Interpersonal constraints, for example, may have multiple meanings depending upon where one is situated along the continuum from dependence to interdependence to independence. Model testing fails to replicate the hypothesized hierarchy among the three constraint categories. Intrapersonal constraints may not be salient reasons for nonparticipation in leisure interests, whereas structural and interpersonal constraints appear to be in need of negotiation. The findings support the need to refine the propositions associated with the proposed hierarchical model of leisure constraints.
Chemostratigraphic, palynostratigraphic, and sequence stratigraphic analysis of the Woodford Shale, Wyche Farm Quarry, Pontotoc County, Oklahoma

Understanding mudrocks and shale reservoirs has become a significant area of interest within industry and academia in recent years. Of particular interest is understanding the pervasive variability present within these units. This variability became apparent when conventional approaches, such as lithostratigraphic analysis and well log correlation, were coupled with recent developments in palynostratigraphy and chemostratigraphy. A single shallow Woodford Shale research core in the western Arkoma Basin from Pontotoc County, Oklahoma, was used to identify three scales of stratigraphic cyclicity. By comparing the relative abundances of continental sourced pollen and spores to marine-derived acritarchs over a stratigraphic interval, it was possible to extrapolate the overall trends in shoreline trajectory. Conventional well log analysis, such as gamma ray logs, provided a balanced understanding of the interplay between localized changes in sedimentation and regional shifts in the stratigraphic base level, in addition to providing a means to tie these analyses to extensive subsurface data sets. Chemostratigraphic correlations resolved subtle, but stratigraphically significant, shifts in localized patterns in sedimentation. Using these approaches, the Lower and Middle Woodford Shale can be divided into four chemostratigraphic parasequences within a transgressive systems tract defined by well log and core analysis. The Upper Woodford can be separated into an additional four chemostratigraphic parasequences within a highstand systems tract. Chemostratigraphic data also revealed the changing bottom water conditions present at the time of deposition, with a period of localized anoxic conditions recorded in the Lower and Upper Woodford in this part of the basin. These localized changes in sedimentation and environmental conditions can be nested into two longer term regional transgressions and regressions.
Microlaser spectroscopy for quantifying anemia by intracellular blood hemoglobin measurements

The authors present a new analysis of single-cell hemoglobin using a microcavity laser. Such microlaser techniques have the potential to be rapid, inexpensive alternatives to conventional hematologic methods that require expensive instruments. The method determines the concentration of hemoglobin and its variation among red blood cells using only 10 pl of whole blood diluted in saline. A schematic shows the cells in the microcavity. Two different red cell optical modes and corresponding stimulated emission spectra are shown. The spontaneous emission spectra are recorded with and without the cell present, respectively. A dominant peak at 840 nm corresponds to the longitudinal mode of the cavity containing only the blood plasma. With the cell present, a series of spectral peaks occurs on the long wavelength side of the longitudinal mode. These peaks correspond to transverse optical modes confined by the red blood cell. The rightmost peak in this series is the fundamental.
Amplitude division multiplexing (ADM) scheme in analog signal processing

In this paper, we propose the concept of amplitude division multiplexing that has been applied successfully in the realization of signals with large amplitude. A generalized ADM implementation scheme for signal generation has been presented. Such an approach allows low voltage electronics for signal processing, provides high quality output signals with very good inverter efficiency and reduces switching noise. Experimental results verify the attractive characteristics of the ADM approach.
ESTIMATING COMPLETION RATES FROM SMALL SAMPLES USING BINOMIAL CONFIDENCE INTERVALS: COMPARISONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

The completion rate — the proportion of participants who successfully complete a task — is a common usability measurement. As is true for any point measurement, practitioners should compute appropriate confidence intervals for completion rate data. For proportions such as the completion rate, the appropriate interval is a binomial confidence interval. The most widely-taught method for calculating binomial confidence intervals (the “Wald Method,” discussed both in introductory statistics texts and in the human factors literature) grossly understates the width of the true interval when sample sizes are small. Alternative “exact” methods over-correct the problem by providing intervals that are too conservative. This can result in practitioners unintentionally accepting interfaces that are unusable or rejecting interfaces that are usable. We examined alternative methods for building confidence intervals from small sample completion rates, using Monte Carlo methods to sample data from a number of real, large-s...
Analysis of class E zero-voltage-switching rectifier

Analysis of Class E rectifiers offer a novel means of high-frequency high-efficiency rectification. An analysis and experimental results are presented for a class E zero-voltage-switching (lowdv/dt) rectifier. The circuit consists of a diode, a capacitor shunting the diode, and a second-order low-pass output filter. The shunt capacitor shapes the voltage across the diode so that the diode turns on and off at low dv/dt. Therefore, switching losses and switching noise are reduced significantly. An advantage of the rectifier is that the diode junction capacitance is absorbed into the shunt capacitor. The basic equations governing rectifier operation are derived. The following performance parameters are determined: current and voltage waveforms, device stresses, component values, and power-output capability. The measured performance shows excellent agreement with the design calculations. >
From the Exclusion of Women to the Transformation of Philosophy: Reclamation and its Possibilities

In the mid-1980s, feminist philosophers began to turn their critical efforts toward reclaiming women in the history of philosophy who had been neglected by traditional histories and canons. There are now scores of resources treating historical women philosophers and reclaiming them for philosophical history. This article explores the four major argumentative strategies that have been used within those reclamation projects. It argues that three of the strategies unwittingly work against the reclamationist end of having women engaged as philosophers. The fourth type, the one that seeks to transform philosophical practice and reconstruct its history, is the only strategy that will result in that engagement because it is the only strategy that pays sufficient attention to the mechanisms by which women have been excluded from philosophy and its history.
Molecular Imaging with Multifunctional Nanoparticles

Featured Article: Gao XH, Cui YY, Levenson RM, Chung LWK, Nie SM. In vivo cancer targeting and imaging with semiconductor quantum dots. Nat Biotechnol 2004;22:969–76.2 The development of high-sensitivity and high-specificity probes that transcend the intrinsic limitations of organic fluorophores has been highly sought after by scientists in fields ranging from basic biology to molecular imaging and medical diagnostics. Since the first demonstrations of their bioapplications in 1998 (1, 2), fluorescent semiconductor nanocrystals, commonly known as “quantum dots” (Qdots), have been a particularly attractive candidate for analytically sensitive, multiplexed, and quantitative optical imaging. Remarkably, after 15 years of research, the interest and efforts in engineering multifunctional Qdot probes are still growing, because of Qdots' combination of superior optical properties, the unique size and surface effect of nanomaterials in biological systems, the advantages offered by optical imaging, and the challenges of understanding and solving the nanotoxicity problem. Compared with organic dyes, Qdots exhibit size-tunable and spectrally narrow emission properties, efficient light absorption across a wide spectrum, outstanding photostability, and …
Experiences with a CS0 course targeted for CS1 success

In this paper, we report on an approach taken addressing the issue of the preparedness of students entering CS1. Specifically, we discuss the adoption of a first-day assessment test in lieu of completed course prerequisites for determining students' preparedness, and the development of a corresponding CS0 "fallback" course intended to provide the appropriate background for those students lacking the necessary programming reasoning skills, as indicated by assessment test results. We report here on the adequacy of the assessment test designed, the effectiveness of the CS0 course as targeted for CS1 success, and the perceptions of students as to the impact that the CS0 course has had on their ultimate success in CS1.
Challenges in Identifying Sites Climatically Matched to the Native Ranges of Animal Invaders

Background: Species distribution models are often used to characterize a species’ native range climate, so as to identify sites elsewhere in the world that may be climatically similar and therefore at risk of invasion by the species. This endeavor provoked intense public controversy over recent attempts to model areas at risk of invasion by the Indian Python (Python molurus). We evaluated a number of MaxEnt models on this species to assess MaxEnt’s utility for vertebrate climate matching. Methodology/Principal Findings: Overall, we found MaxEnt models to be very sensitive to modeling choices and selection of input localities and background regions. As used, MaxEnt invoked minimal protections against data dredging, multicollinearity of explanatory axes, and overfitting. As used, MaxEnt endeavored to identify a single ideal climate, whereas different climatic considerations may determine range boundaries in different parts of the native range. MaxEnt was extremely sensitive to both the choice of background locations for the python, and to selection of presence points: inclusion of just four erroneous localities was responsible for Pyron et al.’s conclusion that no additional portions of the U.S. mainland were at risk of python invasion. When used with default settings, MaxEnt overfit the realized climate space, identifying models with about 60 parameters, about five times the number of parameters justifiable when optimized on the basis of Akaike’s Information Criterion. Conclusions/Significance: When used with default settings, MaxEnt may not be an appropriate vehicle for identifying all sites at risk of colonization. Model instability and dearth of protections against overfitting, multi-collinearity, and data dredging may combine with a failure to distinguish fundamental from realized climate envelopes to produce models of limited utility. A priori identification of biologically realistic model structure, combined with computational protections against these statistical problems, may produce more robust models of invasion risk.
The socio-environmental data explorer (SEDE): a social media–enhanced decision support system to explore risk perception to hazard events

Social media are increasingly recognized as a useful data source for understanding social response to hazard events in real time and in post-event analysis. This article establishes social media–en...
Replication and Extension of the Early Childhood Friendship Project: Effects on Physical and Relational Bullying

Abstract. A replication of a preventive early childhood intervention study for reducing relational and physical aggression and peer victimization was conducted (Ostrov et al., 2009). The present study expanded on the original 6-week program, and the revised Early Childhood Friendship Project (ECFP) 8-week program consisted of developmentally appropriate puppet shows, active participatory activities, passive activities, and in vivo reinforcement periods. Both teacher and observer reports were obtained at pretest and posttest for relational and physical bullying, as well as relational and physical peer victimization, for each participating child. The initial sample (N = 141; age M = 45.53 months; age SD = 7.29) included 80 children randomly assigned to the intervention group (six classrooms) and 61 children randomly assigned to the control group (six classrooms). The present study found that the ECFP reduced relational bullying in the intervention group relative to the control group and reduced relational a...
Barriers to school attendance and gender inequality: Empirical evidence from a sample of Ghanaian schoolchildren:

Governments in sub-Saharan Africa have made marked efforts to increase school enrollment. Yet attendance and completion rates remain low, particularly for girls. This study examines the reasons that school children do not attend school in a sample of Ghanaian students. Girls were more likely to miss school because a family member was sick, whereas boys were more likely to miss school due to work. Caregivers’ inability to pay school fees and belief that it is better to educate boys than girls were related to lower school attendance for girls but not for boys. Implications of the findings to inform efforts to improve educational access for all children are discussed.
Goal orientation and the modeling process: an individual's focus on form and outcome.

Abstract One's achievement goal orientation (e.g., task, ego) is suggested to reflect a differential focus on skill mastery and performance outcome (Duda, 1992). Goal orientation has further been suggested to be an important observer characteristic in the observational learning of motor skills (McCullagh, Weiss, & Ross, 1989). This study assessed the relationship between goal orientation and a focus on form and outcome aspects of a motor skill demonstration with college students (N = 30) having low perceived ability, knowledge, and experience in tennis. Participants viewed several videotaped demonstrations of a correctly performed tennis forehand and then visual recognition and verbal recall accuracy of form and outcome task characteristics were assessed. A canonical correlation analysis revealed a nonsignificant relationship between goal orientation and recall and recognition of form and outcome task characteristics. These results provide preliminary evidence to suggest that goal orientation may not be a...
Epidemiological features and of measles in China and elimination strategies

Objective The aim of this study was to review the epidemiological characteristics of measles, understand the main influencing factors for measles epidemic, and to establish strategies to control and eliminate measles.
Family practice center-based training in skin disorders: a photographic approach.

Background The majority of family practice residency programs rely on lectures and rotations in dermatologists' offices for training their residents about skin disorders. However, in a dermatologist's office, residents may not receive enough exposure to the types of skin problems typically seen in a family physician's office. Methods A longitudinal, family practice center-based training experience was developed in which residents photographed patients with skin conditions and presented the cases to a dermatologist at a monthly teaching conference. Fifteen residents who were exposed to two different instructional methods (the photography conference and rotations with dermatologists) were surveyed to determine their preferred instructional method for learning to diagnose and manage skin disorders. Results Over a 2-year period, a total of 232 skin lesions were photographed and presented. The distribution of the photographed skin disorders differed from the distribution of skin problems found in a national survey of dermatologists' practices. Of the residents surveyed, 93% preferred monthly photography conferences to rotations in dermatologists' offices for learning about children's skin problems. Eighty-six percent preferred using the photography conferences for learning about treatment of skin diseases. Conclusions A longitudinal, family practice center-based experience using photographic presentations of skin lesions is a valuable adjunct for teaching family practice residents about skin disorders.
Crystal structure of tetrakis-(acetyl-acetonato)di-chloridodi-μ3-methano-lato-tetra-μ2-methano-lato-tetra-iron(III).

The title complex, [Fe4(C5H7O2)4(CH3O)6Cl2] or [Fe4(acac)4(μ2-OMe)4(μ3-OMe)2Cl2] (acac = acetyl­acetonate), crystallizes in the ortho­rhom­bic Pbca space group with one half of the mol­ecule per asymmetric unit, the other half being completed by inversion symmetry. The core structure consists of a face-sharing double pseudo-cubane entity with two opposite corners missing. Weak C—H⋯Cl inter­molecular inter­actions result in a two-dimensional layered structure parallel to the ac plane.
Suspected acute deep vein thrombosis in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

SUMMARY Real-time venous ultrasound has replaced phlebography for making the diagnosis of clinically relevant lower extremity DVT. Phlebography is still useful in suspected calf vein thrombosis when an immediate diagnosis is required and in the postoperative patient. A combination of sonography and contrast phlebography is used to sort out the extent of chronic and acute venous changes in patients with chronic deep vein thrombosis.
Plato on the Metaphysical Foundation of Meaning and Truth

What is the nature of truth? Blake E. Hestir offers an investigation into Plato's developing metaphysical views, and examines Plato's conception of being, meaning, and truth in the Sophist, as well as passages from several other later dialogues including the Cratylus, Parmenides, and Theaetetus, where Plato begins to focus more directly on semantics rather than only on metaphysical and epistemological puzzles. Hestir's interpretation challenges both classical and contemporary interpretations of Plato's metaphysics and conception of truth, and highlights new parallels between Plato and Aristotle, as well as clarifying issues surrounding Plato's approach to semantics and thought. This book will be of interest to scholars and students of ancient Greek philosophy, metaphysics, contemporary truth theory, linguistics, and philosophy of language.
INSECT ANTIFEEDANTS FROM PLANTS

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses tropical flora, which offer a rich source of bioactive compounds. Although chemists of natural products have been studying plants extensively, now the isolation is being followed on a more purpose-oriented and systematic manner. The natural products thus isolated serve to suggest entirely new types of active compounds, an aspect that has been fruitful in microbial antibiotics. Another case, exemplified by azadirachtin, is the cultivation of the plant itself to let nature take care of the synthesis. No commercial antifeedant is known; numerous untested difficulties have to be overcome even if a potentially useful compound is discovered. The antifeedant provides an additional means for the integrated control of insects. One advantage is that they are frequently extracted from plants that are used over the years in folk medicine and hence are less likely to be toxic to animals.
Groundwater shapes sediment biogeochemistry and microbial diversity in a submerged Great Lake sinkhole.

For a large part of earth's history, cyanobacterial mats thrived in low-oxygen conditions, yet our understanding of their ecological functioning is limited. Extant cyanobacterial mats provide windows into the putative functioning of ancient ecosystems, and they continue to mediate biogeochemical transformations and nutrient transport across the sediment–water interface in modern ecosystems. The structure and function of benthic mats are shaped by biogeochemical processes in underlying sediments. A modern cyanobacterial mat system in a submerged sinkhole of Lake Huron (LH) provides a unique opportunity to explore such sediment–mat interactions. In the Middle Island Sinkhole (MIS), seeping groundwater establishes a low-oxygen, sulfidic environment in which a microbial mat dominated by Phormidium and Planktothrix that is capable of both anoxygenic and oxygenic photosynthesis, as well as chemosynthesis, thrives. We explored the coupled microbial community composition and biogeochemical functioning of organic-rich, sulfidic sediments underlying the surface mat. Microbial communities were diverse and vertically stratified to 12 cm sediment depth. In contrast to previous studies, which used low-throughput or shotgun metagenomic approaches, our high-throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing approach revealed extensive diversity. This diversity was present within microbial groups, including putative sulfate-reducing taxa of Deltaproteobacteria, some of which exhibited differential abundance patterns in the mats and with depth in the underlying sediments. The biological and geochemical conditions in the MIS were distinctly different from those in typical LH sediments of comparable depth. We found evidence for active cycling of sulfur, methane, and nutrients leading to high concentrations of sulfide, ammonium, and phosphorus in sediments underlying cyanobacterial mats. Indicators of nutrient availability were significantly related to MIS microbial community composition, while LH communities were also shaped by indicators of subsurface groundwater influence. These results show that interactions between the mats and sediments are crucial for sustaining this hot spot of biological diversity and biogeochemical cycling.
Haemophilus influenzae Serotype f Epiglottitis: A Case Report and Review

An otherwise healthy, full-term, fully immunized 5-year-old boy presented to the emergency department after he developed decreased energy, decreased appetite, sore throat, drooling, refusal to speak, and a fever to 102°F over a period of 6 hours in the setting of 5 days of rhinorrhea and a “croupy” cough. On presentation, his weight was 22 kg and blood pressure was 102/56 mm Hg, with a respiratory rate of 32 breaths per minute, a heart rate of 132 beats per minute, a pulse oxygen saturation (Spo2) of 99% in ambient air, and a temperature of 38°C (100.4°F). He was ill-appearing and was noted to be in moderate respiratory distress, with refusal to speak and sitting with his neck extended in his mother’s lap. Physical examination revealed an erythematous posterior oropharynx with diffuse anterior and posterior cervical lymphadenopathy. His lungs were clear to auscultation bilaterally, without stridor or sterter. The rest of the physical examination was unremarkable. Laboratory analysis including a complete blood count was notable for a white blood cell count of 27.2 with 83.8% neutrophils. A rapid mononucleosis test was negative, and blood cultures were drawn. Radiographs of his neck were obtained, which revealed inflammation of the supraglottic area, epiglottis, and subglottic areas (Fig 1). A dose of nebulized racemic epinephrine was given without clinical improvement. A pediatric otolaryngologist was consulted, who performed a bedside flexible laryngoscopy, which revealed significant edema and erythema of the epiglottis extending down the bilateral aryepiglottic folds and involving the arytenoid towers. The supraglottis was significantly edematous, and the false vocal cords were edematous and erythematous. Intubation of the patient’s trachea was …
Steering Gear Requirements: Changes on the International and Domestic Scene

Steering gear is vital to the safety of a ship, its personnel, and the marine environment. Because of recent major casualties involving steering gear, considerable effort has been directed toward improving national and international standards for steering gear, particularly for tankers. Much of this effort has been conducted by the Intergovernmental Consultative Organization. This paper discusses basic U.S. Coast Guard and international requirements for steering gear and outlines changes resulting from such agreements as Resolution A.325(IX), the Tanker Safety and Pollution Prevention Conference, and the most recent amendments to SOLAS 74, which are ready for adoption during the 12th IMCO Assembly in November 1981. U.S. and international requirements are compared and a probable timetable for implementing new requirements is presented.
Statistical analysis of astrometric errors for the most productive asteroid surveys

Abstract We performed a statistical analysis of the astrometric errors for the major asteroid surveys. We analyzed the astrometric residuals as a function of observation epoch, observed brightness and rate of motion, finding that astrometric errors are larger for faint observations and some stations improved their astrometric quality over time. Based on this statistical analysis we develop a new weighting scheme to be used when performing asteroid orbit determination. The proposed weights result in ephemeris predictions that can be conservative by a factor as large as 1.5. However, the new scheme is robust with respect to outliers and handles the larger errors for faint detections.