cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Electronic Tax Filing: The Impact of Reputation and Security on Adoption

In 2008, 90 million citizens in the United States used electronic tax filing to submit their federal tax returns. Yet these adopters represent only a subset of the population. Citizen concerns regarding the security of this electronic option still serve as a barrier to e-file adoption. In this study, we propose a model of e-file adoption that integrates technology acceptance, optimism bias, reputation and perceived security control to explain intention to use e-filing. To test the model, we administered a survey to over 300 taxpayers. The results of structural equation modeling indicate that reputation and perceived security control have a significant impact on risk perceptions. Also, perceived risk, performance expectancy and social influence all have a significant impact on intention to use an e-file system. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
Organolithiums by reductive lithiation: the catalytic aromatic method versus the use of preformed aromatic radical-anions. Naphthalene can behave as a catalyst or an inhibitor ☆

Abstract Two common modes, using aromatic radical-anions for reductive lithiation, the replacement of a C–heteroatom bond with a C–Li bond, have been compared with regard to yield and the mildness of reaction conditions required. It was found that the use of preformed radical-anions generally resulted in higher yields and milder reaction conditions than the ‘catalytic’ method in which catalytic amounts of the aromatic compound are used and the radical-anion is generated and used in situ. The one apparent exception is N -phenylaziridine, but it is shown that in this case the aromatic compound, naphthalene, is actually an inhibitor rather than a catalyst . Rational mechanistic explanations are given.
Millimeter-wave gain experiments with a wide-band omniguide traveling-wave tube

We report the results of recent high power electron beam tests of a novel W-band traveling-wave tube (TWT) amplifier based on a slow-wave cylindrically-symmetric photonic band gap (PBG) structure called the "omniguide". Dielectric PBG TWTs have a wide operational frequency band (more than 20%) and may be favorable for use at millimeter wave frequencies due to shortcomings of conventional metal TWT technology. The omniguide structure's design and fabrication were reported elsewhere [1]. For the tests, we passed the 1 A, 110 kV, 2 µm long electron beam pulses through a 0.92 mm diameter hole in the omniguide inner dielectric tube. A 100 mW source which was tunable from 91 to 101.5 GHz was used to drive the tube. A gain of about 2.5 dB per cm has been demonstrated in well reproducible pulses.
Formation of stoichiometric titanium disulfide

Abstract The formation of stoichiometric titanium disulfide from the elements is a strong function of both sulfur partial pressure and temperature. Material best suited for use as the cathode active component of lithium batteries is optimally prepared from titanium sponge between 450° and 600°C in a temperature gradient which fixes the sulfur pressure and thereby precludes the formation of both the nonstoichiometric disulfide and the trisulfide. This TiS2 has been discharged more than 600 times.
A consistent chemical mechanism for oxidation of substituted aromatic species

Abstract Computational studies of combustion in engines are typically performed by modeling the real fuel as a surrogate mixture of various hydrocarbons. Aromatic species are crucial components in these surrogate mixtures. In this work, a consistent chemical mechanism to predict the high temperature combustion characteristics of toluene, styrene, ethylbenzene, 1,3-dimethylbenzene (m-xylene), and 1-methylnaphthalene is presented. The present work builds on a detailed chemical mechanism for high temperature oxidation of smaller hydrocarbons developed by Blanquart et al. [Combust. Flame 156 (2009) 588–607]. The base mechanism has been validated extensively in the previous work and is now extended to include reactions of various substituted aromatic compounds. The reactions representing oxidation of the aromatic species are taken from the literature or are derived from those of the lower aromatics or the corresponding alkane species. The chemical mechanism is validated against plug flow reactor data, ignition delay times, species profiles measured in shock tube experiments, and laminar burning velocities. The combustion characteristics predicted by the chemical model compare well with those available from experiments for the different aromatic species under consideration.
Personality science and personal projects: Six impossible things before breakfast.

Abstract Personality science pursues the paradoxical project of specializing in comprehensiveness, a pursuit that some may see as an inherently impossible undertaking. Accompanied by one such contrarian, a hypothetical “Reviewer C,” I explore six possible “impossibilities” in personality science. Together we examine our epistemological assumptions, conceptual units of analysis, assessment methodologies, psychometric techniques, social impact, and organizational viability. I focus on “personal projects” ( Little, 1972 , Little, 1983 ) as core integrative units of analysis that provide linkages with other integrative units. I propose that personality science will assume increasing importance at the very center of university curricula, as a hub of scientific progress and as a stimulant for a diversity of applied fields. Its paradoxes and perplexities notwithstanding, personality science is an audacious project that is already advancing our understanding of the depth and subtleties of human natures and nurturing attempts to enhance the quality of lives.
Laser-enhanced CVD for low-temperature Si epitaxy

Low thermal-budget semiconductor processing will have a major impact on future Ultra Large Scale Integration (ULSI) and Si-based heterostructure devices because it reduces thermal- stress-generated-defects and maintains compact doping profiles and heterolayer integrity. This paper discusses low temperature Si homoepitaxy at temperatures as low as 250 degree(s)C by photo-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PCVD) using the photolytic decomposition of Si2H6 by the 193 nm emission of an ArF excimer laser in an ultra high vacuum system. Very low defect density films, in terms of stacking faults and dislocation loops (less than 105 cm-2), and excellent crystallinity have been grown. The growth rates increase linearly with laser power.© (1993) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Chemical restraints for the agitated, violent, or psychotic pediatric patient in the emergency department: controversies and recommendations.

Purpose of review Chemical restraint in the pediatric patient is an evolving clinical practice. Although a rare occurrence, chemically restraining a child may be necessary for the child’s safety, healthcare worker’s safety, and to expedite the medical evaluation. The purpose of this manuscript to review the definition and indications for chemical restraints, specific classes of drugs used for chemical restraints, and the legal implications associated with chemical restraints. Recent findings Three classes of drugs will be reviewed: benzodiazepines, neuroleptics, and atypical antipsychotics, including side effects, dosages, and routes of administration. There are controversies surrounding some of these drugs. Very few recent studies have focused this topic on the pediatric patient. A recently published practice parameter will be reviewed that addresses the prevention and management of aggressive behavior in children and adolescents. In addition, specific studies looking at different drugs, particularly the newer atypical antipsychotics, will be reviewed. Literature discussing the controversies regarding droperidol usage in the emergency department will also be highlighted. Summary The differential diagnosis for the agitated, violent, or psychotic patient is extensive and must be taken into consideration when deciding to use chemical restraints. When the decision is made to use chemical restraints, healthcare workers should be aware of the pharmacologic options as well as the complications associated with the agents.
Toward scar-free surgery: an analysis of the increasing complexity from laparoscopic surgery to NOTES

Background NOTES is an emerging technique for performing surgical procedures, such as cholecystectomy. Debate about its real benefit over the traditional laparoscopic technique is on-going. There have been several clinical studies comparing NOTES to conventional laparoscopic surgery. However, no work has been done to compare these techniques from a Human Factors perspective. This study presents a systematic analysis describing and comparing different existing NOTES methods to laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
Efficient implementation of the 3D-DDA ray traversal algorithm on GPU and its application in radiation dose calculation.

Purpose: The three-dimensional digital differential analyzer (3D-DDA) algorithm is a widely used ray traversal method, which is also at the core of many convolution/superposition (C/S) dose calculation approaches. However, porting existing C/S dose calculation methods onto graphics processing unit (GPU) has brought challenges to retaining the efficiency of this algorithm. In particular, straightforward implementation of the original 3D-DDA algorithm inflicts a lot of branch divergence which conflicts with the GPU programming model and leads to suboptimal performance. In this paper, an efficient GPU implementation of the 3D-DDA algorithm is proposed, which effectively reduces such branch divergence and improves performance of the C/S dose calculation programs running on GPU. Methods: The main idea of the proposed method is to convert a number of conditional statements in the original 3D-DDA algorithm into a set of simple operations (e.g., arithmetic, comparison, and logic) which are better supported by the GPU architecture. To verify and demonstrate the performance improvement, this ray traversal method was integrated into a GPU-based collapsed cone convolution/superposition (CCCS) dose calculation program. Results: The proposed method has been tested using a water phantom and various clinical cases on an NVIDIA GTX570 GPU. The CCCS dose calculation program based on the efficient 3D-DDA ray traversal implementation runs 1.42 ∼ 2.67× faster than the one based on the original 3D-DDA implementation, without losing any accuracy. Conclusions: The results show that the proposed method can effectively reduce branch divergence in the original 3D-DDA ray traversal algorithm and improve the performance of the CCCS program running on GPU. Considering the wide utilization of the 3D-DDA algorithm, various applications can benefit from this implementation method.
Critical field enhancement near a superconductor-insulator transition.

We have discovered a phenomenon where the orbital pair breaking effect is reduced, if not eliminated. It appears as a striking enhancement in the upper critical field H c 2 for (TMTSF) 2 PF 6 and a strong upward curvature in the critical field versus temperature in the region of pressure-temperature phase space near the superconductor-spin density wave insulator boundary. A simple model based on self-consistently dividing the superconductor into layers explains the observations remarkably well and provides a unique way around orbital frustration and toward higher critical fields.
A Flow-Cytometry-Based Approach to Facilitate Quantification, Size Estimation and Characterization of Sub-visible Particles in Protein Solutions

Sub-visible particles were shown to facilitate unwanted immunogenicity of protein therapeutics. To understand the root cause of this phenomenon, a comprehensive analysis of these particles is required. We aimed at establishing a flow-cytometry-based technology to analyze the amount, size distribution and nature of sub-visible particles in protein solutions. We adjusted the settings of a BD FACS Canto II by tuning the forward scatter and the side scatter detectors and by using size calibration beads to facilitate the analysis of particles with sizes below 1 μM. We applied a combination of Bis-ANS (4,4′-dianilino-1,1′-binaphthyl-5,5′-disulfonic acid dipotassium salt) and DCVJ (9-(2,2-dicyanovinyl)julolidine) to identify specific characteristics of sub-visible particles. The FACS technology allows the analysis of particles between 0.75 and 10 μm in size, requiring relatively small sample volumes. Protein containing particles can be distinguished from non-protein particles and cross-β-sheet structures contained in protein particles can be identified. The FACS technology provides robust and reproducible results with respect to number, size distribution and specific characteristics of sub-visible particles between 0.75 and 10 μm in size. Our data for number and size distribution of particles is in good agreement with results obtained with the state-of-the-art technology micro-flow imaging.
A Comparison of Computer Workstation Adjustments Made by Users Following Web-Based Instructions and Those of an Ergonomics Professional

Computer use and posture has been linked to musculoskeletal disorders. Web-based tools offer a way for users in large organizations to perform an initial assessment and routine adjustment of their workstations, allowing the ergonomist to focus on more detailed cases. Twelve male and eight female subjects used a web-based tool to adjust two standard workstations. The tool presented information using text, animation and color coding to accommodate as many learning styles as possible. Afterwards, an ergonomist, blinded to the adjustments made previously, adjusted each workstation for the subject. Subject adjustments agreed with the ergonomist's for chair height, seat pan depth, armrest height, monitor depth and keyboard tray height with moderate correlation values and mean errors of less than 1.35 cm. The results indicate computer users are able to adjust their own workstations following this type of web-based instruction.
Coordination strategies for limb forces during weight-bearing locomotion in normal rats, and in rats spinalized as neonates

Some rats spinally transected as neonates (ST rats) achieve weight-supporting independent locomotion. The mechanisms of coordinated hind-limb weight support in such rats are not well understood. To examine these we compared ST rats (with better than 60% of weight supported steps) and normal rats that were trained to cross an instrumented runway. Ground reaction forces, coordination of hind-limb and forelimb forces and the motions of the center of pressure (CoP) were assessed. Normal rats crossed the runway with a diagonal trot. On average hind-limbs bore about 80% of the vertical load carried by forelimbs (45% body weight on hind-limbs 55% on forelimbs), although this varied. Forelimbs and hind-limbs acted synergistically to generate decelerative and propulsive rostrocaudal forces, which averaged 15% of body weight with maximums of 50%. Lateral forces were very small (<8% of body weight). Center of pressure progressed in jumps along a straight line with mean lateral deviations <1 cm. ST rats hind-limbs bore about 60% of the vertical load of forelimbs (37% body weight on hind-limbs, 63% on forelimbs), significantly less compared to intact rats (P < 0.05). ST rats showed similar mean rostrocaudal forces, but with significantly larger maximum fluctuations of up to 80% of body weight (P < 0.05). Joint force-plate recordings showed forelimbs and hind-limb rostrocaudal forces in ST rats were opposing and significantly different from intact rats (P < 0.05). Lateral forces were ~20% of body weight and significantly larger than in normal rats (P < 0.05). Center of pressure zig-zagged, with mean lateral deviations of ~2 cm and a significantly larger range (P < 0.05). The haunches were also observed to roll more than normal rats. The locomotor strategy of injured rats using limbs in opposition was presumably less efficient but their complex gait was statically stable. Because forelimbs and hind-limbs acted in opposition, the trunk was held compressed. Force coordination was likely managed largely by the voluntary control in forelimbs and trunk.
Quantum Hall effect in graphene

Abstract The quantum Hall (QH) effect in two-dimensional electron and hole gas is studied in high quality graphene samples. Graphene samples whose lateral size ∼10 μm were fabricated into mesoscopic devices for electrical transport measurement in magnetic fields. In an intermediate field range of up to 10 T, a distinctive half-integer QH effect is discovered with QH plateaus appearing at a filling factor sequence, ν = 4 ( n + 1 / 2 ) , where n is the Landau level (LL) index. As the magnetic field increases to the extreme quantum limit, we observe additional QH plateaus at filling factors ν = 0 , ± 1 , ± 4 . Further detailed investigations show that the presence of the ν = 0 , ± 1 QH states indicates the n = 0 LL at the charge neutral Dirac point splits into four sublevels. This lifts both the sublattice and the spin degeneracy, while the QH states at ν = ± 4 can be attributed to lifting of the spin degeneracy of the LLs. Above 30 T of magnetic field, the large quasiparticle gaps between the n = 0 and n = ± 1 LLs lead to the QH effect that can be observed even at room temperature.
Instrumentation and Methodology for Simultaneous Excitation/Detection of Ions in an FTICR Mass Spectrometer

A method for direct and continuous detection of ion motion during different perturbation events of the fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance (FTICR) experiment is demonstrated. The modifications necessary to convert an ordinary FTICR cell into one capable of performing simultaneous excitation/detection (SED) using a capacitive network are outlined. With these modifications, a 200-fold reduction in the detection of the coupled excitation signal is achieved. This allows the unique ability not only to observe the response to the perturbation but to observe the perturbation event itself. SED is used successfully to monitor the ion cyclotron transient during single-frequency excitation, remeasurement and excite−τ−excite experiments.
Use of Adenosine as a Diagnostic Tool for Dual Atrioventricular Nodal Pathways: Response of Control Patients to Incremental Doses of Adenosine

.Department of Medicine/Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Florida Health Science Center, Gainesville, Florida, USASummaryBackground: Adenosine at low doses preferentially blocksfast over slow pathway conduction in patients with dual atri-oventricular (AV) nodal physiology and typical AV nodalreentrant tachycardia (AVNRT). During atrial pacing, this ef-fect is manifested as an abrupt increase in the AH interval withlow doses of adenosine. This demonstration of dual AV nodalphysiology may be useful as a diagnostic tool during electro-physiologic studies in patients with supraventricular tachycar-dia who are not easily inducible, as clear demonstration ofdual AV nodal pathways may indicate that AVNRT is a likelydiagnosis and that further attempts at arrhythmia inductionshould be tailored in that direction. However, to be a usefultest, adenosine should not cause an abrupt increase in AH in-terval in patients without dual AV nodal physiology.Hypothesis: This study was designed to investigate theprevalence of dual AV nodal pathways with administration ofadenosine in patients with no history suggestive of AVNRT.Methods: Thirty-seven patients who had no prior history ofAVNRT and were undergoing electrophysiologic study forstandard indications were enrolled. Baseline Wenckebach cy-cle length (WCL) and AV nodal effective refractory periodswere measured at atrial pacing cycle lengths of 400 and 600ms. The atrium was then paced at WCL + 50 ms, and WCL +100 ms, while incrementally larger doses of intravenousadenosine were administered until AV nodal block occurred.Results: The mean (± standard deviation) doses of adeno-sine required to cause AV nodal block while pacing at WCL +50 ms and WCL + 100 ms were 7.1 ±3.9 and 7.4 ±4.5 mg, re-spectively. In 1 of 37 patients (2.7%, 95% confidence interval0–8%), an abrupt prolongation of the AH interval was seenwith the administration of adenosine during atrial pacing aswell as during the atrial refractory period determination. In allother patients, no dual AV nodal physiology was demonstrat-ed during the refractory period determination, and there wereonly gradual changes in the AH interval with atrial pacing dur-ing administration of adenosine.Conclusion: Among patients with no history suggestive ofAV nodal reentrant tachycardia, only 2.7% have clinicallysilent dual AV nodal pathways using this method. Incrementaladenosine infusion during electrophysiologic study can beused as a highly specific diagnostic tool for patients with dualAV nodal pathways.Key words: atrioventricular node, atrioventricular nodal reen-trant tachycardia, adenosineIntroductionAdenosine is an endogenous nucleoside that slows the sinusnode (negative chronotropic effect) as well as impulse conduc-tion through the atrioventricular (AV) node (negative dro-motropic effect).
Probable polypeptidic nature of erythropoietin.

SummaryPlasma from anemic rabbits containing erythropoietic stimulating factor was treated in numerous ways in order to determine some of the properties of the factor. Assay was performed by determining the Fe59 uptake in hypophysectomized rats. Since the factor remained after heating at pH 5.5 or pH 9 but was destroyed at pH 1 and pH 13 and since it was nondialyzable yet digested by pepsin, trypsin and chymotrypsin, it was concluded that erythropoietin is probably a polypeptide. In the presence of the non-precipitable proteins (by heat) of plasma, it is fairly stable to mild oxidation and reduction.
Retroperitoneal dedifferentiated liposarcoma lacking MDM2 amplification in a patient with a germ line CHEK2 mutation

Germ line mutations in genes that encode proteins involved in the DNA damage response predispose patients to a variety of tumors. Checkpoint kinase 2, encoded by the CHEK2 gene, is important in transducing the DNA damage response. Germ line CHEK2 mutations are seen in a subset of patients with a familial breast cancer and sarcoma phenotype. We report a case of retroperitoneal dedifferentiated liposarcoma in a 61-year-old female with germ line CHEK2 mutation. MDM2 gene amplification normally present and used to aid in the diagnosis of retroperitoneal dedifferentiated liposarcoma was absent in this case. Lack of MDM2 overexpression has similarly been reported in liposarcomas arising in patients with germ line TP53 mutations. We propose this case may highlight a nonamplified MDM2 phenotype in well- and dedifferentiated liposarcomas arising in patients with germ line mutations of genes involved in p53-associated DNA damage response pathways.
Prenatal cocaine exposure reduces glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) in the striatum and the carotid body of the rat: implications for DA neurodevelopment.

Glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) is a glycosylated, disulfide-bonded homodimer, and a member of the transforming growth factor-beta superfamily. GDNF has been shown to promote the survival and morphological differentiation of dopamine (DA) neurons and increase their high-affinity dopamine uptake. In order to determine whether the mechanism for our previously observed cocaine-induced DA reductions in brain and carotid body were GDNF-mediated, we exposed Sprague–Dawley rat fetuses to cocaine via maternal subcutaneous injections (30 mg/kg b.i.d., E7–E19). Brains and carotid bodies of fetuses were excised and processed for assessment of GDNF levels using an Enzyme-Linked ImmunoadSorbent Assay (ELISA). ANOVA indicated that cocaine reduced carotid body GDNF by 36% (F(1,5)=28.11, p<0.05) and striatal GDNF by 41% (F(1,5)=41.77, p<0.01). Although there was no interaction between drug exposure and fetal uterine position, post-hoc pairwise comparisons indicated that reductions in GDNF in the cocaine groups were due to differences at more distal positions (positions 4–8). The magnitude of the reductions in striatal GDNF (but not carotid body GDNF) in both cocaine-exposed and control fetuses followed a cervical (smallest GDNF reductions) to ovarian (greatest GDNF reductions) uterine position gradient. This pattern was similar to that which we observed in prior studies examining DA reductions in brain following prenatal cocaine exposure. The finding that cocaine reduces GDNF levels in striatum and carotid body support the hypothesis that cocaine's ability to reduce striatal and carotid body DA may be indirect through its ability to reduce GDNF. These data along with previous findings support the hypothesis that cocaine's effects on DA neurons are at least partially due to its indirect effects on trophic activity. The possible mechanisms whereby cocaine affects trophic activity are discussed.
Evolving issues in laser safety

The approach to laser safety has come a long way since the 1960s when the first guidelines were issued by defense research organizations in the US and the UK, and then by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. Although the search for ‘eye‐safe’ numbers continues in a few laboratories, this work is almost exclusively centered on deriving retinal thresholds for ultra‐short (sub‐nanosecond) lasers. Setting limits in this temporal region has been difficult, since there are conflicting data sets and there is a limited amount of data to extrapolate to other spectral regions. In the standards arena, the concentrated efforts have been in terms of product classification and attempts to resolve the eternal question of ‘how safe is safe?’. Recent efforts to revise safety standards have not always taken into account the historical rationale for the maximum permissable exposures and forget that safety factors were already factored into the limits, and further safety factors are quite unnecessary. Finally, the study of accidents raises the question of whether our approach to eye protection and enclosures are adequate and whether separate standards and guidance is needed for different applications.
Screening and prevention of alcohol and drug use disorders in women

Today a variety of treatments are available for women with SUDs. They range from psychosocial interventions such as motivational enhancement therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and 12-step recovery to pharmacotherapies such as buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone. Although the general public remains skeptical of SUD treatment, national studies consistently find it to be both clinically and economically efficacious. In Oregon, for example, researchers found that every dollar invested in drug treatment saved taxpayers dollars 5.60. By the time a woman walks through the door of a drug treatment program, however, her disorder is likely to be firmly engrained. The medical practitioner's office provides an ideal setting for screening and early identification of high-risk alcohol and other drug use and abuse. A variety of reliable and valid self-report measures are available. Sadly, however, the majority of health providers still do not routinely screen patients for alcohol or drug problems. The consequences can be severe, particularly for women. Although efforts have focused on practitioner education and strategies to address practical barriers to implementation (eg, time, resources), much less attention has focused on the pessimistic views of practitioners about SUDs and treatment efficacy. New strategies are needed to enhance practitioner feelings of self-efficacy about their ability to identify and intervene early in the progression from alcohol use to abuse to dependence.
Systemic prenatal insults disrupt telencephalon development: implications for potential interventions.

Abstract Infants born prematurely are prone to chronic neurologic deficits including cerebral palsy, epilepsy, cognitive delay, behavioral problems, and neurosensory impairments. In affected children, imaging and neuropathological findings demonstrate significant damage to white matter. The extent of cortical damage has been less obvious. Advances in the understanding of telencephalon development provide insights into how systemic intrauterine insults affect the developing white matter, subplate, and cortex, and lead to multiple neurologic impairments. In addition to white matter oligodendrocytes and axons, other elements at risk for perinatal brain injury include subplate neurons, GABAergic neurons migrating through white matter and subplate, and afferents of maturing neurotransmitter systems. Common insults including hypoxia–ischemia and infection often affect the developing brain differently than the mature brain, and insults precipitate a cascade of damage to multiple neural lineages. Insights from development can identify potential targets for therapies to repair the damaged neonatal brain before it has matured.
Cataclysm and Evolution

Encounters by the Earth with planetoids are here suggested as an explanation of the geological revolutions so often referred to but never explained in geological writings. Such collisions would have been responsible also for the cataclysmic destruction of species, to which Cuvier and his contemporaries gave such great thought.
POST-KATRINA GUIDING PRINCIPLES OF DISASTER SOCIAL SCIENCE RESEARCH

On August 29, 2005 Hurricane Katrina made landfall near the state line between Mississippi and Louisiana, causing widespread devastation and mass evacuation of the area. Mississippi coastal communi...
Flame speed of a low pressure CS2O2 flame

The flame speed for a low speed premixed CS_2/O_2 flame has been experimentally determined as a function of O_2/CS_2 ratio. The data, which are given in Fig. 1, were taken for lean flames at 1 kPa, under conditions which are similar to those found in flame lasers.
Appropriateness of digoxin use in medical outpatients

Abstract Purpose: Digoxin is the third most commonly prescribed drug, yet limited information exists about its use in outpatients. Therefore, 242 medical outpatients receiving digoxin at our hospital were studied to evaluate the appropriateness of its use, defined by: (1) current or past supraventricular arrhythmias and/or (2) left ventricular systolic dysfunction (ejection fraction less than 45 percent). Patients and methods: Charts of 242 patients receiving digoxin were obtained. The patients were divided into groups based upon their physician's stated indication for digoxin therapy. Patients with only a clinical diagnosis of congestive heart failure (CHF) underwent echocardiography or radionuclide angiography to quantify left ventricular systolic function. Those with documented supraventricular arrhythmias and/or those with confirmed left ventricular systolic dysfunction were classified as appropriate candidates for digoxin. Results: Ninety-five percent of patients received digoxin for appropriate indications; 75 percent had confirmed supraventricular arrhythmias (27 percent also had CHF) and 20 percent with normal sinus rhythm had documented systolic dysfunction. However, physicians had difficulty in the clinical assessment of left ventricular function; 18 percent of patients with sinus rhythm and CHF by the Framingham scoring system and 20 percent of those with supraventricular arrhythmias and CHF had preserved systolic function. An S 3 was present in 15 percent of patients with preserved ejection fraction and CHF and in 69 percent with low ejection fraction; hypertension was significantly more common in the former group. Noninvasive assessment of systolic function was obtained in 97 percent of patients independent of this study, yet some patients without supraventricular arrhythmias and with documented preservation of systolic function continued to receive the drug. Conclusion: Noninvasive assessment of left ventricular function, which appears to have become routine, is of value in the appropriate utilization of digoxin, since clinicians' assessment of left ventricular function may be inaccurate. Physicians also do not always discontinue digoxin therapy when indicated.
Metric Measures: Their Use in the United States and in the Home Economics Research Journal

Although use of metric measures has been legally permissible in this country for some time, there is renewed interest in the metric system. A study conducted by the National Bureau of Standards resulted in a recommendation to Congress that the United States adopt the metric system for its official measuring system. The policy has been established that the metric system should be used whenever feasible in reporting research in the HOME ECONOMICS RESEARCH JOURNAL.
DNA Replication Arrest and P53-Dependent and P53-Independent Cell Death Pathways in Xeroderma Pigmentosum Variant Cells.

INTRODUCTION. Xeroderma pigmentosum variant (XPV) cells lack the low-fidelity DNA polymerase, pol η, and as a result cannot replicate UV damaged DNA and experience prolonged arrest in the S phase (1, 2). Primary XPV fibroblasts and XPV fibroblasts transformed by HPV16(E6/E7) do not show early UV-induced apoptosis, but remain arrested for up to 48 hr without evidence of cell death (3). XPV cells transformed by SV40, however, show very early apoptosis, which is further enhanced by caffeine, and a large fraction of the cell population detaches from the substrate within 10-20 hr (3, 4). In the presence of caffeine, apoptosis is detectable in 1-2 hr. Transfection of SV40 transformed cells with the XPV gene, hRad30A, on a CMV promoter suppressed UV-induced apoptosis. Normal cells show parallel apoptotic behavior, but at a lower level. Paradoxically, when cells are assayed for colony formation after UV irradiation, the XPV cells transformed by HPV16,E6/E7) are much more sensitive than SV40 transformed or primary cells (3). Therefore the degree of apoptosis is no measure of long-term survival, and a non-apoptotic pathway of cell death, caused by DNA replication arrest, is associated with higher lethality than the apoptotic pathway.
Stress Response Model for the Tropical Seagrass Thalassia testudinum: The Interactions of Light, Temperature, Sedimentation, and Geochemistry

Our modeling objective was to better define the relationship between subtropical seagrass and potential water column and sediment stressors (light, organic and particle sedimentation, sediment nutrients, and the porewater sulfide system). The model was developed and optimized for sediments inThalassia testudinum seagrass beds of Lower Laguna Madre, Texas, U.S., and is composed of a plant submodel and a sediment diagenetic submodel. Simulations were developed for a natural stressor (harmful algal bloom,Aureoumbra lagunensis) and an anthropogenic, stressor (dredging event). The observed harmful algal bloom (HAB) was of limited duration and the simulations of that bloom showed no effect of the algal bloom on biomass trends but did suggest that sediment sulfides could inhibit growth if the bloom duration and intensity were greater. To examine this hypothesis we ran a simulation using data collected during a sustained 4-yr bloom in Upper Laguna Madre. Simulations suggested that light attenuation by the HAB could cause a small reduction inT. testudinum biomass, while input of organic matter from the bloom could promote development of a sediment geochemical environment toxic toT. testudinum leading to a major reduction in biomass. A 3-wk dredging event resulted in sedimentation of a layer of rich organic material and reduction of canopy light for a period of months. The simulations suggested that the seagrass could have recovered from the effects of temporary light reduction but residual effects of high sulfides in the sediments would make the region inhospitable for seagrasses for up to 2.5 yr. These modeling exercises illustrate that both natural and anthropogenic stressors can result in seagrass losses by radically altering the sedimentary geochemical environment.
Social-Cognitive Development, Ethical and Legal Knowledge, and Ethical Decision Making of Counselor Education Students

Counselors are required to have high levels of social-cognitive development, significant knowledge regarding ethical and legal practice, and sound ethical decision-making processes to provide effective and ethical services to their clients. This study investigated the effect of two counseling ethics courses on 64 master's-level counselor education students' levels of social-cognitive development, ethical and legal knowledge, and ethical decision making. Students' ethical and legal knowledge scores increased significantly, and precourse social-cognitive maturity predicted postcourse ethical and legal knowledge scores. Implications for counselor education and development are discussed.
Imaging the urologic patient: the utility of intravenous pyelogram in the CT scan era

Purpose An opportunity exists to evaluate the quality of care in patients undergoing intravenous pyelogram (IVP) imaging and to define the role of IVP in the computed tomography scan era.
The Measure of “Size” Independent of “Shape” for Multivariate Lognormal Populations

Abstract The unique measure of “size” that is statistically independent of “shape” for random vectors of measurements following a multivariate lognormal distribution is derived. This size measure is a weighted geometric mean (possibly including negative weights) and generalizes work of Mosimann (1970) on size and shape variables. It is also closely related to White and Gould's (1965) measure of size differences for constant shape. Estimation of the size measure and an example of its application are discussed.
Implant site development and alveolar bone resorption patterns.

Abstract Resorption of the alveolar ridges after tooth extraction can mandate site development (preparation) by augmentation, grafting, or both before implants can be placed. The fabrication of successful implant prostheses generally can be accomplished only if the artificial teeth are placed in the same position as was occupied by the natural teeth they are replacing. A knowledge of resorption patterns is necessary for satisfactory implant placement.
Acceptability and Nutritional Response Comparisons Between Calf Starters

Abstract Forty-eight Holstein calves were assigned at birth to one of three calf starter treatments to 1) compare the acceptability (palatability) and nutritive value of starters containing principally barley and cottonseed oil meal, prepared as pellets or mash, and a pelleted commercial starter containing a complexity of protein sources, vitamins, and minerals; 2) observe growth rate and feed utilization on the different starters; 3) determine daily feed consumption when starters and hay are fed ad libitum; and 4) compare the TDN values of the starters as well as utilization of absorbed nitrogen. Calves consuming the simple starter, as either mash or pellets, consumed more starter (P
Distributed learning approach for channel selection in cognitive radio networks

Cognitive Radio Network (CRN) is an emerging networking concept that has been introduced to solve the spectrum scarcity problem. There are typically two kinds of users in CRN - primary users (PU) and secondary users (SU). SUs can opportunistically use licensed channels without interfering with the ongoing transmission of PUs. The successful transmission depends mostly on the selection of idle channels by SUs. Hence, channel selection under the aforementioned constraints is a significant research problem.
Internationalizing â€œAmericaâ€: Critical Pedagogy in the Multinational Community College Classroom

As an historian and an Englsih professor working in a multiethnic, international environment, we are fortunate to work among colleagues dedicated to a critical pedagogy sensitive to the lived experience and identities of our students. At the same time, our pedagogies often reflect a U.S.-centric multiculturalism that fails to account for the racialized power heirarchies that operate both within the United States and between the United States in other countries. In our essay we outline the collaborative learning community we designed to redress this issue. We discussed how we use the new scholarship of America in the World in the classroom and use our indisiplinary approach to challenge the narrative of American exceptionalism and allow students to explore the inequalities and uses of American power around the world that affect our lives and communities. We evaluate our experiences in these courses and discuss the implications for critical educators who aim to empower students with diverse and international backgrounds. 0 false 18 pt 18 pt 0 0 false false false /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;}
Nefazodone treatment of cocaine dependence with comorbid depressive symptoms.

Aims In the current study, nefazodone, an antidepressant with dual action on serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake as well as 5-HT2A receptor antagonist effects, was studied in subjects with cocaine dependence and depressive symptoms, to determine its efficacy in reducing cocaine use. Design An 8-week, double blind, placebo-controlled design was used. Setting The study was conducted at the Medication Development Research Unit (MDRU) at the VA Boston Healthcare System and the Manhattan Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) Medical Center. Participants Subjects (n = 69) met Diagnostic and Statistical Manual version IV (DSM-IV) criteria for cocaine dependence and had Hamilton Depression Scores of 12 or higher. Intervention Subjects were assigned randomly to receive nefazodone 200 mg twice daily (n = 34) or matching placebo (n = 35). All subjects received individual counseling. Measurements Urinary measurements of benzoylecgonine (BE, three times per week) and self-reports of cocaine use were the primary outcome measures. Secondary outcome measures included assessments of psychiatric functioning, cocaine craving and social functioning. Findings Median weekly BE declined more rapidly in the nefazodone than in the placebo group. Median urine BE at baseline was, however, significantly greater in nefazodone than in the placebo group. Scores for strength of cocaine craving also decreased more rapidly in the nefazodone group compared to the placebo group. Both groups had equivalent improvement in mood, psychosocial functioning and self-reported cocaine use. Conclusions These results suggest that nefazodone administration can reduce cocaine craving after it has been administered for several weeks. Although the nefazodone group had a greater rate of decrease in BE levels than the placebo group, the interpretation of this finding is obscured by significant group differences in baseline BE levels.
Genetic polymorphisms in the cyclooxygenase-2 gene, use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and breast cancer risk

The association between use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and breast cancer risk remains unclear. Inconsistencies in previously reported findings may be partly due to differences in expression of cyclooxygenase (COX)-2. We hypothesized that genetic polymorphisms (COX-2 .926, COX-2 .5209, and COX-2 .8473) may reduce overall breast cancer risk or risk for subtypes of breast cancer by modulating the inflammatory response and may interact with aspirin or any NSAID use. We conducted a population-based, case-control study in which we genotyped 1,067 breast cancer cases and 1,110 control individuals included in the Long Island Breast Cancer Study Project. No major effects of the three COX-2 variant alleles on breast cancer risk were found. A total of eight distinct haplotypes and 18 diplotypes were observed in the population. Overall, no significant associations between COX-2 haplotypes/diplotypes and breast cancer risk were observed. Among women who used aspirin or any NSAID there was little evidence for an interaction with the at-risk COX-2 genotypes, with one exception. Among women with hormone receptor positive breast cancer, the reduced risk for any NSAID use was only evident among those who had at least one variant C allele of COX-2 .8473 (odds ratio = 0.7, 95% confidence interval = 0.5 to 1.0; P for the interaction = 0.02). There was no corresponding interaction for aspirin use, possibly because of limited power. These data provide modest evidence that the C allele of COX-2 .8473 may interact with NSAIDs to reduce risk for hormone receptor positive breast cancer.
WTHD-optimal staircase modulation of single-phase multilevel inverters

This paper considers the problem of achieving the minimum frequency-weighted THD of the output voltage of multilevel inverters, when staircase modulation is utilized. Since the single-phase AC case is being addressed, the triplen harmonics need to be included in the analysis. The results show that using unequal, non-integer ratio, DC source voltages is significantly better than using equal ones, as expected. They also indicate that imposing the requirement of eliminating the lowest harmonics leads to slightly worse distortion than the minimum that is achievable
The role of multivalent cations in oligonucleotide cellular uptake

Oligodeoxynucleotides (ONs) are a powerful new class of drugs whose transport to the cytoplasm or nucleus inefficient and incompletely defined. Thus, to further extend our understanding of the mechanism of ON cellular uptake, the role of multivalent cations in ON cellular uptake was examined. All the multivalent cations tested, except magnesium, significantly increase ON uptake and was predictably related to the cation's electronegativity but only partially due to an increase in surface-binding. In addition, the primary mechanism of uptake is largely independent of trypsin-sensitive surface components, cellular energy, and several specific, calcium-dependent cellular processes. Therefore, On cellular uptake may involve an interaction between multivalent cations and either the ON, the cell membrane, or both.
Gaussian beam propagation beyond the paraxial approximation

The propagation of a Gaussian beam in a homogeneous, isotropic, local, linear, and nonmagnetic dielectric medium is studied using the angular spectrum representation for the electric field. The electric field associated with the Gaussian beam inside the dielectric medium consists of the paraxial result and higher-order non-Gaussian correction terms. It is shown that the second-order correction term satisfies an equation consistent with the recent work of Lax, Louisell, and McKnight. Numerical results showing the corrections to the paraxial approximation are presented.