cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Physiological effects of cocaine in the squirrel monkey.

Abstract Doses of cocaine that have previously been shown to have behavioral effects produced dose-related increases in arterial blood pressure, heart rate and core temperature in unanesthetized squirrel monkeys ( Saimiri sciureus ). The pressor effect was immediate, but heart rate increased more gradually after cocaine injection. The onset of hyperthermia was substantially delayed. The squirrel monkey may be a good animal model of the physiological concomitants of cocaine abuse in humans.
Model compounds for polymeric redox-switchable hemilabile ligands

Abstract The syntheses and characterization of two new tetradentate hemilabile ligands 1,2-bis(2-diphenylphosphinoethoxy)benzene (5) and 2,2′-bis(2-diphenylphosphinoethoxy)-1,1′-binaphthalene (10) are reported. Ligands 5 and 10 were synthesized as models to test the suitability of specific phosphinoether coordination environments for complexing Rh(I) in high surface area thiophene-based, redox-active polymeric systems. Ligands 5 and 10 react with the product formed from the reaction between (bicyclo[2.2.1]hepta-2,5-diene)rhodium(I) chloride dimer and AgBF4 to form [η2-(1,2-bis(2-diphenylphosphinoethoxy)benzene) η4-norbornadiene rhodium(I)] tetrafluoroborate (6) and [η2-(2,2′-bis(2-diphenylphosphinoethoxy)-1,1′-binaphthalene) η4-norbornadiene rhodium(I)] tetrafluoroborate (11), respectively. Complexes 6 and 11 react with H2 in CD2Cl2 to form the two new square-planar cis-phosphine, cis-ether Rh(I) complexes 7 and 12, respectively. Compound 7, which could be characterized on the basis of its 31P NMR spectrum, is extremely reactive and decomposes in CD2Cl2. In THF compounds 6 and 11 react with H2 to form the dihydride, bis-THF adducts 8 and 16, respectively, which upon removal of solvent form 7 and 12, respectively. Compound 12 is a stable, isolable complex that reacts with acetonitrile to form a cis-phosphine, cis-acetonitrile adduct 15. Removal of solvent from 15 leads to the quantitative reformation of 12. Compound 12 does not react to a detectable extent with gross excesses of benzene or even thiophene, demonstrating the suitability of this ligand environment for implementation into a thiophene-based polymeric system. Compound 12 does catalyze the hydrogenation of cyclohexene to form cyclohexane, and mechanistic implications of such a transformation are discussed.
A threshold feeding behavior in Calanus pacificus1

Adult females of a marine planktonic copepod, Calanus pacificus, were fed the diatom Thalassiosira fluviatilis at several densities of cells well below the critical concentration. As food concentration decreased, copepods filtered at a constant maximal rate until their ingestion rate fell below about 15% of the maximal hourly ration; then the copepods fed at a significantly depressed rate. The concentration of food at which this threshold feeding behavior occurs apparently depends on the size of the food particles.
Somatic cell genetic studies of the cystic fibrosis mucociliary inhibitor

A series of cystic fibrosis homozygous fibroblast X mouse cell hybrids were constructed in order to determine the chromosome which carries the gene controlling the cystic fibrosis mucociliary inhibitor (CFMI) phenotype. Several hybrids and their subclones retained the CFMI phenotype for long periods in cell culture. Correlation of the CFMI phenotype with the presence of specific human chromosomes indicated that possible linkage existed between CFMI and human chromosomes 2, 4, 6, 10, and 18. The strongest chance of linkage existed for chromosome 4.
Gamification in Instruction and the Management of Intersubjectivity in Online University Courses

Technology integration with twelve online undergraduate and graduate courses over four semesters provided the occasion for experimenting with effective ways of managing student learning at a distance. Students had online access to the publicly available applications used for communicating and coordinating activities with each other. Gamification principles guided some of the course procedures, such as a point system, feedback, awards and penalties, social networking, team tasks, individual options. A theoretical framework is proposed for understanding how to manage instructional intersubjectivity for students meeting online. Student thinking and motivation is observed to be higher under conditions of intersubjectivity in comparison to doing the same tasks alone. Learning from each other through participation promotes intersubjectivity when the instructional strategy installs technological affordances that keep each student informed of what the others are doing in context, and how they are reacting or responding to each other.
Susceptibility of Pneumocystis to Echinocandins in Suspension and Biofilm Cultures

The targeted inhibition of cyst but not trophic development by anidulafungin, caspofungin, and micafungin on Pneumocystis murina and Pneumocystis carinii in rodent models of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP) was recently reported by us (M. T. Cushion et al., PLoS One 5:e8524, 2010). To better understand the effects of echinocandins on P. carinii, the same three compounds were evaluated in standard suspension and biofilm cultures supplemented with various concentrations of sera using the measurement of ATP as the indicator. In suspension cultures with 1 and 5% serum, anidulafungin was the most active compound but 10 and 20% serum abrogated the efficacy of all three echinocandins. Established biofilm cultures that included both the nonadherent and adherent phases were more resistant to micafungin than caspofungin regardless of serum concentration, while anidulafungin had significant activity at 1 and 5% serum concentrations. Nascent biofilms were mostly affected by anidulafungin in 1 and 5% serum, but none of the compounds showed significant activity in 20% serum. We show for the first time that (i) echinocandins differ in their abilities to deplete the ATP of Pneumocystis in biofilms and in suspension cultures, (ii) this variability mostly reflected the reported efficacies in animal models of infection, and (iii) high serum levels decreased the anti-Pneumocystis activities of the echinocandins in both in vitro systems.
USING THEORETICAL DESCRIPTORS TO MODEL SOLVENT EFFECTS IN THE ISOMERIZATION OF CIS-STILBENE

Experimental observations of the photoinduced excited-state lifetime of cis-stilbene have shown a distinct dependence on solvation processes. The rate of decay, dominated by a cis-trans isomerization, is more rapid in polar solvents than in nonpolar solvents. Linear solvation energy relationship (LSER) techniques show that this can be explained in terms of polarity and polarizability parameters for the solvent. Theoretical linear solvation energy relationship (TLSER) analysis shows that this can be explained in terms of solvent polarizability and electrostatic basicity. New TLSER descriptors based on calculated solvent bond diplole parameters are also successful in describing this solvent dependence. Solvent-dependent dipole moments are calculated for an approximate stilbene transition-state geometry using the polarizable continuum model (PCM), which suggests the usefulness of a more detailed study of this photoisomerization process using current solvation theory and computational techniques. © 1996 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Temperature dependence of hot carrier relaxation in PbSe nanocrystals: an ab initio study

Temperature dependent dynamics of phonon-assisted relaxation of hot carriers, both electrons and holes, is studied in a PbSe nanocrystal using ab initio time-domain density functional theory. The electronic structure is first calculated, showing that the hole states are denser than the electron states. Fourier transforms of the time resolved energy levels show that the hot carriers couple to both acoustic and optical phonons. At higher temperature, more phonon modes in the high frequency range participate in the relaxation process due to their increased occupation number. The phonon-assisted hot carrier relaxation time is predicted using non-adiabatic molecular dynamics, and the results clearly show a temperature-activation behavior. The complex temperature dependence is attributed to the combined effects of the phonon occupation number and the thermal expansion. Comparing the simulation results with experiments, we suggest that the multiphonon relaxation channel is efficient at high temperature, while the Auger-like process may dominate the relaxation at low temperature. This combined mechanism can explain the weak temperature dependence at low temperature and stronger temperature dependence at higher temperature.
Vertical Structure of the Tropical Boundary Layer

Abstract Obsemations presented show that the undisturbed subcloud layer near the ITCZ resembles that of the trades. Mixed and transition layers are also seen between cloud drafts during disturbed periods when shallow mixed layers (∼200 m) can persist for several hours. Modification of the lower atmosphere during disturbed periods is most marked in the lowest 1200 m. Mixed layers are observed during prolonged disturbed periods; disturbed mixed layers are shallower and cooler than undisturbed ones. Light and moderate rainfall events moisten the mixed layer, but mixed layers in the environment around strong rainfall are drier. It is hypothesized that that the effect of a number of downdrafts spreading laterally produces the mixed layer cooling and drying. Observed changes of mixed layer structure with stability, measured by the ratio of mixed layer height to the Monin-Obukhov length, are presented.
Changes in fine sediment size distributions due to interactions with streambed sediments

Abstract In the classical view of fine sediment transport and deposition in streams, particles are expected to be removed from flowing water simply by direct sedimentation onto the streambed. However, recent research has demonstrated that fine sediments can propagate into pore spaces in the streambed due to hyporheic exchange and be removed by a combination of physical and chemical processes. This behaviour can significantly alter fine sediment size distributions during in-stream sediment transport because the physical transport of fine particles and their attachment to bed sediment grains are both a function of the particle size. Herein, we present model simulations for deposition of suspended sediments with a bimodal size distribution. We also applied this approach to analyse the results of laboratory flume observations of suspended sediment deposition. Results from model simulations and flume experiments clearly show that the rate of particle deposition increases with increasing particle size. Thus, the larger particles are preferentially removed from mixtures and there is a fining of the mixed suspensions over time. Both particle deposition mechanisms, i.e. particle sedimentation and filtration, contribute to the fining of the mixed fine particle suspensions over time, and their effects are clearly demonstrated using the fundamental process-based model. These results clearly demonstrate the effects of stream-subsurface exchange on the temporal evolution of the suspended fine sediment size distribution in downstream transport.
Destabilization of Cortical Dendrites and Spines by BDNF

Particle-mediated gene transfer and two-photon microscopy were used to monitor the behavior of dendrites of individual cortical pyramidal neurons coexpressing green fluorescent protein (GFP) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). While the dendrites and spines of neurons expressing GFP alone grew modestly over 24-48 hr, coexpressing BDNF elicited dramatic sprouting of basal dendrites, accompanied by a regression of dendritic spines. Compared to GFP-transfected controls, the newly formed dendrites and spines were highly unstable. Experiments utilizing Trk receptor bodies, K252a, and overexpression of nerve growth factor (NGF) demonstrated that these effects were mediated by secreted BDNF interacting with extracellular TrkB receptors. Thus, BDNF induces structural instability in dendrites and spines, which, when restricted to particular portions of a dendritic arbor, may help translate activity patterns into specific morphological changes.
A polyketide macrolactone synthase from the filamentous fungus Gibberella zeae

Resorcylic acid lactones represent a unique class of fungal polyketides and display a wide range of biological activities, such as nanomolar inhibitors of Hsp90 and MAP kinase. The biosynthesis of these compounds is proposed to involve two fungal polyketide synthases (PKS) that function collaboratively to yield a 14-membered macrolactone with a resorcylate core. We report here the reconstitution of Gibberella zeae PKS13, which is the nonreducing PKS associated with zearalenone biosynthesis. Using a small molecule mimic of the natural hexaketide starter unit, we reconstituted the entire repertoire of PKS13 activities in vitro, including starter-unit selection, iterative condensation, regioselective C2-C7 cyclization, and macrolactone formation. PKS13 synthesized both natural 14-membered and previously uncharacterized 16-membered resorcylic acid lactones, indicating relaxed control in both iterative elongation and macrocyclization. PKS13 exhibited broad starter-unit specificities toward fatty acyl-CoAs ranging in sizes between C6 and C16 and displayed the highest activity toward decanoyl-CoA. PKS13 was shown to be active in Escherichia coli and synthesized numerous alkyl pyrones and alkyl resorcylic esters without exogenously supplied precursors. We demonstrated that PKS13 can interact with E. coli fatty acid biosynthetic machinery and can be primed with fatty-acyl ACPp at low-micromolar concentrations. PKS13 synthesized new polyketides in E. coli when the culture was supplemented with synthetic precursors, showcasing its utility in precursor-directed biosynthesis. PKS13 is therefore a highly versatile polyketide macrolactone synthase that is useful in the engineered biosynthesis of polyketides, including resorcylic acid lactones that are not found in nature.
Solution of laue back reflection patterns of sapphire crystals using a computer technique

A computer algorithm for the rapid solution of Laue back reflection patterns of sapphire crystals is described, (although other hexagonal systems could be indexed with minor changes). Reflections of planes having indices (3, 3, 3) and lower are indexed without using Wulff nets, Greninger charts, and so forth. Any film to specimen distance may be used and the systematic errors associated with this measurement are minimized to determine its best value. The computational scheme compares the angles associated with the reflections from the X-ray patterns and the true interplanar angles which are calculated from the computer program.
Metal complexation kinetics of serine.

Abstract Rate constants for the formation and dissociation of l -serine complexes of Ni(II), Co(II), Cu(II) and Zn(II) have been determined by the temperature-jump technique. For the overall reaction at 25° and I = 0.1 M, ML n−1 + L ⇌ k −n k n ML n (where M = Ni(II), Co(II), Cu(II) or Zn(II), L = anionic form of the ligand, n = 1, 2, or 3, and charges have been neglected), the results are: Ni(II), k1 = 2.9·104 M−1·sec−1, k−1 = 0.11 sec−1, k2 = 3.4·104 M−1·sec−1, k−2 = 1.6 sec−1, k3 = 3.0·104 M−1·sec−1, k−3 = 28 sec−1; Co(II), k1 = 2.0·106 M−1·sec−1, k−1 = 93 sec−1k2 = 2.0·106 M−1·sec−1, k−2 = 930 sec−1; Cu(II), k1 = 2.5·109 M−1·sec−1, k2 = 5.108k−2 = 150 sec−1; Zn(II)_, k 1 approx. 1.10 8 M −1 · sec t 1 approx. 2.10 3 sec − . These results are interpreted in terms of a mechanism in which the rate-determining step for complex formation is the loss of a water molecule from the metal ion's inner coordination sphere. (A possible exception is the reaction sifCuL + L ⇌ CuL2, where changes in the metal ion's configuration may affect the forward rate.) All the dissociative rate constants appear to be influenced by the bond weakening effect of the β-hydroxyl group on the coordinate linkage.
A proposal to limit otoscopy to reduce unnecessary use of antibiotics: a call for research.

Acute otitis media (AOM) is the most common bacterial infection in childhood, accounting for more than 10 million prescriptions written in the USA alone. Otoscopy is the only method to diagnose AOM, is difficult to perform in young children and has been found to be inaccurate. Otoscopy has certain risks, the most common of which are child discomfort, trauma to the external ear canal and parental anxiety. Current guidelines emphasize the importance of making an accurate diagnosis of AOM, which includes the presence of fever, otalgia or both. We propose a new strategy to limit the use of otoscopy to circumstances in which the pretest probability of AOM is high. We suggest indications for mandatory otoscopy and a flow chart outlining a proposal for limiting otoscopy in the management of AOM. Clinical research evaluating the rational use of otoscopy is encouraged to evaluate outcomes and acceptance of this proposal. Limiting otoscopy to clinical conditions in which the likelihood of AOM is high may reduce unn...
Self-organization and landscape evolution:

Self-organization is common in earth surface systems, and related principles have been proposed as general principles applicable to geomorphic systems. Non-self-organizing behaviour is also observed in geomorphic systems, however. If a reasonable box-and-arrow diagram and associated qualitative interaction matrix can be devised for a geomorphic system, one can determine whether or not (or under what conditions) the system is self-organizing. Both self- organizing (at-a-station hydraulic geometry) and non-self-organizing (soil landscape evolution) geomorphic systems are illustrated. The development of topographic relief demonstrates the principle that landscape evolution may be characterized by both modes at different times or under different circumstances. Increasing relief, involving a mean divergence of elevations, may be self- organizing. Topographic development by decreasing relief, where elevations generally converge, is always non-self-organizing. Self-organization in geomorphology may be similar to...
Sediments with the remains of dinosaurs near Gokwe, Rhodesia

Abstract Bones and teeth of large dinosaurs, and a single specimen of a non-marine lamellibranch, have been found in sandstones west and southwest of Gokwe, Rhodesia. These previously unknown sediments are named the Gokwe Formation, which has a maximum thickness of about 300 ft. It is divided into a lower calcareous member and an upper white sandstone member. The Gokwe Formation rests unconformably on the Karroo System and is unconformably overlain by Kalahari Beds. The sediments represent the filling of a comparatively small lake, and are thought to be either latest Jurassic or earliest Cretaceous in age. The extreme rarity of such deposits in southern Africa gives their discovery an added significance.
Continuous positive airway pressure and conventional mechanical ventilation in the treatment of meconium aspiration syndrome

Meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS) is a complex syndrome that ranges in severity from mild respiratory distress to severe respiratory failure, persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn and sometimes death. Understanding of the syndrome's complicated pathophysiology will help determine the appropriate treatment strategy, including the use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), conventional mechanical ventilation (CMV) and other therapies. Approximately 30 to 50% of infants diagnosed with MAS will require CPAP or mechanical ventilation. The optimum modes of ventilation for MAS are not known. Very few studies have been conducted to determine 'best' ventilatory strategies. Despite the introduction, over the last two decades, of innovative ventilatory treatments for this disease (for example, surfactant, high-frequency ventilation, inhaled nitric oxide, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation), the majority of infants can be successfully managed with CPAP or mechanical ventilation alone.
Estimation of cold hardiness of Douglas‐fir and Engelmann spruce seedlings by differential thermal analysis of buds*

SUMMARY Low temperature freezing points of conifer buds were determined by differential thermal analysis and were compared to results obtained in whole plant freezing tests of the same seedlings. To obtain well-defined, meaningful exotherms, it was necessary to nucleate buds externally. The low temperature exotherms for buds occurred at temperatures very close to the lowest which seedlings tolerate with no visible injury. Thus, for Engelmann spruce and Douglas-fir, differential thermal analysis may provide a convenient prediction of containerised tree seedling hardiness.
Coaching Intervention As a Strategy for Minority Recruitment to Cancer Clinical Trials

Among racial/ethnic minority study participants, quality of life and positive attitude toward trials predicted trial enrollment, regardless of assignment to a coaching intervention or usual care.
Instrumented Indentation Contact with Sharp Probes of Varying Acuity

While elastic and plastic material property extraction from instrumented indentation tests has been well-studied, similarly-based fracture property measurement remains difficult. Furthermore, estimation of the fracture toughness requires measurement of the crack lengths from a micrograph, which makes nano-scale indentation toughness measurement expensive and difficult. Initiation and propagation of cracks on the nano-scale requires a more acute indenter than a Berkovich or sphere, such as the cube-corner pyramid. Experiments described here were performed on a range of elastic, plastic and brittle materials with diamond indenters of acuity varying between the Berkovich and the cube-corner. These experiments reveal some of what is changed and what remains the same, when the acuity of the probe is changed, when fracture is initiated at the contact, or both. A preliminary model for the physical origin of the extra crack-driving power of acute probes is presented in light of these, and complementary macro-scale in-situ indentation experiments. This work provides the basis for development of instrumented indentation-based nano-scale toughness measurement.
Recent Advances in the Theory of Nuclear Forces and its Relevance for the Microscopic Approach to Dense Matter

The theory of nuclear forces has made great progress since the turn of the millenium using the framework of chiral effective field theory (ChEFT). The advantage of this approach, which was originally proposed by Weinberg, is that it has a firm basis in quantum-chromodynamics and allows for quantitative calculations. Moreover, this theory generates two-nucleon forces (2NF) and many-body forces on an equal footing and provides an explanation for the empirically known fact that 2NF ≫ 3NF ≫ 4NF. I will present the recent advances in more detail and put them into historical context. In addition, I will also provide a critical evaluation of the progress made including a discussion of the limitations of the ChEFT approach.
An rRNA Fragment and Its Antisense Can Alter Decoding of Genetic Information

rRNA plays a central role in protein synthesis and is intimately involved in the initiation, elongation, and termination stages of translation. However, the mode of its participation in these reactions, particularly as to the decoding of genetic information, remains elusive. In this paper, we describe a new approach that allowed us to identify an rRNA segment whose function is likely to be related to translation termination. By screening an expression library of random rRNA fragments, we identified a fragment of the Escherichia coli 23S rRNA (nucleotides 74 to 136) whose expression caused readthrough of UGA nonsense mutations in certain codon contexts in vivo. The antisense RNA fragment produced a similar effect, but in neither case was readthrough of UAA or UAG observed. Since termination at UGA in E. coli specifically requires release factor 2 (RF2), our data suggest that the fragments interfere with RF2-dependent termination.
Efficient introduction of alkene functionality into proteins in vivo

The methionine analogue 2-amino-5-hexenoic acid (homoallylglycine, Hag) can be utilized by Escherichia coli in the initiation and elongation steps of protein biosynthesis. Use of an E. coli methionine auxotroph and Hag-supplemented medium resulted in replacement of ca. 85% of the methionine residues in mouse dihydrofolate reductase expressed under control of a bacteriophage T5 promoter. N-terminal sequencing indicated 92±5% occupancy of the initiator site by Hag. The vinyl function of Hag remains intact in the purified protein and suggests new chemistries for modification of natural and artificial proteins prepared in bacterial hosts.
A fast algorithm for Nevanlinna-Pick interpolation

A new fast algorithm is derived for the scalar Nevanlinna-Pick interpolation problem. This fast algorithm requires approximately 28% fewer multiplications than the classical algorithm. The algorithm is based on the three-term recurrence similar to that of the so-called split algorithms for linear prediction. >
Toward a Unified Model of Passive Drug Permeation II: The Physiochemical Determinants of Unbound Tissue Distribution with Applications to the Design of Hepatoselective Glucokinase Activators

In this work, we leverage a mathematical model of the underlying physiochemical properties of tissues and physicochemical properties of molecules to support the development of hepatoselective glucokinase activators. Passive distribution is modeled via a Fick-Nernst-Planck approach, using in vitro experimental data to estimate the permeability of both ionized and neutral species. The model accounts for pH and electrochemical potential across cellular membranes, ionization according to Henderson-Hasselbalch, passive permeation of the neutral species using Fick’s law, and passive permeation of the ionized species using the Nernst-Planck equation. The mathematical model of the physiochemical system allows derivation of a single set of parameters governing the distribution of drug molecules across multiple conditions both in vitro and in vivo. A case study using this approach in the development of hepatoselective glucokinase activators via organic anion-transporting polypeptide–mediated hepatic uptake and impaired passive distribution to the pancreas is described. The results for these molecules indicate the permeability penalty of the ionized form is offset by its relative abundance, leading to passive pancreatic exclusion according to the Nernst-Planck extension of Fickian passive permeation. Generally, this model serves as a useful construct for drug discovery scientists to understand subcellular exposure of acids or bases using specific physiochemical properties.
The influence of preoperative learning on the recovery of a successive brightness discrimination

The recovery of a successive two-choice brightness discrimination following posterior neodecortication is significantly impaired if the reinforcement contingencies of the postoperative task are the reverse of those learned preoperatively. These results replicate a simultaneous two-choice brightness discrimination.
Non-separable extensions of quadrature mirror filters to multiple dimensions

Generalized non-separable extensions of quadrature mirror filter (QMF) banks to two and three dimensions, in which the orientation specificity of the high-pass filters is greatly improved, are described. In particular, extensions to two dimensions with hexagonal symmetry, and 3-D spatiotemporal extensions with rhombic-dodecahedral symmetry, are discussed. Although these filters are conceived and designed on nonstandard sampling lattices, they can be applied to rectangularly sampled images. As in one dimension, these transformations can be hierarchically cascaded to form a multiscale pyramid representation. A set of example filters is designed and applied to the problems of image compression, progressive transmission, orientation analysis, and motion analysis. >
A micromechanical relay with a thermally-driven mercury micro-drop

We present a mercury-contact micro-mechanical relay. While microrelays have been introduced to MEMS on several occasions, all are based on solid contacts, leaving the same contact problems faced by macroscale mechanical relays. The goal of our device is to use mercury to eliminate surface degradation, signal bounce, and high resistance at contacts common in solid contact devices. Descriptions of the design and fabrication of a micromechanical relay with a thermally-driven 25 /spl mu/m mercury micro-drop are presented, including the technique for formation of mercury droplets, as well as some data on the switching performance of the relay. Video demonstration of the actuation sequence will be presented.
The efficacy of vigorous-intensity exercise as an aid to smoking cessation in adults with elevated anxiety sensitivity: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

Although cigarette smoking is a leading cause of death and disability in the United States (US), over 40 million adults in the US currently smoke. Quitting smoking is particularly difficult for smokers with certain types of psychological vulnerability. Researchers have frequently called attention to the relation between smoking and anxiety-related states and disorders, and evidence suggests that panic and related anxiety vulnerability factors, specifically anxiety sensitivity (AS or fear of somatic arousal), negatively impact cessation. Accordingly, there is merit to targeting AS among smokers to improve cessation outcome. Aerobic exercise has emerged as a promising aid for smoking cessation for this high-risk (for relapse) group because exercise can effectively reduce AS and other factors predicting smoking relapse (for example, withdrawal, depressed mood, anxiety), and it has shown initial efficacy for smoking cessation. The current manuscript presents the rationale, study design and procedures,and design considerations of the Smoking Termination Enhancement Project (STEP). STEP is a randomized clinical trial that compares a vigorous-intensity exercise intervention to a health and wellness education intervention as an aid for smoking cessation in adults with elevated AS. One hundred and fifty eligible participants will receive standard treatment (ST) for smoking cessation that includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). In addition, participants will be randomly assigned to either an exercise intervention (ST+EX) or a health and wellness education intervention (ST+CTRL). Participants in both arms will meet 3 times a week for 15 weeks, receiving CBT once a week for the first 7 weeks, and 3 supervised exercise or health and wellness education sessions (depending on randomization) per week for the full 15-week intervention. Participants will be asked to set a quit date for 6 weeks after the baseline visit, and smoking cessation outcomes as well as putative mediator variables will be measured up to 6 months following the quit date. The primary objective of STEP is to evaluate whether vigorous-intensity exercise can aid smoking cessation in anxiety vulnerable adults. If effective, the use of vigorous-intensity exercise as a component of smoking cessation interventions would have a significant public health impact. Specifically, in addition to improving smoking cessation treatment outcome, exercise is expected to offer benefits to overall health, which may be particularly important for smokers. The study is also designed to test putative mediators of the intervention effects and therefore has the potential to advance the understanding of exercise-anxiety-smoking relations and guide future research on this topic. ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT01065506, http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01065506
Female preferences and effective population size

As effective population size (N e ) decreases, genetic factors may become relatively important to a population's or species' persistence. Conservation biologists should be aware of anything that can potentially cause a sudden reduction in N e . I used simple models to illustrate how certain types of female mating preferences combined with certain types of male traits may lead to a sudden and substantial decrease in N e . Specifically, if and when there is a sudden ‘downward’ shift in the expression of condition-dependent male traits, females using fixed-threshold mate choice criteria might find fewer acceptable males. While mechanisms of female choice remain elusive, a variety of sexually selected traits may be condition dependent. Because the expression of condition-dependent traits is likely to be impacted by natural or human-induced environmental changes, behavioral and conservation biologists should pay special attention to them around the mating season. Armed with knowledge of condition-dependent male traits, it may be possible to minimize the impact on condition-dependent traits while planning translocations or reintroductions.
A conjugated polyelectrolyte-based fluorescence sensor for pyrophosphate.

A new fluorescence turn-on sensor consisting of PPE-CO2–/Cu2+ shows high selectivity for pyrophosphate over other anions and is used to develop a real-time assay for alkaline phosphatase.
Hippocrates of Cos

We know from history that what we know about Hippocrates (460–370 BC) is more legend than reality. In this regard, what can we believe about Hippocrates’ career and developments? That is, where did...
Multichannel marketing: Mindset and program development

Abstract Individual consumers have quickly embraced the practice of using a variety of channels through which to make their purchases, as 65–70% of them are multichannel shoppers. Indeed, multichannel shoppers (defined as those who utilize a variety of different purchasing channels, including bricks-and-mortar stores, the telephone, and the Internet) are now in the majority, and spend significantly more than single-channel shoppers. Given this reality, it is critical that organizations adopt a multichannel mindset and effectively employ a multichannel marketing program, as these can enhance profitability, the customer experience, and customer satisfaction. It is the aim of this article to provide firms with guidance in developing an effective multichannel mindset and in designing a multichannel marketing program for serving end-consumers in business to consumer (B2C) situations.
Poor Youth Do Want To Be Middle Class But It's Not Easy

This paper explores certain goals and values held by poor youth, and identifies some of the factors that appear to aid or block the goal attainment process. From a sample of 1,327 male adolescents (Caucasian and Negro) between the ages of 16 and 18 who were enrolled in the Job Corps, data were obtained that suggest that these youth aspire to a style of life that resembles that of the middle class. Perceptions and comments of these youth do not tend to support the proposition that the lower class culture has a built-in set of values that discourage social mobility. Rather it would appear that lower class parents, while having the desire to have their children succeed, lack the abilities important to facilitate movement into more advantageous social positions.
Paclitaxel and concurrent radiation for locally advanced pancreatic and gastric cancer: a phase I study.

PURPOSETo determine the maximum-tolerated dose (MTD), dose-limiting toxicities, and potential antitumor activity of weekly paclitaxel with concurrent radiation (RT) for locally advanced pancreatic and gastric cancer.PATIENTS AND METHODSThirty-four patients with locally advanced adenocarcinoma of the pancreas or stomach were studied. The initial dose of paclitaxel was 30 mg/m2 by 3-hour intravenous (I.V.) infusion repeated every week for 6 weeks with 50 Gy RT. Doses were escalated at 10-mg/m2 increments in successive cohorts of three new patients until dose-limiting toxicity was observed.RESULTSThe dose-limiting toxicities at 60 mg/m2/wk were abdominal pain within the RT field, nausea, and anorexia. Of 23 patients with assessable disease, 11 (seven with gastric, four with pancreatic cancer) had objective responses for an overall response rate of 48%.CONCLUSIONConcurrent paclitaxel with upper abdominal RT is well tolerated at dosages that have substantial activity. A phase II trial of neoadjuvant paclitaxel...
Low stress and high thermal conductive underfill for cu/low-k application

SiC particles and epoxy resin were applied to prepare a potential high thermal conductivity underfill material. SiC particles are thermally coated with a nano layer silica by oxidation at high temperature. Then silane was used as the surface treatment of the silica coated SiC particles to improve the interaction between filler and polymer matrix. TEM and TGA measurements were used to characterize the treated SiC particles. Mechanical properties of the epoxy composite with the treated SiC filler were measured by DMA, TMA and die shear adhesion test. This study also focused on optimizing the thermal conductivity of the polymer composites by filler surface pretreatment to increase interfacial bonding and decrease the thermal resistance.
Two Basic Amino Acids C-Terminal of the Proximal Box Specify Functional Binding of the Vitamin D Receptor to Its Rat Osteocalcin Deoxyribonucleic Acid- Responsive Element

Nuclear hormone receptor-responsive element binding specificity has been reported to reside predominantly in the proximal box (P-box), three amino acids located in a DNA-recognition α-helix situated on the C-terminal side of the first zinc finger. To further define the residues in the vitamin D receptor (VDR) DNA binding domain (DBD) that mediate its interaction as a retinoid X receptor (RXR) heterodimer with the rat osteocalcin vitamin D-responsive element (VDRE), chimeric receptors were created in which the core DBD of VDR was replaced with that of the homodimerizing glucocorticoid receptor (GR). Systematic alteration of GR DBD amino acids in these chimeras to VDR DBD residues identified arg-49 and lys-53, just C-terminal of the P-box within the base recognition α-helix of human VDR (hVDR), as the only two amino acids among 36 differences required to convert the GR core zinc finger domain to that of the VDR. Gel mobility shift and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3-stimulated transcription assays verified that an...
Effect of Coeducational and Segregated Classes on Tennis Achievement.

Abstract This study was performed to determine whether the achievement of tennis skills by beginning tennis players is affected by whether the classes are coeducational or not. College freshman men and women (N=64) were randomly selected and assigned to four classes, two coeducational and two segregated. The four classes were instructed in beginning tennis skills for a period of one semester, meeting two periods per week. Initial and final tests were administered and an analysis of covariance on the final adjusted scores indicated no significant difference. Within-group t tests were computed and all ratios were significant beyond the .05 level. Men and women made significant achievement on tennis skill, as measured by a wall board test, when taught either coeducationally or in separate segregated classes.
High-riding jugular bulb presenting as conductive hearing loss

Abstract The superior border of the jugular bulb normally lies below the hypotympanum. However, in rare cases, the jugular bulb may extend upwards elevating the floor of the hypotympanum and presenting in the middle-ear space. We present a case of a child with a bone-covered jugular bulb that mimicked the appearance of a mass impinging on the round window niche causing conductive hearing loss. In addition to a cholesteatoma or neoplasm, a bone-covered jugular bulb should also be considered when formulating a differential diagnosis in patients with similar clinical and radiologic findings.
Role of distribution factors in congestion revenue rights applications

In the locational marginal price (LMP)-based congestion management scheme, transmission customers face uncertainty in the congestion charges they incur. In order to bring certainty to customers, congestion revenue rights (CRR) such as the fixed transmission rights (FTR) used in the PJM interconnection and flowgate rights (FGR) are introduced. These CRR are financial tools that provide the holder reimbursement of the congestion charges incurred in the day-ahead market. The implementation of CRR requires appropriate modeling of the transmission network in which the distribution factors are extensively used. These factors-the injection shift factors (ISFs) and the power transfer distribution factors (PTDFs)-are linear approximations of the sensitivities of the active power line flows with respect to various variables. The factors are computed for a specified network topology and parameter values. In practice, the PTDFs used for the CRR issuance may be different from those used in the day-ahead market due to changes in the forecasted network conditions. The PTDF errors may impact the FTR issuance quantities, the revenue adequacy of the FTR issuer and the hedging ability of the FGR. In this paper, we explore analytical characteristics of these distribution factors and investigate their role in CRR applications. We study the nature of the PTDF errors and examine their impacts in these applications, both analytically and experimentally. Our results indicate that the impacts of the PTDF errors in CRR applications stay in an acceptable range under a broad spectrum of conditions including contingencies used to establish n-1 security.
Processing issues for thin-film CdTe cells and modules

Among emerging thin-film PV technologies, CdTe-based modules have displayed perhaps the most flexibility with respect to their method of manufacture. Device efficiencies have reached >15% and there appears to be no inherent device instability. Nonetheless, there remain serious technical challenges which must be met if CdTe modules are to be manufactured at a commercially attractive level. This paper identifies and discusses these issues.
Photodynamic therapy and head and neck cancer treatment

SummaryFifty-two patients with neoplastic diseases of the larynx, oral cavity, pharynx and skin have been treated with photodynamic therapy (PDT) with follow-up to 60 months. Patients with carcinoma-in situ and T1 carcinomas obtained a complete response after one PDT treatment. All but two have remained free of disease. Five patients with massive neck recurrences of squamous cell carcinomas were treated with intraoperative adjuvant PDT following tumour resection. Only one developed recurrence with 24-month follow-up. PDT is highly effective for the curative treatment of early carcinomas (CIS, T1) of the head and neck. Also, intraoperative adjuvant PDT may increase cure rates of large infiltrating carcinomas of the head and neck.
Service workers' responses to abuse of the elderly.

The social service providers and physicians who encounter elder abuse have several potential avenues of intervention open to them in helping the elderly. Practice and training issues are discussed that are relevant for improving interventions and referrals in cases of family abuse of the elderly. Language: en
Consideration of Exciton Models to Explain Superconductivity Transition above 150 K in HgBa$_{2}$Ca$_{2}$Cu$_{3}$O$_{8+\delta}$ at Ultra-High Pressure

It has been recently reported that the shoulder of the superconducting transition in HgBa$\_{2}$Ca$\_{2}$Cu$\_{3}$O$\_{8+\delta}$ can be elevated from ca. 133 K to ca. 153 K as pressure (P) is raised from 1 atm (ca. 10$^{5}$ Pa) to 150 kbar (1.5 $\times $ 10$^{10}$ Pa). The data show an approximately linear T$\_{\text{c}}$ against P up to ca. 17 kbar (1.7 $\times $ 10$^{9}$ Pa) (hydrostatic), and thereafter (non-hydrostatic) indication of saturation or slope change. It is the purpose of this paper to discuss this pressure enhancement in terms of two general theories of exciton-induced high-T$\_{\text{c}}$ superconductivity, namely the viewpoint of the virtual exciton and that of the condensation of excitons.
Feeding Behavior of Pear Psylla (Homoptera: Psyllidae) Nymphs on Susceptible and Resistant Pyrus Germplasm

In laboratory studies, pear psylla, Cacopsylla pyricola (Forester), readily fed on ‘Bartlett,’ ‘Seckel,’ and ‘Monterrey’ pear ( Pyrus spp.). On known psylla-resistant genotypes, ‘NY10352,’ ‘NY10355,’ and ‘Bradford,’ psylla probed frequently and moved about, but either left the plant or died after little feeding. Results of these behavioral studies indicate that susceptible and resistant genotypes can be readily distinguished in a 24-h bioassay.
Advances in open microsurgery for cerebral aneurysms.

Background Endovascular techniques introduced strong extrinsic forces that provoked reactive changes in aneurysm surgery. Microsurgery has become less invasive, more appealing to patients, lower risk, and efficacious for complex aneurysms, particularly those unfavorable for or failing endovascular therapy. Objective To review specific advances in open microsurgery for aneurysms. Methods A university-based, single-surgeon practice was examined for the use of minimally invasive craniotomies, surgical management of recurrence after coiling, the use of intracranial-intracranial bypass techniques, and cerebrovascular volume-outcome relationships. Results The mini-pterional, lateral supraorbital, and orbital-pterional craniotomies are minimally invasive alternatives to standard craniotomies. Mini-pterional and lateral supraorbital craniotomies were used in one-fourth of unruptured patients, increasing from 22% to 28%, whereas 15% of patients underwent orbital-pterional craniotomies and trended upward from 11% to 20%. Seventy-four patients were treated for coil recurrences (2.3% of all aneurysms) with direct clip occlusion (77%), clip occlusion after coil extraction (7%), or parent artery occlusion with bypass (16%). Intracranial-intracranial bypass (in situ bypass, reimplantation, reanastomosis, and intracranial grafts) transformed the management of giant aneurysms and made the surgical treatment of posterior inferior cerebellar artery aneurysms competitive with endovascular therapy. Centralization maximized the volume-outcome relationships observed with clipping. Conclusion Aneurysm microsurgery has embraced minimalism, tailoring the exposure to the patient's anatomy with the smallest possible craniotomy that provides adequate exposure. The development of intracranial-intracranial bypasses is an important advancement that makes microsurgery a competitive option for complex and recurrent aneurysms. Trends toward centralizing aneurysm surgery in tertiary centers optimize results achievable with open microsurgery.
ANIMAL RIGHTS: A REPLY TO HOWARD

Many scientists would assent to both these propositions. Most of us, whether we accept the notion of animal rights or not, probably would grant that people in general have rights, although not all human organisms have them (which is why abortion is not necessarily murder-Singer, 1985). If some but not all human organisms have rights, then people that do have rights must possess them by virtue of characteristics that they exhibit as individuals (not simply by virtue of their membership in Homo sapiens). If infants and the mentally retarded are among those humans that have rights, they must possess them by virtue of individual characteristics that they share with many non-human animals. Those animals must therefore possess similar rights by virtue of their individual characteristics. This argument seems to follow validly from its premises (including the assumption that immature and defective humans have