cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
ANOMALIES OF NEURO-SENSORY FUNCTIONS AND REPRESENTATIONAL WORLD IN SCHIZOPHRENICS

ABSTRACT Deficiencies of the vestibulo-ocular reflex, of vestibular regulation of body posture, and of ocular scanning performance in schizophrenics are considered as evidence for a disarray of neural mechanisms which normally insure the spatial organization of perception and cognition.
Synthesis of Cyclic β-Silylalkenyl Triflates via an Alkenyl Cation Intermediate

Trimethylsilylalkyne derivatives are transformed into cyclic β-silylalkenyl triflates through cationic cyclization and subsequent trapping of the alkenyl cation by a triflate anion. β-Silylcyclohexenyl triflates and 3-trimethylsilyl-1,4-dihydronaphth-2-yl triflates are generated efficiently using this methodology. These products provide ready access to substituted cyclohexynes, exemplified by a concise total synthesis of β-apopicropodophyllin.
Mechanical Isolation and Temperature Compensation in Soft Elastomer Components

This paper presents the design of stretchable elastomer-liquid metal capacitors fabricated with mechanical isolation structures. We envision potential application to stretchable and strain stable devices such as chemical sensors, as well as temperature compensation in soft sensors. A strength of the employed isolation approach is the ability to fabricate strain sensitive and strain isolated capacitors in the same substrate. A finite element model is presented, and the responses to $x$ -axis strain, $y$ -axis strain, and temperature are characterized. The capacitor with a labyrinth isolation structure shows a five-fold reduction in $x$ -axis strain response over a capacitor without isolation. Co-fabricated strain sensitive and strain isolated capacitors show a factor-of-four reduction in temperature response over the strain sensitive capacitor, demonstrating potential applications as a temperature compensated and stretchable strain or pressure sensors.
CHAPTER 16 – Application-Specific Small Field-of-View Nuclear Emission Imagers in Medicine

This chapter describes small portable gamma cameras also known as small field of view (FOV), which refers to a FOV significantly smaller than that of the standard scintillation camera. While a conventional camera is designed to image everything from thin bones to the entire trunk of the body, a small-FOV camera focuses only on a specific region or organ of the body. There are several advantages of using a small camera. For example in the case of breast imaging, a small imager could be configured with a size and shape compatible with standard mammography fixtures for compressing and immobilizing breasts during tumor localization or core biopsy. In addition, with breast compression, the spatial resolution and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) should be superior to that attainable with conventional scintillation-camera studies simply because of less gamma-ray attenuation and closer proximity to the detector. Another advantage of the small camera concept is that, because of the small FOV, the camera can be designed to have significantly higher intrinsic spatial resolution than the conventional scintillation camera at a reasonable cost. This chapter also discusses general design and performance issues for small field of view (FOV) nuclear emission imager development and also reviews recent designs and applications of small FOV imagers.
One to Another: Sharing Migration Stories.

What is the purpose of a border? Rhetoric and political actions that seek to criminalize the actions of migrants and refugees continue to incite passionate responses from people of all backgrounds ...
Managing soils for resolving the conflict between agriculture and nature: The hard talk

Among soil‐centric options for addressing global issues being intensely debated by soil scientists, ecologists and earth scientists regarding their effectiveness and applicability are: (a) harnessing soil carbon (C) sink capacity for adaptation and mitigation of climate change; (b) reducing soil erosion as a source of greenhouse gases and the need to include it in the global C budget; (c) enhancing use efficiency of inputs to agroecosystems and returning land, water and other resources back to nature; (d) using global drylands, saline culture, halomorphic plants and brackish water for provisioning of ecosystem services; and (e) adopting a system‐based conservation agriculture for eco‐intensification of agroecosystems as a strategy of “producing more from less”. Not only should agriculture be made a solution for addressing global issues, but it is also essential to reconciling the need for advancing food and nutritional security with the absolute necessity of enhancing the environment, restoring degraded soils and desertified ecosystems, and advancing Sustainable Development Goals or the Agenda 2030. HIGHLIGHTS: Sustainable soil management, degraded soil restoration abridging agronomic yield gap and improving the environment are important to achieve world peace. Sustainable eco‐intensification of agro‐ecosystems reduces inputs and enhances use efficiency by restoring soil health. Harnessing soil carbon sink capacity includes reducing accelerated soil erosion for adaptation and mitigation of climate change. System‐based conservation agriculture sustains agronomic productivity and minimizes soil degradation and environmental pollution.
High activity Pd-Fe bimetallic catalysts for aqueous phase hydrogenations

Abstract Palladium-iron bimetallic catalysts were synthesized using carbon-coated silica supports that provided high hydrogenation activity relative to monometallic palladium under condensed-phase hydrothermal conditions. The catalysts were applied to the hydrogenation of carbonyl groups in acetone, 2-pentanone, and propionaldehyde. While Fe incorporation independent of Pd-to-Fe ratio gave enhanced activity, the catalysts having more Fe than Pd gave more than a three-fold increase in hydrogenation activity relative to the Pd only counterpart. The activity enhancement appeared to be related to the influence of Fe on the Pd as Fe under the condensed-phase reaction conditions was inert. The catalysts were also tested for hydrogenation of unsaturated carbon-carbon double bond and aromatic rings in which more moderate activity enhancement was observed. Through evaluating the influence of Pd-to-Fe ratio on catalyst properties and catalytic performance for the range of molecules, it is proposed that the turnover frequency enhancement can be attributed to the formation of Pdδ− via Pd-Fe interaction.
Anaerobic co-digestion of energy crop and agricultural wastes to prepare uniform-format cellulosic feedstock for biorefining

Abstract This study investigated the effects of mixtures of agricultural wastes and energy crop on solid digestate quality and biogas production. The feedstock mixtures of dairy manure and switchgrass (DM:SG) had the similar lag phase with the control feedstock of dairy manure, while was shorter than the feedstock mixtures of dairy manure and corn stover (DM:CS). Under the stable digestion conditions, the mixture of DM:SG at the mixture ratio of 80:20 had the highest methane production of 138 mL/g total solids (TS) loading; the mixtures of DM:SG and DM:CS at the mixture ratio of 60:40 had the highest VS reduction of 25.8%; and the mixture of DM:SG at the mixture ratio of 60:40 had the highest cellulose and xylan reduction of 40.4 and 40.7%, respectively. Two bacterial phyla (Firmicultes and Bacteroidetes) and three archaeal genera (Methanosarcina, Methanobrevibacter, and Methanobacterium) were the abundant microbial communities in all tested digestions. The statistical analysis concludes that anaerobic digestion can homogenize the feedstocks to generate solid digestates with uniform-format carbohydrate composition and similar mono-sugar conversion. The mean cellulose and xylan contents of the solid digestates were 26.6% and 15.2%, respectively. The corresponding mean glucose and xylose conversions of the solid digestates were 82.3% and 98.7%.
The potentiometric titration of fluoride without fluoride ion-selective electrodes

Abstract Graphite and platinum sensors were investigated as indicators in the potentiometric titration of fluoride vs lanthanum(III) and thorium(IV). In every case a partially nonaqueous medium yielded larger breaks than in aqueous solution, similar to the fluoride electrode. All the sensors yielded endpoint breaks which were smaller than those obtained with a fluoride ion-selective electrode. The largest breaks were obtained with the vitreous carbon, pyrolytic graphite, and platinum sensors. Conditioning in neutral permanganate solution significantly enhanced the breaks for all types of graphite, except vitreous carbon. The break obtained with the platinum electrode can be enhanced by application of a polarizing current of 2.0 μA in the reducing direction.
Review of the Highlights from the First Annual Global Neurosurgery 2019: A Practical Symposium.

This paper provides a detailed report of Global Neurosurgery 2019: A Practical Symposium held January 18–19, 2019, at Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA. The meeting convened an international faculty and audience, leaders in the world of global neurosurgery (GNS), and junior faculty and residents beginning their contribution to the field. Remote access for the symposium was provided to include faculty practicing in developing countries. The goal of the symposium was to present the state of the union of GNS initiatives worldwide, to use this forum as a means to centralize resources and converge parallel efforts, and to identify the largest areas of need and successful means of advancing training and care in these areas. The meeting also served as a conduit for the presentation of funding and training opportunities for junior faculty and trainees looking for avenues to gain support and mentorship in pursuing academic and clinical endeavors globally.
MULTIPLIER OPTIMIZATION FOR CONSTANT PROPORTION PORTFOLIO INSURANCE (CPPI) STRATEGY

Constant proportion portfolio insurance (CPPI) strategy is a very popular investment solution which provides an investor with a capital protection as well as allows for an equity market participati...
Calculation of Electronic-Excited-State Absorption Spectra of Water Clusters Using Time-Dependent Density Functional Theory

Calculations are presented of electronic-excited-state absorption spectra for molecular clusters of H2O using time-dependent density functional theory (TD-DFT). Calculation of excited state resonance structure using TD-DFT can provide interpretation of absorption spectra with respect to molecular structure for excitation by electromagnetic waves at frequencies within the UV-visible range. The absorption spectrum corresponding to electronic excitation states of a molecular cluster consisting of a relatively small number of water molecules should be associated with response features that are intermediate between that of isolated molecules and that of a bulk lattice. TD-DFT calculated absorption spectra represent quantitative estimates that can be correlated with additional information obtained from laboratory measurements and other types of theory based calculations. The DFT software GAUSSIAN was used for the calculations of electronic excitation states presented here.
cm2-Scale Synthesis of MoTe2 Thin Films with Large Grains and Layer Control.

Owing to the small energy differences between its polymorphs, MoTe2 can access a full spectrum of electronic states from the 2H semiconducting state to the 1T' semimetallic state and from the Td Weyl semimetallic state to the superconducting state in the 1T' and Td phase at low temperature. Thus, it is a model system for phase transformation studies as well as quantum phenomena such as the quantum spin Hall effect and topological superconductivity. Careful studies of MoTe2 and its potential applications require large-area MoTe2 thin films with high crystallinity and thickness control. Here, we present cm2-scale synthesis of 2H-MoTe2 thin films with layer control and large grains that span several microns. Layer control is achieved by controlling the initial thickness of the precursor MoOx thin films, which are deposited on sapphire substrates by atomic layer deposition and subsequently tellurized. Despite the van der Waals epitaxy, the precursor-substrate interface is found to critically determine the uniformity in thickness and grain size of the resulting MoTe2 films: MoTe2 grown on sapphire show uniform films while MoTe2 grown on amorphous SiO2 substrates form islands. This synthesis strategy decouples the layer control from the variabilities of growth conditions for robust growth results and is applicable to growing other transition-metal dichalcogenides with layer control.
Fast frequency response of inverter-based resources and its impact on system frequency characteristics

Abstract The inertia response and primary frequency regulation capability of synchronous grids are declining owing to the increasing penetration of inverter-based resources. The fast frequency response (FFR) of inverter-based resources is an important mitigation option for maintaining grid security under the conditions of low inertia and insufficient primary frequency response capability. However, the understanding and technical characteristics of the FFR of inverter-based resources are still unclear. Aiming at solving the aforementioned problems, this paper proposes a definition for FFR based on the impact mechanism of FFR on system frequency. The performance requirements of FFR are clarified. Then, the effects of FFR on system frequency characteristics are further analyzed based on steady-state frequency deviation, the initial rate of change of frequency, and the maximum transient frequency deviation. Finally, the system requirements for FFR and its application effects are verified by simulating an actual bulk power grid, providing technical support for subsequent engineering application.
What Will the Life of Riley v. Kennedy Mean for Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act

Riley v. Kennedy is the Roberts Court's first decision involving Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act and also the first Section 5 decision following Congress' 2006 extension and amendment of Section 5. For these reasons, it's important to ponder what the case might mean for the future of Section 5. On the one hand, Riley could be viewed as a very fact-specific, narrow opinion that is unlikely to have much impact on the federal government's use of Section 5 to block voting changes that discriminate against minority voters. On the other hand, Riley could be viewed as an ominous portent of a new Supreme Court strategy for curbing Section 5's application. This Article explores both potential ways in which the life of Riley might play out-hoping for the narrow application, but expecting something more, and calling for Congress to react to the Court's decision in order to preserve the efficacy of Section 5 going forward.
Electron-impact ionization of the Pb atom

Electron-impact ionization cross sections are calculated for the ground configuration of the Pb atom. Time-dependent close-coupling cross sections for the direct ionization of the 6s and 6p subshells leading to single ionization are calculated with and without a polarization potential. Configuration-average distorted-wave cross sections for the direct ionization of the 6s and 6p subshells leading to single ionization are also calculated with and without a polarization potential. We find the time-dependent close-coupling cross sections using a polarization potential to be in good agreement with convergent-close-coupling cross sections using a polarization potential. The total direct ionization cross sections are compared to two sets of experimental measurements. The differences between the direct ionization cross sections and the experimental measurements are mainly due to indirect ionization cross sections coming from the $$6s^2 6p^2 \rightarrow 6s 6p^3$$ excitation followed by autoionization.
Dysfunctional Career Thoughts and the Sophomore Slump Among Students With Learning Disabilities

The present study sought to underline the need for expanded transitioning college programming to the 2nd year by examining dysfunctional career thoughts among college students with learning disabil...
Satisfactory Pain Management With Minimal Opioid Use After Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair

Purpose To evaluate patient use of opioids following arthroscopic rotator cuff repair, including the number of days and number of pills when used in combination with non-opioid medications and to determine whether patients were satisfied with their pain management and if variables such as age, sex, body mass index, duration of symptoms, anticipation of postoperative pain, preoperative opioid consumption, size of the rotator cuff tear, or anxiety/depression affected pain management. Methods This was a prospective cohort study of 117 prospectively enrolled patients older than the age of 18 years undergoing primary arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. All patients completed preoperative and 2-week postoperative questionnaires to assess their pain and satisfaction with pain management. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to evaluate the association of patient characteristics with satisfaction of pain control and amount/duration of opioids postoperatively. Results Patients required a median of 18 opioid pain pills or 135 morphine milligram equivalents (interquartiles, 6-35 pills) postoperatively over 6.9 ± 5.1 days. In total, 65% of patients took opioid pain medications for 7 days or fewer. On postoperative day 2, patients reported a VAS pain score of 6.6 ± 2.8 and at the 2-week postoperative visit, mean visual analog scale pain score was 3.5 ± 2.5. Differences in age, sex, body mass index, duration of symptoms, anticipation of postoperative pain, preoperative 2-item Patient Health Questionnaire, 2-item Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire, current opioid use, and surgical characteristics had no effect on, or association with, satisfaction with pain management postoperatively. Conclusions Following arthroscopic rotator cuff repair, patients can achieve satisfactory pain control using a multimodal approach with a median of 18 opioid pills (range 6-35 pills) over 6.9 ± 5.1 days when used in combination with non-opioid pain medications. Overall, 74.4% of patients were satisfied with their postoperative pain management. Level of Evidence Level II; Prospective cohort study.
Law, Justice, Democracy, and the Clash of Cultures: A Pluralist Account

Part I. Liberal Justice and Fleeting Specters of Unity: 1. Reframing comprehensive pluralism: Hegel versus Rawls 2. Equality and the dialectic between identity and difference 3. Human rights and the clash between universalism and relativism: the case of minority group rights Part II. E Pluribus Unum?: 4. Spinoza's dialectic and the paradoxes of tolerance: can unity be willed out of necessity? 5. The clash between deprivatized religion and relativized secularism: the constitutional conundrum 6. Dworkin and the one law principle: can unity be imposed through an interpretive turn? Part III. Can Pluralism Thrive in Times of Stress? On Globalization, Terror and the Clash of Cultures: 7. Rethinking political rights in times of stress: can pluralism thwart the progression from stress to crisis? 8. Derrida's deconstructive ethics of difference confronts global terrorism: can democracy survive the autoimmune ravage of the terror within us? 9. Habermas's discourse ethics of identity and global terror: can cosmopolitanism, postnationalism, and dialogue downsize the terrorist threat? 10. Conclusion: the hopes of pluralism in a more unified and more fragmented world.
The Platonic Universe

That the part cannot be understood without the whole is a firm Platonic conviction1 whose full consequences only gradually became manifest. The physician cannot treat the ill organ alone but must treat the whole man. One art alone cannot be understood except it be placed in a whole of the arts. An idea becomes intelligible to us only in a synthesis of the ideas. The analogy suggests that no item of a universe can be adequately known unless it exists in a universe which is known. Possibly, then, the man cannot know himself without also knowing the whole universe. At any rate, a universe is created for him in the Timaeus, one which indicates awareness of two important requirements. On one hand it seeks unity and hence is concerned to avoid the gaps which in other dialogues threaten the unity of Platonic thought. Likewise, and in consequence of this care for unity, this universe aims essentially at retaining a rational and knowable character so far as possible (Tim. 29A). And yet, if it is the most inclusive universe, it can scarcely be understood without paradox, for we must ask how this whole is to be understood if it itself cannot be placed in a larger whole.
Investigation of electrical, optical and structural properties of sputtered indium tin oxide thin film

Transparent and conductive Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) films were grown on borosilicate glass substrate by radio frequency (RF) magnetron sputtering process. The effects of sputtering parameters e.g. substrate temperature and RF power levels on electrical, optical and structural properties were examined. The crystallinity, conductivity and optical transparency of the films were evaluated by X-ray diffraction, four-point probe measurement, laser ellipsometry, and optical spectroscopy. The surface roughness and grain size of the films were also investigated using scanning probe microscopy. This paper reports the non-monotonical dependence of substrate temperature on the nanostructure and phases and the complex impact of RF power levels to the conductivities and the optical properties. The critical role of oxygen partial pressure on the energy bandgaps is also inferred.
The Unruliness of Rules

Analytical jurisprudence1 depends on a posited relation between rules and morality. Before we may answer persistent and important questions of legal theory indeed, before we can even know what those questions are we must understand not just the operation of rules but their operation in relation to morality. Once that relationship is formulated, we may then come to terms with the likes of inductive reasoning in Law, the role of precedent, and the fit, such as it is, between Natural Law and Positivism as well as even the coincidence
Abstract 19588: Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitors and Mortality Benefit in Systolic Heart Failure Patients With Glomerular Filtration Rate <30 ml/min/1.73 m2

Introduction: Randomized controlled trials have shown beneficial effect of Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEI) in reducing mortality in patients with systolic heart failure (HF) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) with glomerular filtration rate (GFR) between 30-59 ml/min/1.73m2 but weak evidence exists in patients with GFR < 30 Hypothesis: We hypothesize that ACEI use is associated with lower mortality in CKD patients with GFR < 30. Methods: Using electronic medical records, we identified 2578 patients with advanced CKD defined as GFR < 30 but not on dialysis. We required a GFR < 30 on two occasions over a 60 day period to insure stability of CKD. Clinical outcomes were reviewed following the index date which was the date of first GFR < 30. Results: Of 2,578 patients (mean age 66+/-15, 61% males) with advanced CKD (GFR<30), 1,064 (41%) have been treated with an ACEI while 1,514 (59%) never received an ACEI. Kaplan Meyer Survival showed reduced mortality in the group of patients treated with an A...
Influence of leakage reduction techniques on delay/leakage uncertainty

One of the main challenges for design in the presence of process variations is to cope with the uncertainties in delay and leakage power. In this paper, the influence of leakage reduction techniques on delay/leakage uncertainty is examined through Monte-Carlo analysis. The techniques investigated in this paper include increasing gate length, stack forcing, body biasing, and V/sub dd//V/sub th/ optimization. The impact of technology scaling and temperature sensitivity on the uncertainty reduction are also evaluated. We investigate the uncertainty-power-delay trade-off and suggest techniques for designs targeting different requirements.
Diffuse Optical Tomography of Osteoarthritis

The sections in this article are Motivation Diffuse Optical Tomography Imaging of Osteoarthritis in the Hands DOT and Hybrid X-Ray–DOT Systems DOT Reconstruction Methods Reconstructed Results Diffuse Model Versus Transport Model Image-Guided Optical Spectroscopy in Diagnosis of OA Future Directions Keywords: osteoarthritis; diffuse optical tomography; image-guided optical spectroscopy
Single-Particle Electron Cryomicroscopy of the Ion Channels in the Excitation-Contraction Coupling Junction

Publisher Summary Single-particle electron cryomicroscopy (cryo-EM) is used to determine the structures of large molecular machines where crystallography is impractical or unsuccessful. This chapter reviews this methodology in its entirety from specimen preparation to map interpretation, in the context of the membrane channel proteins essential to excitation–contraction (E–C) coupling in muscle cells. In the case of the Ca 2+ -release channel in sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) membranes, cryo-EM has been used to localize the binding sites of several effectors and to demonstrate conformational changes under different physiological conditions. In addition, the resolution of the most recent cryo-EM reconstruction of the Ca 2+ -release channel in its closed conformation is sufficient to observe the α-helices forming the channel pore. Although the understanding of the molecular mechanism of E–C coupling is expanding rapidly, many essential questions on DHPR/RyR coupling are yet to be answered because of the absence of information about the arrangement of the primary sequences of DHPR and RyR in 3D. Continued progress in improving the resolution of both structures as well as elucidation of the structural changes associated with specific physiological states can lead to a better understanding of this critical biological system.
Pharmacology, Clinical Efficacy, and Adverse Effects of Piroxicam, A New Nonsteroidal Anti‐Inflammatory Agent

Piroxicam, a new non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, possesses analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory properties and inhibits platelet aggregation in animal models. Its elimination half-life is 38 hours, and hepatic metabolism to inactive metabolites is the primary route of elimination. Less than 10% of a dose appears unchanged in the urine. Clinical studies demonstrate that piroxicam's analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties are useful in the management of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Limited clinical studies suggest that piroxicam may be useful in the management of acute gouty arthritis, anklyosing spondylitis, acute musculoskeletal disorders, and as an analgesic. The gastrointestinal system is the major site of adverse effects. Piroxicam is currently marketed in 20 mg capsules and once daily dosing has proven effective for many patients.
Gabor transform of fractional kernels in radiation problems

Exploring the application of fractional calculus in electromagnetic (EM) theory has been one of the subjects of our research interest. We have been utilizing some of the tools of fractional derivatives, fractional integrals, and in general fractionalization of some linear operators into electromagnetism and have been developing the area of fractional paradigm in EM theory. Among these problems, one was the possibility of the using fractionalization of certain operators in addressing some EM problems involving intermediate zones. In our previous study on this problem, our results described the mathematical techniques for fractionalizing the general kernels, which connect the near-zone fields to the far-zone fields for the planar, cylindrical, and spherical observation planes, and provided the physical roles of such fractional kernels in developing tools for analyzing the fields and potentials in intermediate zones. In the present study, we expand our investigation on these fractional kernels by studying the properties of their Gabor transformation in the two-dimensional (2D) radiation or scattering problems.
Interpretation of 3D structure and motion using structured lighting

The problem of analyzing time-varying image sequences using structured lighting is investigated. The goal is to estimate the structure and motion parameters of 3D objects in arbitrary motion from a sequence of structured light-coded images. The surface of the moving objects may be either planar or curved, and the mode of motion can be arbitrary. It is proposed that an active sensing principle in the analysis, in which a light pattern is projected onto the object surface to encode the surface for analysis, be adopted. A structured light-coded image is partitioned into small windows, and each window is assumed to be a view of a piece of a plane, of a sphere, or of a cylinder. And these windows can be processed in parallel. The distortion of the projected pattern observed in an image is related to the surface orientation and structure of the imaged object. Furthermore, as the object moves, the light pattern on the surface changes accordingly. Changes of the observed light pattern over time are utilized to compute the motion of the imaged object. >
Effects of Science and Engineering Practices on Science Achievement and Attitudes of Diverse Students including ELLs

This study examines diverse elementary students including English Language Learners (ELLs)’ science achievements and attitude changes following inquiry-based activity experiences. Thirty seventh-grade students explored the harmful and helpful effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays on the human environment using scientific methods to define problems, develop models, plan and carry out investigations, analyze/interpret data, use mathematics and computational thinking, construct explanations (for science) and designing solutions (for engineering), engage in evidence-based arguments, and evaluate/communicate obtained information. These processes are known as inquiry-oriented approaches (NRC, 2000) and have been deepened and redefined as a set of eight science and engineering practices in the Next Generation of Science Standards (NRC, 2012). Individuals designed their own experiments by choosing different materials to test for the best protector of UV light. The Science exploration sheet (SES), which measured the scientific achievement, showed that 92% of students answered their own questions using their individual scientific models. However, pre- and post-attitude surveys revealed that there was no significant change in students’ attitudes about science/scientists following the inquiry intervention (p< .05). Particularly participating teachers’ views of inquiry teaching experiences to their ELLs were discussed.
Colorimetric Microwell Plate Detection of the Factor V Leiden Mutation

Venous thrombosis is a serious disease that affects ∼1 in 1000 individuals in the US (1). Although thrombophilia has many causes, among the most frequent is activated protein C resistance (2)(3)(4). Activated protein C resistance manifests as an abnormally reduced activated partial thromboplastin time (5). Among nonidiopathic mechanisms, the most common is genetic (6), in particular, a G-to-A substitution at nucleotide 1691 of the factor V gene on chromosome 1 (7). This transition, located in exon 10 of the gene, produces an Arg-to-Gln substitution at amino acid 506 of the protein. Individuals bearing this genetic risk factor for venous thrombosis comprise ∼5% of the general population (8). Amino acid 506 is the less consequential of two important sites for proteolytic cleavage mediated by activated protein C (9). Mutant Va, the α-thrombin-activated membrane-bound cofactor product of the factor V Leiden (FVL) locus, is kinetically inactivated at one-tenth the rate of wild-type Va (5). In addition, wild-type factor V is cleaved at another site, Arg 306 (8)(9), fully inactivating it (6). The combined effects of kinetically slowed inactivation and full inactivation through Arg 306 cleavage are believed to account for the FVL heterozygous effect (6). Screening for the FVL risk factor is considered an important part of a thrombophilia evaluation. Heterozygotes are 5- to 10-fold more likely to suffer a deep vein thrombosis than the general population, whereas individuals with a homozygote FVL genotype are estimated to be at 50- to 100-fold greater risk than those with two wild-type alleles (10)(11)(12). Our aim was to accommodate testing several thousand samples per month at a 25% cost savings over conventional PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP). We developed a reverse allele-specific oligonucleotide (ASO) hybridization assay in a microwell plate format. Our method for …
Molecular Docking Technique for selection of some naproxen derivatives as inhibitors of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2)

Molecular Docking Technique has found utility in selecting of naproxen derivatives as inhibitors of cyclooxygenase 2, knowing the fact that naproxen inhibit both forms of cyclooxygenase.
Reasoning Errors and Belief in the Paranormal

Abstract The hypothesis that belief in the paranormal is related to reasoning errors was tested. College students were administered the Belief in the Paranormal Scale (Jones, Russell, & Nickel, 1977) and a syllogistic reasoning test. A slight but statistically significant correlation was observed between BPS scores and the number of errors made on the reasoning test. This relationship was larger but not significantly so for reasoning items with paranormal content than for symbolic content. An a priori comparison indicated that the relationship between BPS scores and reasoning errors was significantly greater for problems that required subjects to determine the validity of hypotheses given statements of evidence than for problems that required subjects to determine the validity of deduced empirical predictions given hypotheses. Thus, belief in the paranormal among college students was very moderately correlated with reasoning ability and was observed most clearly when the reasoning problems contained paran...
A receiver-centric transport protocol for mobile hosts with heterogeneous wireless interfaces

Numerous transport protocols have been proposed in related work for use by mobile hosts over wireless environments. A common theme among the design of such protocols is that they specifically address the distinct characteristics of the last-hop wireless link, such as random wireless errors, round-trip time variations, blackouts, handoffs, etc. In this paper, we argue that due to the defining role played by the wireless link on a connection's performance, locating the intelligence of a transport protocol at the mobile host that is adjacent to the wireless link can result in distinct performance advantages. To this end, we present a receiver-centric transport protocol called RCP (Reception Control Protocol) that is a TCP clone in its general behavior, but allows for better congestion control, loss recovery, and power management mechanisms compared to sender-centric approaches. More importantly, in the context of recent trends where mobile hosts are increasingly being equipped with multiple interfaces providing access to heterogeneous wireless networks, we show that a receiver-centric protocol such as RCP can enable a powerful and comprehensive transport layer solution for such multi-homed hosts. Specifically, we describe how RCP can be used to provide: (i) a scalable solution to support interface specific congestion control for a single active connection; (ii) seamless server migration capability during handoffs; and (iii) effective bandwidth aggregation when receiving data through multiple interfaces, either from one server, or from multiple replicated servers. We use both packet level simulations, and real Internet experiments to evaluate the proposed protocol.
Fiber optic interconnects for the IBM S/390 parallel enterprise server G5

Fiber optic interconnections ("interconnects") have become an increasingly important part of System/390® over the years. With the introduction of the Generation 5 Parallel Enterprise Server in May 1998, a number of important new fiber optic features and enhancements to existing features were made available for applications in input/output device attachment, networking, and parallel sysplex coupling. In this paper, we describe the main applications of fiber optic data links on System/390, with emphasis on the new features announced with the G5. In particular, we describe the fiber connection (FICON™) links, the Gigabit Ethernet interface for the open systems adapter (OSA Express), the Fiber Transport Services fiber quick connect system featuring a new type of small-form-factor fiber optic connector, and the Geographically Dispersed Parallel Sysplex using the 9729 Optical Wavelength Division Multiplexer. We also describe the use of optical mode-conditioning patch cables in FICON, Gigabit Ethernet, and Parallel Sysplex® data links as a way to reuse an installed multimode cable infrastructure at higher data rates, and to overcome distance-limiting phenomena such as differential mode delay associated with modal power distribution. Technical data is presented for each of these applications, and we discuss how the new fiber optic interconnects fit into the overall IBM strategy for future large systems.
Brain tumor imaging in rats using the positron emitting fatty acid dl-erythro-9,10-[18F]difluoropalmitate.

Positron emittingdl-erythro-9,10[18F]difluoropalmitate, [18F]DFPA, was synthesized for thein vivo imaging of brain tumors in rats. Male Fischer 344 rats were intracerebrally implanted with Walker 256 carcinosarcoma tumor cells (1×106 in 5μ1 tissue culture media) and 7 days later were infused with [18F]DFPA (500-1000mCi/mmol) i.v. for 5 min. Rats were killed after 20 min. Brains were removed and either prepared for autoradiography, or brain and tumor were separated and their radioactivity quantified by gamma spectroscopy. Brain tumors were well demarcated from surrounding and normal brain in autoradiographs, and closely paralleled tumor growth in histological sections. The mean optical density of tumor was significantly greater, by 318±68 per cent (P<0-025,n=3), than normal brain in autoradiographs, and that of edematous brain surrounding a large tumor was intermediately increased. [18F]DFPA proved of value to image and circumscribe intracerebral tumors in awake rats, and studies are continuing to facilitate its clinical application in brain tumor patients.
DNA Structural Integrity and Base Composition Affect Ultraviolet Light-Induced Oxidative DNA Damage†

We previously demonstrated that ultraviolet (UV) light (254 nm) induced the formation of 8-hydroxy-2‘-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) in DNA via a singlet oxygen mechanism. In the present paper, we provide novel findings that DNA structure and base composition significantly affect the yield of 8-OHdG by UV radiation. Unlike ionizing radiation that induces 8-OHdG both in free 2‘-deoxyguanosine (dG) and in DNA, UV light induced 8-OHdG formation in intact DNA and polydG·dC, but not in dG. When thermally denatured DNA was irradiated with UV light, the yield of 8-OHdG was reduced by more than 80% compared to intact DNA. Oxygenation of the denatured DNA solution did not restore the yield of UV-induced 8-OHdG. Irradiation of DNA with different AT/GC ratios showed that the yield of UV-induced 8-OHdG varied in proportion to the AT content, suggesting that AT base pairs in DNA enhance generation of the oxidizing species and subsequent oxidation of dG. The natural antioxidants genistein, estradiol, protocatechuic acid (PCA)...
Superparasitism in gregarious hymenopteran parasitoids: ecological, behavioural and physiological perspectives

Abstract Superparasitism in gregarious wasps occurs with the deposition of a clutch of eggs by a female into a host already parasitized by itself or a conspecific female. This review synthesizes and interprets the available results in the literature reported from field studies, and from behavioural and physiological investigations. To study superparasitism at the ecosystem level, methodological issues have to be solved to determine threshold values beyond which multiple offspring can be indisputably classified as originating from superparasitism. This life strategy is then discussed from the parasitoid’s perspective, considering time and egg limitation, host discrimination, clutch size, offspring body size and sex ratio, as well as development time and survival rate of offspring, with special emphasis on physiological facilitation and constraints. Then, superparasitism in gregarious species is evaluated from the host’s angle, addressing host survivorship and development, host food consumption and growth. Although superparasitism may be beneficial for either the first or the superparasitizing female, depending on the system, it is detrimental for both of them under conditions of extreme superparasitism. Recent methodological and experimental advances encourage further studies on the adaptive host choice under field and laboratory conditions, as well as on mechanisms underlying success of the first or the superparasitizing female and their progeny.
Olfactory detection thresholds in man under conditions of rest and exercise)

Detection thresholds for seilen odorants were measured under conditions of rest and exercise. The test panel comprised six males with previous experience in odor detection. Exercise was maintained constant by using a modified bicycle positioned within the context of an air-dilution olfactometer. The effects of exercise were idiosyncratic for Ss: odor sensitivity was increased in some Ss, decreased in some, and not changed in others. Results of these experiments are discussed in terms of intra-subject variance within sessions and from session to session. In addition, two test techniques—one a fixed series and the other a tracking procedure—were evaluated for rapid estimation of an odor threshold. The tracking procedure facilitated prompt detection of changes in sensitivity for individual Ss.
Comparative molecular field analysis of protein tyrosine phosphatase low-molecular-weight substrates

Abstract A set of 25 low-molecular-weight substrates for protein tyrosine phosphatase PTP1 has been investigated by comparative molecular field analysis (CoMFA). The quality of the model was assessed by cross-validations, predictions for a test set of substrates, bootstrapping, randomization of biological data, grid characteristics tests, and comparison with the X-ray-determined binding site of a closely related enzyme. The CoMFA study provides new insight into the steric and electrostatic factors influencing binding around the active site in protein tyrosine phosphatase and complements existing information available from X-ray data.
THE EFFECT OF GRAPHIC ORGANIZERS ON STUDENTS’ COMPREHENSION AND RECALL OF EXPOSITORY TEXT: A REVIEW OF THE RESEARCH AND IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Many students, particularly those who are difficult to teach, find learning from expository text materials a difficult task. We review the use of the graphic organizer as a means to assist students in the complex act of making sense of content‐area (e.g., science and social studies) text. After exploring the theoretical and historical foundations of the graphic organizer, we review the current research. Finally, we derive implications for the classroom teacher and future research.
Net energy analyses of four technologies to provide residential space heat

Abstract After having calculated energy ratios for four methods of providing residential space heat, passive solar heating systems were found to return approx. 20–25 units of energy for each unit of energy invested. The other technologies (active solar, electrically powered heat pump, and a synthetic gas fueled hot air furnace) had energy ratios of 1.7–5.6. The low energy ratios for active solar energy systems (both air and water) and conventional space heating methods are due to the fact that these technologies employ energy-intensive materials in the equipment used to produce and distribute residential heat. Passive solar energy systems use few components beyond the relatively low energy intensity materials used for standard construction techniques and generally use no energy to distribute the captured heat. Based on these estimates and projected life cycle costs for these energy producing techniques, as well as on some standard energy-conserving techniques, it is apparent that the United States would produce more energy per dollar and energy input with conservation and passive solar strategies than with residential heating techniques depending on coal as a primary fuel.
Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor in preterm and term pregnancy, parturition, and intra-amniotic infection

Objective: To determine the sources of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) in amniotic fluid and to examine its relation to labor and clinically diagnosed intra-amniotic infection. Methods: We assessed G-CSF and G-CSF receptor expression in placentas (n = 50) from 5–40 weeks’ gestation, and G-CSF concentrations were measured in amniotic fluid (n = 146), bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (n = 8), and paired maternal serum, cord blood, neonatal serum, and neonatal urine samples (n = 16). Results: Immunohistochemical staining and messenger RNA analysis showed placental expression of G-CSF and G-CSF receptor throughout gestation. The number of decidual stromal cells expressing G-CSF receptor was significantly higher in women with intra-amniotic infection compared with women without infection (27 ± 2 versus 18 ± 3 cells per high power field, P = .02). Amniotic fluid concentrations of G-CSF were not significantly different in noninfected preterm compared with term samples (1708 ± 1673 versus 1612 ± 2100 pg/mL, P = .9). Labor was not associated with a significant increase in amniotic fluid G-CSF concentrations (1864 ± 3151 versus 1612 ± 2100 pg/mL, P = .77, term labor versus no labor; 3335 ± 5364 versus 1708 ± 1673 pg/mL, P = .09, preterm). Concentrations of G-CSF in maternal serum, amniotic fluid, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, and neonatal urine were increased during intra-amniotic infection (all P < .05). Conclusion: Amniotic fluid G-CSF concentrations were similar in preterm and term pregnancies and were not significantly influenced by labor. Intra-amniotic infection was associated with an increased number of placental cells expressing the G-CSF receptor and higher concentrations of G-CSF in amniotic fluid, maternal serum, neonatal urine, and neonatal bronchoalveolar lavage samples.