cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Integrating information literacy into the curriculum

Abstract This article describes a two-week graduate course on information literacy, developed and taught by a librarian and a professor of industry and technology, and intended for teachers and librarians in elementary and secondary schools. Information literacy is not only the content of the course but also the basis of its structure: active, student-centered learning with several group assignments helps students develop skills in finding information, analyzing and interpreting it, and putting it to practical use. Both pedagogical and evaluation methods reflect recent educational reforms, and the team teaching provides a model of collaboration between teachers and librarians.
Tendon cell contraction of collagen–GAG matrices in vitro: effect of cross-linking

The contraction of connective tissue cells can play important roles in wound healing and pathological contractures. The effects of this contractile behavior on cell-seeded constructs for tissue engineering have not yet been investigated. The goal of this work was to investigate in vitro tendon cell-mediated contraction of collagen-glycosaminoglycan (GAG) matrices cross-linked using selected methods. Highly porous collagen-GAG sponges were seeded with calf tendon cells and the projected area and DNA content of the sponges measured at 3, 7, 14, and 21 days post-seeding. Immunohistochemistry was performed to determine if alpha-smooth muscle actin (SMA) was associated with the cell contraction of the matrices. Dehydrothermal (DHT) treatment alone was not sufficient to resist contraction by the seeded tendon fibroblasts. Cross-linking of the collagen-GAG sponges to the extent that the modulus was three times that of sponges treated by DHT alone was necessary to resist contraction. SMA was seen in the cytoplasm of most cells in all sponges at all time periods. The results provide a rational basis for the determination of the mechanical properties of collagen matrices required for engineering certain connective tissues.
Exploring Dispositions toward Online Reading: Analyzing the Survey of Online Reading Attitudes and Behaviors.

The Internet is having a profound impact on the literacy practices of today's students. Acknowledging the complex processes associated with reading online, the Survey of Online Reading Attitudes and Behaviors (SORAB) was created to further our understandings in this area. A factor analysis revealed the instrument included five factors that are hypothesized to contribute to students’ overall dispositions for reading online. Additional analysis revealed SORAB scores were strongly correlated with general attitudes toward technology and moderately correlated with context for Internet use. Implications are discussed in relation to future validation efforts as well as potential uses of the instrument.
Complications and outcomes of pedicle subtraction osteotomies for fixed sagittal imbalance.

STUDY DESIGN Radiographic analysis, outcomes analysis (pain scale, Oswestry, SRS-24), and accumulation of complications. Outcomes and complications collected prospectively. Radiographic analysis performed retrospectively. OBJECTIVES To assess the benefits and stress complications of pedicle subtraction osteotomies for patients with fixed sagittal imbalance. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Few reports on pedicle subtraction osteotomies exist in the peer-review literature for conditions other than trauma and ankylosing spondylitis. MATERIALS AND METHODS Thirty-three consecutive patients with sagittal imbalance treated with lumbar pedicle subtraction osteotomy at one institution (minimum 2-year follow-up) were analyzed. Complications were also analyzed for the entire group of consecutive pedicle subtraction osteotomies done at our institution to date (n = 66). RESULTS For the 33 patients with minimum 2-year follow-up, there were significant improvements in the overall Oswestry score (P 0.0001) and pain score (P = 0.0001). Most patients reported improvement in pain and self-image and reported overall satisfaction based on ultimate SRS-24 questionnaire. There was one pseudarthrosis in the lumbar spine through an area of pedicle subtraction osteotomy (area of previous laminectomy and nonunion), and six patients had thoracic pseudarthroses (levels other than the osteotomy level) and one patient had a pseudarthrosis at L5-S1. Two patients had acute angular kyphosis at the thoracolumbar junction at the proximal end of the construct. Five patients who experienced transient neurologic deficits resolved their deficits after central canal enlargement. CONCLUSIONS The clinical result with pedicle subtraction osteotomy is reduced with pseudarthrosis in the thoracic or lumbar spine and subsequent breakdown adjacent to the fusion. For patients with a degenerative sagittal imbalance etiology the results were worse and the complications were higher. Central canal enlargement is critical.
The twelve-hour shift in the north American mini-steel industry

The twelve-hour shift is now widely practiced in the chemical and petroleum industries but has not spread to many other continuous operations, in part because of the belief that the stress and heat in heavy metals precluded its use there. The innovators who created the mini-steel industry, however, have adopted this shift widely. This article, based principally upon a 1988–89 survey, supplemented in 1990 by a survey of additional Canadian plants, examines the experience of the mini-steel industry with the twelve-hour shift and finds that managements consider it a “definite plus,” particularly in terms of employee relations. The posture of the United Steelworkers, is, however, ambivalent, with reservations about the shift by national and some local officials, and support by other local officials.
Iron attenuates nitric oxide level and iNOS expression in endotoxin-treated mice

The effect of exogenous Fe-citrate complex (Fe doses of 120 and 240 micromol/kg) on nitric oxide (NO) production in vivo has been studied in blood and liver tissue of endotoxin-treated mice. Fe-citrate complex was administered to mice subcutaneously at the same time with intravenous injection of Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Iron-dependent decrease in NO2-/NO3- and nitrosyl hemoglobin levels in blood of animals was detected at 6 h after LPS administration, suggesting systemic attenuation of NO generation. NO production in the liver tissue of LPS-treated mice was decreased after Fe administration judging from the amount of mononitrosyl-iron complexes formed in the tissue by diethyldithiocarbamate. The iNOS protein determination in the liver tissue of LPS-treated mice demonstrated iron-dependent inhibition of iNOS expression. We have found previously that exogenous iron does not affect systemic NO level when it is given at 6 h after LPS injection, i.e. after iNOS expression. This is a first report demonstrating iron-dependent iNOS down-regulation in endotoxin-treated mice.
COORDINATING TRANSCRIPTION AND TEXT GENERATION IN WORKING MEMORY DURING COMPOSING: AUTOMATIC AND CONSTRUCTIVE PROCESSES

Research evidence is reviewed to show (a) that transcription and working memory processes constrain the development of composition skills in students with and without learning disabilities; and (b) that in turn other processes constrain the development of transcription and working memory skills. The view of working memory as a resource-limited process is contrasted with a view of working memory as a resource-coordination process that integrates transcription and constructive processes, which may be on different time scales, in real time. Theory-driven, research-validated interventions for transcription are discussed with a focus on how training transcription transfers to improved composition. Five theoretical explanations for why the spelling component of transcription is more difficult to learn than the word recognition component of reviewing are also considered with a focus on the instructional implications of each for improving spelling. Finally, a rationale is presented for directing writing instructi...
An anthropomorphic phantom for quantitative evaluation of breast MRI.

Purpose: In this study, the authors aim to develop a physical, tissue-mimicking phantom for quantitative evaluation of breast MRI protocols. The objective of this phantom is to address the need for improved standardization in breast MRI and provide a platform for evaluating the influence of image protocol parameters on lesion detection and discrimination. Quantitative comparisons between patient and phantom image properties are presented. Methods: The phantom is constructed using a mixture of lard and egg whites, resulting in a random structure with separate adipose- and glandular-mimicking components. T 1 and T 2 relaxation times of the lard and egg components of the phantom were estimated at 1.5 T from inversion recovery and spin-echo scans, respectively, using maximum-likelihood methods. The image structure was examined quantitatively by calculating and comparing spatial covariance matrices of phantom and patient images. A static, enhancing lesion was introduced by creating a hollow mold with stereolithography and filling it with a gadolinium-doped water solution. Results: Measured phantom relaxation values fall within 2 standard errors of human values from the literature and are reasonably stable over 9 months of testing. Comparison of the covariance matrices of phantom and patient data demonstrates that the phantom and patient data have similar image structure. Their covariance matrices are the same to within error bars in the anterior-posterior direction and to within about two error bars in the right-left direction. The signal from the phantom’s adipose-mimicking material can be suppressed using active fat-suppression protocols. A static, enhancing lesion can also be included with the ability to change morphology and contrast agent concentration. Conclusions: The authors have constructed a phantom and demonstrated its ability to mimic human breast images in terms of key physical properties that are relevant to breast MRI. This phantom provides a platform for the optimization and standardization of breast MRIimaging protocols for lesion detection and characterization.
Video microscope and elastic light scattering studies of fast-mode kinetics in surface-mediated spinodal decomposition.

We present time-resolved video microscope and elastic light scattering studies of the domain-pattern selection and growth of spinodal decomposition in critical mixtures of guaiacol and glycerol-water constrained to a cell 0.5 mm thick. The structure functions show two peaks with different kinetics: a slow mode with L(t)\ensuremath{\sim}${\mathit{t}}^{1/3}$ and a ``fast mode'' with L(t)\ensuremath{\sim}${\mathit{t}}^{\mathit{b}}$, where b ranges from 1.0 to 1.5 depending on the quench depth (0.03 \ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C\ensuremath{\le}\ensuremath{\Delta}T\ensuremath{\le}0.35 \ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C). In this study we discuss our observations of the fast mode's growth. We have used both elastic light scattering and direct visualization via video microscopy and digital image processing to study the morphology and kinetics of these structures. Parameters such as the quench depth and the treatment of the cell's windows have been varied, with results suggesting that domain growth proceeds with a power law that is independent of which phase wets the surface.
Increasing collaborative knowledge management in your organization: characteristics of wiki technology and wiki users

This study examines characteristics of Wiki technology and wiki users in an effort to uncover factors facilitating increased adoption and usage of Wiki technology as a collaborative knowledge management tool. The current business environment is characterized by trends in mobility, virtualization and globalization. These trends call for more extensive interaction and collaboration both internal and external to organizations. The resulting changes have been met with an emerging trend of a new generation of Internet-based technologies described as Web 2.0. The umbrella of Web 2.0 technologies support a more collaborative business environment and span across time and distance. Web 2.0 advances have subsequently fostered new approaches to knowledge management with Wiki technology making way as an effective alternative to traditional knowledge management systems. Wiki technology features the unique characteristics of open editing and revision and history capabilities. When these features are combined with knowledge representation and maintenance features and harnessing of collective wisdom, Wiki technology may enable higher levels of collaboration facilitating more effective knowledge processes. Nonetheless, technology and processes are not the only components of a knowledge management system. This study focuses on the users of Wiki technology as another key element in effective utilization of a collaborative knowledge management system.
The Role of Language and Private Speech in Preschoolers' Self-Regulation.

The present study explored relations among language skills, private speech, and self-regulation in three- to five-year-old children. Language skills were assessed with a standardised measure of language ability and by teacher reports of adaptive use of language in the classroom. Private speech was measured by observing children during a challenging task and by asking teachers to report on children's typical use of private speech. Teachers also reported on children's self-regulation. Results indicated that language skills were positively related to self-regulation. However, private speech, particularly private speech that was relevant to the task, was negatively related to language skills and to self-regulation. The frequency of relevant private speech mediated the association between language ability and self-regulation. Children who had higher language skills used less private speech and, in turn, had better self-regulation. The adaptive use of language for self-regulation is discussed in light of these ...
Design and operating characteristics of a series static voltage controller

The authors present the theory and the experimental implementation of a new device called the static voltage controller (SVC) which can eliminate waveform distortion and provide a sinusoidal voltage. The principle of operation of this device is to compare the instantaneous value of the output voltage with the instantaneous value of the sinusoidal reference voltage. The error is given to the hysteresis comparator to switch the power transistors in one mode or in the other, so that the output voltage is made to follow the reference voltage. The experimental results presented are encouraging. It was shown that the SVC follows the output voltage command independent of the source voltage. A good match between experimental and computer simulation results was found. Furthermore, a stabilizing signal based on the voltage magnitude was introduced. >
Defining computer literacy in human services

Abstract Computer literacy in human services is defined as an intersection of both computer and human services abilities. With different levels of ability possible, a matrix is created which can be used to operationally define computer literacy within any area of human service practice. Child protective work is used to demonstrate the utility of this definitional approach. Various issues within computer literacy are also discussed.
ROLE OF REACTIVE METABOLITES OF OXYGEN AND NITROGEN IN PARTIAL LIVER TRANSPLANTATION: LESSONS LEARNED FROM REDUCED‐SIZE LIVER ISCHAEMIA AND REPERFUSION INJURY

SUMMARY 1 Hepatic resection with concomitant periods of ischaemia and reperfusion (I/R) is required to perform reduced-size liver (RSL) transplantation procedures, such as living donor or split liver transplantation. Although a great deal of progress has been made using these types of surgical procedures, a significant number of patients develop tissue injury from these procedures, ultimately resulting in graft failure. 2 Because of this, there is a real need to understand the different mechanisms responsible for the tissue injury induced by I/R of RSL transplantation (RSL + I/R), with the ultimate goal to develop new and improved therapeutic agents that may limit the tissue damage incurred during RSL transplantation. 3 The present paper reviews the recent studies that have been performed examining the role of reactive metabolites of oxygen and nitrogen in a mouse model of RSL + I/R. In addition, we present data demonstrating how the pathophysiological mechanisms identified in this model compare with those observed in a model of RSL transplantation in rats.
First-Principles Investigation of the Structure, Energetics, and Electronic Properties of Ru/HfO2 Interfaces

The electronic properties of metal oxide semiconductor gate electrodes are strong functions of the structure of the metal−dielectric interface. We use density functional theory to investigate the structures, energetics, and electronic properties of Ru/HfO2 interfaces. We find that atom-by-atom deposited Ru films have significantly different interfacial structures from epitaxially connected Ru films on the m-HfO2(001) surface. Atom-by-atom deposited films are rougher than epitaxially connected films, even when forced to form two-dimensional films. These interfacial structural differences lead to differences in the electronic properties of the films and therefore affect electrical properties, such as the work function of the gate electrode. We found that for both types of films the partial densities of states of interfacial layers are significantly different from that of the bulk region. Each shows charge transfer from the interfacial Ru layer to the interfacial dielectric layer, although the magnitude of c...
A source of solute for volume regulation in marine mussels

1. 1. The ionic concentrations in the blood and pericardial fluid of intertidal and subtidal species of Modiolus, acclimated to various non-lethal salinities, were examined. Variation in the intracellular free amino acid pools in response to salinity change were also studied. 2. 2. The ionic concentrations of the body fluids of Modiolus are not regulated. Rather, a Donnan equilibrium seems to exist between the body fluids and the sea water, and between different body fluid compartments. 3. 3. Free amino acid regulation, identified by a greater decrease in a portion of the intracellular free amino acid pool, with decreasing salinity, than can be accounted for on the basis of changes in amounts of tissue water, occurs in Modiolus. 4. 4. The amino acid pool is a likely source of solute for the volume regulating response. Further, differences in the pools of the various mussels studied seem to account for the differences in salinity tolerance.
Computer imaging versus conventional esthetic consultation: a prospective clinical study.

Computer imaging can be helpful in demonstrating to patients the potential outcome of esthetic dental procedures. The current clinical study assesses the effectiveness of computer imaging by comparing the reactions of patient and dentist to conventional consultations versus the use of computer imaging. The responses from 35 subjects show that computer imaging consultations are more effective in helping patients decide to accept treatment. Patient satisfaction was higher (93.75%) with computer consultations than with conventional methods (83.3%). Computer imaging consultations were easier to conduct but significantly (p < .05) more time consuming.
Chest pain: characteristics of children/adolescents.

Chest pain (CP) in children/adolescents is a common referral for the pediatric cardiologist. A group of 263 patients (141 males/122 females, mean age = 13.4 years, range = 5–22 years) with the primary complaint of CP underwent evaluation in the cardiac stress lab at Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin. Echocardiograms at rest were obtained in 70% of patients with no significant cardiac abnormalities identified. Endurance time (EXT) and oxygen consumption (VO2/kg) were below predicted in 26% and 46%, respectively. Reactive airway disease (RAD) as a preexisting condition was reported in 19% of patients, but abnormal resting pulmonary function (PFTs) were found in 26% (n = 68), with 48/68 never having the diagnosis of RAD. At risk of overweight (BMI >85th percentile), was seen in 28% of the cohort, with 16% identified as being overweight (BMI >95th percentile). A significant difference in RAD (p < 0.01) was seen in African Americans (AA) and decreased EXT (p = 0.01) was seen in Hispanics (H). VO2/kg was significantly reduced in both AA and H (p < 0.01). These results identify both racial and age-related differences in the etiology of CP in children. Most importantly, true cardiac pathology is extremely rare. AOW, deconditioning, and respiratory compromise play important roles in CP. The need for comprehensive cardiopulmonary monitoring is emphasized by these findings.
Wet trend continues for lakes

About 20% of the United States, including the regions of the Great Lakes and the Great Salt Lake, has entered a fourth year of record and near-record streamflow and lake levels, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). From June 3 until June 8, 1986, the Great Salt Lake stood at 1283.77 m above sea level, 0.076 m above the previous record, which was set in 1873. (Records have been kept for the lake since 1847.) On June 8, a dike south of the lake gave way during a windstorm, causing flooding of evaporation ponds used for mineral recovery. As a result of the breach, the lake's level dropped to 1283.65 m above sea level by June 10 but rose to 1283.68 m by June 20. The latest official reading, made on June 30, showed that the lake's level had dropped to 1283.63 m above sea level. According to Tom Ross, chief of the Current Water Conditions Group at the USGS National Center in Reston, Va., this drop represents “a normal seasonal decline brought on by evaporation.”
Weight Optimization for Honeycomb Radiators with Embedded Heat Pipes

A mathematical model for a single-stage space radiator with embedded heat pipes has been developed, and graphical solutions are presented for tradeoff studies. The model allows selection of the optimum radiator sizing for spacecraft payload heat rejection. It calculates the minimum weight configuration for specified radiator parameters involving temperature, heat pipe, and honeycomb panel characteristics such as heat pipe spacing and facesheet thickness, as well as radiative surface properties and panel thermal conductivities. The data in terms of graphical form are applicable to practical engineering design applications.
JOINT ASPERITY DEGRADATION DURING CYCLIC SHEAR

Abstract Some 30 real rock granite and limestone joints, sawn with a new numerical control technique, were cyclically sheared to measure asperity degradation under normal stresses and displacements consistent with earthquake loading of underground caverns at depths of 50–300 m. Monotonic shearing resistance and normal dilation of the sawn joints was similar to that for large or field scale joints. Asperity degradation under these conditions was found to be a function of work, joint roughness, normal stress and unconfined compressive strength of the joint wall.
Development in motion: helper T cells at work.

In mammals, helper T cells orchestrate defense against diverse pathogens. However, these warriors of the immune system can also result in self-inflicted injury culminating in autoimmune and allergic diseases. Recent findings—such as the discovery of the Th17 lineage—have revealed additional complexity in the fates chosen by helper T cells and have begun to reshape our view of how signaling and transcriptional networks generate appropriate and inappropriate immunity.
The Politics of Physical Education

This paper, which was given as the Dudley Allen Sargent lecture at the 2012 conference of the National Association for Kinesiology and Physical Education in Higher Education, discusses the politics of physical education. It examines how both national politics and local/campus politics affect the discipline. Drawing from the history of national leaders from both the Republican and Democratic parties and from the autobiography of Dudley Sargent, it demonstrates the important role that politics plays in the lives of Kinesiology and Physical Education professionals. The article discusses political perception, public relations, conflicting political interests, the political importance of program success, and provides recommendations for political survival in the university culture.
Synthesis of analogs of farnesyl diphosphate

Abstract Syntheses of analogs of farnesyl diphosphate (FPP) bearing substitutions at C3 are described. The mono-, di-, and trifluoromethylFPP derivatives were prepared by alkylation of appropriately substituted acetoacetates with geranyl bromide, followed by decarboxylation to obtain fluorinated ketones and a Wittig condensation to give the farnesyl skeleton. A similar sequence was used to synthesize 13-desmethylFPP.
A mechanism for quark confinement

I shall describe in this lecture a new approach to the dynamics of quarks. It is widely believed that the strong interactions are described by QCD, a nonabelian (SU(3)) gauge theory of colored quarks and gluons, permanently confined in color singlet hadronic bound states. Our knowledge of the nature of the constituents of hadrons derives from their observed symmetries, the success of various phenomenological models such as the quark model and most important from the observed short distance behavior of hadronic currents. It is this free-field theory behavior at large momentum (asymptotic freedom) that singles out nonabelian gauge interactions as the source of the strong interactions, allows us to directly observe the quantum numbers of the quarks and to derive quantative predictions that can test the validity of the theory.
Aerosol direct fluorination, the state of the art

Abstract The Aerosol Direct Fluorination process is an exceptionally clean method for the direct fluorination synthesis of perfluorinated organic molecules. The method is exceptionally useful for the synthesis of ether-like molecules having a very high oxygen to carbon ratio. Molecules which are unavailable by other synthetic methods because of their sensitivity to acidic conditions may be synthesized with little difficulty due to the rapid removal of endogenous hydrogen fluoride. Structural rearrangements which plaque methods with high Lewis acidity are not observe in the aerosol process due to the strongly basic alkali fluoride aerosol which serves as a condensation nucleus for the organic molecule and which appears to have significant catalytic activity as well. Rearrangements which do occur can usually be rationalized by established organic free radical chemistry. Residual hydrogen atoms which remain on molecules can usually be explained by steric protection by previously fluorinated structural features. The selectivity of fluorine for specific reactive sites is of increasing interest. At the perfluorination end of the substitution reaction, protection of sites from reaction during direct fluorination is important in preserving site reactivity on generally unreactive molecules. The chemical reactivity at these protected sites will be discussed. The stability of many functional groups during aerosol fluorination has proven the utility of elemental fluorine in organic synthesis of highly fluorinated, functional molecules.
Racial disparities in surgical care for uterine cancer.

Abstract Objective To evaluate the association of race and surgical approach for women who underwent surgical treatment for uterine cancer. Methods The design was a retrospective cohort study of discharge data from nonfederal acute care hospitals in Maryland from 2000 to 2009. Women aged 18 and older who underwent hysterectomy for uterine cancer were included in the study population. The main outcome measure was receipt of lymphadenectomy. Secondary outcomes included receipt of minimally-invasive surgical approach, in-hospital mortality and individual surgeon and individual hospital annual uterine cancer case volume. The independent variable was race. We used logistic regression to calculate odds ratios and confidence intervals for each outcome of interest. Caucasians were the reference group. Results Among 5470 women who underwent hysterectomy, 2727 (49.9%) underwent lymphadenectomy and 512 (9.4%) underwent surgery through a minimally-invasive approach. After adjusting for age, payer status and APR-DRG mortality risk score, African-Americans were more likely to be operated on by high-volume surgeons (adjusted OR=1.27, 95% CI: 1.09–1.49) yet were less likely to undergo minimally-invasive surgery (adjusted OR=0.60, 95% CI: 0.45–0.80). For the outcome of lymphadenectomy, there was no significant difference between Caucasians and African-Americans (OR=1.13, 95% CI: 0.98–1.30). There was no association between race and in-hospital mortality or between race and the odds of undergoing surgery at a high-volume hospital. Conclusion In this retrospective analysis of uterine cancer patients, race is associated with likelihood of undergoing surgery through a minimally-invasive approach. Further analysis using prospectively collected data with more detail regarding peri-operative parameters is needed to further clarify possible reasons for this disparity.
Asking the right questions: investigating needs assessments and health-related quality-of-life questionnaires for use in oncology clinical practice.

Goals of work Questionnaires used in oncology practice for individual patient management need to address issues patients find important and want help with and issues cancer center health professionals can address. We investigated the item content from two health-related quality-of-life (HRQOL) questionnaires and two needs assessments for this purpose.
Response to Wallerstein: The Struggle for Global Society in a World System

As Wallerstein has shown, the contemporary global economy is in crisis, and this creates opportunities for change. Moreover, the rise of a broad-based and globally networked popular movement against neoliberal globalization both reflects and contributes to the system's crisis and to the possibilities for transformation. I agree that we now see a unique opportunity for shaping a very different global order, and in this essay I explore the specific ways that sociologists might contribute to this effort. If, as Michael Burawoy argues, sociologists have a responsibility to help "represent humanity's interest in containing the unbridled tyranny of market and state" (2004:257), we need a theory that integrates our understandings of global structures with concrete ideas to guide our actions. Rather than focusing our attention on the structures and vulnerabilities of global capitalism, we might instead ask questions of how, given the material conditions society faces, might we help empower global civil society as an agent for change in the world system (see Waterman and Timms 2004, who encourage just such a shift in the international labor movement). The key objective, I think, is to politicize the global economy. This requires a strengthening of international institutions such as the UN to enhance their deliberative and enforcement capacities relative to global financial institutions and the capitalist forces that shape those. While a stronger global polity would help empower and nurture civil society, it will not come about without concerted efforts by a solidly committed and globally networked civil society. This requires efforts to enhance global solidarity based on notions of a common humanity while fostering tolerance and pluralism. The spirit of Porto Alegre provides a good foundation here, and sociologists might think about how we can and should relate to social movements in order to help bring about a more just and democratic world system.
Photolytic degradation of chlorinated phenols in room temperature ionic liquids

Abstract The photolytic degradation of 2-chlorophenol (2-CP), 4-chlorophenol (4-CP), 2,4-dichlorophenol (2,4-DCP), 2,4,6-trichlorophenol (2,4,6-TCP), 2,3,4,5-tetrachlorophenol (2,3,4,5-TeCP) and pentachlorophenol (PCP) in 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate {[bmim + ]PF 6 − } and 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(perfluoroethylsulfonyl)imide {[emim + ]beti} room temperature ionic liquids (RTILs) has been investigated using UV radiation of 253.7 nm. Stability study revealed that these RTILs are relatively resistant to phototransformation when used as pure phases. At low concentrations (less than 1.57 mM), chlorinated phenols could be degraded in these RTILs following pseudo-first-order kinetics. Intermediate product identification using Electrospray TOF MS, GC–MS and HPLC revealed the formation of phenol among the stable phototransformation intermediates of 2-CP. It is proposed here that two possible pathways, via formation of phenoxyl radical or carbene, could lead to phenol generation. In these two mechanisms, {[bmim + ]PF 6 − } may participate in the reaction as H-donor. The increase of the chlorine atoms in the phenolic ring generally resulted in a decrease in the phototransformation rates, with exception of 2,4,6-TCP. UV absorbing impurities present in the ionic liquids as received from the manufacturer had a significant negative effect on the phototransformation rate of chlorophenols. Purification of RTILs using activated carbon enhanced the photodegradation rates. On the other hand, these impurities could, at some extent, protect the ionic liquid from photolysis and enhance the stability of the solvent. Recyclability study indicated that the recycling of the solvents was hindered at some extend by the presence of organic impurities that were resistant to photolysis or by the generation of byproducts that were resistant to photolytic degradation and compete with the chlorophenols for photon absorption. While further research is necessary to examine all aspects of this system, including the use of non-toxic RTILs, it is feasible that this technology can be further developed into a two-step process for extraction of organic pollutants from solid matrices, such as contaminated soils or dredged sediments, using ionic liquid solvents followed by in situ photodegradation of the organic contaminants in the ionic liquid extractant phase while achieving simultaneously regeneration of the solvent.
Ribonuclease: a spectrophotometric assay using acridine orange--RNA complex.

Abstract Bovine pancreatic RNase can be accurately and sensitively assayed with RNA-acridine orange complex (1:1, wt/wt) as substrate. The enzyme is optimally assayed in 0.05 m sodium acetate buffer, pH 5.0, at 37°C with a RNA concentration of 0.300 mg/ml. The acridine orange released after 30 min incubation can be determined, after filtration, with a simple visible light spectrophotometer at 492 nm. The increase in absorbance at 492 nm was linear for final RNase concentrations of 0.05–0.6 μg/ml. The assay is applicable to crude cell-free extracts, but RNase T 1 was inactive in this assay.
Anti-human leukocyte antigen antibodies and preemptive antibody-directed therapy after lung transplantation

Background Because the development of donor-specific anti-human leukocyte antigen (HLA) antibodies (DSA) after lung transplantation has been associated with acute and chronic rejection, we implemented a clinical protocol to screen all transplant recipients for DSA and preemptively treat those who developed DSA with rituximab and intravenous immune globulin (IVIG), or IVIG alone. Methods We conducted a prospective observational study of this protocol and used the LABScreen Single Antigen assay to detect DSA after transplantation. We compared the incidence of acute rejection, lymphocytic bronchiolitis, and bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (BOS) between those who developed DSA and those who did not using Cox proportional hazards models. We used the Kaplan-Meier method to compare freedom from BOS and survival between those who had persistent DSA and those who had successful depletion of DSA. Results Among 116 recipients screened, DSA developed in 65 during the study period. Those who developed DSA and received antibody-directed therapy had a similar incidence of acute rejection, lymphocytic bronchiolitis, and BOS as those who did not develop DSA. Furthermore, recipients who had successful depletion of DSA had greater freedom from BOS and better survival than those who had persistent DSA. Finally, those treated for DSA had a similar incidence of infectious complications as those who did not develop DSA. Conclusions The development of DSA is surprisingly common after lung transplantation. Antibody-directed therapy may reduce the risk of rejection associated with DSA, but a randomized controlled trial is necessary to critically evaluate the efficacy of this treatment protocol.
Mechanisms Underlying Protrusion-Retraction Waves at the Leading Edge of Migrating and Spreading Cells

Motility is fundamental to many cell types and plays key roles in immune response, tissue development, and cancer metastasis. Recent studies of migrating mouse embryonic fibroblast cells revealed protrusion-retraction cycles and lateral waves at the leading edge [Giannone G, et al, Cell, (2004); Giannone G, et al, Cell (2007)]. Each cycle entails membrane protrusion powered by actin polymerization, interrupted every ∼24 s by ∼5 s partial retraction episodes attributed to myosin II proteins which pull back the growing lamellipodial actin network until the latter separates from the leading edge membrane. We developed a mathematical model and extended our experimental observations in order to quantitatively describe the mechanisms underlying this motility behavior. We find the retraction waves are caused by propagation of myosin powered tears between the lamellipodium and cell membrane. Once a tear is nucleated its propagation initiates self-sustaining periodic behavior at the leading edge. The model and experiment are in quantitative agreement.
Thrombolysis during out-of-hospital cardiac arrest: a lesson in the law of diminishing returns.

Article details Evidence-Based Medicine Journal Club Edited by Eric B Milbrandt. University of Pittsburgh Department of Critical Care Medicine
Antagonism of apomorphine-enhanced startle by α1-adrenergic antagonists

The present study investigated the possible involvement of central noradrenergic neurons in mediating the excitatory effect of the dopamine agonist apomorphine on the acoustic startle response in rats. Experiment 1 assessed the effects of intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration of adrenergic antagonists on apomorphine-enhanced startle. The excitation of startle produced by apomorphine (1.0-3.0 mg/kg i.p.) was blocked by the alpha 1-adrenergic antagonists prazosin (0.03-1.0 mg/kg) and WB-4101 (1.0 mg/kg). Prazosin was very potent in this regard, having an ED50 of 0.03 mg/kg. Blockade of beta-adrenergic receptors with propranolol (20 mg/kg) or blockade of peripheral alpha-adrenergic receptors with phentolamine (10 mg/kg) failed to alter the effect of apomorphine. Prazosin did not block the enhancement of startle produced by other drugs (5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine, strychnine), nor did it alter the entry of apomorphine into the brain. The alpha 1-adrenergic antagonists piperoxane (0.03 mg/kg), yohimbine (0.03 mg/kg) or RX781094 (0.07 mg/kg) markedly potentiated apomorphine excitation. These data indicated that specific blockade of central alpha 1-adrenergic receptors prevents apomorphine-enhanced startle. In contrast to the effects of alpha 1-adrenergic antagonists, Experiment 2 found that other drugs that produce an acute (clonidine, 0.040 mg/kg) or chronic (intraventricular 6-hydroxydopamine, 2 X 200 micrograms; DSP4, 50 mg/kg i.p.) disruption of noradrenergic transmission failed to affect apomorphine excitation. Thus, the ability of alpha 1-adrenergic antagonists to block apomorphine's excitation of startle cannot be explained by a simple dopamine-norepinephrine interaction. Alternative hypothesis are discussed.
Coronary Artery from the Wrong Sinus of Valsalva: A Physiologic Repair Strategy

The most commonly reported coronary artery malformation leading to sudden death in children and young athletes is an anomalous coronary origin from the wrong aortic sinus, with or without a proximal course of the coronary artery between the aorta and the pulmonary artery. Although the incidence is difficult to assess, there is a 0.17% incidence in autopsy series (all variants included) and a 0.1 to 0.3% in catheter-echo diagnostic series. There may be a regional variation. In a prospective study of 1950 consecutive patients undergoing coronary angiography, anomalous origin of the right coronary artery from the left aortic sinus was found in 0.92% of cases, whereas the incidence of left coronary artery arising from the right aortic sinus was 0.15%. 1 In a study of 2388 patients who had transthoracic echocardiographic examination of their proximal coronary anatomy as part of innocent murmur investigation and evaluation of performance status, four patients (0.2%) were found to have an anomalous origin of the coronary artery from the wrong sinus. 2 Whatever the true prevalence, this lesion predisposes to fatal episodes of myocardial ischemia that may occur during or shortly after strenuous exercise. 3-5 Timely diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion but is frequently impossible, as the majority of patients with the anomaly are asymptomatic and thus do not seek medical attention. Therefore, sudden death is frequently the first manifestation, especially in young athletes, with only 30% of patients reporting prodromal symptoms. 5,6 Screening young adults before participation in competitive sports has been unsuccessful. Stress testing is unreliable because of high false-positive and falsenegative results; echocardiogram, echocardiography, and stress testing all lack predictive value. 4,5 Finally, although the major association of sudden death is with young athletes, cases have also been reported in children under 1 year of age.
Alterations in the cell cycle of Drosophila imaginal disc cells precede metamorphosis

Abstract Flow cytometric analyses of imaginal disc and brain nuclei of Drosophila melanogaster have been made throughout the third larval instar. In wing, haltere, and leg discs the proportion of cells in the G 2 M phase of the cell cycle (tetraploid cells) increases with larval age. In contrast, in the eye disc and in brain the proportion of tetraploid cells, already low at the outset of the instar, declines further. Measurement of growth rates for disc and brain tissue during the same developmental period was carried out by the cell counting procedure of Martin (1982) . Our results are consistent with the conclusion that imaginal discs grow exponentially with an apparent doubling time of 5–10 hr from the resumption of cell division (in the first or second larval instar) until about 95 hr, when the apparent doubling time increases. Cell numbers increase until at least 5 hr after formation of white prepupae (122 hr), but during the preceding 10 hr the rate of increase is low. Thus, for wing and leg discs, but not for the eye disc and brain, the declining growth rate is associated with an increase in the proportions of tetraploid cells. In conjunction with cell counts and flow cytometry, fluorometric determination of disc DNA content at 112 hr indicated that the diploid DNA content of imaginal disc nuclei is 0.45 pg.
A simple ROV project for the engineering classroom

Under water robotics projects offer an excellent medium for discovery based engineering and science learning. The challenge of building underwater robotic vehicles and manipulators engages and stimulates students while encompassing a very broad spectrum of engineering disciplines and scientific concepts. This paper describes the successful design and implementation of student projects, building wire guided remotely operated underwater vehicles (ROVs) with motorized grabbers. This work is part of an ongoing effort to incorporate innovative, hands on projects into our freshman engineering curriculum. These projects help expose students to practical design issues in the freshman year, foster creative problem solving skills and may aid student retention on engineering programs. These projects have also been successfully piloted in pre-college programs, aimed at generating interest in engineering careers among high school students. We describe ongoing work to extend these projects to include computer control and sensory feedback, allowing students to develop autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). Further, we outline ongoing work to assess the effectiveness of these modules
Estimating Parameters of Thermal Damage From Transient Exposures: Laser Coagulation of Rat Liver

Estimating effective thermal damage process coefficients for the first order kinetic model of damage processes is not difficult when the temperature is held constant for a substantial period. Laser coagulation experiments, however, are of short duration and, because of non uniform beam profiles, exhibit important heat transfer effects: the thermal histories are transient by nature and spatial temperature gradients are significant. An attempt is made to obtain useful estimates of activation energy, E, and collision frequency factor, A, directly from the transient history at the boundary of the zones of white coagulation and red hemorrhagic coagulation in liver in the rat, as identified by histologic studies. The Trial Region Method proves to be effective for transient data, in that a useful estimate of A and E can be obtained even from a single temperature curve. However, the results are very sensitive to small uncertainties in the actual value of Ω for the transient thermal histories to which the method is applied.Copyright © 2002 by ASME
Evidence of urban land teleconnections and impacts on hinterlands

That urban and rural places are connected through trade, people, and policies has long been recognized. The urban land teleconnections (ULT) framework aims advancing conventional conceptualizations of urbanization and land. The conceptual framework thus opens way to identify and examine the processes that link urbanization dynamics and associated land changes that are not necessarily colocated. In this paper, we review recent literature on four manifestations of urbanization that, along the lines of the ULT framework, highlight the importance of process-based conceptualizations of urbanization and land along a continuum of land systems. We then discuss potential approaches to improve the knowledge base on how and where urbanization is driving land change.
Estimation of the survival function from censored data:a method based on total time on test

We propose an estimator of the survival function of a random variable which is constructed through the Total Time on Test (TTT) when the data are randomly right censored. The new method is motivated by the maximum likelihood method for estimation of monotone failure rates and it bears a close resemblance to the classical estimator by Nelson (1969). It is shown that the asymptotic properties of the new estimator are the same as those of the Nelson estimator and the Kaplan-Meier (K-M) estimator, and that this estimator has a smaller MSE for small and moderate sample sizes. Specifically, for data that are heavily censored, we show through a simulation study that the proposed estimator has a sipficantly smaller MSE, compared with both the Nelson and K-Mind estimators, almost uniformly over the support of the underlying distribution.