cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Freshman Undergraduate Biology Students’ Difficulties with the Concept of Common Ancestry

All life on earth descended from a single common ancestor that existed several billion years ago; thus, any pair of organisms will have had a common ancestor at some point in their history. This concept is fundamental to an understanding of evolution and phylogeny. Developing an understanding of this concept is an important goal of evolution education and a part of most high school and college biology curricula. This study examines freshman undergraduate biology majors’ understanding and application of the concept of common ancestry. We used a survey that asked students to provide a brief definition of common ancestry and to rate their confidence that different pairs of organisms shared a common ancestor. Our results show that, although many students in our sample could give a satisfactory definition of common ancestry, the overwhelming majority failed to apply their definitions correctly when assessing the likelihood that the pairs of organisms shared common ancestors. Instead, we found that these students do not treat common ancestry as a binary (yes/no) trait, but instead see it as a continuum from less probable to more probable. These students are more likely to think that closely related organisms have a common ancestor than those that are more distantly related and that humans are less likely to be connected to common ancestors than nonhuman organisms. This pattern is highly consistent from student to student and has important implications for teaching evolution.
Serotonin in the ventral hippocampus modulates anxiety-like behavior during amphetamine withdrawal.

Abstract Withdrawal from amphetamine is associated with increased anxiety and sensitivity to stressors which are thought to contribute to relapse. Rats undergoing amphetamine withdrawal fail to exhibit stress-induced increases in serotonin (5-HT) release in the ventral hippocampus and show heightened anxiety-like behaviors. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that reducing 5-HT levels in the ventral hippocampus is a causal mechanism in increasing anxiety-like behaviors during amphetamine withdrawal. First, we tested whether reducing 5-HT levels in the ventral hippocampus directly increases anxiety behavior. Male rats were bilaterally infused with 5,7-dihydroxytryptamine (5,7-DHT) into the ventral hippocampus, which produced a 83% decrease in ventral hippocampus 5-HT content, and were tested on the elevated plus maze (EPM) for anxiety-like behavior. Reducing ventral hippocampus 5-HT levels decreased the time spent in the open arms of the maze, suggesting that diminished ventral hippocampus 5-HT levels increases anxiety-like behavior. Next, we tested whether increasing 5-HT levels in the ventral hippocampus reverses anxiety behavior exhibited by rats undergoing amphetamine withdrawal. Rats were treated daily with either amphetamine (2.5-mg/kg, i.p.) or saline for 2 weeks, and at 2 weeks withdrawal, were infused with the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor paroxetine (0.5 μM) bilaterally into the ventral hippocampus and tested for anxiety-like behavior on the EPM. Rats pre-treated with amphetamine exhibited increased anxiety-like behavior on the EPM. This effect was reversed by ventral hippocampus infusion of paroxetine. Our results suggest that 5-HT levels in the ventral hippocampus are critical for regulating anxiety behavior. Increasing 5-HT levels during withdrawal may be an effective strategy for reducing anxiety-induced drug relapse.
The tyrosine kinase Itk suppresses CD8 + memory T cell development in response to bacterial infection

Vaccine efficacy depends on strong long-term development of immune memory and the formation of memory CD8+ T cells is critical for recall responses to infection. Upon antigen recognition by naive T cells, the strength of the TcR signal influences the subsequent effector and memory cells differentiation. Here, we have examined the role of Itk, a tyrosine kinase critical for TcR signaling, in CD8+ effector and memory T cell differentiation during Listeria monocytogenes infection. We found that the reduced TcR signal strength in Itk deficient naive CD8+ T cells enhances the generation of memory T cells during infection. This is accompanied by increased early Eomesodermin, IL-7Rα expression and memory precursor effector cells. Furthermore, Itk is required for optimal cytokine production in responding primary effector cells, but not secondary memory responses. Our data suggests that Itk-mediated signals control the expression of Eomesodermin and IL-7Rα, thus regulating the development of memory CD8+ T cells, but not subsequent response of memory cells.
Expansion and impact of laurel wilt in the Florida Everglades

Summary Laurel wilt, a vascular wilt disease caused by the vascular mycopathogen Raffaelea lauricola T.C. Harr. (Ophiostomatales: Ophiostomataceae), was first confirmed on Persea palustris (Raf.) Sarg. (Laurales: Lauraceae) in the Florida Everglades in Feb 2011. The abundance and range of occupancy of P. palustris symptomatic of laurel wilt were mapped in the Everglades tree islands in Mar 2011 and Jun 2013 using a digital aerial sketch mapping system. The disease's range of occupancy expanded from 4,925 to 133,740 ha during this 26-month period. Canopy disturbance was highly variable ranging from 0 to 50% canopy loss. However, tree island species composition data suggests that additional mortality of P. palustris is likely throughout the Everglades. The rapid loss of P. palustris in tree islands could lead to ecosystem level instability and invasion by exotic plant species.
Algebras containing a divisible unimodular sequence with dense self adjoint span

We characterize the uniform algebras A on a compact Hausdorff space X which contain a sequence {uj}j = 0∞ of unimodular elements with ujuj − 1 ϵ A and closed span {uju}j = 0∞ = C(X) in terms of the maximal ideal space of A. Roughly, the essential set of A looks like (at most) countably many copies of the boundary of the unit disk, and A looks like the disk algebra on each.
Selected issues of mechanics of ceramic matrix composites

Abstract This paper presents four different problems of ceramic matrix composites (CMC) with matrix cracks. They include an evaluation of material constants and the stiffness matrix of a unidirectional lamina with bridging cracks. A nonlinear stress–strain relationship for a lamina subjected to an increasing uniaxial tension is derived accounting for the process of a continuous crack density change. Forced and free vibrations of woven ceramic matrix beams with matrix cracks are also considered by assumption that the dynamic stresses are sufficiently small to neglect their effect on the stiffness. Finally, theoretical foundations of thermography for a woven ceramic matrix beam are discussed and a closed-form solution for the surface temperature presented as a function of the matrix crack spacing and other parameters.
Life cycle inventory development for corn and stover production systems under different allocation methods.

Abstract Agricultural residues, particularly corn stover, are a promising feedstock for bioenergy systems. To analyze these systems in a life cycle framework, environmental impacts from cultivation and harvest must be allocated to the resulting products, corn grain and stover. This paper explores three approaches to allocation for corn and stover: economic and energy-based allocation, as well as a subdivision approach, which assigns to stover only those additional activities caused by its harvest. This study develops a life cycle inventory for corn production based on average U.S. agronomic data and then applies the three allocation methods to produce a life cycle inventory for stover. This inventory contains over 1100 environmental flows and is available in the online Supplementary material . This analysis shows that economic allocation and subdivision assign the least impact to stover (14–15%), energy-based allocation the most (30%). One hectare of corn and stover production emits approximately 2.5 tonnes of carbon equivalent and requires approximately 23 GJ of fossil energy. Value-based allocation methods, like energy and economic allocation, may be most appropriate when they reflect the goals of the production system. In addition, value-based methods are typically simple to apply, and thus may be more transparent for those interpreting a study. Subdivision, as applied in this study, reflects the consequences of changing the existing corn production systems, may require more data, and might be most appropriate for near-term prospective analyses; such as those that question whether adding cellulosic ethanol production to existing corn production systems yields environmental benefits. Thus, the selection of an allocation approach should hinge on the intent of the study.
Vibration of Circular Plates in Contact With Water

The nondimensionalized added virtual mass incremental factors for circular plates having simply-supported, clamped and free edges are obtained by employing the integral transformation technique in conjunction with the dual integral equation method
Physical activity in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: prevalence, predictors, and positive health associations

Objective The purpose of this study was to describe the prevalence and predictors of physical activity in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and to explore the potential health benefits that are associated with physical activity in this population. Study Design This was a cross-sectional assessment of 150 women with PCOS. Active women (those who met Department of Health and Human Services [DHHS] guidelines for exercise) were compared with inactive women with regards to demographic and psychosocial variables and health characteristics. Results Fifty-nine percent (88/150 women) met the DHHS guidelines for physical activity. Active women were more likely than inactive women to be nulliparous (64.1% vs 40.0%; P = .04) and white (71.6% vs 42.6%; P = .0004). Inactive women were more likely to have mild depression (adjusted odds ratio, 2.2; 95% confidence interval, 1.01–4.79; P = .048). Conclusion Women with PCOS who met the DHHS guidelines for physical activity were more likely to enjoy a variety of health benefits. Our findings identify several groups that are at risk for inadequate physical activity.
Effects of supercritical drying media on structure and properties of silica aerogel

Silica alcogels prepared from tetramethylorthosilicate were supercritically dried with methanol, ethanol, 2-propanol and carbon dioxide media. The density, transmittance, specific surface area and pore size of the aerogels obtained were compared. The supercritical drying media affects the properties of the aerogel.
Use of optically active cyclic diethyl sulfamidate 2-phosphonates as chiral synthons for the synthesis of β-substituted α-amino phosphonates

Abstract Optically active protected sulfamidate 2-phosphonates have been synthesized from either ( R )- or ( S )- N -benzyl-2-phosphonoserine for use as chiral synthons. These sulfamidates have been shown to undergo nucleophilic substitution with select nucleophiles, to afford following N -sulfate removal, the β-substituted α-amino-2-phosphonates. N -Sulfate removal was accomplished using boron trifluoride etherate in the presence of either n -propylthiol or N -hydroxysuccinimide allowing retention of the diethylphosphonate ester groups. Replacement of the unpleasant smelling n -propylthiol with N -hydroxysuccinimide provides higher yields of the desired products. Synthesis of β- S -substituted analogues required the use of cesium carbonate as a base. The sulfamidates described have excellent stability and have been demonstrated, using chiral HPLC, to be greater than 97% enantiomerically pure.
Amiodarone therapy for atrial rhythm control: insights gained from a single center experience.

Introduction: Amiodarone has been advocated as an effective “long-term” therapy for atrial rhythm control in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). We sought to assess the sustainability of this therapeutic strategy. Methods and Results: Retrospective analysis of a consecutive, single-center cohort (n = 168) with symptomatic AF who were treated with amiodarone and followed for 3 years. The incidence of amiodarone cessation was evaluated at 1, 2, and 3 years and attributed principally to drug inefficacy, intolerance, or toxicity. A gradual diminution in the number of patients on therapy was observed, such that by 3 years, only 45% remained. This was attributable to inefficacy (25%), intolerance (12%), or toxicity (18%). Pulmonary toxicity was surprisingly common, occurring in at least 7% of patients. Conclusions: These data challenge the notion of amiodarone as a reasonable “destination” therapy for AF.
Strategies used by nurses to recover medical errors in an academic emergency department setting

Abstract Purpose The purpose of this study was to gain insight into how nurses recover medical errors in the emergency department (ED) setting. Methods The research method was of exploratory descriptive design with qualitative analysis. Subjects who signed the informed consent participated in one of four focus groups centering on nurse's role in recovering errors. Questions were asked during the focus groups to elicit information regarding nurse's role in the three phases of error recovery, namely, identifying, interrupting, and correcting the error. Results Five themes emerged to describe methods used by nurses to identify errors in the ED setting. These themes included: surveillance, anticipation, double checking, awareness of the "big picture," and experiential "knowing." Five themes emerged as methods used to interrupt errors: patient advocacy, offer of assistance, clarification, verbal interruption, and creation of delay. The themes for correcting an error were assembling the team and involving leadership. Conclusion The results of this study provide preliminary evidence of the strategies used by ED nurses in the recovery of medical error. Further research is needed to generalize these findings to other ED settings. Knowledge of effective recovery strategies can ultimately be used to develop interventions for reducing medical error and improving patient safety.
LASER CROSS‐LINKING OF PROTEINS TO NUCLEIC ACIDS: PHOTODEGRADATION AND ALTERNATIVE PHOTOPRODUCTS OF THE BACTERIOPHAGE T4 GENE 32 PROTEIN

Pulsed laser cross-linking provides a means of introducing a covalent bond between proteins and the nucleic acids to which they are bound. This rapid cross-linking effectively traps the equilibrium that exists at the moment of irradiation and thus allows examination of the protein-nucleic acid interactions that existed. Laser irradiation may also induce photodestruction of protein and we have used the bacteriophage T4 gene 32 protein to investigate this phenomenon. Our results show that both nonspecific and specific photoproducts can occur, specifically at wavelengths where the peptide backbone of proteins is known to absorb. These results demonstrate that nonspecific photodegradation can be correlated with the formation of a specific photodegradation product. The formation of this product was monitored to show that product yield is nonlinearly dependent on laser power and wavelength. We have also investigated an unexpected photoproduct whose formation is dependent on the length of the polynucleotide to which the gene 32 protein binds and that further demonstrates the complexities of analyzing protein-nucleic acid interactions through the use of UV laser cross-linking. These data provide essential information for the establishment of appropriate conditions for future studies that use UV cross-linking of protein-nucleic acid complexes.
Development of electroless nickel-iron plating process for microelectronic applications

Electroless nickel-phosphor (Ni-P) plating has been extensively used as a diffusion barrier layer in printed circuit board applications. However, the interfacial reactions between electroless Ni-P and lead (Pb)-free Sn solders during high temperature reflow are known to dissolve Ni-P excessively into Sn leaving behind a brittle Ni 3 P compound at the interface. This often causes various reliability issues in the solder joints. To mitigate this problem, an application of NiFe alloy is proposed with the concentration of iron (Fe) greater than 20% in the Ni barrier. The NiFe alloy produces a more robust diffusion barrier in the microelectronic applications. Development of a stable electroless NiFe plating process is therefore essential for its successful implementation. In this work, we developed an electroless NiFe alloy plating process with a high deposition rate and superior bath stability. The deposition rate of three micron per hour was achieved and five weeks of bath aging did not deteriorate the bath performance. Stable iron content around 30% in NiFe deposit was achieved in this timeframe. Factors that impact deposition rate and alloy composition were identified. The valence of the iron ions in the electroless NiFe bath was found to have a significant impact on the bath stability. The interfacial reaction between Pb-free SnAgCu solder and electroless NiFe(P) is discussed and compared with the electroless Ni-P process. Energy dispersed X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were utilized to characterize electroless NiFe deposits and to analyze the interfacial reactions between Pb-free solder and electroless Ni-P or NiFe after multiple reflows.
Experimental investigation on thermochemical sulfate reduction by H2S initiation

Abstract Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is known to catalyze thermochemical sulfate reduction (TSR) by hydrocarbons (HC), but the reaction mechanism remains unclear. To understand the mechanism of this catalytic reaction, a series of isothermal gold-tube hydrous pyrolysis experiments were conducted at 330 °C for 24 h under a constant confining pressure of 24.1 MPa. The reactants used were saturated HC (sulfur-free) and CaSO4 in the presence of variable H2S partial pressures at three different pH conditions. The experimental results showed that the in-situ pH of the aqueous solution (herein, in-situ pH refers to the calculated pH of aqueous solution under the experimental conditions) can significantly affect the rate of the TSR reaction. A substantial increase in the TSR reaction rate was recorded with a decrease in the in-situ pH value of the aqueous solution involved. A positive correlation between the rate of TSR and the initial partial pressure of H2S occurred under acidic conditions (at pH ∼3–3.5). However, sulfate reduction at pH ∼5.0 was undetectable even at high initial H2S concentrations. To investigate whether the reaction of H2S(aq) and HSO 4 - occurs at pH ∼3, an additional series of isothermal hydrous pyrolysis experiments was conducted with CaSO4 and variable H2S partial pressures in the absence of HC at the same experimental temperature and pressure conditions. CaSO4 reduction was not measurable in the absence of paraffin even with high H2S pressure and acidic conditions. These experimental observations indicate that the formation of organosulfur intermediates from H2S reacting with hydrocarbons may play a significant role in sulfate reduction under our experimental conditions rather than the formation of elemental sulfur from H2S reacting with sulfate as has been suggested previously (Toland W. G. (1960) Oxidation of organic compounds with aqueous sulphate. J. Am. Chem. Soc. 82, 1911–1916). Quantification of labile organosulfur compounds (LSC), such as thiols and sulfides, was performed on the products of the reaction of H2S and HC from a series of gold-tube non-isothermal hydrous pyrolysis experiments conducted at about pH 3 from 300 to 370 °C and a 0.1-°C/h heating rate. Incorporation of sulfur into HC resulted in an appreciable amount of thiol and sulfide formation. The rate of LSC formation positively correlated with the initial H2S pressure. Thus, we propose that the LSC produced from H2S reaction with HC are most likely the reactive intermediates for H2S initiation of sulfate reduction. We further propose a three-step reaction scheme of sulfate reduction by HC under reservoir conditions, and discuss the geological implications of our experimental findings with regard to the effect of formation water and oil chemistry, in particular LSC content.
A direct measurement of gross swelling in nickel-ion-bombarded stainless steel

Abstract A technique is described for measuring the total swelling of heavy-ion-bombarded metals. The specimen is partially masked during ion bombardment, and steps are formed at the boundaries of the protected and bombarded regions. The step-height is a measure of the total swelling integrated along the ion path. Experimental step heights on Type 304 steel bombarded with 5 MeV nickel ions are compared with step heights predicted from transmission electron microscopy (TEM) data on void swelling. The agreement between the two provides confirmation of the large swellings (as high as 40–50%) that we have measured by TEM. The step-height technique should be particularly useful for measuring large swellings and inhomogeneous swellings, and for rapid screening of alloys and thermomechanical treatments.
Kalman filter vs. IMM estimator: when do we need the latter?

In this paper a performance comparison between a Kalman filter and the Interacting Multiple Model (IMM) estimator is carried out for single- target tracking. In a number of target tracking problems of various sizes, ranging from single-target tracking to tracking of about a thousand aircraft for Air Traffic Control, it has been shown that the IMM estimator performs significantly better than a Kalman filter. In spite of these studies and many others, the condition under which an IMM estimator is desirable over a single model Kalman filter has not been quantified. In this paper the limits of a single model Kalman filter vs. an IMM estimator are quantified in terms of the target maneuvering index, which is a f unction of target motion uncertainty, measurement uncertainty and sensor revisit interval. Naturally, the higher the maneuverability of the target (higher maneuvering index), the more the need for a versatile estimator like the IMM. Using simulation studies, it is shown that above a certain maneuvering index an IMM estimator is preferred over a Kalman filter to track the target motion. Performances of these two estimators are compared in terms of estimation errors and track continuity over the practical range of maneuvering indices. These limits should serve as a guideline in choosing the more versatile, but costlier, IMM estimator over a simpler Kalman filter.
Hrtem Characterization of 6H-15R Polytype Boundaries in Silicon Carbide Grown by Physical Vapor Transport

The interface between 6H and 15R polytypes of silicon carbide, grown by Physical Vapor Transport, was studied by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. The sample was investigated in cross-section cut perpendicular to the [11.0] irection. The atomic stacking sequence at the interface of the polytypes was determined. Polytype boundaries with orientations parallel and perpendicular to the 6H c-axis were investigated. Stacking faults associated with low angle grain boundaries in both 6H and 15R regions were observed and the 15R regions systematically showed a higher fault density than the 6H regions.
The role of CTCF binding sites in the 3 immunoglobulin heavy chain regulatory region

The immunoglobulin heavy chain locus undergoes a series of DNA rearrangements and modifications to achieve the construction and expression of individual antibody heavy chain genes in B cells. These events affect variable regions, through VDJ joining and subsequent somatic hypermutation, and constant regions through class switch recombination. Levels of IgH expression are also regulated during B cell development, resulting in high levels of secreted antibodies from fully-differentiated plasma cells. Regulation of these events has been attributed primarily to two cis-elements that work from long distances on their target sequences, i.e., an ~1 kb intronic enhancer, Eμ, located between the V region segments and the most 5′ constant region gene, Cμ; and an ~40 kb 3′ regulatory region (3′ RR) that is located downstream of the most 3′ CH gene, Cα. The 3′ RR is a candidate for an “end” of B cell-specific regulation of the Igh locus. The 3′ RR contains several B cell-specific enhancers associated with DNase I hypersensitive sites (hs1-4), which are essential for class switch recombination and for high levels of IgH expression in plasma cells. Downstream of this enhancer-containing region is a region of high-density CTCF binding sites, which extends through hs5, 6, and 7 and further downstream. CTCF, with its enhancer-blocking activities, has been associated with all mammalian insulators and implicated in multiple chromosomal interactions. Here we address the 3′ RR CTCF-binding region as a potential insulator of the Igh locus, an independent regulatory element and a predicted modulator of the activity of 3’ RR enhancers. Using chromosome conformation capture technology, chromatin immunoprecipitation and genetic approaches, we have found that the 3’ RR with its CTCF binding region interacts with target sequences in the VH, Eμ and CH regions through DNA looping as regulated by protein binding. This region impacts on B cell-specific Igh processes at different stages of B cell d
Flux of transcript patterns during soybean seed development

To understand gene expression networks leading to functional properties of the soybean seed, we have undertaken a detailed examination of soybean seed development during the stages of major accumulation of oils, proteins, and starches, as well as the desiccating and mature stages, using microarrays consisting of up to 27,000 soybean cDNAs. A subset of these genes on a highly-repetitive 70-mer oligonucleotide microarray was also used to support the results. It was discovered that genes related to cell growth and maintenance processes, as well as energy processes like photosynthesis, decreased in expression levels as the cotyledons approached the mature, dry stage. Genes involved with some storage proteins had their highest expression levels at the stage of highest fresh weight. However, genes encoding many transcription factors and DNA binding proteins showed higher expression levels in the desiccating and dry seeds than in most of the green stages. Data on 27,000 cDNAs have been obtained over five stages of soybean development, including the stages of major accumulation of agronomically-important products, using two different types of microarrays. Of particular interest are the genes found to peak in expression at the desiccating and dry seed stages, such as those annotated as transcription factors, which may indicate the preparation of pathways that will be needed later in the early stages of imbibition and germination.
Effect of uniaxial stress on the electron spin resonance in zinc-blende semiconductors.

We present a study of the effect of uniaxial stress on the electric-dipole spin resonance absorption in zinc-blende semiconductors. We show that previous work in this field omits an important contribution to the transition amplitude, leading to an underestimate of the strength ${C}_{2}$ of the stress-induced spin-orbit coupling in InSb. The necessary correction factor is between 3 and 4. We suggest experimental configurations that would permit an accurate measurement of this and other related material parameters. One of these exploits the possibility of an interference between stress-induced and stress-free spin-flip transition amplitudes. In this way, not only the magnitude of ${C}_{2}$, but also its sign, could be determined.
Weight loss beliefs, practices and support systems for high school wrestlers

Abstract Purpose: Wrestlers often engage in unhealthy practices to achieve a low body weight for competition. This study examined beliefs, practices, and potential support systems to promote safe weight loss among scholastic wrestlers. Methods: A written questionnaire was developed and administered to all nine high school wrestling teams in one rural county. Responses were obtained from 197 wrestlers. Results: Most wrestlers reported that "making weight" was very important. Increased activity and decreased food intake were the most frequent weight loss methods. Unsafe methods such as vomiting and use of laxatives were sometimes used, even though many wrestlers recognized these practices were unhealthy and decreased performance. Personal desire to win, coaches, and teammates were reported to be the greatest influences on weight loss efforts. Wrestlers believed that coaches and physicians were the most accurate sources of weight loss information. Conclusion: Nutrition counseling which goes beyond simply providing information about the risk of rapid weight loss among adolescent wrestlers is needed. Emphasis on motivating wrestlers to adopt healthy weight management strategies is important. Wrestlers perceive physicians as credible sources of information, and physicians should become more actively involved in educating both coaches and athletes about safe weight management.
Time dependent upward frequency shifts in the Orbitron MASER

In our experiments with the pulsed Oribtron MASER, we have noted that there is an upward chirp in frequency even though the anode voltage is decreasing. We have found theoretically that this is a natural consequence of the negative-mass instability and the chirp rate can be predicted from this theory. Experimental data we have obtained is also in good agreement with these predictions.
Management of pain with diclofenac after femtosecond-assisted laser in situ keratomileusis.

Purpose To evaluate the safety and efficacy of topical diclofenac sodium 0.1% after femtosecond laser–assisted laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). Setting W.K. Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA. Design Clinical trial. Methods Pain was assessed in patients treated with topical diclofenac sodium 0.1% or artificial tears immediately after LASIK using a numeric pain scale and a combined picture–numeric pain scale 0, 2, 4, 12, and 24 hours postoperatively. Visual outcomes and complications were noted up to 24 hours. Results The study enrolled 100 eyes of 50 patients. Patients treated with diclofenac 0.1% reported less pain than the control group on both pain scales 2, 4, 12, and 24 hours after surgery, with the maximum benefit at 4 hours ( P =.02). Fewer patients in the diclofenac group (76.0%) than in the control group (91.3%) used oral pain and/or anxiolytic medications during the first 24 hours after surgery ( P =.25). Ninety-eight eyes had an uncorrected distance visual acuity of 20/40 or better. Mild peripheral diffuse lamellar keratitis accounted for the majority of perioperative complications (n = 15). Conclusion Pain after femtosecond laser–assisted LASIK was mild and was reduced with a single dose of topical diclofenac sodium 0.1% given immediately after surgery. Financial Disclosure No author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.
Succession in Gulf of Mexico Cold Seep Vestimentiferan Aggregations: The Importance of Spatial Variability

. The slow rate of change in hydrocarbon seep communities on the upper ­Louisiana slope prevents the use of direct observation in studying successional trends. We used a chronosequence consisting of three presumed stages – juvenile, adult and senescent – to test a previous model which proposed that sulfide availability and vestimentiferan growth and physiological health decline over the lifespan of a vestimenti­feran aggregation. We replicated the chronosequence at two sites to simultaneously ­explore the influence of spatial heterogeneity on the characteristics of these communities. We determined environmental sulfide concentrations and vestimentiferan growth and condition in at least two vestimentiferan aggregations representative of each stage at each of these two sites. Hydrogen sulfide concentrations were highly variable both above and below the sediment's surface, and sulfide was present in high concentrations to sediment depths of 70 cm. Vestimentiferan growth and condition varied significantly on multiple spatial scales from sites separated by tens of kilometers, to aggregations separated by tens to hundreds of meters within a site, to individual vestimentiferans ­separated by tens of centimeters within an aggregation. The striking variability in both environmental sulfide and vestimentiferan growth and condition within individual ­aggregations suggests a crucial role for microhabitat variability in the persistence of vestimentiferan aggregations at these sites. Few significant successional trends in ­environmental sulfide or vestimentiferan growth and condition were found over the three stages tested.
Phase I study of vincristine and escalating doses of etoposide.

A phase I trial of vincristine and etoposide was designed following the identification of a potentially synergistic antitumor effect in a murine model. The dose of vincristine was fixed (0.5 mg daily for 3 days). Etoposide was given at 1 of 3 total dose levels (250, 500, or 750 mg/m2) per treatment. Each dose was given in 3 equal fractions and each fraction was given daily for 3 days, i.e., 83.3 mg/m2/d × 3d, 166.7 mg/m2/d × 3d, or 250 mg/m2/d × 3d. A total of 31 patients were entered into study including 10, 18, and 3 patients treated at the 250, 500, and 750 mg/m2 dose levels, respectively. Dose-limiting toxicity occurred at the 750 mg/m2 level, in which Grade 4 myelosuppression developed in all of the patients. Life-threatening gram negative sepsis occurred in two of these patients and both required platelet transfusions. Grade 3–4 WBC toxicity was observed in 9 of 16 (56%) evaluable patients treated at the 500 mg/m2 level, but reversal of toxicity was generally rapid with repeat courses given at 3 week intervals in most patients. Non-hematologic toxicity was negligible. Objective responses were observed in 2 of 4 patients with Hodgkin's disease. The starting dose of etoposide recommended for phase II trials of this agent in combination with vincristine is 500 mg/m2; dose escalation may be possible in some patients.
Global Market Integration and Central Political Control: Foreign Trade and Intergovernmental Relations in China:

Prevailing economic theories predict that world market integration unleashes centrifugal forces from within and undermines domestic central political authority. Reversing the conventional bottom-up, demand-side approach, this article highlights the incentives of national-level political actors. It suggests that when institutionally empowered vis-a-vis the subnational units, the center will seek to enhance political control over regions thriving in the global market to extract revenues, remedy interregional disparity, and maintain central rule. Through analyzing pooled cross-sectional, time-series data for Chinese provinces during 1978 to 2002, it shows that the Chinese political center has manipulated its personnel monopoly power within the ruling Communist Party to exert a tighter grip over provincial party secretaries, the top officials in the provinces more exposed to the international market. Furthermore, provinces overseen by more controlled party secretaries actually received less favorable terms du...
Superficial Fungal Infections in Children

Superficial fungal infections can involve the hair, skin, and nails. Most affected children are healthy, although immunosuppression is a risk factor for more severe presentation. Causative organisms typically are members of the Trichophyton, Microsporum, and Epidermophyton genera (dermatophytes), can be acquired from other infected humans, animals, or soil, and illicit a host inflammatory response. Nondermatophyte infections include pityriasis versicolor. In this article, the most common clinical presentations, diagnostic recommendations, and treatment algorithms for dermatophyte and nondermatophyte mycoses in children and adolescents are described.
Identification of alkyl dimethylbenzylammonium surfactants in water samples by solid-phase extraction followed by ion trap LC/MS and LC/MS/MS.

A novel methodology was developed for the determination of alkyl (C12, C14, and C16) dimethylbenzylammonium chloride (benzalkonium chloride or BAC, Chemical Abstract Service number: 8001-54-5) in water samples. This method is based on solid-phase extraction (SPE) using polymeric cartridges, followed by high-performance liquid chromatography/ion trap mass spectrometry (LC/MS) and tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) detection, equipped with an electrospray interface in positive ion mode. Chromatographic separation was achieved for three BAC homologues by using a C18 column and a gradient of acetonitrile/10 millimolar aqueous ammonium formate. Total method recoveries were higher than 71% in different water matrices. The main ions observed by LC/MS were at mass-to-charge ratios (m/z) of 304, 332, and 360, which correspond to the molecular ions of the C12, C14, and C16 alkyl BAC, respectively. The unequivocal structural identification of these compounds in water samples was performed by LC/MS/MS after isolation ...
9α-homo-9,11-epoxy-5,13-prostadienoic acid analogues: Specific stable agonist (SQ 26,538) and antagonist (SQ 26,536) of the human platelet thromboxane receptor

A newly synthesized 9α-homo-9,11-epoxy-5,13-prostadienoic acid analogue, SQ 26,536, (8(R)9(S)11(R)12(S)-9α-homo-9,11-epoxy-5(Z), 13(E)-15S-hydroxyprostadienoic acid) inhibited arachidonic acid (AA)-induced platelet aggregation with an I50 value of 1.7 μM. SQ 26,536 did not inhibit prostaglandin (PG) synthetase activity of bovine seminal vesicle microsomes or thromboxane (Tx) synthetase activity of lysed human blood platelets. SQ 26,536 also inhibited platelet aggregation induced by epinephrine (secondary phase), 9,11-azoPGH2 and collagen but did not inhibit the primary phase of epinephrine-induced aggregation or ADP-induced platelet aggregation. SQ 26,538 (8(R)9(S)11(R)12(S)-9α-homo-9-, 11-epoxy-5(Z),13(E)-15R-hydroxyprostadienoic acid), a 15-epimer of SQ 26,536, induced platelet aggregation with an A50 value of 2.5 μM. SQ 26,536 competitively inhibited SQ 26,538-induced platelet aggregation with a Ki value of 3 μM. Neither indomethacin, a PG synthetase inhibitor, nor SQ 80,338 (1-(3-phenyl-2-propenyl)-1H-imidazole), a Tx synthetase inhibitor, inhibited SQ 26,538- or 9,11-azoPGH2-induced platelet aggregation. These data indicate that SQ 26,536 and SQ 26,538 are stable antagonist and agonist, respectively, of the human blood platelet thromboxane receptor.
Self-esteem of victim and the intent of third-party aggression in the reduction of hostile aggression

High- and low-self-esteem male subjects were angered by a male confederate's critical reply to their autobiographical letter. A comparison with a nonangered group showed that this insulting reply led to aggression as measured by both administered shock and changes in self-rated hostility. Subjects who had been angered next heard one of three speeches by the experimenter: a speech in retaliation to the confederate's reply, a speech in retaliation to an unrelated incident, or a control, filler speech. Third-party retaliation related to the insulting reply reduced aggression, while third-party retaliation unrelated to the reply failed to reduce aggression in the overall analysis. Comparisons were also made within each level of self-esteem. There were no significant differences between the experimental treatments among the high-self-esteem subjects. Among low-self-esteem subjects, both related and unrelated retaliation significantly reduced subjects' aggression, but related retaliation was significantly more effective in reducing aggression than was unrelated retaliation. The results were interpreted as supporting equity and self-esteem explanations of hostile aggression.
A measure of college-going self-efficacy for middle school students.

Many career and educational plans are made well before high school graduation. School counselors' efforts to support these plans are limited by the lack of assessments of middle school students' college-going beliefs. Development of the College-Going Self-Efficacy Scale for middle school students is described in this article. Initial evidence of validity and reliability from three separate studies is reported, and suggestions for using this scale with students are provided.
Curing atherosclerosis should be the next major cardiovascular prevention goal.

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is the leading cause of death in developed and developing countries. Despite decades of effort, unhealthy lifestyle habits and ASCVD risk factor levels remain high and are increasing in many population groups. A new approach to ASCVD prevention is needed. Multiple lines of evidence from animal and human studies suggest that atherosclerosis regression and normalization of vessel function can occur when low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) lowering occurs early in the course of atherosclerosis or when very aggressive LDL-C lowering occurs somewhat later. We propose a new paradigm focused on curing atherosclerosis early in the course of the disease. An approach that resets the vascular aging clock composed of initial regression therapy followed by periodic retreatment to suppress atherosclerosis development may be possible, with the ultimate goal of preventing subsequent ASCVD events. Proof-of-concept studies are needed to determine: 1) the optimal age and/or extent of atherosclerosis for intervention and LDL-C–lowering therapy; 2) the intensity and duration of therapy for inducing atherosclerosis regression; and 3) documenting the normalization of vascular function. Ultimately, this new paradigm will need to be evaluated in ASCVD outcomes trials.
The (Na+,K+)ATPase exhibits enzymic activity in the absence of the glycoprotein subunit

Membrane-bound (Na+, K+)ATPase from avian nasal salt glands was exposed to limited papain digestion. Such treatment results in the selective removal of the beta-subunit rendering the alpha-subunit still membrane-bound and expressing full enzymic activity. With further exposure to papain the alpha-chain becomes fragmented into two major polypeptide components. The fragmented membrane-bound catalytic chain is extremely sensitive to detergent treatment and cannot be solubilized in an active state.
Monocular acuity in the presence and absence of fusion

Because little is known about monocular acuity during binocular fusion, acuity of the right eye was measured in binocularly normal subjects, with the fellow eye open or fully occluded. The target was flashed for 65 ms or presented sinusoidally for 1 s. Subjects had both eyes optimally focused, or the right eye defocused by +3.00 D. Monocular acuities were equivalent during fusion or occlusion when both eyes were optimally focused. Acuity of the defocused eye was reduced when the fellow eye was open compared to when it was occluded. Suppression of the blur, therefore, produced a measurable reduction in recognition thresholds. As monocular acuity was not measurably affected by the fellow eye when each eye was in focus, the finding that monocular vision is improved with the fellow eye occluded should be ascribed to something other than suppression or more sensitive spatial measures of the suppression should be obtained.
Chemical, physical, and catalytic properties of large-pore acidic zeolites

Abstract catalysts corminins acid zeolitea a m more active, more selective to gasoline production, aad more stable in thermal and hydrothermal environmcnu [1–3]. It was esdznaud in 1973 that the selecdvky characmrisdcs of zeolite cmcklag araiysts were respoasible for a savings of aver 200 million bvrals of cmda oil per year oa the North Amartcan coadaent [4]. Acftpttp aa be madoat; zta Since purzeolita catalysts a n be forrnrrktad whtch are many orden of magnitude more acde than the older amorphous catalysts. Typid relative actidties of some zeoffte catalysts Uons are presented in Table 1. Considerafforu other than intrinsic-vie, for example. heat and mass tzuufer Umi Molu and/or equipment design factors, may set limits on the maximum aczivly. Today rkrtudly all commerchl cracktnq aulysts conraia zeolites.
The Best Kept Secret in Sports The 2010 Youth Olympic Games

The International Olympic Committee seeks to reignite interest in Olympic sports in a generation of adolescents that are becoming increasingly overweight and inactive. International Olympic Committee president, Jacques Rogge, helped develop a plan for an Olympic Games for teenagers in 2010; the IOC general assembly approved the idea. But since its declaration on 6 July 2007 this new proposal has provoked loyal advocates and equally committed critics. This study examines the level of awareness of this event in the sporting community in the United States. This newly passed initiative will be examined for academic scrutiny from its very infancy, tracing and predicting impact and outcome from the perspective of athletes, coaches, parents and local and national sport officials in the United States.
Optimizing the Brazing Variables for the Fully Dense Freeform Fabrication Process by Design of Experiments

Fully dense freeform fabrication (FDFF) is a process based on thin line cutting processes, variable thickness layering, slicing in different orientations, and bulk layer attachment. The combination of these capabilities enables the production of good quality complex parts from practically any material at a very fast pace. To improve the quality of the fabricated functioning products, multiple design and operational factors affecting the response value are required to be optimized. In this research, affecting factors (e.g., types of bonding materials, a range of heating temperatures, types of metal sheets, etc.) on the quality of the fabricated prototypes using a statistical design of experiments are investigated. Following the statistical analysis, the feasible bonding process in terms of optimal response value (tensile strength) that is achieved in regard with the most influential single or combined factors are presented.
Early markers of language and attention: mutual contributions and the impact of parent-infant interactions.

This study of was conducted to explore the contribution of attentional skills to early language, and the influence of early language markers on the development of attention, simultaneously examining the impact of parent–child interaction factors (reciprocity/synchrony and sensitivity/responsivity), including their potential moderator effects. All children were between 6 months and 12 months of age, and about equally distributed between genders (33 males, 32 females), with caregivers’ ages ranging from 28 years to 45 years (N = 65). Maternal perceptions of infant attentional skills (duration of orienting, or␣persistence of attention, and perceptual sensitivity—the infant’s ability to selectively attend to subtle stimuli) and an early marker of language (vocal reactivity: use of vocalizations across a variety of activities), along with observations of parent–child interactions, provided the basis for the present evaluation. Infant duration of orienting emerged as the primary predictor of vocal reactivity, with the contribution of perceptual sensitivity approaching significance. Infant vocal reactivity explained significant amounts of variance for duration of orienting and perceptual sensitivity. Parent–infant interaction factors contributed to the prediction of early attentional skills, with responsivity/sensitivity explaining a significant portion of perceptual sensitivity variance, and synchronicity/reciprocity emerging as a significant predictor of duration of orienting. Observed contribution of the vocal reactivity * responsivity/sensitivity interaction to predicting infant perceptual sensitivity provided preliminary support for the proposed moderation.