cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Enhancement of solar cell performance through the formation of a surface dipole on polyacrylonitrile-treated TiO2 photoelectrodes

Abstract Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) was adsorbed onto the TiO2 surface, and the resulting photoelectrodes were applied in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). The DSSC with the PAN-modified TiO2 showed an increase in its short-circuit current (Jsc) and a decrease in its open-circuit voltage (Voc), resulting in a 17% enhancement of its photovoltaic performance when compared to the reference cell. By incorporating PAN onto the surface of the TiO2, a surface dipole was formed, which induced a conduction band edge shift of the TiO2 in a positive direction. This shift led to a considerable improvement in the electron injection efficiency, and hence the Jsc.
The sustainable city, by Steven Cohen

Economic, technological, social, and cultural forces continue to push people from rural to urban areas. Cities continue to absorb migrants and the number of city dwellers continues to rise. A major...
Measuring the Electric Properties of Thin Film Shape Memory Polymers in Simulated Physiological Conditions

Shape memory polymers (SMP) exhibit unique physical properties attractive for potential application in medical devices. These materials can assume a rigid solid state but soften after exposure to saline solution and heat, a feature which may aid the implantation process. Exposure to the biological environment leads to fluid absorption by the polymer coating resulting in the desired change in mechanical properties. The fluid uptake, however, also results in a change of electric properties that need to be taken into account when designing electrical components integrated with SMP. We developed procedures based on electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) to study the electric properties of saline-soaked SMP coatings. With these, we can observe the softening process as well as long-term electrical behavior. Simple circuit models are used to model the coating properties and calculate relative permittivity and electrical resistivity of the SMP material.
A Bayesian hierarchical model of postlarval delta smelt entrainment: integrating transport, length composition, and sampling efficiency in estimates of loss

Hydrodynamic models have been used to estimate rates of ichthyoplankton transport across marine and estuarine environments and subsequent geographic isolation of a portion of the population (i.e., ...
Utilizing top-down hyperspectral imaging for monitoring genotype and growth conditions in maize

There is significant enthusiasm about the potential for hyperspectral imaging to document variation among plant species, genotypes or growing conditions. However, in many cases the application of hyperspectral imaging is performed in highly controlled situations that focus on a flat portion of a leaf or side-views of plants that would be difficult to obtain in field settings. We were interested in assessing the potential for applying hyperspectral imaging to document variation in genotypes or abiotic stresses in a fashion that could be implemented in field settings. Specifically, we focused on collecting top-down hyperspectral images of maize seedlings similar to a view that would be collected in a typical maize field. A top-down image of a maize seedling includes a view into the funnel-like whorl at the center of the plant with several leaves radiating outwards. There is substantial variability in the reflectance profile of different portions of this plant. To deal with the variability in reflectance profiles that arises from this morphology we implemented a method that divides the longest leaf into 10 segments from the center to the leaf tip. We show that using these segments provides improved ability to discriminate different genotypes or abiotic stress conditions (heat, cold or salinity stress) for maize seedlings. We also found substantial differences in the ability to successfully classify abiotic stress conditions among different inbred genotypes of maize. This provides an approach that can be implemented to help classify genotype and environmental variation for maize seedlings that could be implemented in field settings.
“It Actually Isn’t Just about Housing”: Supporting Survivor Success in a Domestic Violence Housing First Program

Domestic violence (DV) agencies are increasingly utilizing tailored Housing First (HF) approaches to assist homeless and unstably housed survivors. Research, however, has yet to sufficiently explor...
Laser-metal interaction dynamics during additive manufacturing resolved by detection of thermally-induced electron emission

In situ monitoring is required to improve the understanding and increase the reliability of additive manufacturing methods such as laser powder bed fusion (LPBF). Current diagnostic methods for LPBF capture optical images, X-ray radiographs, or measure the emission of thermal or acoustic signals from the component. Herein, a methodology based on the thermal emission of electrons - thermionic emission - from the metal surface during LPBF is proposed which can resolve laser-material interaction dynamics. The high sensitivity of thermionic emission to surface temperature and surface morphology is revealed to enable precise determination of the transition between conduction and keyhole mode melting regimes. Increases in thermionic emission are correlated to laser scanning conditions that give rise to pore formation and regions where surface defects are pronounced. The information presented here is a critical step in furthering our understanding and validation of laser-based metal additive manufacturing. In situ monitoring during additive manufacturing is an emerging approach for validating the quality of built parts. Here, thermal emission of electrons from the metal surface during laser processing is shown to be an effective indicator of conduction or keyhole melting regimes.
Sapoviruses detected from acute gastroenteritis outbreaks and hospitalized children in Taiwan

Background/purpose Sapoviruses (SaVs) become important pathogens causing both sporadic and outbreaks of acute gastroenteritis (AGE) after rotavirus vaccination era worldwide. SaVs were included in AGE screening items when norovirus and rotavirus were negative in Taiwan CDC since 2008. However, no complete SaV genome sequence of any genotype detected in Taiwan was determined. This study aimed to investigate SaVs infection and complete genome sequences detected in Taiwan. Methods This prospective survey, SaVs samples with untyped or weak PCR result were selected for testing the new design qRT-PCR assay from AGE hospitalized children during 2008–2011, 2016–2017 and AGE outbreak in 2012–2014. Those were genetically characterized using long RT-PCR with different primer combinations as well as primer independent deep sequencing and with 5′ RACE and 3′ terminal region targeting RT-PCR. Results Overall, 14 SaV-AGE hospitalized children and 4 SaV-AGE outbreaks were enrolled in this study. In addition to the AGE symptoms, 6 children also showed URI symptoms (cough, pharyngitis, rhinorrhea and nasal congestion). The detected 19 SaVs were classified as eight genotypes (GI.1, GI.2, GI.3, GII.2, GII.3, GII.5, GII.8, and GIV.1) and the complete genome sequence of representative strain for each genotype were determined except GI.3. The GII.3 was the most major genotype following GI.1 and GIV.1. Conclusion Our result confirmed that SaV is one of the pathogens detected from Taiwanese AGE patients. Multiple SaV genotype strains would associate with AGE as similar to those detected in different countries/areas. The whole genome of SaV strains detected including rarely reported GII.8 was firstly determined.
Cocrystallization of Trimethoprim and Solubility Enhancement via Salt Formation

Trimethoprim (TMP) is an active pharmaceutical ingredient with poor aqueous solubility. Here, we describe the cocrystallization of TMP with five co-formers, three bipyridines and two monopyridines....
Optimization of small-scale sample preparation for high-throughput OpenArray analysis

OpenArray is one of the most high-throughput qPCR platforms available but its efficiency can be limited by sample preparation methods that are slow and costly. To optimize the sample workflow for high-throughput qPCR processing by OpenArray, small-scale sample preparation methods were compared for compatibility with this system to build confidence in a method that maintains quality and accuracy while using less starting material and saving time and money. This study is the first to show that the Cells-to-CT kit can be used to prepare samples within the dynamic range of OpenArray directly from cultured cells in a single well of a 96-well plate when used together with a cDNA preamplification PCR step. Use of Cells-to-CT produced results of similar quality and accuracy to that of a preparation method using purified RNA in less than half the sample preparation time. While Cells-to-CT samples also exhibited slightly increased variance, which affects the ability of OpenArray to distinguish small differences in gene expression, overall gene expression mean results correlated well between small-scale methods. This work demonstrates that Cells-to-CT with preamplification can be used to reliably prepare samples for OpenArray analysis while saving time, money, and starting material.
Orientes: Cleopatra en la historiografía y literatura de conducta del XVI

El dibujo de Cleopatra que Michelangelo Buonarroti regalo al noble romano Tommaso de’ Cavalieri alrededor de 1533 puede citarse como uno de los mejores ejemplos de la maleabilidad del icono cleopatrico. Mientras el recto del folio nos presenta la imagen idealizada y dignificada de la reina que los poetas y artistas renacentistas pondrian en circulacion a partir del siglo XVI, el verso muestra otro retrato de Cleopatra, descubierto durante una labor de restauracion en 1988, cuyos rasgos desmesurados y gesto de espanto, dirigidos directamente al espectador, son un recuerdo grotesco de la Cleopatra “lussuriosa” de Dante y, al mismo tiempo, un adelanto de la Cleopatra patetica de los dramas senequistas que se escribirian a lo largo de la segunda mitad del XVI por toda Europa. Las Cleopatras de Michelangelo pueden entenderse como los dos extremos de la gran variedad de representaciones culturales de la reina egipcia que, a partir de finales del XV, reemplazo la vision mucho mas homogenea de las fuentes clasicas y medievales. Esta diversificacion renacentista vino marcada, sin duda, por nuevas circunstancias sociales y culturales, entre las que habria que destacar la transicion paulatina hacia una sociedad cortesana y los cambios de codigos de conducta y relaciones de poder y genero que conllevo esa transicion, pero tambien por la salida de la historia cleopatrica de los limites historiograficos hacia nuevos territorios genericos como la poesia o el teatro. El subtexto erotico que habia acompanado la historia cleopatrica desde las narraciones clasicas y que, profundamente moralizado, habia pasado luego a las relecturas medievales, se correspondio con una suerte de erotismo textual que, desde la pagina, vinculaba esa historia con otro tipo de excesos: la historia de Cleopatra se presentaba como una historia excesiva desde un punto de vista moral y politico (pues giraba en torno a una conflictiva soberania femenina localizada en el Oriente), pero potencialmente tambien podia serlo desde un punto de vista retorico, ya que esa narracion se habia fundado sobre un nudo tematico heterogeneo en el que confluian lo historico con lo fabuloso, lo epico con lo lirico, lo politico con lo amoroso, lo honesto con lo deshonesto.
Prenatal delineation of coronary anatomy in dextro-transposition of great arteries

Background: Dextro-transposition of the great arteries (D-TGA) is the second-most common cyanotic congenital heart disease with variable coronary artery anatomy. The arterial switch procedure has revolutionized outcomes for this defect, with coronary anatomy being a key determinant of both short- and long-term outcomes following surgical repair. The assessment of coronary anatomy is usually undertaken in the postnatal period by transthoracic echocardiography, with assessment prenatally not being well studied. We sought to assess the feasibility of delineating the coronary arteries on fetal echocardiograms in a small cohort of patients followed prenatally. Methods: This was a retrospective review of fetuses with D-TGA from 2008 to 2018. Patients with prenatal diagnosis of D-TGA were reviewed for the assessment of coronary artery anatomy. Details of coronary artery anatomy diagnosed prenatally were compared with postnatal transthoracic echocardiograms and intraoperative findings. Results: Thirty-four fetuses with findings of D-TGA on prenatal echocardiograms were reviewed. 14/34 fetuses had attempted delineation of coronary artery anatomy, with average gestational age of 28 weeks (range 23–31 weeks) at the time of diagnosis. Two-dimensional and color Doppler imaging of the coronary arteries on both short and long axis images were performed, with complete delineation being possible in ~ 86% of fetuses. These findings were confirmed postnatally. Conclusions: Fetuses with D-TGA can have variable coronary artery anatomy which drives postnatal outcomes. Our study describes a cohort of patients with D-TGA wherein coronary artery anatomy was assessed. We demonstrate that coronary artery evaluation is feasible prenatally with optimal imaging techniques, being more successful after 25 weeks' gestation. The potential knowledge of dangerous variants can help with referral to centers of excellence for appropriate postnatal management and facilitate prenatal care accordingly.
Intraoperative tumor spill during minimally invasive hysterectomy for endometrial cancer: A survey study on experience and practice.

Abstract Objective Tumor spill during surgical treatment is associated with adverse oncologic outcomes in many solid tumors. However, in minimally invasive hysterectomy for endometrial cancer, intraoperative tumor spill has not been well studied. This study examined surgeon experiences and practices related to intraoperative tumor spill during minimally invasive hysterectomy for endometrial cancer. Methods A Cross-sectional survey was conducted to The Society of Gynecologic Oncology. Participants were 220 U.S. gynecologic oncologists practicing minimally invasive hysterectomy for endometrial cancer. Interventions were 20 questions regarding surgeon demographics, surgical practice patterns (fallopian tubal ablation / ligation, intra-uterine manipulator use, and colpotomy approach), and tumor spill experience (uterine perforation with intra-uterine manipulator and tumor exposure during colpotomy). Results Nearly half of the responding surgeons completed subspeciality training >10 years ago (50.5%), and 74.1% had annual surgical volume of >40 cases. The majority of surgeons used an intra-uterine manipulator during minimally invasive hysterectomies for endometrial cancer (90.1%), and 87.2% of the users have experienced uterine perforation with an intra-uterine manipulator. Almost all surgeons performed colpotomy laparoscopically (95.9%), and nearly 60% had experienced tumor spill while making colpotomy (59.8%). Nearly 10-15% of surgeons have changed their postoperative therapy as a result of intraoperative uterine perforation (11.8%) or tumor spill (14.5%). Surgeons infrequently ablated or ligated fallopian tubes prior to performing the hysterectomy (14.1%). Conclusion Our survey study suggests that many surgeons experienced intraoperative tumor spillage during minimally invasive hysterectomy for endometrial cancer. These findings warrant further studies examining its incidence and impact on clinical outcomes.
Altering the RNA binding specificity of a translational repressor

The coat proteins of RNA phages MS2 and GA are specific RNA-binding proteins which function to encapsidate viral RNA and to translationally repress synthesis of the viral replicase. The two proteins have highly homologous amino acid sequences, yet they show different RNA binding specificities, recognizing RNA stem-loop structures which differ primarily in the nucleotide sequences of their loops. We sought to convert MS2 coat protein to the RNA binding specificity of GA through the introduction of GA-like amino acid substitutions into the MS2 coat protein RNA-binding site. The effects of the mutations were determined by measuring the affinity of the coat protein variants for RNA in vitro and by measuring translational repression in vivo. We found five substitutions that affect RNA binding. One dramatically reduces binding of MS2 coat protein to both operators. Three others compensate for this defect by nonspecifically strengthening the interaction. Another substitution accounts for the ability to recognize the differences in the RNA loop sequence.
Particulate disks around main sequence stars

The discovery of the so-called "Vega phenomenon" was perhaps the most important and unexpected result of the IRAS mission. Three nearby A main sequence stars, alpha Lyrae (Vega), alpha Piscis Austrinus (Fomalhaut), and beta Pictoris, were found to possess disks or clouds of solid particles emitting strongly in the far-infrared (IR). These have been spatially resolved by various means in the infrared, and in the case of beta Pictoris, also by visual and near-infrared coronagraphy. The grains around these stars have typical temperatures of S0-1SO K, and the disks/clouds have fractional bolometric luminosities, Lgrains/Lstar , in the range lx10 -s to lx10 -3. The spatial information has allowed the following conclusions: (1) the grains are substantially larger than interstellar grains, (2) the material probably lies in the stellar equatorial planes, (3) the disk material extends to distances of order 100-1000 AU from the stars, and (4) a zone about 20 AU in size around the central stars is relatively depleted of material. The total mass included in the microscopic particles detected by IRAS is of order lx l0 -2 to lxlO -1 earth masses, although much more mass could be hidden in larger bodies.
Enhancement of phonon backscattering due to confinement of ballistic phonon pathways in silicon as studied with a microfabricated phonon spectrometer

In this work, the mechanism for enhanced phonon backscattering in silicon is investigated. An understanding of phonon propagation through substrates has implications for engineering heat flow at the nanoscale, for understanding sources of decoherence in quantum systems, and for realizing efficient phonon-mediated particle detectors. In these systems, phonons that backscatter from the bottom of substrates, within the crystal or from interfaces, often contribute to the overall detector signal. We utilize a microscale phonon spectrometer, comprising superconducting tunnel junction emitters and detectors, to specifically probe phonon backscattering in silicon substrates (∼500 μm thick). By etching phonon “enhancers” or deep trenches (∼90 μm) around the detectors, we show that the backscattered signal level increases by a factor of ∼2 for two enhancers versus one enhancer. Using a geometric analysis of the phonon pathways, we show that the mechanism of the backscattered phonon enhancement is due to confinement of the ballistic phonon pathways and increased scattering off the enhancer walls. Our result is applicable to the geometric design and patterning of substrates that are employed in phonon-mediated detection devices.
Spatial and temporal inhomogeneity of adenosine's effect on atrial refractoriness in humans: using atrial fibrillation to probe atrial refractoriness.

Adenosine's Effects on Atrial Refractoriness. Introduction: Adenosine is an antiarrhythmic agent widely used for the diagnosis and treatment of supraventricular tachyarrhythmias. Bolus administration of adenosine has been associated with transient atrial fibrillation, but the underlying mechanisms have not yet been delineated, due in part to the technical limitations resulting from adenosine's short half-life. In this study, the rapid, repetitive activation of atrial tissue during atrial fibrillation was exploited to yield a nearly continuous estimate of atrial refractoriness, enabling a description of adenosine's action on atrial refractoriness in humans. Methods and Results: Simultaneous right and left atrial, narrow-spaced, bipolar electro-grams were recorded in 15 patients before, during, and after bolus administration of 12 mg of adenosine during atrial fibrillation. By estimating the local cycle length of excitation from the atrial activation frequency, a refractory period index (RPI) of local tissue was obtained. Adenosine dramatically increased the activation frequency from 6.4 ± 0.7 to 12.2 ± 12.2 Hz in the right atrium and from 6.1 ± 0.6 to 8.7 ± 1.2 Hz in the left atrium, corresponding to a decrease in the RPI from 156 to 82 msec (P < 0.0001) and from 163 to 116 msec (P < 0.0001), respectively. The magnitude of adenosine's effect was greater (47% vs 29% shortening) (P < 0.001) and the duration of adenosine's effect longer (28 vs 19 sec) (P < 0.05) in the right compared to the left atrium. Conclusion: Adenosine, at doses routinely used clinically, produces a transient, but spatially and temporally inhomogeneous, shortening of atrial refractoriness, which may explain the increased propensity toward atrial fibrillation associated with its use.
Solid-phase synthesis provides a modular, lysine-based platform for fluorescent discrimination of nitroxyl and biological thiols

We describe a modular, synthetically facile solid-phase approach aimed at separating the fluorescent reporter and binding unit of small-molecule metal-based sensors. The first representatives contain a lysine backbone functionalized with a tetramethylrhodamine fluorophore, and they operate by modulating the oxidation state of a copper ion ligated to an [N4] (cyclam) or an [N2O] (quinoline-phenolate) moiety. We demonstrate the selectivity of their Cu(II) complexes for sensing nitroxyl (HNO) and thiols (RSH), respectively, and investigate the mechanism responsible for the observed reactivity in each case. The two lysine conjugates are cell permeable in the active, Cu(II)-bound forms and retain their analyte selectivity intracellularly, even in the presence of interfering species such as nitric oxide, nitrosothiols, and hydrogen sulfide. Moreover, we apply the new probes to discriminate between distinct levels of intracellular HNO and RSH generated upon stimulation of live HeLa cells with ascorbate and hydrogen sulfide, respectively. The successful implementation of the lysine-based sensors to gain insight into biosynthetic pathways validates the method as a versatile tool for producing libraries of analogues with minimal synthetic effort.
Variable induction of vitellogenin genes in the varroa mite, Varroa destructor (Anderson & Trueman), by the honeybee, Apis mellifera L, host and its environment

Transcript levels of vitellogenins (Vgs) in the varroa mite, Varroa destructor (Anderson & Trueman), were variably induced by interactions between the developing honeybee, Apis mellifera L, as a food source and the capped honeybee cell environment. Transcripts for two Vgs of varroa mites were sequenced and putative Vg protein products characterized. Sequence analysis of VdVg1 and VdVg2 proteins showed that each had greater similarity with Vg1 and Vg2 proteins from ticks, respectively, than between themselves and were grouped separately by phylogenetic analyses. This suggests there was a duplication of the ancestral acarine Vg gene prior to the divergence of the mites and ticks. Low levels of transcript were detected in immature mites, males and phoretic females. Following cell invasion by phoretic females, VdVg1 and VdVg2 transcript levels were up-regulated after cell capping to a maximum at the time of partial cocoon formation by the honeybee. During oviposition the two transcripts were differentially expressed with higher levels of VdVg2 being observed. A bioassay based on assessing the transcript levels was established. Increases in VdVg1 and VdVg2 transcripts were induced experimentally in phoretic females when they were placed inside a cell containing an early metamorphosing last instar bee but not when exposed to the metamorphosing bee alone. The variable response of Vg expression to the food source as well as environmental cues within the capped cell demonstrates that perturbation of host-parasite interactions may provide avenues to disrupt the reproductive cycle of the varroa mites and prevent varroasis.
Influence of blood sampling site and technique on thromboxane concentrations in patients with ischemic heart disease.

Abstract Thromboxane A 2 may play a role in coronary arterial spasm, unstable angina, myocardial infarction, cardiac arrhythmias, and sudden death. Although previous studies have examined peripheral, aortic, and coronary sinus concentrations of its stable metabolite, thromboxane B 2 (TxB 2 ), it is unknown, first, if blood sampling through long catheters alters the concentration of TxB 2 and second, if peripheral levels of this prostanoid reflect its intracoronary production and release. In order to answer these questions, paired blood samples were obtained through an 18-gauge needle and a No. 7 or 8 French 110 to 125 cm catheter from the arterial (14 patients) and venous (16 patients) circulations; in addition, coronary sinus and peripheral venous samples were obtained in 16 patients and aortic samples were obtained in 14 of these patients. All samples were analyzed to TxB 2 by radioimmunoassay. Blood sampling through long catheters did not systematically alter the concentrations of arterial TxB 2 (needle, 85.5 ± 67.5 pg/ml [mean ± SD]; catheter, 62.3 ± 40.9 pg/ml; p = 0.20) or venous TxB 2 (needle, 182.5 ± 170.5 pg/ml; catheter, 521.4 ± 1536.0 pg/ml; p = 0.39). Peripheral venous TxB 2 levels did not correlate with TxB 2 levels in coronary sinus ( r = 0.01) or the TxB 2 coronary sinus/aortic ratios ( r = 0.21). Thus blood sampling through long catheters across the coronary bed is both a reliable and necessary method for assessing intracoronary TxB 2 production in patients with ischemic heart disease.
Recurrence-free survival rates after external-beam radiotherapy for patients with clinical T1-T3 prostate carcinoma in the prostate-specific antigen era: what should we expect?

BACKGROUND The objective of the current study was to report biochemical recurrence–free survival (bRFS) rates among men with T1–T3 prostate carcinoma who were treated with external-beam radiotherapy (RT) at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation (Cleveland, OH). METHODS In total, 1352 patients were identified between 1987 and 2000 with a minimum follow-up of 1 year (median follow-up, 55 months; range, 12–189 months). The median radiation dose was 74.0 grays (Gy) (range, 63.0–83.0 Gy). The median radiation doses for patients who received < 68.0 Gy (n = 201), 68.0–72.0 Gy (n = 373), and ≥ 72.0 Gy (n = 778) were 66.6 Gy, 70.0 Gy, and 78.0 Gy, respectively. The RT techniques used were standard RT in 41% of patients, 3-dimensional conformal RT in 34% of patients, and intensity-modulated RT in 25% of patients. Androgen-deprivation (AD) therapy lasting ≤ 6 months was administered to 34% of patients. RESULTS The 5-year and 7-year bRFS rates were 63% and 59%, respectively. On multivariate analysis, T classification (P < 0.001), pretreatment prostate-specific antigen level (P < 0.001), biopsy Gleason score (P = 0.001), radiation dose (P < 0.001), and year of therapy (P < 0.001) were independent predictors of biochemical failure. Age, race, AD therapy, and RT technique did not predict for biochemical failure. For patients with low-risk tumors, the 5-year bRFS rates for those who received RT doses of ≤ 68.0 Gy, 68.0–72.0 Gy, and ≥ 72.0 Gy were 52%, 82%, and 93%, respectively (P < 0.001); for patients with intermediate-risk tumors, the respective 5-year bRFS rates were 27%, 51%, and 83% (P < 0.001); and for patients with high-risk tumors, the respective 5-year bRFS rates were 21%, 29%, and 71%, respectively (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The most significant therapeutic factor affecting bRFS rates after RT was radiation dose, rather than AD therapy use or radiation technique. Cancer 2004. © 2004 American Cancer Society.
Picosecond resolution of indole anisotropy decays and spectral relaxation by 2 GHz frequency-domain fluorometry.

— We used frequency-domain fluorescence spectroscopy to measure rotational diffusion and time-resolved emission spectra of indole in methanol on the picosecond timescale. The indole emission was quenched by acrylamide to allow measurements to the instrumental limit of 2 GHz and to eliminate emission from the longer-lived indole molecules, which can no longer provide information on the picosecond (ps) processes. The resolution was adequate to measure rotational correlation times as short as 8 ps at 80†C, and spectral relaxation times as short as 16 ps at 5†C.
Nietzsche's Stinking Thigh and the Footsteps of Tariq Ramadan

Even while proclaiming that God is dead, Nietzsche often praises Islam and explicitly endorses the Laws of Manu. His praise of Islam and the Laws of Manu is usually tied to a critique of Christianity. Nietzsche's own social ethic, based in Will to Power, advocates the exploitation of the weak. Tariq Ramadan often speaks appreciatively of Nietzsche, but his vision of social justice seems very similar to the Christian social ethic that Nietzsche constantly attacks. This essay examines the role that Islam plays for Nietzsche and the role that Nietzsche plays for Ramadan. Despite their differences, both thinkers criticize the provincial tendencies in Western thought.
The Parkland Memorial Hospital depth electrode monitoring experience: technique and morbidity

Abstract At Parkland Memorial Hospital, a standardized depth electrode technique has been applied in selected patients with intractable partial epilepsy since 1985. The procedure is described, and these cases were retrospectively reviewed for mortality, morbidity, and technical complications. All patients underwent symmetrical stereotactically guided implantation of six semirigid electrodes using a Brown-Roberts-Wells apparatus via two frontal burr holes (targets: posterior gyrus rectus, amygdala, and hippocampus). Of 127 cases, 123 charts were reviewed; average duration of implantation was 8.7 days. There were no deaths. Major clinical morbidity was 3.3% ( 4 123 ): one neurologically devastating venous infarct and three intracranial infections with excellent clinical outcomes. Three patients (2.4%) required a return to the operating room due to technical complications compromising data collection.
A Note on Color-Blindness in Some Psychotic Groups

(1935). A Note on Color-Blindness in Some Psychotic Groups. The Journal of Social Psychology: Vol. 6, No. 2, pp. 252-256.
The snRNP-associated U1A levels change following IL-6 stimulation of human B-cells

The U1A protein can be found both in a small-ribonucleoprotein particle (snRNP) that contains U1 RNA, or in a distinctive fraction, free of the snRNP, the SF-A complex. Both components have been shown to influence post- or co-transcriptional RNA processing reactions in HeLa cells. Since U1A may influence the processing of the immunoglobulin heavy chain pre-mRNA in B-cells, we wanted to see if the levels of U1A in either of its two forms changed following IL-6 stimulation to IgM secretion. Using antibodies that specifically recognize the two forms of U1A, snRNP-associated and snRNP-free, we found that approximately 16% of U1A is in the SF-A form in B-cells. We measured the levels of U1A protein in its two states in human B-cell lines both by flow cytometry and exhaustive immunoprecipitations. We found a significant decrease in the amount of snRNP-associated U1A following cytokine stimulation that correlates with the change-over to the secretory-specific poly(A) site use in the SKW 6.4 cell line. Meanwhile, the number of U1A molecules in the SF-A fraction of the pool remains nearly constant following induction to secretion. Our results suggest that the changing level of U1A in the snRNP fraction may be important for influencing Ig heavy chain mRNA processing.
A 50µm pitch, 1120-channel, 20kHz frame rate microelectrode array for slice recording

We present a 1,120 channel active microelectrode array with 50μm pitch recording sites for direct recording of neural slices. Every sensor site has a frontend low noise amplifier and photopixel for correlating optical stimulus with electrical activity. The frontend is AC-coupled and achieves area-efficiency by integrating the large input capacitor and recording electrode directly over the circuitry in conjunction with a single T-capacitor feedback network. Degraded PSRR (63dB) and CMRR (21dB) from the single feedback network are overcome by utilizing a virtual shared reference, improving rejection to 84dB and 66dB, respectively. Despite a small area, the frontend amplifier has an input-referred noise of 4.3μVrms with tunable high- and low-pass corners with very little variation from site-to-site. Experiments from a transgenic mouse olfactory bulb slice are shown. The array was implemented in a standard 180nm CMOS process.
Observations of Hurricane-Generated, Near-Inertial Slope Modes

Abstract Velocity Profiles and current meter measurements taken near Site D(39°10′N, 70°00′W) on the continental rise south of New England are used to study the variability of the near-inertial wave field along a sloping bottom. While the typical vertical scales of the waves are on the order of 100 m, some energetic downward propagating near-inertial features are observed with unusually large vertical scales, on the order of the ocean depth. Comparison with an internal wave model on a linear bottom slope shows that these energetic waves are dominated by the lowest three downward and seaward printing dynamical “slope” modes. The lowest mode arrives first at Site D from the north, the higher modes follow several days later. The observed scales and propagation directions suggest that the energetic near-inertial waves were generated by a hurricane and then reflected at the steep continental slope to the north of Site D. The low-order, flat-bottom modes that usually dominate the far-field response of a hurrica...
Helical versus planar cis-polyacetylene

An established quantum chemical self-consistent-field method, the modified neglect of diatomic overlap approach, is used to study the equilibrium geometry of cis-polyacetylene. This study was stimulated by very recent experimental results suggesting the existence of helical cis-polyacetylene. For a single chain of this material we do find that the planar structure is unstable towards formation of a helical conformation. Owing to a remarkable flatness in the potential-energy surface over a wide range of carbon-carbon single-bond twist angles, the results account for the experimentally implied existence of both planar and helical $\frac{2*3}{1}$ cis-polyacetylene.
TOWARD RURAL GERONTOLOGICAL EDUCATION: RATIONALE AND MODEL

The problems of older persons living in rural United States have inadvertently been forgotten in the rat race of generic gerontological training and public program implementation. They have become, however, one of the newly discovered minority groups in the 1970s. Their remoteness to “power groups,” underrepresentation, culturally valued independence and stamina, and less vocal attitude in a reactive U.S. system that seemingly rewards more aggressive behavior have all been factors contributing to political, bureaucratic, academic, and professional biases that view older persons living in rural United States as second class citizens. Thus a massive, concentrated effort that focuses on the problems facing the rural elderly is long overdue. This paper is designed to review some of the unresolved and under‐attended issues of the 1970s in the field of aging, while proposing an educational model for the 1980s that constructively addresses the problems facing the rural aged, the backbone of the country. This pap...
A preliminary randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of the safety and efficacy of ondansetron in the treatment of cocaine dependence

Prior studies have demonstrated inefficacy among dopamine receptor antagonists for treating cocaine dependence. An alternative approach would be to investigate the ability of indirect inhibitors of cortico-mesolimbic dopamine release, such as the 5-HT(3) receptor antagonist ondansetron, to reduce cocaine's reinforcing effects. We hypothesized that ondansetron might be more efficacious than placebo at reducing cocaine intake and promoting abstinence in cocaine-dependent individuals. In a pilot randomized, double-blind, 10-week controlled trial, 63 treatment-seeking, cocaine-dependent men and women received ondansetron (0.25 mg, 1.0 mg, or 4.0 mg twice daily) or placebo. Up to three times per week, participants were assessed on several measures of cocaine use, including urine benzoylecgonine. Cognitive behavioral therapy was administered weekly. Ondansetron was well tolerated, causing no serious adverse events. The ondansetron 4.0 mg group had the lowest dropout rate among all treatment groups and a greater rate of improvement in percentage of participants with a cocaine-free week compared with the placebo group (p = 0.02), whereas the ondansetron 1.0 mg group had a lower rate of improvement in percentage of weekly mean non-use days than did placebo recipients (p = 0.04). These results suggest the possibility of a non-linear dose-response function, with evidence supporting efficacy for the 4.0 mg group.
Aqueous lithium ion batteries on paper substrates

Abstract Aqueous paper batteries were fabricated and demonstrated based on LiMn 2 O 4 and carbon coated TiP 2 O 7 . Carbon nanotubes conformally coated commercial paper, which served as current collectors. Anode and cathode slurries penetrated these conductive substrates well. Aqueous paper batteries were tested electrochemically, exhibiting excellent rate capability and reasonable cycling life. TiP 2 O 7 dissolution accounts for the observed capacity fade.
Modeling the Habitat Retreat of the Rediscovered Endemic Hawaiian Moth Omiodes continuatalis Wallengren (Lepidoptera: Crambidae)

Survey data over the last 100 years indicate that populations of the endemic Hawaiian leafroller moth, Omiodes continuatalis (Wallengren) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae), have declined, and the species is extirpated from large portions of its original range. Declines have been attributed largely to the invasion of non-native parasitoid species into Hawaiian ecosystems. To quantify changes in O. continuatalis distribution, we applied the maximum entropy modeling approach using Maxent. The model referenced historical (1892–1967) and current (2004–2008) survey data, to create predictive habitat suitability maps which illustrate the probability of occurrence of O. continuatalis based on historical data as contrasted with recent survey results. Probability of occurrence is predicted based on the association of biotic (vegetation) and abiotic (proxy of precipitation, proxy of temperature, elevation) environmental factors with 141 recent and historic survey locations, 38 of which O. continuatalis were collected from. Models built from the historical and recent surveys suggest habitat suitable for O. continuatalis has changed significantly over time, decreasing both in quantity and quality. We reference these data to examine the potential effects of non-native parasitoids as a factor in changing habitat suitability and range contraction for O. continuatalis. Synthesis and applications: Our results suggest that the range of O. continuatalis, an endemic Hawaiian species of conservation concern, has shrunk as its environment has degraded. Although few range shifts have been previously demonstrated in insects, such contractions caused by pressure from introduced species may be important factors in insect extinctions.
3D path planning for virtual endoscopy

Abstract Centerline extraction of curvilinear objects is a crucial component of virtual endoscopy (VE) because it provides path planning for automatic navigation. In this paper, we present a guided voxel coding (GVC) algorithm that modifies the original method to extract reliable centerlines suitable for fly-through applications. Our proposed method extracts potential centerline voxels with maximal spheres inscribed in the object and stores them in an a priori guidance map. Centerlines are initially extracted as trajectories inside the object and then centered using a new mechanism that exploits the information contained in that map. A new level set method accurately identifies the topological branching nodes of the joint centerlines. Finally, a thinning method is proposed to guarantee single voxel width centerlines. The proposed algorithm is completely automated and generates reliable, connected, and smoothed navigation paths for complex tree structures.
Computerized tomographic demonstration of toxic megacolon: Report of a case

Computerized tomography was performed on a patient with toxic megacolon. It is conceivable that a patient may be studied by CT prior to plain radiography, and the appearance of the colon described below should alert the examiner to the possibility of toxic megacolon.
Poly(2,6-diphenyl-1,4-phenyl oxide): Characterization by gel-permeation chromatography, light scattering, and solution viscosity†

Ten unfractionated poly(2,6-diphenyl-1,4-phenylene oxide) samples were examined by gel permeation chromatography (GPC) and intrinsic viscosity [η] at 50°C in benzene, by intrinsic viscosity at 25°C in chloroform, and by light scattering at 30°C in chloroform. The GPC column was calibrated with ten narrow-distribution polystyrenes and styrene monomer to yield a “universal” relation of log ([η]M) versus elution volume. GPC-average molecular weights, defined as Mgpc = , wi denoting the weight fraction of polymer of molecular weight Mi, were computed from the GPC and [η] data on the polyethers. The MGPC were then compared with the weight-average Mw from light scattering. The intrinsic viscosity (dl/g) versus molecular weight relations for the unfractionated poly(2,6-diphenyl-1,4-phenylene oxides) determined over the molecular weight range 14,000 ≤ Mw ≤ 1,145,000 are log [η] = −3.494 + 0.609 log Mw (chloroform, 25°C) and log [η] = −3.705 + 0.638 log Mw (benzene, 50°C). The Mw(GPC)/Mn(GPC) ratios for the polymers in the molecular weight range 14,000 ≤ Mw ≤ 123,000 approximate 1.5 according to computer integrations of the GPC curves with the use of the “universal” calibration and the measured log [η] versus log Mw relation. The higher molecular weight polymers (326,000 ≤ Mw ≤ 1,145,000) show slightly broadened distributions.
Bessel functions and representation theory. I

Abstract In this paper a general theory of operator-valued Bessel functions is presented. These functions arise naturally in representation theory in the context of metaplectic representations, discrete series, and limits of discrete series for certain semi-simple Lie groups. In general, Bessel functions J λ are associated to the action by automorphisms of a compact group U on a locally compact abelian group X , and are indexed by the irreducible representations λ of U that appear in the primary decomposition of the regular representation of U on L 2 ( X ). Then on the λ-primary constituent of L 2 ( X ), the Fourier transform is described by the Hankel transform corresponding to J λ . More detailed information is available in the case in which ( U , X ) is an orthogonal transformation group which possesses a system of polar coordinates. In particular, when X = F k × n , F a real finite-dimensional division algebra, with k ⩾ 2 n and O ( k , F ), the representations λ of U are induced in a certain sense from representations π of GL( n , F ). This leads to a characterization of J λ as a reduced Bessel function defined on the component of 1 in GL( n , F ) and to the connection between metaplectic representations and holomorphic discrete series for the group of biholomorphic automorphisms of the Siegel upper half-plane in the complexification of F n × n .
Implementing ethics in the professions: Preparing guidelines on scientific communication for the Society for Neuroscience

In 1994, the governing council of the Society for Neuroscience was asked to make a brief statement on an issue regarding responsible conduct in publishing. The present article reviews how that initial request grew over the next four years into a lengthy document. Drawing on that experience, which was presided over by the author, comments are made about the potential impact of such guidelines, the lessons learned, and the proper role of professional societies in promoting responsible conduct in research.
Kendall Analysis of Cannon Pressure Vessels

Engineering mechanics analysis of cannon pressure vessels is described with special emphasis on the work of the late US Army Benet Laboratories engineer David P. Kendall. His work encompassed a broad range of design and analysis of high pressure vessels for use as cannons, including analysis of the limiting yield pressure for vessels, the autofrettage process applied to thick vessels, and the fatigue life of autofrettaged cannon vessels. Mr. Kendall’s work has become the standard approach used to analyze the structural integrity of cannon pressure vessels at the US Army Benet Laboratories.The methods used by Kendall in analysis of pressure vessels were simple and direct. He used classic results from research in engineering mechanics to develop descriptive expressions for limiting pressure, autofrettage residual stresses and fatigue life of cannon pressure vessels. Then he checked the expressions against the results of full-scale cannon pressure vessel tests in the proving grounds and the laboratory. Three types of analysis are described: [i] Yield pressure tests of cannon sections compared with a yield pressure expression, including in the comparison post-test yield strength measurements from appropriate locations of the cannon sections; [ii] Autofrettage hoop residual stress measurements by neutron diffraction in cannon sections compared with expressions, including Bauschinger corrections in the expressions to account for the reduction in compressive yield strength near the bore of an autofrettaged vessel; [iii] Fatigue life tests of cannons following proving ground firing and subsequent laboratory simulated firing compared with Paris-based fatigue life expressions that include post-test metallographic determination of the initial crack size due to firing. Procedures are proposed for Paris life calculations for bore-initiated fatigue affected by crack-face pressure and notch-initiated cracking in which notch tip stresses are significantly above the material yield strength.The expressions developed by Kendall and compared with full-scale cannon pressure vessel tests provide useful first-order design and safety checks for pressure vessels, to be followed by further engineering analysis and service simulation testing as appropriate for the application. Expressions are summarized that are intended for initial design calculations of yield pressure, autofrettage stresses and fatigue life for pressure vessels. Example calculations with these expressions are described for a hypothetical pressure vessel.Copyright © 2012 by ASME