cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fast three-dimensional chemical imaging by interferometric multiplex coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering microscopy

We report significant improvements in both signal sensitivity and imaging speed of Fourier transform spectral interferometry coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (FTSI-CARS) microscopy. With a help of an apodization function in the signal retrieval process, background due to the spectral change of nonresonant signals is eliminated. We experimentally verify that the sensitivity of the improved method is nearly shot-noise-limited. The current maximum detection sensitivity is ∼10 mM of aqueous sulfate ions, which correspond to ∼106 oscillators in the microscopy focal volume. Operating the charge-coupled device (CCD) in the crop mode increases the image acquisition speed by more than ten times. A vibrational hyperspectral image of a polymer sample with 100 × 100 pixel can be obtained within 3 s. With the improved sensitivity and speed, we also perform three-dimensional volume imaging. Superior chemical selectivity is demonstrated with a mixture of two different oil droplets, which have identical vibrational peak positions but different relative peak ratios. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On the design and development of a human-robot synergistic system

Abstract A great variety of robotic systems have been developed over the past decades, varying from fully human-controlled teleoperated systems, to fully motion-programmed, industrial-type devices, to sensor-equipped ‘intelligent’ machines with autonomous perception and reasoning capabilities. All these systems, however, have very static roles in supporting humans, in the sense that their capabilities are limited to very narrow functions or tasks domains and they cannot really adapt to changing environments where entirely new tasks may be necessary. By considering these systems as part of overall human-machine systems, interesting adaptation capabilities can be envisioned for the machine through the sharing of control and experiences, and observation of the human actions. This paper proposes a general conceptual architecture for enhancing the synergy between humans and machines in such cooperative systems, and investigates an implementation of the concept to the synergistic integration of teleoperative and autonomous operation of a manipulator arm for the execution of sequential tasks. The proposed architecture reflects a unique blend of many disciplines of artificial or machine intelligence and the functioning of its major modules is discussed. The paper then focuses on initial implementations of the Job Planner, Task Allocator, and Execution Monitor modules to discuss simple proof-of-principle experiments illustrating the coalescence of these modules needed to achieve skill-based dynamic task planning, allocation, and execution.
Dynamic Balances in a Wavy Boundary Layer

AbstractThe authors analyze the influence of waves on the budgets of momentum flux and kinetic energy in the atmospheric flow over sea surface waves and use the findings to reinterpret the results from the earlier empirical studies on the subject. This analysis employs the framework of wave–mean flow interaction and experimental data collected recently over the open ocean. From a minimal set of plausible assumptions, limited to small-slope waves and uncorrelated turbulent and wave-induced motions in the wind, this study demonstrates that the budgets apply separately to the turbulent and the wave-induced flows. The explicit forms of the wave-supported fluxes of momentum and kinetic energy favor wave spectra ∝ ω−β, 4 ≤ β ≤ 5 for wind–wave equilibrium. These explicit forms also show that in common conditions at heights above one significant wave height from the unperturbed surface, the wave-supported fluxes are a small fraction of the total, of the order of 5%. The wave influence on the kinetic energy budget...
Comparison of fluoride and sapphire optical fibers for Er: YAG laser lithotripsy

The long-pulse (200–350 μs) Holmium: YAG (Ho: YAG) laser (λ = 2.12 μm) is used extensively in urology for laser lithotripsy. The long-pulse Erbium: YAG (Er: YAG) laser (λ = 2.94 μm) fragments urinary calculi up to 5 times more efficiently than the Ho: YAG laser, however, no optical fibers are available to transmit efficiently 2.94 μm laser light for laser lithotripsy. We report results of a study evaluating a fluoride glass fiber to transmit Er: YAG laser light for laser lithotripsy and compare to a sapphire fiber that provides good transmission of Er: YAG light at low irradiance. The fluoride fiber provides superior light transmission efficiency over the sapphire fiber at an Er: YAG wavelength (2.94 μm). The sapphire fiber provides a more durable and robust delivery waveguide than the fluoride fiber when ablating urinary calculi in contact mode. Results of our study suggest that further development to improve performance of fluoride fibers for laser lithotripsy is warranted. (© 2010 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Network of cyclops; image inference and interpretation in sensor network

Recent technological progress in integrated low power CMOS based imaging devices has led to new type of sensors such as Cyclops. Cyclops is a CMOS image sensor, with reduced complexity and power that allows it to mate with typical sensor network nodes such as Motes. This motivates a new class of sensor networks which exploit vision.In this demonstration we introduce a network of Motes that carry Cyclops sensors. In this network, each individual node can be programmed to perform specific operation on the image. These operations include detecting objects in the scene, detecting edges, reporting histogram of the image, getting the image across the network or getting only particular region of interest.The demonstration showcases the functionality of our network to detect objects. Each node in the network is programmed to detect presence of the objects in its field of view. In addition, users can request the whole image or particular region of interest which the presence of the object has been detected. Performance studies as well as architectural choices will be presented along with outstanding challenges and opportunities.
σ Receptor binding affinity and inhibition of apomorphine-induced climbing

Several relatively selective compounds with affinity for the sigma binding site were assessed for their ability to inhibit apomorphine-induced climbing in the mouse. Although, the majority of compounds inhibited apomorphine-induced climbing, there was no correlation between the ability to inhibit climbing and potency in sigma binding assays using [3H]1,3-di-o-tolylguanidine (DTG) or [3H](+)-pentazocine as ligands. The potency of the compounds to inhibit binding to muscarinic M1 or M2 receptors correlated with the potency to inhibit apomorphine-induced climbing. However, several of the compounds that inhibit climbing had microM affinity at muscarinic receptors. Whether these concentrations were achieved in vivo is unclear. Our data suggest that sigma activity per se is not responsible for inhibition of apomorphine-induced climbing.
Isobaric and isochoric properties of decahydroisoquinoline, an extremely fragile glass-former

Pressure–volume–temperature (PVT) measurements were obtained on decahydroisoquinoline (DHIQ). From the resulting equation of state in combination with previously reported dielectric relaxation data, an analysis of the volume contribution to the dynamics was carried out for this very fragile glass-former (isobaric fragility, mP = 163). We find that the ratio of the isochoric and isobaric fragilities equals 0.71 ± 0.02, reflecting a strong temperature effect, consistent with the large fragility. The relaxation times superpose when plotted versus temperature times the specific volume raised to the 3.55 power. This is a larger value of the exponent than expected based on the fragility of DHIQ. The implication is that for molecular glass-formers, the classical Lennard-Jones 6–12 repulsive potential may represent the limit for fragile liquids.
Problem solving with the ATMS

Abstract An assumption-based truth maintenance system provides a very general facility for all types of default reasoning. However, the ATMS is only one component of an overall reasoning system. This paper presents a set of concerns for interfacing with the ATMS, an interface protocol, and an example of a constraint language based on the protocol. The paper concludes with a comparison of the ATMS and the view of problem solving it entails with other approaches.
Derivatives of phthalocyanine prepared for deposition as thin films by the Langmuir-Blodgett technique☆

Abstract Film pressure versus area data for a series of organic derivatives of phthalocyanine are presented in detail. Classical monomolecular films were not observed. Compounds studied include tetraphenoxy, dicumylphenoxy and tetracumylphenoxy, tetraoctadecoxy and tetraneopentoxy phthalocyanine. Spread films of metal-substituted tetracumylphenoxy phthalocyanines that contained iron, cobalt, nickel, copper, zinc, palladium, platinum and lead were also examined along with 1:1 mole ratio mixed films of these compounds with octadecanol. Mixed films with varying mole ratios of nickel tetracumylphenoxy phthalocyanine and octadecanol are also described. On the basis of these data and considerations of recent studies of tetra- tert -butyl phthalocyanine by other investigators, a stacked phthalocyanine structure is indicated. The stack axis is not parallel to the plane of the film.
Experimentally determined spectral optimization for dedicated breast computed tomography

Purpose: The current study aimed to experimentally identify the optimal technique factors (x-ray tube potential and added filtration material/thickness) to maximize soft-tissue contrast, microcalcification contrast, and iodine contrast enhancement using cadaveric breast specimens imaged with dedicated breast computed tomography (bCT). Secondarily, the study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of phantom materials as tissue surrogates and to characterize the change in accuracy with varying bCT technique factors. Methods: A cadaveric breast specimen was acquired under appropriate approval and scanned using a prototype bCT scanner. Inserted into the specimen were cylindrical inserts of polyethylene, water, iodine contrast medium (iodixanol, 2.5 mg/ml), and calcium hydroxyapatite (100 mg/ml). Six x-ray tube potentials (50, 60, 70, 80, 90, and 100 kVp) and three different filters (0.2 mm Cu, 1.5 mm Al, and 0.2 mm Sn) were tested. For each set of technique factors, the intensity (linear attenuation coefficient) and noise were measured within six regions of interest (ROIs): Glandular tissue, adipose tissue, polyethylene, water, iodine contrast medium, and calcium hydroxyapatite. Dose-normalized contrast to noise ratio (CNRD) was measured for pairwise comparisons among the six ROIs. Regression models were used to estimate the effect of tube potential and added filtration on intensity, noise, and CNRD. Results:more » Iodine contrast enhancement was maximized using 60 kVp and 0.2 mm Cu. Microcalcification contrast and soft-tissue contrast were maximized at 60 kVp. The 0.2 mm Cu filter achieved significantly higher CNRD for iodine contrast enhancement than the other two filters (p=0.01), but microcalcification contrast and soft-tissue contrast were similar using the copper and aluminum filters. The average percent difference in linear attenuation coefficient, across all tube potentials, for polyethylene versus adipose tissue was 1.8%, 1.7%, and 1.3% for 0.2 mm Cu, 1.5 mm Al, and 0.2 mm Sn, respectively. For water versus glandular tissue, the average percent difference was 2.7%, 3.9%, and 4.2% for the three filter types. Conclusions: Contrast-enhanced bCT, using injected iodine contrast medium, may be optimized for maximum contrast of enhancing lesions at 60 kVp with 0.2 mm Cu filtration. Soft-tissue contrast and microcalcification contrast may also benefit from lower tube potentials (60 kVp). The linear attenuation coefficients of water and polyethylene slightly overestimate the values of their corresponding tissues, but the reported differences may serve as guidance for dosimetry and quality assurance using tissue equivalent phantoms.« less
Multiple Monophasic Shocks Improve Electrotherapy of Ventricular Tachycardia in a Rabbit Model of Chronic Infarction

Background We previously showed that the cardioversion threshold (CVT) for ventricular tachycardia (VT) is phase dependent when a single monophasic shock (1MP) is used. Objective The purpose of this study was to extend these findings to a biphasic shock (1BP) and to compare the efficacy of phase-independent multiple monophasic (5MP) and biphasic shocks (5BP). Methods Panoramic optical mapping with blebbistatin (5 μM) was performed in postmyocardial infarction rabbit hearts (n = 8). Flecainide (1.64 ± 0.68 μM) was administered to promote sustained arrhythmias. 5MP and 5BP were applied within one VT cycle length (CL). Results were compared to 1BP and antitachycardia pacing. Results We observed monomorphic VT with CL=149.6 ± 18.0 ms. Similar to 1MP, CVTs of 1BP were found to be phase dependent, and the maximum versus minimum CVT was 8.6 ± 1.7 V/cm versus 3.7 ± 1.9 V/cm, respectively ( P = .0013). Efficacy of 5MP was higher than that of 1BP and 5BP. CVT was 3.2 ± 1.4 V/cm for 5MP versus 5.3 ± 1.9 V/cm for 5BP ( P = .00027). 5MP versus averaged 1BP CVT was 3.6 ± 2.1 V/cm versus. 6.8 ± 1.5 V/cm, respectively ( P = .00024). Antitachycardia pacing was found to be completely ineffective in this model. Conclusion Maintenance of shock-induced virtual electrode polarization by multiple monophasic shocks over a VT cycle is responsible for unpinning of reentry leading to self-termination. Elimination of virtual electrode polarization by shock polarity reversal during multiple biphasic shocks proved ineffective. A significant reduction in CVT can be achieved by applying multiple monophasic shocks within one VT CL or one single shock at the proper coupling interval.
Differential rates of attack, defense, and counterattack during the developmental decrease in play fighting by male and female rats.

During postweaning development, rats exhibit several well documented trends in their play fighting: (1) It peaks between 30-40 days and then declines with the approach of sexual maturity; (2) males initiate more play fights than females; and (3) the overall complexity of play fights, as expressed by such measures as duration of bouts, also decreases with increasing age. Such trends could arise from changes in attack or defense, or some combination of both. In this article it is shown that (a) the decline in play fighting with the onset of sexual maturity in rats results from a decline in attack, not in defense; (b) the differences in play fighting by male and female rats are due to sex-specific rates of both attack and defense; and (c) the developmental decrease in the complexity of play fighting arises from a decrease in the frequency of counterattacks (i.e., after an animal defends itself, it is less likely to launch an attack). In this way, age and sex differences in play fighting can be traced to differences in its subcomponents.
Acquisition strategy and source selection for co-designing a new-development spacecraft

NASA's Prometheus project was authorized to develop a revolutionary solar system exploration capability - a nuclear electric propulsion spacecraft $that would, during its initial flight, orbit three icy moons of Jupiter. An innovative acquisition strategy - including competitive industry studies, parallel government studies, customized rules of engagement, research, and benchmarking - was employed for project formulation. This strategy produced a new paradigm for space system development: co-design. The co-design paradigm was infused into a unique request for proposal process and a streamlined source evaluation board process, resulting in a timely and effective contractor selection. Following contractor selection, the mechanics of co-design were baselined, then modified through experience. The project co-design team successfully completed the project conceptual design and life cycle cost estimate on schedule, meeting or exceeding all requirements. This paper describes the study contract and down-select phases, provides a definition and description of co-design, and recommends future application of the paradigm for major systems developments.
Direct visual insertion of primary trocar and avoidance of fascial closure with laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP) has been used increasingly more often in the past 10 years. The authors summarize their experience and safety/complications data based on 849 laparoscopic RYGBP procedures. They also evaluate the use of the Endopath trocar in terms of trocar-site hernias, bowel obstruction, and elimination of time-consuming fascial closure. From July 2000 to December 2003, 849 laparoscopic RYGBP procedures were performed using a bladeless, 12-mm, visual entry trocar. The patients’ average body mass index (BMI) was 53.2 kg/m2. The trocar ports (n = 3,744) were not closed. Perioperative and postoperative assessments were performed. In this study, 74% of the patients were retained for follow-up evaluation (mean, 10 months). Among these patients, no intraoperative bowel or vascular injuries, no mortality, and two trocar-site hernias (0.2%) were found. At 1 year, the mean excess weight loss was 73.4%. The Endopath trocar system shows a trend toward reducing trocar-site hernias, decreasing bowel obstruction, and eliminating the need for time-consuming fascial closure, although further studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Differential effect of cholesterol on two types of 5-hydroxytryptamine binding sites.

The specific binding of [3H]5-hydroxytryptamine ([3H]5-HT, [3H]serotonin) to rat cerebral cortex is increased approximately 1.5 to 2.0 fold by cholesterol hydrogen succinate (CHS) and is solubilized into the supernatant fraction by 12 mM CHS. [3H]5-HT binding sites can be constituted by incubating the supernatant fraction obtained from CHS-treated cerebral cortex with cerebellum in which no significant [3H]5-HT binding is detectable. The constituted [3H]5-HT binding could be displaced by unlabeled 5-HT, d-lysergic acid diethylamide (d-LSD) and spiperone as could the binding to cortex membranes. Unlabeled 5-HT, d-LSD and spiperone each inhibited specific [3H]5-HT binding to constituted binding sites by 50% at about 1×10−9M. Specific [3H]spiperone binding was not detectable in the constituted membranes. Stearic acid which is reported to have similar effects on membrane fluidity as cholesterol also increased specific [3H]5-HT binding in cortical membranes. Stearic acid does not affect specific [3H]spiperone binding. These results suggest that [3H]5-HT and [3H]spiperone binding sites are affected differently by membrane fluidity.
179 INTRANASAL LHRH ANALOGUE TREATMENT OF IDIOPATHIC CENTRAL PRECOCIOUS PUBERTY IN GIRLS

Daily administration of LHRH analogues (agonists) has been documented to decrease biochemical findings and clinical signs of true precocious puberty. We have treated 10 girls, age 14 months to 9 years, with true idiopathic precocious puberty by intranasal inhalation of Nafarelin Acetate ([D-Nal(2)6]LHRH), 800-1500 μ g/day for 4 to 11 months. 9 girls showed decelerated growth velocity (from 9.7 ± .8 to 5.8 ± .8 cm/yr. p < 0.005, paired t test, n=8). 4 of these 9 girls were menstruating prior to therapy and all girls stopped menses subsequent to therapy. These 9 girls' estradiol levels also decreased significantly (from 46.3 ± 12.3 to 9.3 ± 1.8 pg/ml, p < 0.01, paired t test) as well as their 24 hour urinary LH levels (from 7.5 ± 1.8 to 2.7 ± 0.5 iu/day, p < 0.01, paired t test). The girl who did not respond to nasal inhalation therapy was administered subcutaneous injections of the same LHRH analogue. All children received intranasal inhalation without any observed side effects. These results suggest that most girls with true precocious puberty can be treated with intranasal administration of Nafarelin Acetate, a new LHRH analogue. (Supported in part by USPH Grant RR-00188 from the General Clinical Research Centers Branch, National Institutes of Health).
Vanishing Schottky barriers in diamond/metal interfaces

We present theoretical evidence that Schottky-barrier heights may, for certain types of interfaces, be far more sensitive to interface geometry than previously suspected. We have identified two classes of diamond/metal interface orientations, one of which leads to Schottky-barrier heights of order 1 eV, the other to barrier heights that are very small or zero. This striking difference can be traced to details of the gap-state band structure that arise from different bonding mechanisms, for which the precise atomic geometry plays a crucial role.
I don't want to hear you, but I'd like to see you

Purpose: To compare attitudes towards clinical genetics between respondents who are Deaf and those who are Deaf-Blind. Previous studies involving Deaf patients have been limited by the barriers inherent in obtaining responses in a clinical setting as well as by a language barrier. This is the first work that elicited non-censored responses from Deaf and Deaf-Blind adults. Methods: Participants in a retreat for Deaf-Blind adults were interviewed concerning their views relating to genetic counseling and treatment of hearing and vision loss. Respondents consisted of Deaf adults (those who identify as part of the Deaf culture in the U.S. and Canada and whose primary language is American Sign Language) and Deaf-Blind adults (those who have both hearing and vision loss). Initial interviews were conducted in-person in the respondent's preferred language and mode of communication. Communication was direct (no interpreter needed) and included American Sign Language (ASL), tactile ASL (the Deaf-Blind respondent read ASL by placing his/her hands on the interviewer's hands while the interviewer signed), and spoken English. Follow-up interviews were obtained within a six-month period. Results: The Deaf adults had negative views towards medical genetics, drawing parallels between treatments to “cure deafness” with eugenics and genocide. However, one respondent would be interested in genetic counseling if the medical personnel had positive attitudes towards the Deaf and would meet the needs of Deaf clients. The Deaf-Blind adults fell into two categories. Those whose communication included both signing and oral methods were interested in preserving both their hearing and vision. Those who identified as culturally Deaf had similar responses as the Deaf adults in terms of resenting the idea of “curing deafness,” while at the same time interested in any avenues that would preserve or restore vision. Conclusions: To provide appropriate services to Deaf and Deaf-Blind adults, it is imperative to establish trust and effective communication. Identifying a contact in the Deaf community who can serve as a cultural mediator is an important tool. In addition, expanding the time frame for clinical appointments and utilizing the preferred mode(s) of communication conveys respect and allows for successful communication. The attitudes of Deaf-Blind adults towards medical interventions differed between those who communicate orally and those who identify as culturally Deaf.
An improved ion-exchange purification procedure for the fluorometric assay of histamine☆

Abstract The phosphonic acid intermediate cation-exchange resin (Duolite ES-63) has been used to purify histamine for the fluorometric determination of histamine. This is an improvement over the use of the cellulose phosphate cation exchanger (Cellex-P) by being resistant to breakdown during hydration and having a greater exchange capacity than Cellex-P.
Atomic force microscopy studies of chemical–mechanical processes on silicon(100) surfaces

Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is used to examine chemical–mechanical processes on Si(100) surfaces. The AFM tip serves as a single asperity contact to exert tribological forces as well as an imaging tool. By scanning in chemically aggressive solutions, material removal can be observed directly. In the silicon system, high-force scans are used to remove oxide and initiate etching in selected locations, followed by low-force scans to image the resulting surfaces. Material removal rates were measured as a function of applied load, number of scans, solution composition, and time. In basic solution, places where the underlying silicon is exposed etch rapidly, producing structures 100 nm or less in size. Although the surface roughness initially increases during etching, the final surfaces are smooth. The oxide is extremely sensitive to applied stress: even very light scanning accelerates oxide dissolution. Once the oxide is removed, chemical etching proceeds through the underlying silicon with or without AFM scanning; but the silicon etches more rapidly if AFM scanning is continued, due to true chemical–mechanical (tribochemical) effects.
Anisotropic diffusion in a two-dimensional model with obstruction and a comparison of mean first passage time calculations

The disagreement between two different studies of the diffusion equation for two hard disks to diffuse past each other in a narrow channel remains unresolved. Two different values for the divergence exponent of the mean first passage time (MFPT) were obtained. This has motivated the proposal that the difference arises from the use of different and nonequivalent definitions for the MFPT. Doubt was raised regarding the validity of the numerical solution of the diffusion equation as an explanation for the disagreement with the dimensional reduction method. In this paper, a one disk model which partially mimics the two disks problem is studied in the infinitely anisotropic diffusion limits. Although analytical arguments predict the exact exponent to be 1/2, it has not been probed in numerical studies. Using the two algorithms, we obtain exponents from numerical solutions which are consistent with each other and the proposed exact value.
Two ways to misregulate mRNAs in myotonic dystrophy.

Myotonic dystrophy is caused by expanded CTG repeats, and the expression of these repeats as RNA leads to the sequestration of the splicing factor muscleblind-like (MBNL1) to the CUG RNA. Two mouse models for myotonic dystrophy—mice expressing expanded CUG repeats and mice lacking functional MBNL1—now reveal ∼100 new mis-splicing events and a new class of aberrantly regulated mRNAs.
Making the Move to Private Practice: Using Your Sense To Make Cents

Abstract Making the move to private practice can be an exciting and challenging proposition. There are many practical, professional, and personnel issues to consider. This tutorial provides practic...
Mild extractability and bioavailability of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in soil

A study was conducted to determine the relationship between bioavailability of unaged and aged polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in soil and the amounts detected by mild solvent extraction. More aged than unaged anthracene remained in Lima loam following introduction of earthworms (Eisenia foetida), a mixed culture containing anthracene-degrading microorganisms, or earthworms or wheat after bacterial biodegradation of the compound. Aging decreased the percentage of anthracene recovered by mild extraction with n-butanol from soil following introduction of earthworms, growth of wheat, biodegradation by bacteria, or when maintained sterile. Biodegradation resulted in a marked decrease in the percentage of aged and unaged anthracene recovered from soil by mild extraction with n-butanol or ethyl acetate. Aging of fluoranthene and pyrene decreased the amount removed by mild extraction with n-butanol, ethyl acetate, and propanol. The uptake of aged and unaged anthracene, fluoranthene, and pyrene by earthworms was correlated with the amounts recovered from soil by mild extraction with n-butanol, propanol, and ethyl acetate. The retention of aged and unaged anthracene by wheat and barley was correlated with the amounts recovered from soil by the same procedure. The authors suggest that mild extraction with organic solvents can be used to predict the bioavailability of PAHsmore » in soil.« less
On the logic of probabilistic dependencies

This paper uncovers the axiomatic basis for the probabilistic relation "x is independent of y, given z" and offers it as a formal definition of informational dependency. Given an initial set of such independence relationships, the axioms established permits us to infer new independencies by non-numeric, logical manipulations. Additionally, the paper legitimizes the use of inference networks to represent probabilistic dependencies by establishing a clear correspondence between the two relational structures. Given an arbitrary probabilistic model, P, we demonstrate a construction of a unique edge-minimum graph G such that each time we observe a vertex x separated from y by a subset S of vertices, we can be guaranteed that variables x and y are independent in P, given the values of the variables in S.
AlInN/ GaN heterostructure field-effect transistors

We report on AlInN/GaN Heterostructure Field-Effect Transistors grown by MEMOCVD® technique [1] with virtually Ga-free AlInN layers. The layer thicknesses were 10 nm and 1 nm for AlInN and a thin AlGaN spacer layers, respectively. This technology allows for strain-free or strain-reduced structures for higher quality and performance nitride electronic devices. We obtained the two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) sheet densities as high as 4.4×1013 cm-2, and our estimates show that even higher values (up to 6×1013 cm-2) might be achievable. The electron mobility was over 500 cm2/Vs. As seen from Figure 1, the thickness of AlInN layer controls the sheet 2DEG density and, therefore, 2DEG sheet resistance. This allows for fabrication on the same wafer normally-on and normally-off HFETs and MOSHFETs with low resistive gate-source and gate-drain access regions. The high sheet density allowed us to achieve a very low contact resistance (0.073 Ω-mm, see Figure 2). To the best of our knowledge this is the lowest contact resistance reported so far for GaN HFETs.
The value of the California Psychological Inventory in predicting medical students' career choice

Much of the research in medical education has focused on the prediction of medical students' future career choices. This longitudinal study evaluates the effectiveness of the California Psychological Inventory (CPI) in predicting career choices of students attending the University of Maryland School of Medicine. While results did reveal some significant and consistent differences between career choice groups, these differences were not of the magnitude to allow discrimination among all specialty groups. There is no evidence to support the hypothesis that career choice can be predicted from CPI data. It was concluded that future research into career choice prediction should focus on variables other than personality characteristics as measured by the CPI or similar tests.
Moving the Past Forward: From a Birmingham Jail to Occupy Wall Street.

What do you do with the student who says she hates history, yet watches The History Channel every night? What do you do with the student who is underachieving in social science but has visited every battlefield in Virginia? Our curriculum frameworks and pacing guides suggest a chronological, fact-based approach to teaching and learning history, but is that the best way? Curriculum leaders and teachers must know and make better decisions with respect to what are the most important concepts, principles, and skills that students should know and be able to do. How might we better address the strengths and talents of all of our students while not leaving anyone behind? How could we revise or enhance our existing history curriculum to make it more engaging and challenging for our students? How can we, in effect, bring the past forward and help our students see the cycles and themes that make up the history of the American people? We in gifted education are aware that curriculum that emanates from a textbook is ...
Comparing modelled to measured mortality reductions: applying the Lives Saved Tool to evaluation data from the Accelerated Child Survival Programme in West Africa

Background The Lives Saved Tool (LiST) projects the magnitude of mortality reduction based on baseline coverage, demographic characteristics and coverage targets. As a validation exercise, we compared neonatal, post-neonatal, infant, child and under-5 mortality reductions as projected by LiST to changes in mortality measured through demographic surveys in Ghana and Mali as part of a recently completed, retrospective evaluation of a child survival programme. Methods Using coverage and other information collected during the evaluation, we modelled the predicted mortality reduction, using logical assumptions to fill gaps if no data were available. We performed a sensitivity analysis on several indicators for which we used a proxy, using the results to examine model sensitivity and readdress our assumptions. Results In Ghana, the modelled mortality reductions were within the 95% confidence boundaries of the measured reduction. In Mali LiST significantly underestimated the reduction. Several coverage indicators were found to influence the projection, specifically case management of serious neonatal illness in both countries and pneumonia treatment, vitamin A measles treatment and breastfeeding promotion in Mali. Conclusions We consider LiST to be a useful tool given the limitations of the available data. Although the model was a good match in Ghana, we identified several limiting factors with the input data in the Mali projection. This exercise highlights the importance of continually improving the availability of sound demographic, epidemiological and intervention coverage data at district and national levels. More comparative studies are needed to fully assess the strengths and weaknesses of LiST.
Influence of Interfacial Copper on the Ti-SiO2 Reaction During Nitridation of Cu-Ti Films

Cu(90 nm)/Ti(20 nm) bilayers and Cu(Ti 27 at.%) alloy films were deposited on SiO2 and annealed in an NH3 ambient at temperatures 400–700° C for 30 min. During annealing Ti segregated to both the free surface and the alloy/SiO2 interface. At the surface Ti reacted with NH3 to form TiN, whereas at the interface the Ti reacted with the SiO2 to form a TiO/Ti5Si3 structure. High resolution energy dispersive x-ray analysis revealed the presence of interfacial Cu between the Ti-silicide and Ti-oxide layers at temperatures greater than 450°C. Using Cu-Ti alloy films enhanced the Si02 consumption rate by a factor of 3-4 compared to that of pure Ti. It is suggested that the interfacial Cu is responsible for the increased rate. It is plausible that an interfacial Cu2O component has a catalytic effect on the Ti- SiO2 reaction.
Nutrient composition of caterpillars, pupae, cocoons and adults of the eastern tent moth, Malacosoma americanum (lepidoptera: lasiocampidae)

Abstract 1. 1. Levels of the elements—N, Na, K, Mg, Ca, and Fe—in caterpillars, pupae, cocoons and adults of Eastern tent moths show individual patterns for each element. 2. 2. As food, all stages exceed minimal mammalian and avian requirements for N, Mg, and K; however, for Na, Fe, and Ca, at least one stage is nutritionally inadequate for mammals and birds.
Toward a more robust lower neck compressive injury tolerance-an approach combining multiple test methodologies.

Objective: The compressive tolerance of the cervical spine has traditionally been reported in terms of axial force at failure. Previous studies suggest that axial compressive force at failure is particularly sensitive to the alignment of the cervical vertebra and the end conditions of the test methodology used. The present study was designed to develop a methodology to combine the data of previous experiments into a diverse data set utilizing multiple test methods to allow for the evaluation of the robustness of current and proposed eccentricity based injury criteria. Methods: Data were combined from 2 studies composed of dynamic experiments including whole cervical spine and head kinematics that utilized different test methodologies with known end conditions, spinal posture, injury outcomes, and measured kinetics at the base of the neck. Loads were transformed to the center of the C7-T1 intervertebral disc and the eccentricity of the sagittal plane resultant force relative to the center of the disc was c...
The Study of Women and Music in Morocco

The 1987 publication of Women and Music in Cross-Cultural Perspectives , the first anthology on the topic of women and music in the field of ethnomusicology, marked a critical turn in the scholarship. The ethnographic-focused essays on women's genres and roles in music in diverse societies around the world, including the Middle East, presented new analytical frameworks and research on authority, gender and access, and notions of power and performance. Today, research on the musical practices of women continues to expand in ethnomusicology and in fields such as anthropology. Many scholars now acknowledge the centrality of gender for locating “how society is in music and music is in society.” This is a particularly important approach for the Middle East and North Africa, where the undervaluing or silencing of women's musical practices and abilities had continued to dominate ethnomusicology. An important study to break from the paradigm was Virginia Danielson's 1997 monograph on Umm Kulthum. Danielson analyzes the development and the construction of a musical and a social “voice,” looking at what it means for this particular artist to both be the voice of and have a voice in colonial and postcolonial Egypt. In the discussion that follows I outline the academic trajectory of writings on women and music in Morocco, which I have divided into three distinct historical moments, each exemplifying different approaches to the subject matter: work by 20th-century French colonial scholars, by contemporary European and American scholars, and by contemporary Moroccan scholars.
Ratings of Prestige and Desirability Effects of Additional Women Entering Selected Business Occupations

A study by Touhey (1974) indicated that increasing numbers of women entering a high status occupation decreased subjective ratings of the prestige and desirability of those occupations. A replication by Suchner (1979) failed to support these findings. Suchner has called for further research on this phenomenon in populations other than those used in his and Touhey's studies. This study is a conceptual replication of the Touhey and Suchner studies using business-related occupations and a population of male management students from a college of business administration. The,esults of this study are consistent with those of Suchner's.
Aldehyde oxidase activity during the perinatal period.

Aldehyde oxidase activity was studied during the perinatal period. Data indicated that hepatic tissue from nonpregnant, pregnant, fetal, and newborn rabbits did not differ significantly in its ability to reduce 2,6-dichloroindophenol in the presence of acetaldehyde substrate. In contrast, the placental tissue demonstrated only minimal aldehyde oxidase activity.
Effect of Dietary Aflatoxin on the Uptake and Elimination of Chlortetracycline in Broiler Chicks

Day-old broiler chicks were fed 0, 1.25, 2.5, and 5.0 micrograms aflatoxin/g of feed for 3 weeks. Chlortetracycline (CTC) was administered in the drinking water at a concentration of 50 mg/liter for 27 hr starting on Day 21. Three hours after initiation of the CTC treatment, birds receiving 2.5 and 5.0 micrograms/g dietary aflatoxin had significantly lower CTC in blood compared with the controls. At 12 and 27 hr after the initiation of CTC treatment, birds receiving any level of aflatoxin had significantly decreased blood levels of CTC compared with the controls. Intravenous injection of CTC of control birds and birds receiving 2.5 micrograms/g aflatoxin revealed a significant decrease in the elimination half-life of CTC and a significant increase in the total systemic clearance of CTC in the birds receiving dietary aflatoxin. Birds receiving 2.5 micrograms/g dietary aflatoxin also had a significant increase in the volume of gall bladder bile; however, this did not result in a greater amount of CTC being eliminated via bile. Studies on protein binding of CTC in the plasma of control birds and the plasma of birds receiving 2.5 micrograms/g dietary aflatoxin demonstrated that 60% more CTC is "free", or unbound, in the plasma of birds receiving no aflatoxin. These results suggest that aflatoxicosis lowers the plasma concentrations of CTC as a result of a decreased binding of CTC to plasma protein. This allows more unbound CTC to be available for elimination from the plasma by a means other than the liver, most likely via the kidney.
The molecular basis of anaphase A in animal cells.

The mechanisms that move chromatids poleward during anaphase A have fascinated researchers for decades. There is now growing evidence that this movement is tightly linked to the active depolymerization of both ends of kinetochore-associated microtubules, a mechanism we refer to as “Pacman-Flux.” Contemporary data suggest that this is catalyzed by the integration of multiple enzymatic activities including (1) microtubule-end depolymerases housed at the pole or kinetochore, (2) microtubule-severing enzymes used to uncap the ends of kinetochore-associated microtubules, and (3) molecular motors which drive tubulins towards the pole or into kinetochores.
Quantitative Trait Loci and Epistasis for Crown Freezing Tolerance in the ‘Kanota’ × ‘Ogle’ Hexaploid Oat Mapping Population

Crown freezing tolerance is the most important factor conferring oat (Avena spp.) winter hardiness. The objective of this study was to identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) for crown freezing tolerance in the ‘Kanota’ × ‘Ogle’ recombinant inbred line (RIL) mapping population and to examine their relationship with other winter hardiness traits. One hundred thirty-fi ve RILs were evaluated for crown freezing tolerance in a controlled environment. Previously published molecular marker and linkage map information was used for QTL detection. Seven QTL and four complementary epistatic interactions were identifi ed that accounted for 56% of the phenotypic variation. Ogle contributed alleles for increased crown freezing tolerance at three loci, while Kanota contributed alleles for increased crown freezing tolerance at four loci. All loci where Kanota alleles increased crown freezing tolerance showed complementary epistasis for decreased crown freezing tolerance with the QTL near UMN13. Two of the major QTL identifi ed were in the linkage groups (LG) associated with a reciprocal translocation between chromosomes 7C and 17, which was previously associated with spring growth habit in oat. The results confi rm the importance of the chromosomes involved in the reciprocal 7C-17 translocation in controlling winter hardiness component traits.
Bandwidth Improvement of a Planar Inverted F-Antenna by Introducing Multiple Ground Pins

A broadband/multi-band planar inverted-F antenna (PIFA) is presented for wireless communication systems. The bandwidth of the proposed antenna is significantly improved by introducing multiple ground pins. Measured at 10 dB return loss, the operation bands efficiently cover the lower bands from 1.67 to 2.34 GHz for DCS1800/1900, DECT and UMTS, as well as the upper band from 4.8 GHz to 5.02 GHz for WLAN applications at. TERR 802.11 j. Excellent impedance matching is achieved across the bandwidth. Measured input impedance, simulated radiation patterns, and gains are presented.
Asynchronous equalization in magnetic linear tape systems with the data set separator sequence (DSS)

A method of equalization using a data sequence always present on tape is described. This data sequence is part of the standard LTO format. The equalizer calculation is based on the Levinson Toeplitz matrix inversion method and utilizes cosine pulse symmetrization to achieve results independent of the target-signal phase delay.
Maternal beta-catenin establishes a ‘dorsal signal’ in early Xenopus embryos

In previous work, we demonstrated that maternally encoded beta-catenin, the vertebrate homolog of armadillo, is required for formation of dorsal axial structures in early Xenopus embryos (Heasman, J., Crawford, A., Goldstone, K., Garner-Hamrick, P., Gumbiner, B., Kintner, C., Yoshida-Noro, C. and Wylie, C. (1994). Cell 79, 791–803). Here we investigated, firstly, the role(s) of beta-catenin in spatial terms, in different regions of the embryo, by injecting beta-catenin mRNA into individual blastomeres of beta-catenin-depleted embryos at the 32 cell stage. The results indicate that beta-catenin can rescue the dorsal axial structures in a non-cell-autonomous way and without changing the fates of the injected cells. This suggests that cells overexpressing beta-catenin send a ‘dorsal signal’ to other cells. This was confirmed by showing that beta-catenin overexpressing animal caps did not cause wild-type caps to form mesoderm, but did cause isolated beta-catenin-deficient marginal zones to form dorsal mesoderm. Furthermore beta-catenin-deficient vegetal masses treated with overexpressing caps regained their ability to act as Nieuwkoop Centers. Secondly, we studied the temporal activity of beta-catenin. We showed that zygotic transcription of beta-catenin starts after the midblastula transition (MBT), but does not rescue dorsal axial structures. We further demonstrated that the vegetal mass does not release a dorsal signal until after the onset of transcription, at the midblastula stage, suggesting that maternal beta-catenin protein is required at or before this time. Thirdly we investigated where, in relationship to other gene products known to be active in axis formation, beta-catenin is placed. We find that BVg1, bFGF, tBR (the truncated form of BMP2/4R), siamois and noggin activities are all downstream of beta-catenin, as shown by the fact that injection of their mRNAs rescues the effect of depleting maternally encoded beta-catenin. Interference with the action of glycogen synthase kinase (GSK), a vertebrate homolog of the Drosophila gene product, zeste white 3 kinase, does not rescue the effect, suggesting that it is upstream.
Vacuum polarization in parallel homogeneous electric and magnetic fields

The lowest-order mass operator for a real or virtual photon propagating in an arbitrary direction with respect to parallel homogeneous external electric and magnetic fields is calculated to all orders in the fields. The results are presented in a double-integral form which unfortunately does not lend itself to convenient evaluation in terms of familiar functions. However, in the weak-field approximation, $(\frac{e}{{m}^{2}}){({H}^{2}+{E}^{2})}^{\frac{1}{2}}\ensuremath{\ll}1$, the birefringent properties of the vacuum may be inferred by calculating the indices of refraction and the absorption coefficient for the eigenmodes of a photon propagating in any direction in this medium. The numerical results turn out to be equivalent to the pure magnetic field calculation modified by the formal replacement $H\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{({H}^{2}+{E}^{2})}^{\frac{1}{2}}$. The polarization eigenmodes are a rotated version of the usual modes obtained in the pure magnetic field case.