cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Edge placement error fundamentals and impact of EUV: will traditional design-rule calculations work in the era of EUV?

The relationship between edge placement error (EPE), semiconductor design-rule determination, and predicted yield in the era of EUV lithography is examined, starting with the basics of EPE and then building up to design-rule calculations. The EPE definitions can be used as the building blocks for design-rule equations. Next the concept of “good fields” is explored and used to predict the n-sigma value needed for design-rule determination. Specifically, fundamental yield calculations based on the failure opportunities per chip are used to determine at what n-sigma value design-rules need to be tested to ensure high yield. The “value” can be a space between two features, an intersect area between two features, a minimum area of a feature, etc. It is shown that across-chip variation of design-rule important values needs to be tested at sigma values between seven and eight, which is much higher than the 4-sigma values traditionally used for design-rule determination. After recommending new statistics be used for design-rule calculations, we examine the impact of EUV lithography on sources of variation important for design-rule calculations.
Automated Measures to Understand Communication Opportunities for Young Children With Autism in the Community: A Pilot Study:

Community participation is vital to children's development and provides opportunities to practice social communication skills. Although previous studies suggest that young children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) experience decreased community participation, there is little empirical evidence on the precise patterns of participation that may influence social communication opportunities. Therefore, this pilot study investigated the communication among families of children with ASD ( n = 5) versus typical development (TD; n = 5) across various community locations. We used automated, objective measures: the Language ENvironmental Analysis (LENA) system™ to measure the amount of communication and integrated this with a Global Positioning System (GPS; that is, Qstarz™) to measure community location. Results showed that families of children with ASD and TD spent a similar amount of time in community locations; however, there were differences in the amount of adult talk directed toward children with ASD versus TD across community locations. Findings suggest that automated measures may be successfully integrated to quantify social communication during community participation.
Private Land Conservation and Public Policy: Land Trusts, Land Owners, and Conservation Easements

We highlight the extraordinary growth in private conservation via land trusts and conservation easements and describe the problems arising from the interplay of public finance and private decisions...
Ecological correlates of blue whale movement behavior and its predictability in the California Current Ecosystem during the summer-fall feeding season

Species distribution models have shown that blue whales (Balaenoptera musculus) occur seasonally in high densities in the most biologically productive regions of the California Current Ecosystem (CCE). Satellite telemetry studies have additionally shown that blue whales in the CCE regularly switch between behavioral states consistent with area-restricted searching (ARS) and transiting, indicative of foraging in and moving among prey patches, respectively. However, the relationship between the environmental correlates that serve as a proxy of prey relative to blue whale movement behavior has not been quantitatively assessed. We investigated the association between blue whale behavioral state and environmental predictors in the coastal environments of the CCE using a long-term satellite tracking data set (72 tagged whales; summer-fall months 1998–2008), and predicted the likelihood of ARS behavior at tracked locations using nonparametric multiplicative regression models. The models were built using data from years of cool, productive conditions and validated against years of warm, low-productivity conditions. The best model contained four predictors: chlorophyll-a, sea surface temperature, and seafloor aspect and depth. This model estimated highest ARS likelihood (> 0.8) in areas with high chlorophyll-a levels (> 0.65 mg/m3), intermediate sea surface temperatures (11.6-17.5 °C), and shallow depths (< 850 m). Overall, the model correctly predicted behavioral state throughout the coastal environments of the CCE, while the validation indicated an ecosystem-wide reduction in ARS likelihood during warm years, especially in the southern portion. For comparison, a spatial coordinates model (longitude × latitude) performed slightly better than the environmental model during warm years, providing further evidence that blue whales exhibit strong foraging site fidelity, even when conditions are not conducive to successful foraging. We showed that blue whale behavioral state in the CCE was predictable from environmental correlates and that ARS behavior was most prevalent in regions of known high whale density, likely reflecting where large prey aggregations consistently develop in summer-fall. Our models of whale movement behavior enhanced our understanding of species distribution by further indicating where foraging was more likely, which could be of value in the identification of key regions of importance for endangered species in management considerations. The models also provided evidence that decadal-scale environmental fluctuations can drive shifts in the distribution and foraging success of this blue whale population.
Longitudinal detection of retinal alterations by visible and near-infrared optical coherence tomography in a dexamethasone-induced ocular hypertension mouse model

The retina, as part of the central nervous system, has distinct anatomical and structural properties for its visual function. Light scattering spectroscopy, while widely used for tissue structural characterization and disease diagnosis, has been relatively unexplored in the living retina. Recently, we have developed a fiber-based visible and near-infrared optical coherence tomography system (vnOCT) for in vivo retinal imaging, to uniquely measure a spectroscopic marker (VN ratio) sensitive to nanoscale pathological changes. In the present study, we applied vnOCT in an animal model of glaucoma (dexamethasone-induced ocular hypertension mouse) and tested the capabilities of four optical markers, VN ratio, peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness, total retinal blood flow, and hemoglobin oxygen saturation (sO2), for the detection of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) damage in association with ocular hypertension. We found that RNFL-RGC VN ratio and arteriovenous (A-V) sO2 are capable of detecting early retinal alteration in ocular hypertensive eyes, preceding measurable change of RNFL thickness. This study suggests a potential clinical application of vnOCT in early detection of glaucoma.
EC-Bench: Benchmarking Onload and Offload Erasure Coders on Modern Hardware Architectures

Various Erasure Coding (EC) schemes based on hardware accelerations have been proposed in the community to leverage the advanced compute capabilities on modern data centers, such as Intel ISA-L Onload EC coders and Mellanox InfiniBand Offload EC coders. These EC coders can play a vital role in designing next-generation distributed storage systems. Unfortunately, there does not exist a unified and easy way for distributed storage systems researchers and designers to benchmark, measure, and characterize the performance of these different EC coders. In this context, we propose a unified benchmark suite, called EC-Bench, to help the users to benchmark both onload and offload EC coders on modern hardware architectures. EC-Bench provides both encoding and decoding benchmarks with tunable parameter support. A rich set of metrics, including latency, actual and normalized throughput, CPU utilization, and cache pressure, can be reported through EC-Bench. Evaluations with EC-Bench demonstrate that hardware-optimized offload coders (e.g. Mellanox-EC) have lower demands on CPU and cache compared to onload coders, and highly optimized onload coders (e.g., Intel ISA-L) outperform offload coders for most configurations.
Neural Networks in Finance: Design and Performance

Neural networks have piqued the interest of many financial modelers, but the concrete applications and implementation have remained elusive. This article discusses a step-by-step technique for building a potentially profitable financial neural network. The authors also demonstrate a successful application of the neural network to investing based on daily and monthly financial data. The article discusses various components of neural networks and compares popular neural network activation functions and their applicability to financial time series. Specifically, use of the tanh activation function is shown to closely mimic financial returns and produce the best results. Incorporating additional inputs, such as the S&P 500 prices, also helps improve neural networks’ forecasting performance. Longer training periods deliver strategies that closely mimic common technical analysis strategies, such as moving-average crossovers, whereas shorter training periods deliver significant forecasting power. The resulting neural network–based daily trading strategies on major US stocks significantly and consistently outperform the buy-and-hold positions in the same stocks. TOPICS:Statistical methods, simulations, big data/machine learning Key Findings • This article provides theoretical background and a step-by-step implementation of a neural network using financial data. • This article compares neural networks’ activation functions in the context of best fit to financial data. • This article demonstrates the implementation of monthly adjusted investment strategies based on neural networks.
Merged-Two-Stage Resonant and PWM Soft-Charging of Hybrid-Switched-Capacitor DC-DC Converters

The efficiency and power density of switched-capacitor dc-dc converters are usually limited by the charge sharing loss of capacitors. In a merged-two-stage hybrid-switched-capacitor design, soft-charging can be achieved by merging a magnetic-based converter with a switched-capacitor-based converter. The magnetic-based converter functions as a current source to charge and discharge the switched capacitors without charge sharing loss. This paper investigates the output impedance of two types of merged-two-stage hybrid-switched-capacitor dc-dc converters with 1) resonant soft-charging, in which the switched-capacitors are soft-charged by sinusoidal current waveforms and 2) PWM soft-charging, in which the switched-capacitors are soft-charged by PWM current waveforms. A few circuit topologies leveraging the merged-two-stage soft charging mechanism are discussed. The effectiveness of the output impedance analysis is verified by SPICE simulations.
On The Estimation Of Periodicity Or Almost Periodicity In Inhomogeneous Gamma Point‐Process Data

The non‐homogeneous Poisson process (NHPP) and the renewal process (RP) are two stochastic point process models that are commonly used to describe the pattern of repeated occurrence data. An inhomogeneous Gamma process (IGP) is a point process model that generalizes both the NHPP and a particular RP, commonly referred to as a Gamma renewal process, which has interarrival times that are i.i.d. gamma random variables with unit scale parameter and shape parameter κ>0. This article focuses on a particular class of the IGP which has a periodic or almost periodic baseline intensity function and a shape parameter κ∈ℕ. This model deals with point events that show a pattern of periodicity or almost periodicity. Consistent estimators of unknown parameters are constructed mainly by the Bartlett periodogram. Simulation results that support theoretical findings are provided.
Exploring the Use of Medical Marijuana for Supportive Care of Oncology Patients

Medical marijuana, also known as cannabis, is being sought by patients and survivors to alleviate common symptoms of cancer and its treatments that affect their quality of life. The National Academy of Sciences (2017) reports conclusive or substantial evidence that cannabis is successful in treating chronic cancer pain and chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, moderate evidence that cannabinoids are beneficial for sleep disorders that accompany chronic illnesses, and limited evidence supporting use for appetite stimulation and anxiety. However, due to the fact that cannabis is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance, there is an absence of rigorous, scientific evidence to guide health-care professionals. In addition, the Schedule I designation makes it illegal for health-care professionals in the United States to prescribe, administer, or directly distribute these drugs. Legislation has outpaced research in this area. Therefore, the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) appointed a medical marijuana guideline committee to create guidelines for the nursing care of patients using medical marijuana, marijuana education in nursing programs, and guidelines for advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) certifying a patient for the use of medical marijuana (The NCSBN Medical Marijuana Guidelines Committee, 2018). Six states/districts authorize APRNs to recommend the use of medical marijuana to patients with qualifying conditions (Kaplan, 2015). As of March 2021, 35 states plus the District of Columbia have authorized the use of medical marijuana (DISA Global Solutions, 2021). Therefore, APRNs will be caring for these patients and need to know the medical, pharmacological, and legal issues surrounding medical cannabis use.
The Beneficial Effects of Earlier Versus Later Implementation of Intensive Therapy in Type 1 Diabetes

OBJECTIVE The principal aim is to estimate the benefits of earlier versus later implementation of intensive therapy in type 1 diabetes with respect to the long-term risks of progression of a renal (microvascular) and cardiovascular (macrovascular) complication in the Epidemiology of Diabetes Interventions and Complications (EDIC) study. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Cox proportional hazards regression models estimated the 20-year cumulative incidence (absolute risk) and the 20-year relative risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) over the first 20 years of EDIC follow-up as a function of the mean HbA1c. RESULTS A hypothetical patient treated earlier with 10 years of intensive therapy and a mean HbA1c of 7% (53 mmol/mol) followed by 10 years with a mean of 9% (75 mmol/mol) would have a 33% reduction in the risk of CVD and a 52% reduction in reduced eGFR compared with a patient with a mean HbA1c of 9% (75 mmol/mol) over the first 10 years followed by later intensive therapy over 10 years with an HbA1c of 7% (53 mmol/mol). Despite both patients having the same average glycemic exposure over the 20 years, the patient with the lower HbA1c over the first 10 years had a lower risk of progression of complications over the 20 years than the patient who had the higher value initially. CONCLUSIONS While implementation of intensive therapy at any time in type 1 diabetes will be beneficial, within the 20-year period modeled, earlier relative to later implementation is associated with a greater reduction in the risks of kidney and cardiovascular complications.
The Equal Moral Weight of Self- and Other-Regarding Acts

Self-regarding acts are frequently classified as non-moral; even more frequently, they are assumed to have less moral weight than parallel other-regarding acts. I argue briefly against the first claim, and at greater length against the second. Our intuitions about the lesser moral weight of self-regarding acts arise from imperfectly recognized, and morally relevant, differences between acts which are ordinarily described in misleadingly parallel phrases. 'Love of self,' for instance, and love of another' are not symmetrical attitudes, in spite of the symmetrical grammar. More obviously, one cannot steal from, lie to, nor force oneself in the same way one can do these things to others. I conclude, therefore, that difference in moral weight never stems merely from a difference in the person concerned (myself or another), but rather from differences between the actions themselves; furthermore, that whatever it is wrong to do to a willing other, it is wrong to do to oneself.
The Pharmacology of Peripheral Auditory Processes; Cochlear Pharmacology*

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the pharmacology of peripheral auditory processes; cochlear pharmacology. Pharmacology has much to gain from and much to give to the study of audition. There is to be gained the enhanced stature from the development of new regions of interest; there is also to be gained the recognition and esteem of a segment of biological scientists whose hitherto unsolved problems may finally yield to pharmacological examination. Another aspect of audition which may prove fruitful for pharmacologists involves the use of auditory physiological preparations as models by which other sensory or homeostatic processes may be studied. For example, pharmacological studies with the olivocochlear or the cochleoinhibitory tract could illuminate inhibitory processes in other areas such as the spinal cord. Central inhibitory processes share sensitivity to strychnine.
Happiness and Education: Making a Home

As we observed in Chapter 1, homemaking has never figured prominently in the general education of Western societies, although home life is a major source of happiness for most people. Because educational programs were designed by men, they were directed at preparation for public life — male life. Homemaking was taught at home and in some schools exclusively for women. The widely held belief that homemaking is women's work helps to explain why it has been so neglected in public education. It also explains why, when homemaking has been taught to girls, the subject has been treated superficially and technically. The deepest philosophical questions have not been engaged. What does it mean to make a home? What does it mean to have a home? Wallace Stegner describes one of his characters, agonizing over a coming move, as she looks at “the Franklin stove which had been their hearthstone.” On it, she reads, “O fortunate, o happy day/When a new household finds its place/Among the myriad homes of earth.” A few sentences later, Stegner's narrator muses, “Home is a notion that only the nations of the homeless fully appreciate and only the uprooted comprehend.” Surely, home is a topic worthy of serious study. Home as a Basic Need Whether people dwell as residents or wanderers, they associate themselves with some physical and social attributes called home . Nomadic tribes carry their homes with them as they move from place to place.
Array Data Flow Analysis for Load-Store Optimizations in Superscalar Architectures

The performance of scientific programs on superscalar processors can be significantly degraded by memory references that frequently arise due to load and store operations associated with array references. Therefore, register allocation techniques have been developed for allocating registers to array elements whose values are repeatedly referenced over one or more loop iterations. To place load, store, and register-to-register shift operations without introducing fully/partially redundant and dead memory operations, a detailed value flow analysis of array references is required. We present an analysis framework to efficiently solve various data flow problems required by array load-store optimizations. The framework determines the collective behavior of recurrent references spread over multiple loop iterations. We also demonstrate how our algorithms can be adapted for various fine-grain architectures.
Equation of State for Fluids at High Densities — Hydrogen Isotope Measurements and Thermodynamic Derivations

The high-density properties of hydrogen isotopes H2, D2 and T2 are of current interest in energy programs. Under ERDA sponsorship [1–3] at Los Alamos, we have been developing accurate techniques for studying the hydrogens at high static pressures. Experimental data on these light simple molecules are especially valuable for testing theory.
Benefits of Hiking: A Means-End Approach on the Appalachian Trail

The purpose of this research was to examine the outcomes prompting hiking along the Appalachian Trail (AT). By using means-end theory, linkages between attributes, consequences, and values of the AT hiking experience were made. The researchers conducted forty-three interviews of AT hikers. Self-fulfillment, self-reliance, fun and enjoyment of life, and warm relationships with others were some of the values that emerged. Specifically, strong links existed between hiking and exercise, exercise and health, health and fun and enjoyment of life. While this area of research on the AT is new, results of this study can be used by recreational professionals that work with the AT or other hiking trails to promote appropriate use of natural resources.
Probabilistic learning of visual object composition from attended segments

This paper proposes a model of probabilistic learning of object categories in conjunction with early visual processes of attention, segmentation and perceptual organization. This model consists of the following three sub-models: (1) a model of attention-mediated perceptual organization of segments, (2) a model of local feature representation of segments by using a bag of features, and (3) a model of learning object composition of categories based on intra-categorical probabilistic latent component analysis with variable number of classes and intercategorical typicality analysis. Through experiments by using images of plural categories in an image database, it is shown that the model learns a probabilistic structure of intra-categorical composition of objects and context and inter-categorical difference.
MHC polymorphism can enrich the T cell repertoire of the species by shifts in intrathymic selection.

The murine class I molecule H-2Kb and its natural gene conversion variant, H-2Kbm8, which differs from H-2Kb solely at 4 aa at the bottom of the peptide-binding B pocket, are expressed in coisogenic mouse strains C57BL/6 (B6) and B6.C-H-2bm8 (bm8). These two strains provide an excellent opportunity to study the effects of Mhc class I polymorphism on the T cell repertoire. We recently discovered a gain in the antiviral CTL repertoire in bm8 mice as a consequence of the emergence of the Mhc class I allele H-2Kbm8. In this report we sought to determine the mechanism behind the generation of this increased CTL diversity. Our results demonstrate that repertoire diversification occurred by a gain in intrathymic positive selection. As previously shown, the emergence of the same Mhc allele also caused a loss in positive selection of T cell repertoire specific for another Ag, OVA-8. This indicates that a reciprocal loss-and-gain pattern of intrathymic selection exists between H-2Kb and H-2Kbm8. Therefore, in the thymus of an individual, a new Mhc allele can select new T cell specificities, while abandoning some T cell specificities selected by the wild-type allele. A byproduct of this repertoire shift is a net gain of T cell repertoire of the species, which is likely to improve its survival fitness.
Control-Lyapunov functions

The main objective of control is to modify the behavior of a dynamical system, typically with the purpose of regulating certain variables or of tracking desired signals. Often, either stability of the closed-loop system is an explicit requirement, or else the problem can be recast in a form that involves stabilization (e.g., of an error signal). For linear systems, the associated problems can now be treated fairly satisfactorily, but in the nonlinear case the area is still far from being settled. Both of the late 1980s reports [9] and [18], with dealt with challenges and future directions for research in control theory, identified the problem of stabilization of finite-dimensional deterministic systems as one of the most important open problems in nonlinear control. We discuss some questions in this area.
Estimating file access time of floppy disks

Small computers often use floppy disks for storage. Since such disks are significantly slower than hard disks, the response time of a given application program is due predominantly to the time required to access data in files. Access time is dependent on three factors: hardware (disk drive and interface), the operating system in use, and the patterns of file access of application programs. A simple-to-use method of predicting access times with good accuracy is presented. The method makes use of simple calibration experiments that provide information related to the hardware and operating system characteristics of the system in use. This is combined with patterns of file access information for a given application program to predict access time for that program. Actual examples for several small computer systems are presented.
When are grandiose and vulnerable narcissists least helpful

Abstract Grandiosity and vulnerability are distinct dimensions of narcissism, but little research has examined their differences regarding prosocial behavior. This investigation is the first to test the hypotheses that grandiose narcissism predicts withholding help under high social pressure, whereas vulnerable narcissism predicts withholding help under low social pressure. Undergraduate participants ( N = 220, M age = 19.5, 142 women) were partnered with a confederate for the supposed purpose of a mock counseling session. The confederate ruined the session by demonstrating inconsiderate behavior, after which the participant encountered two opportunities to help the confederate: one presented under high social pressure to help, the other presented under low social pressure to help. Measures also assessed participants’ prosocial emotions, including empathy for and forgiveness of the confederate. Consistent with hypotheses, grandiose narcissism predicted less helping under high social pressure, whereas vulnerable narcissism predicted less helping under low social pressure, the latter relationship being mediated by reduced forgiveness. Vulnerable narcissism was also associated with less empathy and forgiveness. Grandiose and vulnerable narcissism differentially predicted helping behavior depending on the amount of social pressure to help. These results conform to theoretical distinctions between grandiosity and vulnerability regarding social dominance and internalization.
Aging and Immune Function

Immunology has become increasingly exciting as an area for investigations of the cell biology of aging. The reasons for this involve the nature of immunology (1) as a scientific discipline dealing with cell differentiation and function, and (2) as it relates to the adaptive ability of the host in dealing with environmental challenges. In looking at the fundamental mechanisms of normal immune function and that of older individuals, it was discovered that many facets of the immune response apparently decrease with the age of the organism. These findings have led to the intriguing hypothesis that there may be an association between the function of the immune system, aging phenomena, and age-related disease patterns.
On conjugate gradient type methods and polynomial preconditioners for a class of complex non-hermitian matrices

We consider conjugate gradient type methods for the solution of large linear systemsA x=b with complex coefficient matrices of the typeA=T+i?I whereT is Hermitian and ? a real scalar. Three different conjugate gradient type approaches with iterates defined by a minimal residual property, a Galerkin type condition, and an Euclidean error minimization, respectively, are investigated. In particular, we propose numerically stable implementations based on the ideas behind Paige and Saunder's SYMMLQ and MINRES for real symmetric matrices and derive error bounds for all three methods. It is shown how the special shift structure ofA can be preserved by using polynomial preconditioning, and results on the optimal choice of the polynomial preconditioner are given. Also, we report on some numerical experiments for matrices arising from finite difference approximations to the complex Helmholtz equation.
Kinship foster parents' perceptions of factors that promote or inhibit successful fostering

Abstract A better understanding of kinship foster families' perceptions of the familial factors and parenting beliefs that promote or inhibit successful fostering can inform child welfare practice and policy. To this end, and to extend previous research [Buehler, C., Cox, M. E., and Cuddeback, G. (2003). Foster parents' perceptions of factors that promote or inhibit successful fostering. Qualitative Social Work: Research and Practice, 2(1), 61-84.], semi-structured interviews were conducted with kinship foster parents to explore their perceptions with regard to the familial factors and parenting beliefs that promote or inhibit successful fostering. Nine kinship foster parents from 8 families were interviewed. The results of this study were compared to the results of the Buehler et al. [Buehler, C., Cox, M. E., and Cuddeback, G. (2003). Foster parents' perceptions of factors that promote or inhibit successful fostering. Qualitative Social Work: Research and Practice, 2(1), 61-84.] study on nonkinship foster parents. Similar themes emerged from both groups, but kinship foster parents described more complex issues with their families- of-origin. Characteristics that promote successful fostering of kin include support of family, commitment to children, faith, good parenting abilities, church involvement, flexibility, and adequate resources. Characteristics that inhibit successful fostering of kin include strained relations with birth family, poor discipline strategies, inability to deal with “the system,” lack of resources, and inability to deal with children's emotional, behavioral, physical problems. The findings suggest a need to focus on special training and support services for kinship foster parents, as well as assessments specific to kinship fostering.
Langmuir Monolayers of Straight-Chain and Branched Hexadecanol and Eicosanol Mixtures

Langmuir monolayers of straight-chain and branched hexadecanol and eicosanol mixtures were previously studied using surface pressure-area isotherms, Brewster angle microscopy, and interfacial rheology. In this paper, we investigate the structure of these fatty alcohol mixtures using these previous results together with X-ray diffraction and reflectivity measurements, which provide a better understanding of the structure of the monolayer in terms of the phase segregation and location of branched chains. For eicosanol below 25 mN/m, the branched chains are incorporated into the monolayer, yet they are phase-separated from the straight chains. At higher surface pressures, the branched chains are expelled from the monolayer and presumably form micelles or some other aggregate in the subphase. In contrast, the hexadecanol branched chains are not present in the monolayer at any surface pressure. These behaviors are interpreted with the help of the X-ray measurements and density profiles, and are explained in terms of straight-chain flexibility. We will discuss the effect of the monolayer structure on the surface shear viscosity. These studies provide a deeper understanding of the structure and behavior of amphiphilic mixtures, and will ultimately aid in developing models for lipids, micelle formation, and other important biological functions.
Epitaxial growth of ultrathin layered oxide films: MgO on NiO/Mo(100)

Abstract Ultrathin epitaxial films of MgO(100) have been grown on NiO(100) films on a Mo(100) substrate. ISS results demonstrate that the NiO surface is almost completely masked for MgO coverages of 2 ML, and LEED studies confirm that the growth of MgO is epitaxial. The electronic structure probed by ELS demonstrates the development of MgO surface band structure through the sequential appearance of MgO transitions, but there are no transitions apparent which involve interface states. Increasing the thickness of the MgO overlayer on NiO induces an upward shift in the Ni(2p 3 2 ) XPS binding energy, with a shift of 1.0 eV for 7.5 ML of MgO, indicating that there is transfer of negative charge from the MgO to the NiO. Our findings for the growth of MgO on NiO demonstrate the feasibility of synthesis and study of ordered, layered, mixed oxide films only a few A thick.
Optimal candidate generation in spatial co-location mining

Existing level-wise spatial co-location algorithms suffer from generating extra, non-clique candidate instances and thus requires cliqueness checking at every level. In this paper, we propose a novel, spatial co-location mining algorithm which automatically generates co-located spatial features without generating any non-clique candidates at any level. Subsequently our algorithm generates less candidates than other existing level-wise co-location algorithms without losing any information. The benefit of our algorithm has been clearly observed at an earlier stage in the mining process.
Autogenous saphenous vein aortorenal grafts. A ten-year experience.

Sixty-six patients underwent renal revascularization with 75 autogenous saphenous vein grafts. Ninety-four percent were cured or improved of their hypertension. No operative deaths occurred. One-hundred thirty postoperative arteriograms, obtained an average of 36 months following revascularization, were scrutinized for vein graft abnormalities. Two graft categories were identified: satisfactory and unsatisfactory. Uniform expansion of satisfactory grafts was common. Unsatisfactory grafts included six thromboses, five stenoses, and five aneurysmal dilatations. Thromboses occurred within two weeks of operation. Presuming thromboses to be technical failures, then 14% of grafts at risk developed abnormalities. No late occlusions occurred. Autogenous veins are well suited for precise anastomoses, extending the ability to revascularize ischemic kidneys that, on occasion, have been needlessly sacrificed in the past. Repeated postoperative arteriograms are mandatory to assure optimal function and integrity of aortorenal vein grafts.
Single-neuron recordings from unanesthetized mouse dorsal cochlear nucleus

Because of the availability of disease and genetic models, the mouse has become a valuable species for auditory neuroscience that will facilitate long-term goals of understanding neuronal mechanisms underlying the perception and processing of sounds. The goal of this study was to define the basic sound-evoked response properties of single neurons in the mouse dorsal cochlear nucleus (DCN). Neurons producing complex spikes were distinguished as cartwheel cells (CWCs), and other neurons were classified according to the response map scheme previously developed in DCN. Similar to observations in other rodent species, neurons of the mouse DCN exhibit relatively little sound-driven inhibition. As a result, type III was the most commonly observed response. Our findings are generally consistent with the model of DCN function that has been developed in the cat and the gerbil, suggesting that this in vivo mouse preparation will be a useful tool for future studies of auditory physiology.
Monte Carlo simulation of nonequilibrium flow in a low-power hydrogen arcjet

A particle-based Monte Carlo numerical method is developed for computation of flow in a low-thrust hydrogen arcjet. The method employs the direct simulation Monte Carlo technique to compute the nonequilibrium fluid mechanics and thermochemical relaxation. Simulation of plasma effects is included at a simple level that ensures charge neutrality. A new model is developed to include Ohmic heating in the simulation. Results are presented for a flow condition that has been studied experimentally with a number of different diagnostic techniques. A strong degree of thermal nonequilibrium is found in the flow. It is demonstrated that Ohmic heating is important, and that the Monte Carlo model captures the important physics very well. The predicted results are in very good agreement with most of the experimental data.
Building a web collection for online surveillance of U.S. domestic terrorism

As the trend of domestic terrorism grows rapidly, using web collections to support online surveillance should help intelligence and security personnel track down the sinister activities on the web. In this research, we have developed a collection of U.S. domestic terrorism websites and have conducted preliminary analysis of the sites' content and usage. We developed a novel approach to extracting textual, hyperlink, and usage information from websites. Our ongoing works include discovering hidden patterns from a collection of U.S. domestic terrorism websites and uncovering interesting usage and content patterns. This work should contribute to the area of online security surveillance using website data.
Supporting Excellence in Technology through Communities of Learners.

The Preparing Tomorrow’s Teachers to use Technology Project (PT3) at the University of Pittsburgh encompasses public and private schools, a nonprofit educational consortium, industry partners and the University of Pittsburgh. The purposes of the project are (a) to encourage throughtful technology integration by mentor teachers, student teachers and university faculty; and (b) to support innovation, adoption and resource sharing by creating Collaborative Communities of Learners (CCOLs). These goals are achieved by engaging participants in a number of activities, including individualized training, summer camp, monthly professional development meetings, a Celebration of Successes for sharing projects, and technology skill workshops. Support is also provided through project on-site support staff, an interactive Web site, minigrants, and loans of equipment and software. Evaluation of the project is an ongoing iterative process. Data are collected through self-reporting instruments, event evaluations, journal entries, project checklists, videotaped presentations, and interviews. Currently, in its third year of four including a pilot year, the project involves 98 mentor teachers and 20 university faculty. This project documents the importance of technology support people who have excellent interpersonal skills, experience with instruction and the flexibility to adjust strategies to adopter needs, skills, and personalities.
Solid state sintering and consolidation of Al powders and Al matrix composites

Abstract As an attempt to depart from conventional transient liquid phase sintering practice, solid state vacuum sintering was studied in loose powder and in hot quasi-isostatically forged samples composed of commercial inert gas atomized (CIGA) or high purity Al powder. The high purity Al powder was generated by a gas atomization reaction synthesis (GARS) technique that results in spherical powder with a far thinner surface oxide. After vacuum sintering at 525 °C for up to 100 h, SEM results showed that the GARS Al powder achieved significantly advanced sintering stages, compared to the CIGA Al powder. Tensile results from the forged samples also showed that although its ultimate tensile strength is lower, 95 vs. 147 MPa, the ductility of the GARS pure Al sample is higher than the CIGA Al sample. Forging also consolidated a model powder-based composite system composed of an Al matrix reinforced with quasi-crystalline Al–Cu–Fe powders, where the same powder synthesis methods were compared. Auger surface analysis detected evidence of increased matrix/reinforcement interfacial bonding in the composite sample made from GARS powder by alloy interdiffusion layer measurements, consistent with earlier tensile property measurements. The overall results indicated the significant potential of using Al powders produced with a thin, high purity surface oxide for simplifying current Al powder consolidation processing methods.
The PedsQL™ in Pediatric Asthma: Reliability and Validity of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory™ Generic Core Scales and Asthma Module

The PedsQL™ is a modular instrument designed to measure health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in children and adolescents ages 2–18. The PedsQL™ 4.0 Generic Core Scales were developed to be integrated with the PedsQL™ Disease-Specific Modules. The PedsQL™ 3.0 Asthma Module was designed to measure pediatric asthma-specific HRQOL. The PedsQL™ was administered to 529 families. Internal consistency reliability was demonstrated for the PedsQL™ 4.0 Total Score (α = 0.90 child, 0.91 parent report) and Asthma Module (average α = 0.71 child, 0.86 parent report). The PedsQL™ 4.0 distinguished between healthy children and children with asthma. The validity of the PedsQL™ Asthma Module was demonstrated through intercorrelations with a previously standardized asthma disease- specific instrument. Responsiveness was demonstrated through patient change over time as a result of clinical intervention. The results demonstrate the reliability, validity, and responsiveness of the PedsQL™ required for an outcome measure in pediatric asthma clinical trials and research.
On the Psychotheology of Everyday Life: Reflections on Freud and Rosenzweig

This text puts Sigmund Freud in dialogue with his contemporary Franz Rosenzwig in the service of re-imagining ethical and political life. It expl ores the theological aspects of Freud's writings and reveals the psychoanalytic implications in the religious philosophy of Rosenzwig's work, "The Star of Redemption". Santner makes an argument for understanding theological notions of revelation in theraputic terms and offers a look at how this understanding suggests ways of re-conceiving political community. Revelation itself becomes redefined as an openess towards what is singular, enigmatic, even uncanny about the "Other", thereby linking a theory of drives and desire to a critical account of sociality. By bringing Freud and Rosenzwig together, Santner clarifies the connections between psychoanalysis and the Judeo-Christian tradition, and illuminates what it means to be open to another person or culture and to share the responsibility for one's implication in the dilemmas of difference.
Hippocampus of the seizure‐sensitive gerbil is a specific site for anatomical changes in the GABAergic system

The brains of seizure-sensitive (SS) and seizure-resistant (SR) gerbils were studied with an immunocytochemical method to localize glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) to determine whether a defect existed in the inhibitory GABAergic system similar to that which has been reported in animal models of focal epilepsy in which GABAergic cell bodies and terminals are decreased in number. A major difference between the two strains of gerbils was found in the number of GABAergic neurons in the hippocampal formation. Specifically, a paradoxical increase occurred in the number of glutamate decarboxylase (GAD)-immunoreactive neurons: there were approximately 65% more GABAergic cells within the dentate gyrus and the CA3 region of the hippocampus in the SS gerbils. Furthermore, the density of GAD-immunoreactive puncta, the light microscopic correlates of synaptic boutons, was greater in the SS animals. Other histological methods were used to determine if the difference between SS and SR gerbils was specific for the GABAergic system. Nissl-stained preparations showed that the number of granule cells in the dentate gyrus was 20% greater in SS gerbils than in SR gerbils. An examination of some hippocampal afferents, efferents, and intrinsic connections with acetylcholinesterase histochemistry and the Timm's stain for heavy metals demonstrated no differences between the two strains. In addition, Golgi-stained preparations of the dentate gyrus indicated that the morphology of basket cells did not differ between the two strains nor between the gerbil and the rat. Several brain regions in addition to the hippocampus were studied to determine whether or not the increased number of GAD-immunoreactive neurons was specific for the hippocampal formation. These regions included the substantia nigra, motor cortex, and nucleus reticularis thalami and were selected because they contain large populations of GABAergic neurons and have been implicated in seizure activity. No differences between the two strains were detected in any of these regions. Therefore, a major morphological difference between the brains of SS and SR gerbils exists in the hippocampal formation of SS gerbils in which an increase occurs in the number of GABAergic neurons and granule cells. If these additional inhibitory neurons act mainly to inhibit other inhibitory neurons, the net effect would be increased disinhibition of the principal excitatory neurons of the hippocampal formation. This could lead to seizure activity within the hippocampal formation and at distant sites through multiple synaptic connections.
THE GAS CHROMATOGRAPHIC SEPARATION AND QUANTITATION OF ESTROGENS FROM NORMAL HUMAN PLASMA.

Abstract The concentration of 17β-estradiol, estrone and estriol was determined in the plasma of normal males and females employing a combination of chemical extraction and gas chromatography. The methods employed are extremely sensitive permitting the detection of as little as 0.002 μg of 17β-estradiol, an equivalent concentration of estrone and 0.025 μg of estriol. 17β-estradiol was isolated in measurable quantities in all the individuals studied whereas estrone was present in measurable quantities in only 50% of those studied. Estriol was observed in measurable concentrations in only one of the cases.
Further on Integrator Circuit Analogy for Natural Convection

Abstract This research is an extension of the previous work on the development of an integrator (RC) circuit analogy for natural convection. This analogy has been proven experimentally as well as by numerical simulations. Additional Rayleigh–Benard convection numerical simulations were performed to investigate Δ T (temperature difference between source and sink) dependence of the thermal resistance of a natural convection system. Our results suggest that analogous to voltage dependent resistor (VDR) in electrical engineering, Δ T dependent thermal resistance is observed in natural convection system. This Δ T dependent thermal resistance leads to a variable time constant. Moreover, this research also suggests that for a natural convection system, in addition to the thermal capacitance a kinetic energy capacitance also exists. The relative contribution of kinetic energy capacitance depends on Rayleigh number. These results provide significant step forward towards development of a new inexpensive modeling and transient analysis tool for a natural convection system.
Acute toxicity of aldicarb, aldicarb sulfoxide, and aldicarb sulfone to Daphnia laevis.

Mesure de la dose efficace 50 pour 48 h et de la DL 50 pour 48 h de l'aldicarb, de l'aldicarb sulfoxyde et de l'aldicarb sulfone pour les daphnies D. l. adultes et jeunes. Possibilite de prediction des effets de cet insecticide sur la structure de communaute aquatiques d'especes proches