cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Wet removal of sulfur compounds from the atmosphere

Abstract This paper presents a brief overview of our current capability to calculate sulfur scavenging rates. The general wet removal process can be decomposed into several individual pathways. These include direct sulfur dioxide scavenging, direct sulfate scavenging and combined scavenging and chemical reaction. Modeling approaches for these pathways are discussed and pertinent research areas for improvement of our present modeling capability are recommended. At the present time the calculation of direct sulfur dioxide scavenging appears to be well in hand, although more careful network measurements of dissolved sulfur dioxide concentrations in rainwater are needed to establish the relative importance of this phenomenon on a regional scale. Direct sulfate scavenging presents a more difficult calculational problem and much more data regarding particle-size relationships of sulfate-containing aerosols is required before an adequate understanding of this pathway can be achieved. Sulfur scavenging via the pathway of sulfur dioxide absorption followed by aqueous-phase conversion is expected to be rate limited by the chemical conversion step under most circumstances. Much additional information regarding aqueous-phase transformation chemistry is necessary before a reliable calculational basis for describing this pathway can be obtained.
Cutaneous lesions showing giant yeast forms of Blastomyces dermatitidis

Background: The yeast forms of Blastomyces dermatitidis usually range from 8 to 15–20 µm in diameter. Larger yeast forms have previously been reported only twice in immunosuppressed patients. In both patients these large forms were seen within the lung. Case report: We present a 14-year-old cardiac transplant patient, who presented 36 days following his transplantation with acute respiratory distress followed a few days later by erythematous cutaneous papules. Results: Biopsy of a skin lesion showed yeast forms, some greater than 40 µm in diameter, within and surrounding dermal vessels. Cultures later grew Blastomyces dermatitidis. Conclusion: To our knowledge this is the first reported case of giant forms of Blastomyces dermatitidis within the skin. With increased iatrogenic immunosuppression, we may expect to see more diverse morphologic forms with deep fungal infections.
Photoelectron spectra of nitrones and nitrile oxides

Abstract The photoelectron spectra of five nitrones—N- t -butyl-, C-phenyl-N-methyl-, C-phenyl-N- t -butyl-, C-mesityl-N-methyl-nitrone and dihydroisoquin
Constitutive description of work- and shock-hardened copper

Constitutive models are an essential part of large-scale computational codes which describe material behavior, since they provide the relationship between stress ([sigma]), strain ([epsilon]), strain rate ([epsilon]), and temperature (T). However, plastic deformation is an irreversible and path-dependent process, and a number of parameters affect the development of the deformation structure and, as a consequence, the mechanical response. The stress state, strain rate, and temperature affect the evolution of the microstructure, and the strain, current temperature and strain rate alone are frequently not sufficient to describe it. The constitutive equations that have been developed fall broadly into two groups: (a) empirical constitutive equations; (b) microstructural-based constitutive equations. Work-hardened metals may undergo dynamic recrystallization if the deformation temperature is in the range of 0.4 to 0.5 T[sub m], where T[sub m] is the absolute melting temperature. This dynamic recrystallization is accompanied by marked changes in the thermomechanical response of the material, which are not addressed by the constitutive equations discussed. The objective of this note is to develop a procedure for incorporating these important microstructural evolution elements into the constitutive equations that describe plastic deformation.
Innovative interventions to promote behavioral change in overweight or obese individuals: A review of the literature

The overweight and obesity trends have risen over the past few decades, placing significant burdens on health care in terms of increased morbidity and cost. Behavioral change therapy is an effective treatment strategy and includes goal setting, self-monitoring, problem solving, and reinforcement tactics. Traditionally, behavior change therapy has been delivered using face-to-face counseling along with paper and pen recording of dietary intake and physical activity. The current advances in technology provide opportunities to deliver interventions using cellphones, internet, and active video games. These new methods to deliver behavior change for the management and prevention of obesity are being developed in order to increase access, improve convenience, decrease cost, and increase participant engagement. In this review, we present new approaches to promote behavior changes in the management of obesity. Currently available data show promising results. However, future research is needed to address study limitations and implementation challenges of these innovative interventions.
Sparse implicit projection (SIP) for reduction of general many-terminal networks

This paper is concerned with model order reduction of large scale dynamic systems that have sparse matrix representations, particularly systems with large numbers of input/output ldquoports.rdquo We present an algorithm that combines the advantages of widely-used approaches such as PRIMA and TICER but avoids many of the drawbacks of both. The resulting algorithm is capable of high-order rational approximation, exploits network sparsity, preserves passivity, can be extended to general non-symmetric systems, and can be applied to networks with hundreds or thousands of ports. We develop a common mathematical framework that can encompass all three algorithms, show mathematical relations between them, and point out certain special cases where they are equivalent. We show examples from analysis of industrial on-chip RC/RLC networks that demonstrate performance advantages of more than three orders of magnitude.
Alcohol modulates expression of DNA methyltranferases and methyl CpG-/CpG domain-binding proteins in murine embryonic fibroblasts

Abstract Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS), presenting with a constellation of neuro-/psychological, craniofacial and cardiac abnormalities, occurs frequently in offspring of women who consume alcohol during pregnancy, with a prevalence of 1–3 per 1000 livebirths. The present study was designed to test the hypothesis that alcohol alters global DNA methylation, and modulates expression of the DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) and various methyl CpG-binding proteins. Murine embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs), utilized as an in vitro embryonic model system, demonstrated ∼5% reduction in global DNA methylation following exposure to 200 mM ethanol. In addition, ethanol induced degradation of DNA methyltransferases (DNMT-1, DNMT-3a, and DNMT-3b), as well as the methyl CpG-binding proteins (MeCP-2, MBD-2 and MBD-3), in MEF cells by the proteasomal pathway. Such degradation could be completely rescued by pretreatment of MEF cells with the proteasomal inhibitor, MG-132. These data support a potential epigenetic molecular mechanism underlying the pathogenesis of FAS during mammalian development.
Generalized Mixture Likelihood Clustering

This paper is concerned with the problem of clustering a set of independently drawn unlabbled samples into homogeneous clusters. Each sample is a data vector drawn from a class with a probability distribution with known structure, and parametrized by a parameter vector a. No priori knowledge is assumed of the parameter set, or the number of available classes. For large data records the MLE is approximately Gaussian. We exploit this asymptotic property, and regard the the MLE set as the unlabelled samples. The clustering problem becomes then that of the identification of a mixture of Gaussian clusteries. We use the generalized mixture likelihood as the clustering metric. This metric was found to perform very close to the Bayes classifier while avoiding the computational burdens associated with the mixture likelihood maximization. The paper also addresses the problem of sparse data and deviation from normality assumption. The method is illustrated for the textured image segmentation.
On the question of allene formation from tricyclic cyclopropylidenes

Abstract The carbenoid or carbene derived from 8 undergoes dimerization or trapping with DPIBF. The allene mechanism previously proposed was made doubtful by the finding that stereoisomeric carbenes and give stereoisomeric products without crossover.
Sexual Division of Labor in Agriculture

Female agricultural contributions decline with agricultural intensification. We formulate and test a theory of the processes of agricultural intensification that explains a high proportion of the variance in female contributions to agriculture. Five variables show replicable effects across two or more regions of the world. These are number of dry months, importance of domesticated animals to subsistence, use of the plow, crop type, and population density. Of these, the first two are the most powerful predictors of female agricultural contributions, while population density has only very weak effects. MICHAEL L. BURTON is Professor of Anthropology. School of Social Sciences. University of California. Irvine. CA 92717. DOUGLAS R. WHITE is Professor of Anthropology. School of Social Sciences. University of California. Irvine.
A comparative immunological examination of some immunoglobulins of several equine species

Abstract 1. 1. Antigenic analysis employing rabbit antisera specific for horse immunoglobulins established the occurrence of IgG, IgG(T), IgM and γ 1 -component in the normal serum of the donkey, mule, hinny and zebra. 2. 2. With the rabbit reagents employed, the corresponding immunoglobulins of each equine specie and the interspecific hybrids were immunologically indistinguishable. 3. 3. Antigenic analysis of sera obtained from horse umbilical cord blood showed only IgM to be present; IgG(T), γ 1 -component and IgG were not detected. 4. 4. IgG-globulins of the donkey, mule, hinny and zebra were isolated from normal serum by chromatography on columns of DEAE-cellulose and their extinction and sedimentation coefficients determined.
A re-evaluation of the systematic position of Allocoelia Mocsary (Chrysididae, Hymenoptera) and a revision of the component species.

The relationships between the Allocoeliinae and other chrysidid subfamilies are discussed and the genus Allocoelia Mocsary reviewed. One new species, edneyi is described, capensis minor Mocsary is elevated to species, and nigra Edney is synonymized with trautmanni Brauns.
"Flipping" the introductory clerkship in radiology: impact on medical student performance and perceptions.

Rationale and Objectives Among methods of “blended learning” (ie, combining online modules with in-class instruction), the “flipped classroom” involves student preclass review of material while reserving class time for interactive knowledge application. We integrated blended learning methodology in a “flipped” introductory clerkship in radiology, and assessed the impact of this approach on the student educational experience (performance and perception). Materials and Methods In preparation for the “flipped clerkship,” radiology faculty and residents created e-learning modules that were uploaded to an open-source website. The clerkship's 101 rising third-year medical students were exposed to different teaching methods during the course, such as blended learning, traditional lecture learning, and independent learning. Students completed precourse and postcourse knowledge assessments and surveys. Results Student knowledge improved overall as a result of taking the course. Blended learning achieved greater pretest to post-test improvement of high statistical significance (P value, .0060) compared to lecture learning alone. Blended learning also achieved greater pretest to post-test improvement of borderline statistical significance (P value, .0855) in comparison to independent learning alone. The difference in effectiveness of independent learning versus lecture learning was not statistically significant (P value, .2730). Student perceptions of the online modules used in blended learning portions of the course were very positive. They specifically enjoyed the self-paced interactivity and the ability to return to the modules in the future. Conclusions Blended learning can be successfully applied to the introductory clerkship in radiology. This teaching method offers educators an innovative and efficient approach to medical student education in radiology.
Traumatic acute pericardial tamponade

Pericardial tamponade should always be suspected in the clinical setting of any penetrating wound to the thorax or upper abdomen. The most reliable diagnostic criterion is the triad of hypotension, tachycardia and an elevated central venous pressure. Pericardiocentesis should be performed as a temporizing measure until definitive surgical therapy can be carried out. If the patient suddenly decompensates or arrests in the emergency department, immediate thoracotomy with evacuation of the pericardial clot and open chest cardiac massage should be performed. Four case reports are presented. The pathophysiology and treatment are reviewed in detail.
Doppler contrast sonography for detecting reduced perfusion in experimental ischemia of prepubertal rabbit testes.

Rationale and Objectives. We examined whether the intravenous (IV) Doppler ultrasound contrast agent SHU 508 would improve the detection of reduced perfusion of rabbit testes when normal flow was otherwise difficult to detect. Methods. Seventeen anesthetized prepubertal rabbits underwent ran dom unilateral spermatic cord ligation and a contralateral sham operation. Immediate, blinded, and systematic color Doppler examination of each pair of testes was recorded before and after IV administration of 1 ml (300 mg) SHU 508, a gas-containing microparticle. Recorded examinations were reviewed by two pediatric radiologists who were unaware of experimental conditions and who graded intratesticular flow. Results. For 34 pairs of observations (17 animals × 2 observers), intratesticular flow was absent in the sham-operated testes in 18 precontrast and two postcontrast images. The false-positive rate in this group decreased from 53% to 6%. This improvement in the detection of normal blood flow was statistically significant. The absence of flow in the ischemic testis was not significantly different before or after contrast agent administration. Conclusion. IV SHU 508 enhances color Doppler ultrasound detection of flow not otherwise evident in prepubertal rabbit testes. Doppler ultra-sound contrast agents may be used in a setting of suspected torsion when routine Doppler sonography is indeterminate.
Improved D/TA and Information Fusion Based on HMM Indoor Localization

This paper describes an efficient Bayesian framework for localization based on Ultra-wide Bandwidth (UWB) system. Approximate grid-based method based on the Hidden Markov Model (HMM) is an effective method to estimate the position of the Moving Terminal (MT) with the mixed line-of-sight/non-line-of-sight (LOS/NLOS) situation. This article proposes an algorithm by modifying the Position Transition Probability (PTP) according to the practical dynamic model and uses the information fusion effectively. We compare the Maximum Likelihood (ML) estimation with Detection/Tracking Algorithm (D/TA) estimation and its improved algorithm by simulation, in which the localization to an identical trajectory has been tested. The results of the analysis show that the proposed method has better accuracy and stability.
Umbrella species and the conservation of habitat fragments: a case of a threatened butterfly and a vanishing grassland ecosystem

The serpentine soil-based grasslands of central California and severely threatened by non-native plant species and suburban sprawl. At the present time only one animal species restricted to this community, the Bay checkerspot butterfly Euphydryas editha bayensis, is protected by the United States Endangered Species Act. This study examined the distribution of the butterfly and native grassland plant species across 27 habitat patches in the San Francisco Bay area in an effort to determine the value of the butterfly as an ‘umbrella species’. Conservation activities designed for the Bay checkerspot butterfly were found to provide a tenuous protective umbrella for other elements of the grassland community. If all sites presently occupied by the butterfly were preserved intact, upwards of 98% of the native spring-flowering plant species would receive some measure of protection. However, if only the sites supporting the largest butterfly populations are preserved, or if portions of habitat patches classified as being of ‘marginal’ value to the butterfly are lost, then the proportion of plant species receiving protection drops substantially.
Generalized chiral symmetry

Abstract A generalized chiral symmetry is shown to exist for all massless particles and for some descriptions of massive particle theories. In addition, symmetries analogous to the generalized chiral symmetry are described, especially for spin one-half.
Sexual anomalies in the estuarine snail Ilyanassa obsoleta: imposex in females and associated phenomena in males.

The spatial distribution of the “imposex” phenomenon (the imposition of male characters on females) among populations of Ilyanassa obsoleta in southern Delaware, USA estuaries was studied. Imposex was most frequent among females in a segment of the Lewes and Rehoboth Canal (68%, n=376) and there was significant spatial heterogeneity of imposex frequencies (range=43–98%) even within this habitat. Two lines of evidence indicate that conditions which generated female imposex (organotin molecules in the water) also affected male sexuality: 1) healthy males normally lose the penis following reproduction but they tended to retain it where imposex-inducing conditions were strong; and 2) males parasitized by trematodes usually lose the penis but tended not to under strong imposex-inducing conditions. The altered biology associated with imposexinducing environments extends beyond female I. obsoleta to males and to other species. This must be recognized when studying organisms exposed to these conditions.
Proton interactions with hemes a and a3 in bovine heart cytochrome c oxidase.

Three forms of cytochrome c oxidase, fully oxidized CcO (CcO−O), oxidized CcO complexed with cyanide (CcO·CN), and mixed valence CcO, in which both heme a3 and CuB are reduced and stabilized by carbon monoxide (MV·CO), were investigated by optical spectroscopy, MCD, and stopped-flow for the pH sensitivity of spectral features. In the pH range between pH 5.7 and 9.0, both heme a and heme a3 in CcO−O interact with a single protolytic group. From the variation of the position of the Soret peak with changes in pH, a pKa of 6.6 ± 0.2 was determined for this group. The pH sensitivity of heme a3 is lost in the CcO·CN complex, and only heme a responds to pH changes. In MV·CO the spectra of both hemes are almost independent of pH between 5.7 and 11.0. The stoichiometry of proton uptake in the conversion of CcO−O both to MV·CO and to fully reduced CcO was determined between pH 5.8 and pH 8.2. Formation of MV·CO from CcO−O was accompanied by the uptake of approximately two protons, and this value was almost independ...
Sensor fault detection for manufacturing quality control

This paper proposes a W control chart that is able to detect sensor mean shift faults and distinguish them from potential process faults in discrete-part manufacturing processes. The control chart is set up based on a linear fault quality model. The sensitivity of the W chart to the occurrence of sensor faults is studied. An index called the sensitivity ratio is used to investigate the effects of sensor fault locations and the sensor layout on the sensitivity of the W chart to sensor faults. In comparison with traditional control charts, which directly monitor the product quality characteristics, the proposed W chart can effectively separate sensor faults from process faults. An automotive body assembly process is used as an example to demonstrate the performance of the W chart. [Supplementary materials are available for this article. Go to the publisher's online edition of IIE Transactions for the following free supplemental resource: Appendix]
Successful prolonged use of recombinant human insulin‐like growth factor‐1 in a child with cystic fibrosis

Growth failure is a common and complicated process in children with cystic fibrosis (CF). Growth hormone, which is becoming a more commonly used agent in such patients, has demonstrated beneficial effects aside from increased growth velocity. Recently, insulin-like growth factor-1 has gained significant attention in the understanding of growth failure in children with CF. We report the successful prolonged use of recombinant human insulin-like growth factor-1 in an adolescent boy with CF, who demonstrated significant clinical benefits from the therapy. Pediatr. Pulmonol. 2011; 46:1137–1141. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Microscale patterning of two-component biomedical hydrogel

In this study, piezoelectric inkjet technology was used for microscale patterning of a two-component medical hydrogel (sold under the registered trademark Coseal®). A MEMS-based piezoelectric actuator was used to control the flow of polyethylene glycol in a sodium phosphate/sodium carbonate solution through inkjet nozzles. A hydrogen chloride solution was subsequently used to cross-link the polyethylene glycol material. Optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and nanoindentation studies were performed to examine the structural, chemical, and mechanical properties of the inkjetted hydrogel material. Scanning electron micrographs revealed that the inkjetted material exhibited randomly oriented cross-linked networks. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy revealed that the piezoelectric inkjet technology technique did not alter chemical bonding in the material. Piezoelectric inkjet printing of medic...
Lipopolysaccharide-enhanced transcellular transport of HIV-1 across the blood-brain barrier is mediated by the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway

Chronic systemic inflammation in the late stage of human immunodeficiency virus type-1 (HIV-1) infection could increase neuroinvasion of infected monocytes and cell-free virus, causing an aggravation of neurological disorders in AIDS patients. We previously showed that the peripheral administration of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) enhanced the uptake across the blood-brain barrier (BBB) of the HIV-1 viral protein gp120. Brain microvessel endothelial cells are targets of LPS. Here, we investigated whether the direct interaction between LPS and the BBB also affected HIV-1 transport using primary mouse brain microvessel endothelial cells (BMECs). LPS produced a dose (1-100 microg/mL)- and time (0.5-4 h)-dependent increase in HIV-1 transport and a decrease in transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER). Whereas indomethacin (cyclooxygenase inhibitor) and L-NAME (NO synthase inhibitor) did not affect the LPS-induced changes in HIV-1 transport or TEER, pentoxifylline (TNF-alpha inhibitor) attenuated the decrease in TEER induced by LPS, but not the LPS-induced increase in HIV-1 transport. LPS also increased the phosphorylation of p44/42 MAPK and p38 MAPK but not that of JNK. U0126 (p44/42 MAPK inhibitor) and SP600125 (JNK inhibitor) did not inhibit the LPS-induced increase in HIV-1 transport although U0126 attenuated the reduction in TEER. SB203580 (p38 MAPK inhibitor) inhibited the LPS-induced increase in HIV-1 transport without affecting TEER. Thus, LPS-enhanced HIV-1 transport is independent of changes in TEER and so is attributed to increased transcellular trafficking of HIV-1 across the BBB. These results show that LPS increases HIV-1 transcellular transport across the BBB by a pathway that is mediated by p38 MAPK phosphorylation in BMECs.
Cerebellar sclerosis in pediatric cancer patients.

Cerebal cortical sclerosis is an acquired condition that has rarely been described in cancer patients. We
An Antimony Sulfide with a Two-Dimensional, Intersecting System of Channels

A novel open antimony sulfide framework of composition [Sb(3)S(5)](-) has been synthesized hydrothermally, in the presence of tetramethyl ammonium ions. Determination of the crystal structure demonstrates that the (Me(4)N)(+) molecules (Me, methyl) occlude a system of intersecting channels at 90 degrees to one another. The three-dimensional framework is assembled from a new building unit, flat s-shaped buckled sheets of edge-linked 4-rings containing Sb(2)S(2) moieties. These are cross-linked in two directions to form the system of channels.
The identification of coca (Erythroxylum species): 1860–1910

The taxonomic history of plants known under the name âcocaâ is complex. During the period 1860â1910, botanists, horticulturalists and pharmacists became increasingly interested in the varieties of coca then known in cultivation. A debate over the correct identity of the cultivated cocas ensued which continues today. During the latter part of the 19th century and early part of the 20th century, several new taxa were described from cultivation which significantly âcomplicated the taxonomy. Notable contributors were D. Morris in Kew, W. Burck in Bogor, H. H. Rusby in New York and O. E. Schulz in Berlin. In order to evaluate the complex interaction among these workers, it is necessary to examine the problem chronologically. Two cultivated species of commercial coca are now recognized: Erythroxylutn coca Lam. and Erythroxylutn nooogranatense (Morris) Hieron., each of which has one distinct variety in cultivation: E. coca var. ipadu Plowman and E. novogranatense var. truxillense (Rusby) Plowman, respectively.
Politics of the Italian Land Reform

THE RESULTS OF THE 1953 Italian elections were disappointing. The most disturbing fact was the tremendous growth of Communism and Neo-Fascism. This was particularly true in the South, where the center parties have dropped well below their 1948 totals, while the extreme Left has picked up three-quarters of a million new votes. The extreme Right found strength to move into an important position in national politics. Americans took it too much for granted that, if the growth of Communism were checked, people would automatically vote for Christian Democrats. Italy has snapped out of postwar depression and with considerable American push has reached a stage of mild prosperity. We gave de Gasperi credit for much of the solid and steady development. The Italian masses saw things otherwise. The Communists think too little has been done. The Fascists think that too, except that they would want to go about the reforms with Mussolini-proven tools. Judging by the tremendous growth in the Neo-Fascist vote, more and more Italians tend to agree. The traditional latifundian economy of large absentee-owned landed properties is not a system suited for the socio-economic requirements of twentieth century Italy. The blame for the unsatisfactory state of affairs in the Italian South can, to a great extent, be put upon the indifference and often hostility of the dominant class of landowners toward the welfare of the agricultural masses. Despite nominal attempts at agrarian reform, the old order of landownership remained substantially unchanged. Under the terms of legislation of the Napoleonic Code and the Risorgi-
Formalizing Analytical Discourse in Visual Analytics

This paper presents a theory of analytical discourse and a formal model of the intentional structure of visual analytic reasoning process. Our model rests on the theory of collaborative discourse, and allows for cooperative human-machine communication in visual interactive dialogues. Using a sample discourse from a crisis management scenario, we demonstrated the utility of our theory in characterizing the discourse context and collaboration. In particular, we view analytical discourse as plans consisting of complex mental attitude towards analytical tasks and issues. Under this view, human reasoning and computational analysis become integral part of the collaborative plan that evolves through discourse.
Time-domain characterization and analysis of dispersive dissipative interconnects

Numerical techniques for the time-domain characterization and analysis of lossy dispersive uniform/nonuniform multiconductor lines with arbitrary terminations are presented. A unified procedure for the extraction of frequency-dependent self and mutual R, L, G, and C matrix elements from the normal-mode characteristic impedances and propagation constants is formulated. An algorithm for solving the time-domain transmission line equations that include the dispersion due to skin-effect and higher-order modes in the analysis is presented. The simulation technique is based on an extension of the method of characteristics. The procedure applies to both uniform and nonuniform coupled systems, and examples of two- and three-line structures terminated in linear and nonlinear elements are included. These examples demonstrate the effects of dispersion and losses on the signal propagation, including delay, distortion, and crosstalk, in general multiconductor interconnects and the versatility and usefulness of the techniques. >
Characterization of Earth Materials Properties for Conceptual Design of an Exploratory Shaft, Richton Dome, Mississippi

Preliminary Exploratory Shaft design studies have been performed for representative sites in all salt basins within the NWTS Program. These studies have been based on data which are not site specific. Earth materials overlying the Richton Dome were characterized by analysis of geotechnical and hydrological data that had been acquired for site selection purposes. Data sets were reorganized, reinterpreted and evaluated in light of published empirical correlations, known constituative relations, experience with other sites, and engineering judgment. Geotechnical properties were assessed from geophysical logs, lithologic sample descriptions, and limited blowcount, grain size and pump test data. These properties included grain size, plasticity, unit weight, moisture content, bulk density, porosity, shear strength, elasticity, permeability, and saturation. Additionally, chemical and thermal properties were estimated and the local hydrologic flow properties were addressed. The analyses allowed heretofor unrecognized lithologic material groupings (defineable layers and sublayers) to be identified based on similarities in physical properties. Subsurface conditions, as interpreted, pose no unique excavation problems. However, the analysis identified some potential issues which had not been previously recognized and gave confidence that other previously assumed potential problems may not exist. Future work for subsequent design should focus on shaft wall stability, ground-water inflow, expansive clays, and the impacts of long-term exposure of the materials.
Charge retention of floating-gate transistors under applied bias conditions

The nonvolatile memory-retention characteristics of floating-gate transistors with thin gate oxides are shown to be a strong function of both applied voltages and oxide thickness. Under the assumption that the charge loss mechanism is Fowler-Nordheim tunneling through the thin oxide, an expression is derived which allows the design of floating-gate transistors with optimized retention time.
Temperature effects on the rheological properties of carbon nanotube-in-oil dispersions

The rheological behaviors of the nanotube-in-oil dispersions stabilized by polyisobutylene succinimide (PIBSI) dispersants are studied at different temperatures. Abnormal viscosity increase happens in the nanotube dispersion containing long chain dispersant (molecular weight 1000) at high temperature due to flocculation of the nanoparticles. Desorption of the dispersant molecules from solid surface is proved not to be the reason by FTIR measurement. Short chain polymer dispersant (molecular weight 550) cannot disperse nanotube well at room temperature which indicates that the shorter dispersant chain lead to the flocculation of nanotubes in the dispersions. Long chain dispersant molecules shrink at high temperature, however, the change of the dispersant conformation at high temperature is not the only reason for the flocculation behaviors. The long chain polymer may also contribute to the creation of the network structure in the dispersion at high temperature. Dispersant concentration and dispersing energy are the important factors to affect the flocculation process of the dispersion at high temperature.
Fieldwork and Families: Constructing New Models for Ethnographic Research

Fieldwork and Families: Constructing New Models for Ethnographic Research. Juliana Flinn. Leslie Marshall and Jocelyn Armstrong. eds. Honolulu: University of Hawaii Press, 1998.230 pp.
Status of Black Walnut (Juglans nigra L.) in the Eastern United States in Light of the Discovery of Thousand Cankers Disease

ABSTRACT Juglans nigra (black walnut) is widely distributed throughout the US eastern forest, with high concentrations occurring in Missouri and the Ohio and Tennessee River basins. It is an extremely desirable tree for wildlife forage and timber production on forest land, and for shade, aesthetics, and wildlife forage in urban areas. Current (2009–2010) estimates from US Forest Service Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) data indicated that there were 306 million live black walnut trees in the eastern United States with a live volume totaling 112.76 million cubic meters (m3). This resource is currently threatened by the newly discovered presence of thousand cankers disease (TCD) in Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Virginia. Thousand cankers disease may have been present in these areas for at least 10 years prior to discovery; however, no evidence of TCD in the forest at large was apparent in the crown condition and mortality data collected by FIA between 2000 and 2010. During this time period black walnut c...
PhoenixSim: a simulator for physical-layer analysis of chip-scale photonic interconnection networks

Recent developments have shown the possibility of leveraging silicon nanophotonic technologies for chip-scale interconnection fabrics that deliver high bandwidth and power efficient communications both on- and off-chip. Since optical devices are fundamentally different from conventional electronic interconnect technologies, new design methodologies and tools are required to exploit the potential performance benefits in a manner that accurately incorporates the physically different behavior of photonics. We introduce PhoenixSim, a simulation environment for modeling computer systems that incorporates silicon nanophotonic devices as interconnection building blocks. PhoenixSim has been developed as a cross-discipline platform for studying photonic interconnects at both the physical-layer level and at the architectural and system levels. The broad scope at which modeled systems can be analyzed with PhoenixSim provides users with detailed information into the physical feasibility of the implementation, as well as the network and system performance. Here, we describe details about the implementation and methodology of the simulator, and present two case studies of silicon nanophotonic-based networks-on-chip.
A performance analysis model for distributed simulations

Distributed simulation has proved to be a cost effective technique for studying and understanding complex real world systems. Many distributed simulations need to incorporate hundreds or even thousands of processors, across both local and wide area networks. As the size and complexity of distributed simulations increase so do the demands on the hardware and software resources that provide simulation services, causing performance bottlenecks that limit the effectiveness of distributed simulation. Different abstractions of performance are needed depending on who is analyzing the distributed simulation and for what reason. This paper proposes a framework for identifying the factors affecting performance and provides a technique for associating the performance factors with high-level system metrics that describe the behavior of the physical and logical resources and services used in the design and implementation of distributed simulations. Dynamic and static analysis of the performance information provides feedback on the execution of the simulation and can provide meaningful information as a guide in making decisions about the configuration and control of the available hardware and software resources for distributed simulation exercises.
A multichannel weighted median filter for complex array signal processing

Summary form only given. Multi-channel and multi-spectral signals are often correlated across channels. Moreover, multispectral images have considerable similarity in in-channel correlations. But in array signal processing, due to the existence of multiple frequency components and their phase shifts, in-channel correlations may vary drastically. In this paper, a new multichannel weighted median filter is proposed which can capture the general correlation structure in array signals and process them in an efficient manner. The algorithm is further extended onto the complex domain by means of "phase coupling". The performance of the filter is presented in a three-sensor array processing example.
Symbiotic streaming of elastic traffic on interactive transport

Interactivity in transport protocol can greatly benefit transport friendly applications. We envision if a transport mechanism, which is interactive and can provide event notification about network state to the subscriber of its communication service, than a wide range of solution to many of today's hard network problem can be instituted. Recently we have implemented this concept system as a new TCP kernel on FreeBSD called TCP interactive and a novel symbiotic MPEG-2 full logic transcoder. In this paper we share the results of the TCP interactive performance experiment and show potential dramatic improvement in time-bounded video delivery.
Frequent yawning as an initial signal of fever relief

Research suggests that yawning provides a brain cooling function in homeotherms, and that excessive yawning may be a useful diagnostic indicator of abnormal thermoregulation in humans. Accordingly, the frequency of yawning should increase during instances of hyperthermia, but not fever (i.e., pyrexia), since this represents an elevation in the homeostatic set point rather than thermoregulatory failure. To our knowledge, no research has investigated the association between yawning frequency and fever in humans. Here we present the hypothesis that frequent yawning could be used as an initial signal for fever relief, either through the effectiveness of antipyretics or the natural break of a fever. Applications of this research include the improved behavioral monitoring of patients.
Application of ionic liquids as plasticizers for poly(methyl methacrylate)

The room temperature ionic liquid, 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate, [C4mim][PF6] was found to be an efficient plasticizer for poly(methyl methacrylate), prepared by in situ radical polymerization in the ionic liquid medium; the polymers have physical characteristics comparable with those containing traditional plasticizers and retain greater thermal stability.
The physician's role in the assessment and treatment of spiritual distress at the end of life.

Objective: Patients at the end of their life typically endure physical, emotional, interpersonal, and spiritual challenges. Although physicians assume a clearly defined role in approaching the physical aspects of terminal illness, the responsibility for helping their patients' spiritual adaptation is also important.Methods: This article (1) describes the terms and definitions that have clinical utility in assessing the spiritual needs of dying patients, (2) reviews the justifications that support physicians assuming an active role in addressing the spiritual needs of their patients, and (3) reviews clinical tools that provide physicians with a structured approach to the assessment and treatment of spiritual distress.Results: This review suggests that physicians can and should be equipped to play a key role in relieving suffering at the end of life.Significance of results: Physicians can help their patients achieve a sense of completed purpose and peace.
Extraction of Human and Rabbit Acrosomes: A Comparison of Sequential and Sonication Methods*

Zusammenfassung Extraktion akrosomaler Membranen und Enzyme von Spermatozoen des Menschen und des Kaninchens. Vergleich der Sequential- und Beschallungs-Methode Es werden zwei Methoden der Extraktion akrosomaler Membranen und Enzyme aus Menschen- und Kaninchenspermatozoen verglichen. Die Behandlung von Spermatozoen mit hypotoner MgCl2-Losung (0,05 M) verursacht die Ablosung der Plasmamembran, Zerreisung und Ablosung der Membran im Bereich des aequatoriellen Segments, spater auch der akrosomalen Membran. Diese Vorgange sind mit einem Verlust an loslichem Akrosommaterial verbunden. Die nachfolgende Behandlung mit Hyamine 2389 und Triton X-100 entfernt akrosomales Material, das an die innere Akrosommembran gebunden ist und lost diese Membran gleichzeitig auf. Der MgCl2-Extrakt von Kaninchenspermatozoen weist einen hoheren Gehalt an Hyaluronidase, Akrosin und Gesamtproteinase-Aktivitat auf, wahrend die angeschlossenen Detergentien-Extrakte einen hoheren Anteil an Arylsulfatase-A und -B-Aktivitaten zeigen. Im Vergleich weisen sowohl Kaninchen- als auch Menschenspermatozoen nach 4minutiger Beschallung zur Trennung in Kopf und Schwanz bei elektronenmikroskopischer Betrachtung Veranderungen des Plasmas und der auseren Akrosommembran auf. Der hierbei auftretende Verlust an Akrosommaterial ist betrachtlich. Die Analyse der akrosomalen Enzyme zeigt, das der prozentual groste Anteil aller untersuchten Enzyme in dem durch Beschallung gewonnenen Extrakt enthalten war. Dies im Gegensatz sowohl zu den Kopf- als auch Schwanzfraktionen, die fur weiterfuhrende subzellulare Extration verwendet worden waren. Die Behandlung dieser Extrakte mit Hyamine und Triton ergab nur kleinste Gehalte an Enzymaktivitaten.
User-specific semantics for modeling content-based geospatial knowledge

Modern technology enables organizations to build huge geospatial data repositories. But collecting and storing information is not sufficient if it is not backed-up by accurate and flexible methods of extracting knowledge encapsulated in data. Image analysts use individualized models to represent visual patterns found in images. These models may not coincide with the models created by computer algorithms. To be successful, computer systems need to adapt to the subjective views of image analysts. In this article we introduce a novel method for fast query customization that provides users with individualized computer models to assign semantics to visual patterns in images. These models are evolved according to user input by adjusting possibility functions that mathematically map the assignment of semantics into low-level features. Our approach provides a flexible method for querying image databases using semantics, and potentially provides a knowledge exchange method for the geospatial community.
Characteristics of coarse-grained sequences deposited in nearshore, wave-dominated environments—examples from the Miocene of south-west Oregon

The conglomeratic sandstone of the Sandstone of Floras Lake (Miocene) is a superbly exposed example of a coarse-grained sequence deposited in a high-energy, storm-wave-dominated, shallow-marine environment. The features of the unit suggest deposition on a shoreface in proximity to a fluvial source. Distinguishing characteristics include amalgamated hummocky-stratified sandstone, low-angle cross-stratified conglomerate beds, lenticular conglomerate beds, tabular conglomerate beds, high-angle scours, trough cross-bedded sandstone, organic-rich beds, and burrows of several sizes. These features are interpreted in terms of their depths of deposition, generation by fair weather, storm, and/or flood processes, and as indicators of relative rates of sedimentation. The unit records complex interaction of tectonic, wave, fluvial and tidal processes. Relative depth changes indicated in the sequence probably reflect changes in the balances between sediment supply, basin subsidence, and eustatic sea-level changes. Wave processes are manifest in the presence of structures deposited both above and below fair-weather wave base. Deposition and reworking by chaotic seas associated with local storms and by long-period swell associated with distant storms may be indicated by the interbedding of amalgamated hummocky-stratified sandstone and conglomerate beds. The effects of the lateral migration of a fluvial source with time are reflected by the changing nature and apparent rates of supply of sediments deposited in the nearshore zone. Tidal processes are manifest largely as superimposed features on wave- and current-generated structures. Biogenic structures are an important clue to the rates and frequencies of all these processes. The conglomeratic sandstone was deposited on a high-energy, tectonically active continental margin, similar to the present setting of the southern Oregon coast. It was deposited at varying depths in a subsiding basin during a time of world-wide sea-level rise. The sequence provides an opportunity for the study of coarse-grained nearshore-marine sediments and the delineation of the interaction of various processes during deposition. Detailed sedimentologic and palaeoecologic analysis provides insight into the nature of storm and flood processes that are difficult to observe in the modern environment.
Foregoing Sub-therapeutic Antibiotics: the Impact on Broiler Grow-out Operations

We use data from a recent national survey to analyze the use of sub-therapeutic antibiotics (STAs) among broiler growers. We estimate that 42% of growers do not use STAs in their feed or water, and instead rely on a set of other practices, including pathogen testing, expanded sanitary protocols, altered feeding regimens, and Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point HACCP plans to maintain production. Suspending STAs has no statistically significant impact on production given other inputs, but producers who forego STAs receive higher contract fees, suggesting that they bear higher costs to realize a given level of output. Copyright 2011, Oxford University Press.