cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Promising alloys for intermediate-temperature solid oxide fuel cell interconnect application

Abstract The formation of a low Cr-volatility and electrically conductive oxide outer layer atop an inner chromia layer via thermal oxidation is highly desirable for preventing chromium evaporation from solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) metallic interconnects at the SOFC operation temperatures. In this paper, a number of ferritic Fe–22Cr alloys with different levels of Mn and Ti as well as a Ni-based alloy Haynes 242 were cyclically oxidized in air at 800 °C for twenty 100-h cycles. No oxide scale spallation was observed during thermal cycling for any of these alloys. A mixed Mn2O3/TiO2 surface layer and/or a (Mn, Cr)3O4 spinel outer layer atop a Cr2O3 inner layer was formed for the Fe–22Cr series alloys, while an NiO outer layer with a Cr2O3 inner layer was developed for Haynes 242 after cyclic oxidation. For the Fe–22Cr series alloys, the effects of Mn and Ti contents as well as alloy purity on the oxidation resistance and scale area specific resistance were evaluated. The performance of the ferritic alloys was compared with that of Haynes 242. The mismatch in thermal expansion coefficient between the different layers in the oxide scale was identified as a potential concern for these otherwise promising alloys.
Chemical bath deposition and microstructuring of tin (II) sulfide films for photovoltaics

Tin (II) sulfide is prepared through chemical bath deposition and annealed in a hydrogen sulfide environment to produce thin films for photovoltaic devices. The grain size, composition, and morphology are controlled by tailoring the bath composition and annealing conditions. The films have stoichiometric composition, are oxygen-free, have an optical band gap below 1.2 eV, and have an orthorhombic crystal structure. Through this method, a variety of film morphologies can be deposited, from dense films to micro-crystalline porous materials, in which micro-structured platelets can be incorporated through a self-assembly process. Annealing treatments simultaneously increase crystal size and improve purity to more efficiently extract photo-generated carriers. Electronic properties of the films are presented as well as insights into device preparation.
Influence of Grain Size Variability on the Strain Rate Dependence of the Stress Exponent in Mixed-Mode Power Law and Diffusional Creep

The relationship between the strain rate and the stress in power law and diffusional creep has usually been derived with the assumption that all the grains have the same size, which predicts a sharp transition from power law creep, with a stress exponent of about four to five, to diffusional creep, where the stress exponent is equal to one. We show that the use of distributed grain size can lead to a transition from power law to diffusional creep that is spread over several orders of magnitude in strain rate. The breadth of this transition depends on the standard deviation of the grain size probability density function. The experimental values for the stress exponent that are apparently greater than one, when measured over two or three orders of magnitude in strain rate, can result from a very gradual change in the stress exponent with the strain rate for a distributed grain size. Data sets from copper are compared to the model.
The preparation of “1223” Tl-Ca-Ba-Cu-oxide superconducting films via the reaction of silver-containing spray deposited Ca-Ba-Cu-Oxide with thallium oxide vapor

Abstract A process is described for the preparation of superconducting films of “1223” TlxCa2Ba2Cu3Oy (0.65 10 000 A/cm2 was measured at 60 K-2 T with the magnetic field applied parallel to the crystallographic c-axis of the film.
A New Tradition: A Reflection on Collaboration and Contact Zones

Anthropologist James Clifford published his influential essay “Museums as Contact Zones” in 1997. He explored the aspects and limits of museums as contact zones in the globalized world, and focused on the museum's role in cross-cultural dialogue in the twentieth century. In “A New Tradition: A Reflection on Collaboration and Contact Zones,” the author reflects on whether museums as collaborative contact zones can be sustainable. The author uses her own experiences of a university's archives and museum collaborating with international community partners to question the meaning of contact zones in the twenty-first century.
On-wafer testing of GaInAsP/InP mass-transported lasers

We review techniques which have been developed for on-wafer testing of diode lasers. We have previously described the fabrication of mass-transported buried-heterostructure lasers in which the laser cavity is produced within a mesa structure in such a way that electrical isolation between laser mesas on the wafer is essentially built-in. Bars of lasers in linear edge-emitting arrays can be cleaved from such a wafer. We have carried out cw electrical and optical characterization of each laser (up to about 50 devices in a row) in these bars without bonding to heat-sinks. Similarly we have evaluated individual elements of two-dimensional arrays of surface-emitting lasers which are fabricated using etched and mass-transported cavity mirrors with monolithically integrated beam deflectors. This kind of on-wafer testing permits selection of suitable individual devices to be diced and bonded or selection of segments of wafers for optimum array performance. It also makes possible the correlation of device performance with position on the wafer which is useful in diagnosing problems in wafer growth and fabrication.
Why are Some Women Politically Active? The Household, Public Space, and Political Participation in India:

Women in India do not participate in political life to the same extent as men. While a fair number of women turn out to vote they have little representation in legislative bodies at the national and state level. This paper attributes the limited presence of women in legislative bodies to the fact that many women are still confined to the household. Evidence to support this claim comes from an analysis of a survey that was conducted in a state of Northern India to assess which women have been able to take the opportunity to join local bodies where, one-third of all seats, are now reserved for women. The analysis suggests that even after controlling for demographic factors, only those women who have an identity that is independent of the household are likely to avail the opportunity to contest elections for local bodies. The paper then extends the findings from the Indian case to other nations by analyzing the World Values Survey and finds that similar patterns exist globally. It is women who have an identi...
Comparison of Visual Field Defects in the Low-Tension Glaucomas with Those in the High-Tension Glaucomas

We compared the visual fields of 79 eyes (48 patients) with low-tension glaucoma (intraocular pressure 30 mm Hg). Both groups had similar amounts of total field loss as determined by computerized threshold perimetry. Scotomas in the low-tension group had a steeper slope (P
That Drunken Conversation between Two Cultures: Art, Science and the Possibility of Meaningful Uncertainty

If we accept that art and science have in fact become very distinct cultures, then it is not surprising that their basic concepts and language should suffer from fissures over the four hundred years they’ve had to diverge and specialize. Some see this as a rich opportunity for building disciplinary bridges in hopes of forging new forms of hybridity, while others see it as the surest sign that the two are best left to their own devices. But the reason the conversation between art and science is so difficult may have to do with assumptions that presuppose the structure of the conversation itself.
Inaccuracy of self-reported weights and heights among American Indian adolescents.

To determine the accuracy of self-reported weights and heights and of relative weight status in a sample of American Indian adolescents, a survey was conducted in middle and high schools on or near three Indian reservations-Navajo, Choctaw, and Blackfeet. Self-reported weights and heights were compared with measured weights and heights. Participants were 12 through 19 years old. (N = 806, 47.4% male). Overall, both boys and girls underreported weight (mean difference = self-reported - measured mean values)(-3.4 +/- 13.1 and -4.6 +/- 13.0 lb, respectively) and overreported height (0.6 +/- 2.1 and 0.2 +/- 2.6 in, respectively) However, underweight boys and girls overreported weight (normal: -1.6 +/- 7.9 and -1.4 +/- 6.3; overweight: -7.5 +/- 17.9 and -11.6 +/- 19.0 lb, respectively). Although correlations between measured and reported weight, height, and body mass index (BMI) were high, the sensitivity of relative weight categories based on BMI using self-reported weight and height compared with measured weight and height was poor: 66.7% for underweight (BMI 85th percentile). These results call into question the accuracy of self-reported weight and height measurements among American Indian youth and are similar to findings among non-American Indian adolescents. Therefore, their use in prevalence studies should be avoided, and they should be used cautiously in other types of epidemiologic studies.
The association between early life and adult body mass index and physical activity with risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma: impact of gender.

Abstract Purpose To evaluate the association of body mass index (BMI) and physical activity (PA) during adulthood and at the age of 18 years with risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). Methods We enrolled 950 newly diagnosed NHL patients and 1146 frequency-matched clinic-based controls. Height, weight, and PA (recent adult and at the age of 18 years) were self-reported. Odds ratios (ORs), 95% confidence intervals, and tests for trend were estimated using unconditional logistic regression adjusted for age, gender, and residence. Results BMI at the age of 18 years was associated with an increased NHL risk (OR, 1.38 for highest vs. lowest quartile; p -trend = .0012), which on stratified analysis was specific to females (OR, 1.90; p -trend = .00025). There was no association of adult BMI with NHL risk. Higher PA in adulthood (OR, 1.03; p -trend = .85) or at the age of 18 years (OR, 0.88; 95% confidence interval, 0.72–1.07) was not associated with risk, but there was an inverse association for adult PA that was specific to females (OR, 0.71; p -trend = .039). Only BMI at the age of 18 years remained significantly associated with NHL risk when modeled together with PA in adulthood or at the age of 18 years. There was little evidence for heterogeneity in these results for the common NHL subtypes. Conclusions Early adult BMI may be of greatest relevance to NHL risk, particularly in females.
Helicobacter pylori-specific immunoglobulin synthesis in gnotobiotic piglets: evidence for the induction of mucosal immunity in the stomach.

Abstract Short term tissue biopsy cultures and paired, sera, bile and gastric and intestinal contents from Helicobacter pylori -infected gnotobiotic piglets were tested for the synthesis of H. pylori -specific immunoglobulin (Ig) isotype production by antigen-specific ELISA from post-infection days (PIDs) 2–28. Serum antibody levels in all three Ig isotypes were elevated from baseline values by PID 14, serum IgM levels reached peak levels on PID 14 and by PID 28 bile was strongly positive for IgA and IgG. Intestinal, but not gastric contents from infected piglets, contained IgA-specific antibody from PID 14 onward. Gastric mucosal epithelia adjacent to areas of inflammation in infected but not uninfected control piglets produced readily detectable amounts of porcine secretory component (SC); IgA-positive plasma cells were identified in gastric submucosa and lamina propria in these areas. Culture fluid supernatants, collected from explanted gastric cardia and antra and intestinal ilea of H. pylori -infected piglets had trace amounts of IgA as early as PID 2 in some animals, and strong IgA reactivity in all by PID 28. Supernatants also contained H. pylori -specific IgG by PID 14. A strong gastric lymph node IgA response contrasted with moderate IgA production in mesenteric lymph nodes and spleen. Mucosal biopsy production of H. pylori -specific IgG was more evenly distributed throughout the lymphoid system. These data support the contention that the Ig response to H. pylori is initiated within the gastric compartment and matures over time to a generalized IgA-dominated mucosal and IgG-dominated nonmucosal humoral immune response.
Analysis of stacked rotated gratings

We study the rigorous design and analysis of stacked rotated gratings (SRGs) for novel photonic devices. A concept of sampling frequency is proposed to systematically design SRGs. With the help of a rectangular sampling lattice, we extend the standard 3D rigorous coupled-wave analysis (RCWA) algorithm to the analysis of SRGs. The resultant SRG-RCWA algorithm can be used to exactly analyze SRGs that have grating parameters that match the Fourier expansion represented by the sampling lattice. SRGs that do not fall in this category can often still be closely approximated with our approach. The SRG-RCWA algorithm has been successfully applied to the characterization of two fabricated SRGs that are designed to function as circular polarization filters for an IR imaging polarimetry system. The agreement between numerical SRG-RCWA results and experimental measurements demonstrates its validity and usefulness.
A Cadaveric Study: Is There a Correlation Between Clinical Tests for Anterior-Posterior Laxity and Rotary Instability?

Instability is not necessarily determined by knee laxity, yet passive clinical tests are included in the examination which determines the functional status of the knee. The current arthrokinematic findings and validated clinical tests support the definition of excessive sagittal plane and frontal-plane laxity; however it is unknown if these findings in a single plane predict rotary instability of the knee.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Fluctuation and dipolar interaction effects on the pinning of domain walls

We discuss the effect of the dipolar interaction on the pinning of domain walls. Domain walls are usually pinned near the boundaries between grains. Magnetic charges accumulated at the domain wall make the wall more unstable and easier to depin. We discuss how the grain-orientaion and thermal fluctuations affect these magnetic charges and hence the depinning of the domain walls. Our results are illustrated by finite temperature Monte Carlo simulation on periodic arrays of large cells separated by walls consisting of faces of pyramids.
Critical temperature in the thermodynamics of extended objects

Abstract Extending previous work on the thermodynamics of quantum strings a low-temperature power series expansion is derived with the help of the Meinardus theorem for the free energy of a quantum p -brane having toroidal compactification. In the string case p = 1 this series has a finite radius of convergence corresponding to the well-known Hagedorn temperature. For p >1 the radius of convergence drops to zero. However, for odd p it is possible to resum unambiguously the divergent power series in temperature T to a form in which T is unrestricted. This suggests that odd p -branes at least there may be no limiting temperature, and moreover there may exist a fundamental difference between even and odd p -branes.
Effect of film composition on the performance of interdigitated electrode methods used for chemically amplified photoresist characterization: methods for analyzing photoresist materials containing base quencher

Previously, a method which utilizes interdigitated electrode (IDE) sensors to collect capacitance versus exposure dose data for thin films containing a photoacid generator (PAG) and polymer and subsequently calculate the Dill C photoreaction rate constant for the photoacid generator has been presented. This paper discusses a method for extending such IDE methods to calculate the Dill C rate constant for a photoacid generator in a film containing a polymer, photoacid generator, and base quencher. This three component formulation more closely resembles the composition of commercial chemically amplified photoresists. It is shown that by using a data normalization approach, the IDE data can be successfully analyzed to compute accurate Dill C values for a PAG in the presence of base quencher and to estimate the concentration of base quencher in the film. The technique also thus allows for measurement of the impact of the presence of base quencher on the photoreaction rate constant of the photoacid generator.
Hamster sperm hyaluronidase. II. Its release from sperm in vitro in relation to the degenerative and normal acrosome reaction.

Hamster sperm incubated in vitro were used to determine: (1) when hyaluronidase is released from sperm undergoing acrosome detachment, i.e., either a degenerative or normal acrosome reaction, and (2) what ultrastructural changes occur in the acrosomes of living sperm during hyaluronidase release. Sperm were incubated up to 4 hours in normal saline, Ham's F-10, or heat pretreated blood serum. At hourly intervals, the percentages of live (motile) and acrosome reacted sperm were counted, and the supernatant from each sperm sample was assayed for hyaluronidase activity. In normal saline, sperm died during the incubation period, underwent a degenerative acrosome reaction, and gradually released hyaluronidase. In Ham's F-10, sperm lived throughout the incubation period, did not undergo acrosome detachment, and did not release detectable amounts of hyaluronidase. In heat pretreated blood serum, sperm death did not occur during the incubation period, a surge of hyaluronidase release was complete by 1 hour of incubation, and additional hyaluronidase activity was not detected in the incubation medium between 3 and 4 hours when the normal acrosome reaction was observed. The fine structure of the acrosome was unaltered immediately after the release of hyaluronidase in serum. It was concluded that more than 50% of the mechanically extractable hamster sperm hyaluronidase was released by a factor present in serum and that this release occurred prior to and independently of the normal acrosome reaction. The partial release of hyaluronidase in serum prior to the occurrence of a normal acrosome reaction may indicate that this enzyme has a bifunctional role in reproduction.
Facilitated transdermal delivery of therapeutic peptides and proteins by iontophoretic delivery devices

Abstract Over the years, extensive research effort has been devoted to the development of noninvasive drug delivery techniques for controlled systemic delivery of therapeutic peptides and proteins through various easily accessible organs/tissues. Iontophoresis has recently been discovered as a potential drug delivery technique for noninvasive, programmed systemic delivery of peptide and protein drugs. Several iontophoretic delivery devices have been developed. In this article, the feasibility of using iontophoretic delivery devices to facilitate the transdermal transport of hydrophilic charged macromolecules of peptides, such as vasopressin and proteins, such as insulin, across the skin (which has the lipophilic stratum corneum as the permeation barrier) is demonstrated. In vitro skin permeation studies and in vivo pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies in diabetic animals suggested that the systemic bioavailability of peptides and proteins, as well as the pharmacodynamic responses, are dependent upon the electronic variables of the iontophoretic delivery device, e.g. waveform, frequency, on/off ratio and intensity of the current applied, physiochemical parameters, e.g. pH and ionic strength, as well as physiological variables, such as treatment of the stratum corneum. The pharmacokinetics-pharmacodynamics relationship is established and the mechanism of iontophoresis-facilitated transdermal transport of peptide-based macromolecules are analyzed.
Another inexpensive, efficient, solid state shock scrambler

This paper describes an inexpensive, solid state shock scrambler. The circuit employs TTL logic and mercury-wetted relays for quiet, reliable operation. The unit can control shock presentation to 16 grids and operates with an efficiency of 50%; for example, on any given clock pulse, 50% of the grids are positive and the other 50%, negative.
Initial results with a stapled gastrojejunostomy for the laparoscopic isolated roux-en-Y gastric bypass.

Abstract Background: The gastric pouch to jejunum anastomosis is a critical step in the performance of an isolated Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. When performing this procedure laparoscopically, intracorporeal suturing of the gastric pouch to Roux-en-Y jejunum anastomosis is technically demanding, time consuming, and perhaps the most prohibitive part of the operation. We devised a unique, effective, and simple method to perform this anastomosis using an EEA stapler. This report describes this technique and its follow-up in our series of patients undergoing a laparoscopic isolated Roux-en-Y gastric bypass utilizing this technique. Methods: A prospective analysis was performed identifying the technical success, leak rate, and postoperative incidence of anastomotic stenosis and its management in a consecutive series of patients undergoing a laparoscopic isolated Roux-en-Y gastric bypass with a gastrojejunal anastomosis constructed with a 21-mm or 25-mm EEA stapler. Results: Forty-eight patients underwent laparoscopic isolated Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. Mean age was 40.9 years (range 22 to 64) and mean body mass index was 52.3 kg/m 2 (range 31 to 76 kg/m 2 ). There were no mortalities. Three patients (6.3%) were converted to an open procedure, but only 1 because of an inability to perform the gastrojejunal anastomosis (short jejunal mesentery). There was 1 leak (2.1%) from the gastrojejunal anastomosis. It was successfully managed nonoperatively. Thirteen patients (27.1%) patients developed an anastomotic stenosis requiring endoscopic balloon dilatation. Seven of the 13 patients required only a single dilatation and have had no recurrence of dysphagia. Six of the 13 patients needed 2 to 4 dilatations, and all are swallowing normally. None have required surgical revision. After 12 months of follow-up, the mean weight loss was 115 pounds and mean decrease in body mass index was 18.5 kg/m 2 . Conclusions: The stapled EEA gastrojejunal anastomosis for the laparoscopic isolated Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is safe and effective. Anastomotic stenosis occurs in approximately one quarter of patients, but it can be managed well with endoscopic balloon dilatation.
Analysis of Effervescence during Hydrosilylation Curing

In the novel hydrosilylation curing system, derived from an α,ω-bis(2,4,6,8-tetramethylcyclotetrasiloxan-2-yl) carbon chain crosslinker 1 and allyl-group-end-blocked oligomer 2, effervescence phenomena during curing were examined. We found that the main component of the gas formed was propylene when 1 and 2 were heated in the presence of H2PtCl6 for cure and that the amount of the gas was largely dependent on the structure of allyl functionality; in the system with allyl carbonate or allyl ester gas genaration was very distinctive and propylene formation was dominant well over the normal hydrosilylation.
Suppressive effects of standard-dose rosuvastatin therapy on the progression of coronary atherosclerosis in Japanese patients: the APOLLO study.

AIM We used quantitative coronary angiography (QCA) to investigate whether coronary plaque progression can be inhibited by controlling lipids with rosuvastatin at Japanese standard doses following elective percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). METHODS A total of 143 patients who underwent elective PCI were randomized to either the rosuvastatin (5 or 2.5mg/day) or non-statin group. Changes from baseline in the minimal lumen diameter (MLD) and average lumen diameter (ALD) measured using QCA were analyzed in both target and non-target lesions. RESULTS The changes in MLD and ALD from baseline to 24 months in the non-target lesions were significantly smaller in the rosuvastatin group than in the non-statin group (-0.079 ± 0.014 mm vs.-0.135 ± 0.019 mm, p=0.022; -0.062 ± 0.012 mmvs. -0.109 ± 0.016mm, p=0.025). The changes in MLD from six to 24 months in the target lesions were significantly lower in the rosuvastatin group than in the non-statin group among the patients treated with drug-eluting stents (-0.046 ± 0.108 mm vs. -0.133 ± 0.108 mm, p=0.009) versus those treated with bare-metal stents (-0.011 ± 0.094 mm vs. -0.015 ± 0.040 mm, p=0.255). CONCLUSIONS The present study demonstrated that the administration of a standard dose of rosuvastatin slows coronary plaque progression and may prevent the late catch-up phenomenon associated with drug-eluting stents in patients who undergo elective PCI.
Thoracic epidural anesthesia reduces infarct size in a canine model of myocardial ischemia and reperfusion injury.

Objective: To determine the effects of thoracic epidural anesthesia on myocardial infarct size, regional myocardial blood flow (RMBF), and plasma norepinephrine in an anesthetized canine model of ischemia reperfusion injury with infarction. Design: Blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled animal study. Setting: Experiments were performed in the cardiothoracic research laboratory at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center. Participants: Anesthetized, open-chest mongrel dogs were used in these studies. Methods: Dogs were instrumented for measurement of aortic pressure (AP) and left ventricular systolic pressure (LVSP), dP/dt, and RMBF. Epidural catheters were inserted at thoracic segment T5. Three groups received epidural 0.5% bupivacaine: low-dose (n = 7; 0.3 mg/kg bolus, 0.15 mg/kg/h), mid-dose (n = 7; 0.6 mg/kg bolus, 0.3 mg/kg/h), high-dose (n = 7; 1.2 mg/kg bolus, 0.6 mg/kg/h). The vehicle (VEH) group received epidural saline. Bolus followed by maintenance infusions began 30 minutes before the onset of ischemia (60 min) and continued through reperfusion (180 min). Results: Myocardial infarct size was significantly reduced in the high-dose group versus the VEH and low-dose groups (p < 0.05). After initiation of the mid and high dose, AP, LVSP, and dP/dt decreased 7% to 16% (high vVEH; p < 0.05). VEH dogs showed a 130% increase from control in early postischemic RMBF. There was a dose-dependent attenuation in this reflow response: 72%, 31%, and 6% increase in RMBF in the low, mid, and high groups, relative to controls (p < 0.05 high v VEH). Although there was no significant difference in plasma norepinephrine, fewer surges occurred in the high-dose group. Conclusions: Thoracic epidural anesthesia reduces infarct size and postischemic hyperemia in a model of ischemia reperfusion injury.
Combining Buy-In Penalties with Commissions at Auction Houses

Most auction sellers consign property to auction houses rather than holding the auction themselves. In addition to charging sellers a commission on property that sells in the auction, many auction houses also specify buy-in penalties in auction contracts. This is an amount the seller must pay the auction house if the property fails to sell at auction. An important managerial question for auction houses is whether and when buy-in penalties can increase revenues of the auction house, seller, or both, and what combinations of commission and buy-in penalty to use. We show that auctions which combine buy-in penalties with lower commissions Pareto-dominate auctions that use only commissions. This strategy motivates the seller to set a lower reserve, which creates a surplus in auction revenues that can go to one or both parties. This strategy is Pareto-dominant even if the auction house and the seller are uncertain about the number of bidders at the auction, or the auction house is uncertain about the seller's own valuation for the property, at the time the buy-in penalty, commission, and reserve are contractually set. We also discuss the incentive issues raised by this strategy.
The Changing Politics of Federal Judicial Nominations

During recent decades, legislative politics in Congress has grown increasingly partisan, while nominations to federal judgeships have experienced increasing delays. How are these two trends related? Does the growing obstruction of nominations reveal a systemic change in how the Senate conducts the confirmation process, or does it reveal a change in nominees' characteristics? We find that the importance of ideological and partisan conflict is variable across levels of lower courts, and that it has grown over time as the political parties have become more internally cohesive and more polarized. In particular, we demonstrate that the effect of divided partisan control intensifies as party unity in the Senate rises.
Simulation of design dependent failure exposure levels for CMOS ICs

The effects of design and bias on the radiation tolerance of ICs are studied, and an automated design tool is described that produces different designs for a logic function and presents important parameters of each design to a circuit designer for tradeoff analysis. It was shown by simulation and experimentally verified that the logic implementation of a circuit and the bias applied during irradiation are significant in determining the radiation tolerance of ICs. The software package aids designers in designing radiation-hard integrated circuits. >
Childhood and adolescent onset psychiatric disorders, substance use, and failure to graduate high school on time

Abstract We examined the joint predictive effects of childhood and adolescent onset psychiatric and substance use disorders on failure to graduate high school (HS) on time. Structured diagnostic interviews were conducted with a US national sample of adults (18 and over). The analysis sample included respondents with at least 8 years of education who were born in the US or arrived in the US prior to age 13 ( N = 29,662). Psychiatric disorders, substance use and substance use disorders were examined as predictors of termination or interruption of educational progress prior to HS graduation, with statistical adjustment for demographic characteristics and childhood adversities. Failure to graduate HS on time was more common among respondents with any of the psychiatric and substance use disorders examined, ranging from 18.1% (specific phobia) to 33.2% (ADHD-combined type), compared with respondents with no disorder (15.2%). After adjustment for co-occurring disorders, significant associations with failure to graduate on time remained only for conduct disorder (OR = 1.89, 95% CI 1.57–2.26) and the three ADHD subtypes (Inattentive OR = 1.78, 95% CI 1.44–2.20, Hyperactive–Impulsive OR = 1.38, 95% CI 1.14–1.67, and Combined OR = 2.06, 95% CI 1.66–2.56). Adjusting for prior disorders, tobacco use was associated with failure to graduate on time (OR = 1.97, 95% CI 1.80–2.16). Among substance users, substance use disorders were not associated with on-time graduation. The findings suggest that the adverse impact of childhood and adolescent onset psychiatric disorders on HS graduation is largely accounted for by problems of conduct and inattention. Adjusting for these disorders, smoking remains strongly associated with failure to graduate HS on time.
Has1 regulates consecutive maturation and processing steps for assembly of 60S ribosomal subunits

Ribosome biogenesis requires ∼200 assembly factors in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The pre-ribosomal RNA (rRNA) processing defects associated with depletion of most of these factors have been characterized. However, how assembly factors drive the construction of ribonucleoprotein neighborhoods and how structural rearrangements are coupled to pre-rRNA processing are not understood. Here, we reveal ATP-independent and ATP-dependent roles of the Has1 DEAD-box RNA helicase in consecutive pre-rRNA processing and maturation steps for construction of 60S ribosomal subunits. Has1 associates with pre-60S ribosomes in an ATP-independent manner. Has1 binding triggers exonucleolytic trimming of 27SA3 pre-rRNA to generate the 5' end of 5.8S rRNA and drives incorporation of ribosomal protein L17 with domain I of 5.8S/25S rRNA. ATP-dependent activity of Has1 promotes stable association of additional domain I ribosomal proteins that surround the polypeptide exit tunnel, which are required for downstream processing of 27SB pre-rRNA. Furthermore, in the absence of Has1, aberrant 27S pre-rRNAs are targeted for irreversible turnover. Thus, our data support a model in which Has1 helps to establish domain I architecture to prevent pre-rRNA turnover and couples domain I folding with consecutive pre-rRNA processing steps.
Thermal stress simulation in the metal-insulator-metal (MIM) wafer fabrication process

Integrated passive technologies have obtained more and more attention due to the increasing demand for functional integration for cost, performance and size reasons. Integration of passive components such as capacitors into semiconductor devices drives a higher degree of system-level integration. Currently, integrated capacitors are fabricated by using metal-insulator-metal (MIM) structure. In the MIM capacitor fabrication process, the dielectrics, electrodes and final protection layer are deposited on the substrate, layer by layer, at different temperatures. This may generate thermal stress because of the deposition temperature changes. If the thermal stress is very high, as it may be for certain device layouts, it may even cause cracks in the dielectric layer due to the CTE mismatch of different layers. Therefore, in this paper, the MIM capacitor fabrication process is simulated to obtain the thermal stress in different layers and at different process stages. The effect of the parameters of a typical MIM structure is studied. Especially the impact of guard ring thickness, space or overlap of a polyimide layer and guard ring to bottom metal, space or overlap of between metal layers are thoroughly investigated. A total of 15 DoEs in reasonable parameter ranges are designed and conducted for the thermal stress simulation.
Technology assessment and support of life-sustaining devices in home care. The home care physician perspective.

Practicing physicians are increasingly using life-sustaining devices in the home setting for patients with long-term needs due to chronic conditions. At the same time, public policy focus on technology assessment has broadened from narrow medical concerns about safety and efficacy to considerations of effectiveness, quality of life, patient preferences, and cost/benefit. Around the world high-technology home care (HTHC) features a number of ways to evaluate outcomes. One category of HTHC that requires initial and on-going technology assessment is home mechanical ventilation (HMV). Home MV has developed in nations with a variety of healthcare finance systems: England (national health system), France (national health insurance), and the United States (regulated/market-economy). Approaches to technology assessment differ among nations according to organizational design and evolution. Physician behavior is a major determinant in the application of medical technologies. There are new physician roles that can influence what, when, and how technology is appropriately used in the home—initially and over time. For this reason, it is crucial to consider the role of the practicing physician in home care technology assessment.
Calibration and Characterization of Self-Powered Floating-Gate Usage Monitor With Single Electron per Second Operational Limit

Self-powered monitoring refers to a signal processing technique where the computational power is harvested directly from the signal being monitored. In this paper, we present the design and calibration of a CMOS event counter for long-term, self-powered mechanical usage monitoring. The counter exploits a log-linear response of the hot-electron injection process on a floating-gate transistor when biased in weak-inversion. By configuring an array of floating-gate injectors to respond to different amplitude levels of the input signal, a complete analog processor has been designed that implements a level counting algorithm, which is widely used in mechanical usage monitoring. Measured results from a fabricated prototype in a 0.5-?m CMOS process demonstrate that the processor can sense, store and compute over 105 usage cycles with an injection limit approaching one single electron per second and with a counting resolution of 5 bits. This paper also presents a calibration algorithm that is used for compensating the variations which arise due to device mismatch, power supply and temperature fluctuations. The maximum current rating of the fabricated analog processor has been measured to be less than 160 nA making it ideal for practical self-powered sensing applications.
Using data mining to handle missing data in multi-hop sensor network applications

A sensor's data loss or corruption, aka sensor data missing, is a common phenomenon in modern wireless sensor networks. It is more severe for multi-hop sensor network (MSN) applications where sensor data reach the base station via other sensors; hence a sensor's failure can cause multiple missing data. In this paper we present MASTER-M, a data estimation framework based on data clustering and association rule mining to estimate the values of missing sensor data for MSN. Estimating, instead of resending, the missing sensor data is becoming popular as it may reduce query response time and sensor energy consumption; however the current works cater to only single-hop sensor networks. To fill this gap, our novel technique addresses the issues related to MSN, such as simultaneous missing sensors and missing spatially correlated sensors. It consists of three steps: 1) clustering sensors online; 2) capturing association rules between sensors inside each cluster, and 3) estimating the values of the missing data using the obtained association rules. Experimental results on both real-life sensor data and synthetic sensor data demonstrate the efficacy of MASTER-M in terms of estimation accuracy compared to the existing techniques. Moreover, we also present experiments showing the supremacy of data estimation by MASTER-M in terms of energy savings over re-transmission of missing data.
A mathematical model for foreign body reactions in 2D

The foreign body reactions are commonly referred to a network of immune and inflammatory reactions of human or animals in response to foreign objects being placed in tissues. They are basic biological processes, and are also highly relevant to bioengineering applications in implants, as fibrotic tissue formations surrounding medical implants have been found to substantially reduce the effectiveness of devices. Despite the intensive research on determining the mechanisms governing such complex responses, few mechanistic mathematical models have been developed to study such foreign body reactions. This study focuses on a kinetics-based predictive tool to analyse the outcomes of multiple interactive complex reactions of various cells/proteins and biochemical processes and to understand transient behaviour during the entire period (up to several months). A computational model in two spatial dimensions is constructed to investigate the time dynamics as well as the spatial variation of foreign body reaction kinetics. The simulation results have been consistent with the experimental data and the model can facilitate quantitative insights into the study of foreign body reaction process, in general.
Failure of E. coli bacteria to induce preterm delivery in the rat.

Background We sought to develop a model of bacterially induced preterm delivery in rats to parallel similar models in mice.
Nanoindentation of human meniscal surfaces.

Abstract Menisci are crescent shaped fibrocartilaginous structures which support load distribution of the knee. The menisci are specifically designed to fit the contour of the femoral condyles, aiding to disperse the stresses on the tibial plateau and in turn safeguarding the underlying articular cartilage. The importance of the meniscal superficial layer has not been fully revealed and it is suspected that this layer plays a pivotal role for meniscal function. In this study, both femoral (proximal) and tibial (distal) contacting meniscal surfaces were mechanically examined on the nano-level among three distinct regions (anterior, central and posterior) of the lateral and medial menisci. Nanoindentation testing showed no significant differences among regions, surfaces or anatomical locations, possibly elucidating on the homogeneity of the meniscal superficial zone structure ( E instantaneous : 3.17–4.12 MPa, E steady-state : 1.47–1.69 MPa). Nanomechanical moduli values were approximately an order of magnitude greater than micro-scale testing derived moduli values. These findings validate the structural homogeneity of the meniscal superficial zone, showing that material properties are statistically similar regardless of meniscal surface and region. Understanding the mechanical behavior of meniscal surfaces is imperative to properly design an effective meniscal replacement.
InSAR Remote Sensing Over Decorrelating Terrains: Persistent Scattering Methods

Interferometric synthetic aperture radar, or InSAR, is a visual geodetic technique permitting detailed mapping of motion over wide areas. InSAR has been limited to regions without much vegetation, which shields the ground from the radar signals and contributes random motions to the observed deformation. The resulting "decorrelation" of the echoes precludes accurate displacement measurements in these areas. Decorrelation also occurs in interferograms with acquisitions separated too far in the sky. Yet certain points, denoted persistent scatterers, in a radar image are stable, do not decorrelate, and form a network of fiducial points that allow measurements in otherwise poor-quality interferograms. We have generalized an algorithm to find networks of stable points in natural terrain, rather than in urban areas, and applied the method to spaceborne satellite data. Using modern information theory to optimize persistent scatterer detection, we can now find many, many more such points than previously possible. We have applied this improved algorithm to the San Francisco Bay segments of the San Andreas and Hayward faults, and in both cases find that a large number of stable points are seen in the vegetated areas that have to date resisted InSAR analysis. Our method of integrating information theoretic estimation and detection theory to all parts of the method, improves the identification, filtering, and phase unwrapping of the observations. Identification of stable true-ground scattering points permits mapping of subtle surface motions and deformations and also of "bare-Earth" topography.
Effective treatment of pancreatic cancer xenografts with a conditionally replicating virus derived from type 2 herpes simplex virus.

Purpose: Pancreatic cancer is a devastating disease that is almost universally fatal because of the lack of effective treatments. We recently constructed a novel oncolytic virus (FusOn-H2) from the type 2 herpes simplex virus. Because the replication potential of FusOn-H2 depends on the activation of the Ras signaling pathway, we evaluated its antitumor effect against pancreatic cancer, which often harbors K- ras gene mutations. Experimental Design: Human pancreatic cancer xenografts were established in nude mice either s.c. or orthotopically ( n = 8/group). FusOn-H2 was injected either directly (s.c. tumors) or by the i.v. or i.p. route (orthotopic tumors). Tumor volume, weight, and survival time were recorded for each animal. Statistical analyses were done by Student9s t test. Results: A single intratumor injection of FusOn-H2 completely eradicated s.c. pancreatic cancers in all animals. Systemic injection of the oncolytic virus produced clear antitumor effects but did not abolish tumors in any animal. The most striking antitumor effect was seen when the virus was given i.p. Delivery of FusOn-H2 by this route completely eradicated established orthotopic tumors in 75% of the animals and completely prevented local metastases. Conclusions: FusOn-H2 has potent activity against human pancreatic cancer xenografts and may be a promising candidate for investigative virotherapy of this malignancy.
Behavior of sloped-bottom tuned liquid dampers

The performance of a tuned liquid damper (TLD) with a sloped bottom of an angle of 30° with the horizontal is investigated experimentally. The sloped-bottom TLD was found to be just as effective in dissipating energy as the familiar box-shaped TLD. While the liquid motion of a box-shaped TLD resembles that of a hardening spring, the behavior of the sloped-bottom TLD resembles that of a softening spring. These different behaviors are due to different nonlinear effects: the amplitude dispersion effect and the wave runup effect onto the sloped surface, respectively. The sloshing force created by the motion of the sloped-bottom TLD was found in limited shaking table experiments to be comparable with that created by the equivalent box-shaped TLD, even though the net fluid mass of the sloped-bottom TLD is less than one half that of the box-shaped TLD. This behavior appears to be caused by the greater effective liquid mass involved in the sloshing motion in the sloped-bottom TLD.
Blockade of the Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Stress Response Increases the Antitumor Effects of Ionizing Radiation

The family of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) proteins include potent and specific mitogens for vascular endothelial cells that function in the lation of angiogenesis Inhibition of VEGF-induced angiogenesis either by neutralizing antibodies or dominant-negative soluble receptor, blocks the growth of primary and metastatic experimental tumors Here we report that VEGF expression is induced in Lewis lung carcinomas (LLCs) both in vitro and vivo after exposure to ionizing radiation (IR) and in human tumor cell lines (Seg-1 esophageal adenocarcinoma, SQ20B squamous cell carcinoma, T98 and U87 glioblastomas, and U1 melanoma) in vitro. The biological significance of IR-induced VEGF production is supported by our finding that treatment of tumor-bearing mice (LLC, Seg-1, SQ20B, and U87) with a neutralizing antibody to VEGF-165 before irradiation is associated with a greater than additive antitumor effect. In vitro, the addition of VEGF decreases IR-induced killing of human umbilical vein endothelial cells, and the anti-VEGF treatment potentiates IR-induced lethality of human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Neither recombinant VEGF protein nor neutralizing antibody to VEGF affects the radiosensitivity of tumor cells These findings support a model in which induction of VEGF by IR contributes to the protection of tumor blood vessels from radiation-mediated cytotoxicity and thereby to tumor radioresistance.
Comparative Advantage among African Coffee Producers

Relative comparative advantage is measured by contrasting country ratios of the domestic resource costs per unit of foreign exchange earned by exporting coffee to the exchange rate. Uganda, Ethiopia, and Tanzania have strong relative comparative advantages in coffee vis-a-vis the Ivory Coast, largely because of higher opportunity costs of Ivoirian factors.
Clinical Review Panels Versus Court Hearings in Treatment Refusal by Involuntary Patients

Suspension of Maryland's clinical review panels lasted more than a year. The Maryland court listed what additional protections needed to be written into the law, and new legislation on panels was p...
Surveying for removable partial denture prosthesis

The removable partial denture requires careful clinical considerations and a mouth prepared to receive it. A path of insertion is surveyed to provide adequate retention of the prosthesis. The technic of surveying is described. The surveyed model is inscribed with outlines of clasps, connectors and saddles and the type of teeth indicated. The model then is sent to the laboratory or dental technician with a written work authorization.