cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
No evidence for an ischemic penumbra in massive experimental intracerebral hemorrhage

Objectives: To determine the effect of massive intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) on regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) and metabolism, and to test the hypothesis that there is persistent ischemia in the perihematoma region after ICH. Background: Cerebral ischemia is postulated to be one of the mechanisms of neural injury after ICH. Presumably the hematoma induces ischemia by mechanical compression of the surrounding microvasculature. Methods: The authors induced ICH in eight anesthetized mongrel dogs by autologous blood injection (7.5 mL) under arterial pressure in the deep white matter adjacent to the left basal ganglia. They measured serial rCBF using radiolabeled microspheres in regions around and distant to the hematoma, as well as cerebral oxygen extraction, oxygen consumption (CMRO 2 ), glucose utilization, and lactate production by serial sampling of cerebral venous blood from the sagittal sinus. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) and intracranial pressure (ICP) were monitored continuously. All measurements were recorded at 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 3.5, and 5.0 hours after induction of ICH and compared with prehematoma values. Evans Blue dye was injected at the end of the experiment, and intensity of staining was compared with three control animals. Results: Compared with prehematoma ICP (12.5 ± 2.0 mm Hg, mean ± standard error), significant elevation in ICP was observed after ICH peaking at 5 hours (34.4 ± 5.2 mm Hg). Compared with prehematoma MAP (125.8 ± 7.0 mm Hg), significant elevation in MAP was observed at 120 minutes after onset of hematoma (139.1 ± 4.6 mm Hg), with return to the prehematoma value by 5 hours. There were no significant changes observed in cerebral oxygen extraction (51.4 ± 4.3% versus 44.8 ± 4.9%) and CMRO 2 (1.8 ± 0.3 versus 1.64 ± 0.2 mL O 2 /100 g/min) at 5 hours posthematoma (or any other posthematoma measurement) compared with prehematoma values. There were no significant differences observed in rCBF in the perihematoma gray (18.2 ± 0.9 mL/100 g/min versus 20.1 ± 1.5 mL/100 g/min) or white matter (15.6 ± 1.4 mL/100 g/min versus 15.3 ± 1.1 mL/100 g/min) at 5 hours posthematoma (or any other posthematoma measurement) compared with prehematoma values. No changes were observed in cerebral glucose utilization, lactate production, and rCBF in other regions after introduction of ICH. Permeability of the blood–brain barrier was more prominent in the ipsilateral hemisphere in animals with ICH compared with control animals. Conclusions: Despite a prominent increase in ICP and MAP after ICH, the authors found no evidence to support the presence of an ischemic penumbra in the first 5 hours after ICH. Thus, other mechanisms for acute neural injury and late rCBF changes after ICH must be investigated.
Cosputtered W75C25 thin film diffusion barriers

Abstract The performance of cosputtered W75C25 thin films as diffusion barriers between an Si〈111〉 substrate and metallic overlayers of silver, gold or aluminum is investigated. Backscattering spectrometry and X-ray diffraction are used to detect metallurgical interactions, and four-point probe measurement of resistance is used to monitor the electrical stability of the metallization schemes upon thermal annealing in vacuum for 30 min at temperatures ranging from 500 to 700 °C. It is found that the W75C25 layer prevents metallurgical interdiffusion and reaction between gold or silver overlayers and the Si〈111〉 substrate up to 700 °C, and between an aluminum overlayer and the Si〈111〉 substrate up to 450 °C. In addition, the W75C25 film as a diffusion barrier on GaAs was also investigated and found to be very effective metallurgically between silver overlayers and GaAs substrates for annealing up to 700 °C.
Race Matters, Even in Marriage: Identifying Factors Linked to Marital Outcomes for African Americans

Although many African Americans share a sociohistorical background, empirical research on family and marital processes has often overlooked a great deal of heterogeneity within the group. In addition, African Americans face different stressors and life circumstances from the general population. Given that a high proportion of African American marriages end in divorce and that African Americans report relatively low levels of marital quality, it is important to consider factors that may not be addressed in models of marriage that were developed using the majority population. We introduce a model that includes components relevant to understanding marriage among African Americans, including financial strain, racial discrimination, and minority status. Using the model, we review the literature and highlight gaps in existing research.
Developing the stockpile reliability program plan for a new missile

A Stockpile Reliability Program (SRP) Plan is written during the development of a new missile system. The SRP is utilized to ensure that the fielded missiles remain safe and reliable throughout the life of the system. There are numerous SRP approaches currently being applied to existing missile systems. The contents of this paper do not imply that they should be the same. A cost trade-off process can be applied to deciding the best potential SRP approaches to apply to a missile system in development. The general characteristics, capabilities and limitations of a new system identify which sets of approach options should be considered. The level of confidence desired in order to ascertain the system's continuing reliability and to identify trends is treated as a constant. Therefore, a cost trade-off analysis can be performed on the sets of approach options. Assessing the SRP program from a lifecycle cost perspective also feeds back into system design decisions, identifying when up front investment in test or environmental and health monitoring capabilities is cost effective. This provides a structured comparison of rel evant SRP approaches for a new missile system in order to develop a plan which will best achieve lower costs, reduce logistics impacts, and attain higher readiness across the lifecycle of the specific system being considered.
On the Hydrodynamics-Based Power-Law Function and Its Application in Fish Swimming Energetics

Abstract The standard metabolic rate and metabolic transport differential represent parameters of energetic costs and are derived from either the conventional exponential function or the hydrodynamics-based power-law function (HPF). These two models are used independently to describe the relationship between total metabolic rate and sustained swimming speed for fish. Inappropriate estimates of the standard metabolic rate and inaccurate estimates of the metabolic transport differential have been reported in the literature owing to a lack of practical guidance in methods, especially in regard to the estimation, interpretation, and use of the parameters of the HPF. Hence, the field of fish swimming energetics could benefit from clarification and standardization of parameter estimation and use. The distinction between the parameters in the two models is addressed to ensure appropriate use of the HPF in evaluating the standard metabolic rate and metabolic transport differential. The analytical derivation of th...
Protein Phosphatase 2A Suppresses MAP Kinase Signalling and Ectopic Protein Expression

Signalling by MAP kinase was examined in COS-7 cells by transiently expressing a transcription reporter system plus epitope-tagged protein phosphatase 2A catalytic subunit [(HA)3-PP2Ac]. Transactivation of a luciferase gene by GAL4-Elk-1 in serum-stimulated cells was reduced 20-fold by co-expression of wild type (HA)3-PP2Ac. This reduction of MAP kinase signalling required specific type-2A phosphatase activity, because the effects were not mimicked by co-expression of either a mutated, inactive (HA)3-PP2Ac or wild-type PP1Cdelta. Expression of (HA)3-PP2Ac was severely restricted by its own activity because 3-fold more inactive (HA)3-PP2Ac was produced. In a different assay the kinase activity of FLAG-ERK2 was 4-fold lower when co-transfected with (HA)3-PP2Ac, compared to controls. Unexpectedly, mRNA of the reporter constructs were nearly eliminated by even low level expression of (HA)3-PP2Ac in either COS7 or HEK293 cells. The results show that PP2A activity is strictly regulated and can be a limiting factor in ectopic expression of various proteins.
Pituitary Cytokine and Growth Factor Expression and Action

The complex range of pituitary regulatory mechanisms reviewed here underlies the critical function of the pituitary in sustaining all higher life forms. Thus, the ultimate net secretion of pituitary hormones is determined by signal integration from all three tiers of pituitary control. It is clear from our current knowledge that the trophic hormone cells of the anterior pituitary are uniquely specialized to respond to these signals. Unravelling their diversity and complexity will shed light upon the normal function of the master gland. Understanding these control mechanisms will lead to novel diagnosis and therapy of disordered pituitary function (357).
Rebound effects for lighting

Abstract In this Communication, we seek to clarify confusion regarding our 2010 Journal of Physics article on historical rebound effects for lighting, which showed that global energy use for lighting has experienced 100% rebound over 300 years, six continents, and five technologies. We argue that our results have been misunderstood by some to mean lighting efficiency gains are counterproductive, and we instead argue for vigorously promoting improved lighting technologies.
Structural basis of activation and GTP hydrolysis in Rab proteins.

Abstract Background: Rab proteins comprise a large family of GTPases that regulate vesicle trafficking. Despite conservation of critical residues involved in nucleotide binding and hydrolysis, Rab proteins exhibit low sequence identity with other GTPases, and the structural basis for Rab function remains poorly characterized. Results: The 2.0 A crystal structure of GppNHp-bound Rab3A reveals the structural determinants that stabilize the active conformation and regulate GTPase activity. The active conformation is stabilized by extensive hydrophobic contacts between the switch I and switch II regions. Serine residues in the phosphate-binding loop (P loop) and switch I region mediate unexpected interactions with the γ phosphate of GTP that have not been observed in previous GTPase structures. Residues implicated in the interaction with effectors and regulatory factors map to a common face of the protein. The electrostatic potential at the surface of Rab3A indicates a non-uniform distribution of charged and nonpolar residues. Conclusions: The major structural determinants of the active conformation involve residues that are conserved throughout the Rab family, indicating a common mode of activation. Novel interactions with the γ phosphate impose stereochemical constraints on the mechanism of GTP hydrolysis and provide a structural explanation for the large variation of GTPase activity within the Rab family. An asymmetric distribution of charged and nonpolar residues suggests a plausible orientation with respect to vesicle membranes, positioning predominantly hydrophobic surfaces for interaction with membrane-associated effectors and regulatory factors. Thus, the structure of Rab3A establishes a framework for understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the function of Rab GTPases.
PARP1 Represses PAP and Inhibits Polyadenylation during Heat Shock

Summary The 3′ ends of most eukaryotic mRNAs are produced by an endonucleolytic cleavage followed by synthesis of a poly(A) tail. Poly(A) polymerase (PAP), the enzyme that catalyzes the formation of the tail, is subject to tight regulation involving several posttranslational modifications. Here we show that the enzyme poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP1) modifies PAP and regulates its activity both in vitro and in vivo. PARP1 binds to and modifies PAP by poly(ADP-ribosyl)ation (PARylation) in vitro, which inhibits PAP activity. In vivo we show that PAP is PARylated during heat shock, leading to inhibition of polyadenylation in a PARP1-dependent manner. The observed inhibition reflects reduced RNA binding affinity of PARylated PAP in vitro and decreased PAP association with non-heat shock protein-encoding genes in vivo. Our results provide direct evidence that PARylation can control processing of mRNA precursors, and also identify PARP1 as a regulator of polyadenylation during thermal stress.
Bias Temperature Stress (BTS) induced ESD device's leakage issue and Its preventing solutions in smart power technology

A leakage issue induced by Bias Temperature Stress (BTS) is found in a NPN-based ESD clamp. BTS (1.1*Vdd, 125C, 8hrs) can cause an accumulation of drifted ions at an/the STI interface which leads to increased leakage and eventual device failure. TCAD simulation and activation energy extraction model are used to explain the mechanism and two solutions are proposed.
Interaction between protein sulphydryl groups and lipid double bonds in biological membranes.

Interaction between Protein Sulphydryl Groups and Lipid Double Bonds in Biological Membranes
Complexity of the word problem for commutative semigroups of fixed dimension

In this paper we investigate the computational complexity of the word problem for commutative semigroups of fixed dimension. It is shown that for commutative semigroups of dimension k, k ≧ 6, the word problem is complete for symmetric linear space, providing another complete problem for this symmetric complexity class. We also show that in the case of one generator, the word problem is solvable in polynomial time.
Human pulp response to acid pretreatment of dentin and to composite restoration

Pulp responses to two composite materials, used with and without acid pretreatment of the dentin, were compared with pulp responses to zinc oxide-eugenol cement. Composite resins of a neutral pH and containing no methacrylic acid, used alone or with acid etchants, are toxic to the pulp when placed in deep unprotected cavity preparations. The intensity of pulp responses increased after acid pretreatment of the dentin. The newer composites, although free of meth-acrylic acid and of a neutral pH, were still found to be toxic to the pulp. The intensity of response was increased after acid pretreatment procedures; this indicates an increase in dentin permeability. When the remaining dentin thickness was 1.0 mm or less, regardless of whether the dentin was primary dentin or primary and reparative dentin, the percentage of teeth with abscess formations increased. Use of calcium hydroxide bases or liners to coat the dentin before acid pretreatment of enamel is therefore highly recommended.
Progressive Metamorphism of the Cross Lake Granodiorite, Ontario, Canada

Cross Lake granodiorite gneiss in southeastern Ontario provides excellent opportunity to study the effects of a metamorphic gradient on the textures and minerals of an igneous intrusion of intermediate composition. This pluton intruded pre-existing volcanic and sedimentary rocks and crystallized before being subjected to metamorphism, and then was folded. Quartz, plagioclase, biotite, and microcline are constant in amount throughout the pluton; however, the minor minerals muscovite, calcite, and epidote are present in samples from the west, whereas hornblende appears in the east. Plagioclase remains constant in composition but has adjusted to energy changes in textural ways. In addition, its structural state becomes slightly more disordered eastward. Homogenized microcline contains more albite in the west than the east, where albite was expelled under higher grade conditions. Bulk rock Ca/Sr ratios are constant, but K/Rb values decrease from west to east, perhaps reflecting increased tolerance for Rb. Many of the minerals present are stable over a wider range of temperature and pressure than represented by the metamorphic gradient and show little change. Textures and minor mineral changes provided evidence of progressive metamorphism, but the data show that the pluton has been subjected to progressive metamorphism from upper greenschist—lower amphibolite facies in the far west, to middle amphibolite grade in the east.
Obesity and Social Inequality in America

In the United States food has become a weapon for social control. Hunger and conversely obesity have contributed to the subjugation of underserved populations and served to perpetuate social inequality. This research provides an analysis of the literature on factors that influence obesity rates, however the question of why these factors play a significant role probes deeper into the political and social structures that lend themselves to such inequities. Obesity rates have historically been higher in Southern states, leading to a consideration of historical food preparation and consumption practices and the intergenerational transmission of food culture. This study uses ordinary least squares regression and data from the Centers for Disease Control, and Prevention (CDC), the United State Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the U.S. Census to examine the factors that influence state level obesity rates. The results indicate a significant positive correlation between Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) assistance and the obesity rate. Lack of physical activity and the percentage of African American residents are also significantly correlated with the level of obesity. In contrast healthy food outlets within a half-mile of the residence appear to be associated with lower levels of obesity.
Up-regulation of Transforming Growth Factor (TGF)-β Receptors by TGF-β1 in COLO-357 Cells

In the present study we investigated the actions of transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta1 on gene induction and cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors in relation to TGF-beta receptor modulation in COLO-357 pancreatic cancer cells. TGF-beta1 inhibited the growth of COLO-357 cells in a time- and dose-dependent manner and caused a rapid but transient increase in plasminogen activator inhibitor-I and insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 mRNA levels. TGF-beta1 caused a delayed but sustained increase in the protein levels of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors p15(Ink4B), p21(Cip1), and p27(Kip1) and a sustained increase in type I and II TGF-beta receptors (TbetaRI and TbetaRII) mRNA and protein levels. The protein synthesis inhibitor cycloheximide (10 microg/ml) completely blocked the TGF-beta1-mediated increase in TbetaRI and TbetaRII expression. Furthermore, a nuclear runoff transcription assay revealed that the increase in receptor mRNA levels was due to newly transcribed RNA. There was a significant increase in TbetaRI and TbetaRII mRNA levels in confluent cells in comparison to subconfluent (</=80% confluent) controls, as well as in serum- starved cells when compared with cells incubated in medium containing 10% fetal bovine serum. COLO-357 cells expressed a normal SMAD4 gene as determined by Northern blot analysis and sequencing. These results indicate that TGF-beta1 modulates a variety of functions in COLO-357 cells and up-regulates TGF-beta receptor expression via a transcriptional mechanism, which has the potential to maximize TGF-beta1-dependent antiproliferative responses.
FURTHER STUDY ON THE KINETIC ENERGY BALANCE1,,2

Abstract Various aspects of our studies of the kinetic energy balance are discussed, using an improved scheme of computing the horizontal and vertical transports of the kinetic energy with the observed wind and geopotential data over North America. On a firmer basis than before, it has been shown that there is a considerable amount of kinetic energy dissipated outside the planetary boundary layer, particularly at the jet-stream level. This also may imply that intensity of the atmospheric general circulation is significantly higher than is being assumed in most of the numerical models of the atmosphere.
Ultrastructure of mesangial and juxtaglomerular cells in the kidney of a hibernator.

The mesangial and juxtaglomerular cells were studied in kidneys of hibernating and non-hibernating ground squirrels, Citellus tridecemlineatus. In the hibernating animal, as compared with the non-hibernating, the mesangial cells show signs of increased activity. The cells are relatively larger, and numerous vacuoles appear in the cytoplasm. The juxtaglomerular cells also show signs of hyperactivity. Secretion droplets, mitochondria and free ribosomes increase in number and the endoplasmic reticulum becomes dilated. It is postulated that during hibernation, increased activity of mesangial cells slows glomerular filtration by absorption of filtrate into the mesangial matrix, and increased activity of juxtaglomerular cells results in increased renin secretion which in turn may stimulate hypersecretion of aldosterone to conserve sodium for water balance mechanisms necessary at the time.
Interleukin-1 is involved in responses to sleep deprivation in the rabbit.

Abstract Interleukin-1 (IL-1) is hypothesized to be involved in sleep regulation. Antibodies directed against interleukin-1β (anti-IL-1β) were injected intracerebroventicularly (ICV) into normal rabbits to determine the effects of the reduction of endogenous IL-1β on spontaneous sleep/wake behaviour. A 100 μg dose of anti-IL-1β reduced non-rapid eye movements sleep (NREMS) by about 20-min during the first 4-h postinjection without affecting REMS, amplitudes of eletroencephalographic (EEG) slow waves, or brain temperature. Plasma concentrations of IL-1β, as determined by radiomunoassay, were detectable in 39 of 79 (49%) blood samples taken before and after 4-h total sleep deprivation (SD). Plasma concentrations of IL-1β were, on average, significantly elevated following SD. There was a rebound in NREMS duration and of amplitudes of EEG slow waves of about 2-h duration following SD. This rebound in both parameters was exaggerated if rabbits received vehicle or anti-IL-1β in conjunction with SD. However, ICV administration of anti-IL-1β at the beginning or end of the SD period attenuated, relative to values obtained after administration of vehicle, the NREMS rebound following SD. It is concluded that SD alters the responsiveness of rabbits to experimental manipulation and that responses to SD in the rabbit are mediated, in part, by IL-1.
Temperature-Dependent Requirement for Catalase in Aerobic Growth of Listeria monocytogenes F2365

Listeria monocytogenes is a Gram-positive, psychrotrophic, facultative intracellular food-borne pathogen responsible for severe illness (listeriosis). The bacteria can grow in a wide range of temperatures (1 to 45°C), and low-temperature growth contributes to the food safety hazards associated with contamination of ready-to-eat foods with this pathogen. To assess the impact of oxidative stress responses on the ability of L. monocytogenes to grow at low temperatures and to tolerate repeated freeze-thaw stress (cryotolerance), we generated and characterized a catalase-deficient mutant of L. monocytogenes F2365 harboring a mariner-based transposon insertion in the catalase gene (kat). When grown aerobically on blood-free solid medium, the kat mutant exhibited impaired growth, with the extent of impairment increasing with decreasing temperature, and no growth was detected at 4°C. Aerobic growth in liquid was impaired at 4°C, especially under aeration, but not at higher temperatures (10, 25, or 37°C). Genetic complementation of the mutant with the intact kat restored normal growth, confirming that inactivation of this gene was responsible for the growth impairment. In spite of the expected impact of oxidative stress responses on cryotolerance, cryotolerance of the kat mutant was not affected.
Comparison of the POP-Q examination, transvaginal ultrasound, and direct anatomic measurement of cervical length.

Our objective was to determine the relationship between the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POP-Q) examination for determining cervical length (CL) and CL at hysterectomy. Secondary objectives were to define cervical elongation using both measures in a urogynecologic population, determine the relationship between POP-Q estimate and CL on ultrasound (US) and examine the interobserver reliability of each mode of measurement. This was a prospective cohort study of women scheduled for hysterectomy at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California (LAC + USC) medical center. CLs were measured by POP-Q and at the time of hysterectomy. Transvaginal US CLs were determined when available. Exam CL (eCL) was compared with anatomic (aCL) and US (uCL) CL. Repeat measures of eCL, uCL, and aCL were all compared for interobserver reliability. The study enrolled 151 women. Median eCL was 3.0 cm (0.5–9.0) (n = 149); average uCL was 2.3 cm ± 0.7 (n = 108), average aCL 2.8 cm ± 1.1 (n = 87); eCL correlated fairly with aCL (r = 0.3, p = 0.005, n = 88) but poorly with uCL (r = −0.13, p = 0.18, n = 105); uCL correlated poorly with aCL (r = 0.19, p = 0.14, n = 64). Interobserver reliability for eCL and aCL were good to excellent (eCL α=0.881; aCL α=0.889) but for uCL adequate (α=0.699). The 97.5 percentile cutoff for aCL was 5.0 cm and for eCL 8.0 cm. The POP-Q examination estimate of CL correlates fairly with aCL at the time of hysterectomy; uCL does not appear to correlate with aCL or eCL. Cervical elongation may be defined as an anatomic length of 5.0 cm or a POP-Q estimate of 8.0 cm.
Buccal misoprostol for cervical ripening prior to first trimester abortion.

Abstract Background Cervical priming prior to uterine suction evacuation softens the cervix and lessens the force needed for dilation, thereby potentially reducing the probability of procedural complications. The use of buccal misoprostol has been shown to be an adequate cervical primer in second trimester surgical procedures, but its use in first trimester aspiration procedures is not well documented. Our objective was to assess the necessity of manual dilation of the cervix when buccal misoprostol is used for cervical priming prior to first trimester uterine aspiration procedures. Study Design Retrospective case review of 685 patients who underwent a first trimester aspiration abortion with buccal misoprostol cervical priming from August 24, 2006, to February 23, 2007. All procedures were performed by three experienced physicians. Results Adequate dilatation of the cervix was achieved in 44.2% patients. The proportion of patients with adequate dilation decreased with increasing gestational age. Patients requiring additional mechanical dilatation differed significantly between those who were parous (51.0%) and those who were nulliparous (72.4%) (p Conclusion Buccal misoprostol appeared to decrease our need for manual dilation prior to first trimester aspiration abortion. Earlier gestations and parous patients showed less need for manual dilitation than later gestations or nulliparous women. A larger study with a control group is needed to confirm the benefit of the use of buccal misoprostol in first trimester aspiration abortion.
Oxidation of exogenous substrates by the O2-evolving center of photosystem II and related catalytic air oxidation of secondary alcohols via a tetranuclear manganese(IV) complex.

Abstract The O2-evolving center of Photosystem II (PSII) contains atetranuclear Mn complex that acts as the catalyst for photosynthetic H2O oxidation. The catalytic cycle for H2O oxidation is thought to involve the light-driven generation of a very strongly oxidizing state of the Mn complex prior to the formation of the OO bond. However, the Mn complex also exhibits oxidation chemistry in its lower oxidation states. Exogenous ligands, such as primary amines and hydroxylamines, have been shown previously to interact with the O2-evolving center in the dark S1 oxidation state by coordinating to a Cl−-binding site near the Mn complex. In this paper, we present evidence that primary and secondary amines irreversibly inactivate the Mn complex in the S1 state by a reductive mechanism, leading to the liberation of Mn(II) ions and a concomitant loss of O2-evolution activity. Hence, the Mn complex in the O2-evolving center acts as a strong oxidant even in the dark-stable S1 state. The synthetic tetranuclear Mn(IV) complex [(TACN)4Mn4O6]Br4, which has been suggested as a model for the Mn complex in the O2-evolving center, is a strong oxidant as well. We find that it catalyzes the air oxidation of secondary alcohols to ketones and triphenylphosphine to triphenylphosphine oxide.
Technology transfer from U.S. government and university R&D laboratories

Abstract Despite the increased interest in domestic technology transfer, there is surprisingly little empirical evidence on determinants of technology transfer activity. This study presents results from a national survey of more than 900 laboratories, focusing on a sub-sample of 134 government laboratories and 139 university laboratories. An environmental dependence model of technology transfer activity is presented, arguing that influence of political authority is a major determinant of technology transfer activity. Tests of the model indicated that scientific and technical mission diversity is particularly important in understanding technology transfer to both government and industry. However, a variety of measures of political boundary spanning are quite important in transfer to government but not so to industry. Likewise, the nature of the resource base (government vs. industrial) is strongly related to the choice to transfer technology to, respectively, government and industry.
Properties of CuSn bronze at 4.2 K

Abstract Mechanical properties of bronze at 4.2 K were determined as a function of tin content. The 0.02% offset yield strength varied from 76 MPa for pure copper to 241 MPa for an 8.2 w/o Sn bronze. The work-hardening modulus varied correspondingly from 1.9 GPa to 9.6 GPa. Electrical resistivity at 4.2 K was also measured as a function of tin content and found to vary from 1.27 × 10 −8 ohm-cm (pure copper) to 1.3 × 10 −5 ohm-cm (10.7 w/o Sn bronze).
Slowly-Rotating Black Holes in Einstein-Dilaton-Gauss-Bonnet Gravity: Quadratic Order in Spin Solutions

We derive a stationary and axisymmetric black hole solution in Einstein-Dilaton-Gauss-Bonnet gravity to quadratic order in the ratio of the spin angular momentum to the black hole mass squared. This solution introduces new corrections to previously found nonspinning and linear-in-spin solutions. The location of the event horizon and the ergosphere are modified, as well as the quadrupole moment. The new solution is of Petrov type I, although lower order in spin solutions are of Petrov type D. There are no closed timelike curves or spacetime regions that violate causality outside of the event horizon in the new solution. We calculate the modifications to the binding energy, Kepler's third law, and properties of the innermost stable circular orbit. These modifications are important for determining how the electromagnetic properties of accretion disks around supermassive black holes are changed from those expected in general relativity.
Robust optimization of test-architecture designs for core-based SoCs

Today's technology allows for the integration of many cores in a single die, for instance, in core-based SoCs, and an even larger number of cores are likely to be integrated over multiple layers in a 3D stack. In order to minimize test cost, the test architecture in a core-based SOC is optimized for minimum test time. Optimization methods in use today assume that all relevant input parameters, such as core test time and power consumption during test, are known at the design stage. However, these parameters can change after manufacturing and, in that scenario, the originally designed test architecture may no longer be optimal. Moreover, conventional optimization methods have to consider worst-case estimates for all input parameters to ensure feasibility, which can result in conservative and hence expensive solutions. We propose the use of robust optimization for test-architecture design and test scheduling. This goal of this approach is to find a solution that remains close to optimal in the presence of parameter variations. Experimental results for the ITC'02 SoC benchmarks show that, compared to optimization methods that target only a single point in the input-parameter space, robust optimization can better optimize test time in the presence of parameter variations.
Student Risk-Taking Behaviors: When Do School Counselors Break Confidentiality?

A total of 204 middle and high school counselors from across the United States responded to a survey in which they were asked to determine whether they view specific adolescent risk-taking behaviors of varying intensity, frequency, and duration as warranting parental notification. Results suggest that counselors' perceptions that it is ethical to break confidentiality and report the risk-taking behaviors increased when the behaviors were more intense, more frequent, and of longer duration. Further, although there was less ambiguity regarding the perceived dangerousness of some behaviors (e.g., suicidal ideation), all behaviors showed some variance or disagreement among respondents with regard to their willingness to break confidentiality. Implications and suggestions for school counselors are considered.
ANALYSIS OF NONISOTHERMAL EXTRUDATE SWELL

Abstract Nonisothermal extrudate swell through capillary and annular dies was studied numerically using a control volume finite difference method. In order to examine the effect of the relevant dimensionless parameters on the swelling behavior of the extrudate, Newtonian liquids having a temperature dependent viscosity have been chosen and computations have been performed for various process conditions. Four dimensionless groups, i.e., the Peclet number (Pe), the Brinkman number (Br), the Biot number (Bi), and an exponential parameter β expressing the temperature dependence of viscosity, were examined respectively, and the sensitivity of each group on the swelling ratio was determined. The parameter β was found to be the most sensitive factor.
Raman Mapping of the Dentin/Adhesive Interface

The degree of adhesive penetration into dentin has been studied through micro-Raman spectroscopic examination of the dentin/adhesive interface. In contrast to previous studies, for the specimen examined in this work the adhesive penetrates less than 2 μm into the acid-etched and, thus, decalcified dentin. There is strong spectroscopic evidence that, upon acid etching of the dentin surface, which is typically performed immediately before the adhesive is applied, the collagen matrix collapses upon itself.
Smooth-Muscle-Like Cells Derived from Human Embryonic Stem Cells Support and Augment Cord-Like Structures In Vitro

Engineering vascularized tissue is crucial for its successful implantation, survival, and integration with the host tissue. Vascular smooth muscle cells (v-SMCs) provide physical support to the vasculature and aid in maintaining endothelial viability. In this study, we show an efficient derivation of v-SMCs from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs), and demonstrate their functionality and ability to support the vasculature in vitro. Human ESCs were differentiated in monolayers and supplemented with platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) and transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1). Human ESC-derived smooth-muscle-like cells (SMLCs) were found to highly express specific smooth muscle cell (SMC) markers—including α-smooth muscle actin, calponin, SM22, and smooth muscle myosin heavy chain—to produce and secrete fibronectin and collagen, and to contract in response to carbachol. In vitro tubulogenesis assays revealed that these hESC-derived SMLCs interacted with human endothelial progenitor cell (EPCs) to form longer and thicker cord-like structures in vitro. We have demonstrated a simple protocol for the efficient derivation of highly purified SMLCs from hESCs. These in vitro functional SMLCs interacted with EPCs to support and augment capillary-like structures (CLSs), demonstrating the potential of hESCs as a cell source for therapeutic vascular tissue engineering.
An intensity standardization-based method for image inhomogeneity correction in MRI

An automatic, simple, and image intensity standardization-based strategy for correcting background inhomogeneity in MR images is presented in this paper. Image intensities are first transformed to a standard intensity gray scale by a standardization process. Different tissue sample regions are then obtained from the standardized image by simply thresholding based on fixed intensity intervals. For each tissue region, a polynomial is fitted to the estimated discrete background intensity variation. Finally, a combined polynomial is determined and used for correcting the intensity inhomogeneity in the whole image. The above procedure is repeated on the corrected image iteratively until the size of the extracted tissue regions does not change significantly in two successive iterations. Intensity scale standardization is effected to make sure that the corrected image is not biased by the fitting strategy. The method has been tested on a number of simulated and clinical MR images. These tests and a comparison with the method of non-parametric non-uniform intensity normalization (N3) indicate that the method is effective for background intensity inhomogeneity correction and may have a slight edge over the N3 method.
Sebaceous epithelioma: A review of twenty-one cases

Abstract Background: Sebaceous epithelioma is a benign tumor that must be differentiated from basal cell carcinoma and other appendageal tumors. Objective: Histologic and clinical findings were reviewed in 21 patients with sebaceous epitheliomas. Methods: Twenty-one cases of sebaceous epithelioma collected during a 5-year period were reviewed. Results: The tumors appeared as yellow to flesh-colored papules, most often on the face and neck. They consisted of basaloid cells with foci of sebaceous differentiation. Cystic spaces formed by holocrine degeneration or simulating sebaceous duct lining were common findings. Patients with sebaceous epitheliomas were more likely than the general population to have an internal malignancy. Conclusion: Patients with sebaceous epithelioma should be examined for an underlying malignancy.
Ab initio calculations with CI+MBPT of large number of energy levels for beryllium-like neon

Previously, ab initio precision configuration–interaction many-body perturbation theory (CI+MBPT) method was applied only to low energy levels. In this work, we consider highly excited states with this method and show that many theoretical levels agree well with experiment and can be easily identified. The precision of the method for lowest levels can be achieved at the level of tens of cm−1; however, for a large number of levels the precision is lower, a few 100 cm−1. This is due to slower convergence of bases obtained in large cavities to avoid cavity effects on the states of interest. Available experimental data have been used for label assignment and as a test of our method. This is the first attempt to apply ab initio precision method to hundreds of levels including moderately highly excited states. The method can be useful for level identification and for calculations of properties of Rydberg states in the regime where ion-core correlations are important and can be used to test other methods designed for these states.
Application of Transmission Electron Microscopy to the Study of Deformation in Ceramic Oxides

Slip systems, dislocation reactions, and dislocation dissociations are reviewed in relation to the crystal structures of ceramic oxides. Techniques of deformation and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) are described. The impact of TEM on the understanding of deformation in oxides is discussed by relating the observed dislocation substructures to the mechanical properties in several oxide systems. Important information can be obtained on dislocation glide and climb processes in relation to work hardening, recovery, and creep. Yielding and the brittle-to-ductile transition temperature are discussed in terms of the magnitude of the Burgers vector in various crystal structures and the influence of dissociation reactions and diffusion. Examples include oxides with close-packed anions such as MgO, MgAl2O4 BeO, A12O3, TiO2, and Mg2SiO4, and other oxides such as Cu2O, UO2, and SiO2.
Effect of aortic regurgitation on the assessment of mitral valve orifice area by Doppler pressure half-time in mitral stenosis.

Abstract Evaluation of the severity of mitral stenosis by continuous-wave Doppler pressure half-time measurement is now well established. However, few data exist regarding the effect of aortic regurgitation (AR) on the validity of this method. Therefore, 73 patients were studied in whom cardiac catheterization and Doppler echocardiographic examinations were performed. Mitral valve orifice area was determined by the Gorlin equation, 2-dimensional echocardiography and Doppler pressure half-time. Doppler pressure half-time and catheterization estimates of mitral valve area correlated well (r = 0.85) in patients without significant mitral regurgitation. This correlation was maintained in patient subgroups with and without significant (at least 2+) AR (r = 0.86 and 0.83, respectively), Similarly, Doppler and 2-dimensional echocardiographic assessment of mitral valve area showed a strong correlation (r = 0.84). Again, the correlation between the 2 methods was similar in patients with and without significant AR (r = 0.86 and 0.82, respectively). Thus, Doppler pressure half-time estimates of mitral valve orifice area are accurate even in patients with AR.
Optimizing two stage bigram language models for IR

Although higher order language models (LMs) have shown benefit of capturing word dependencies for Information retrieval(IR), the tuning of the increased number of free parameters remains a formidable engineering challenge. Consequently,in many real world retrieval systems, applying higher order LMs is an exception rather than the rule. In this study, we address the parameter tuning problem using a framework based on a linear ranking model in which different component models are incorporated as features. Using unigram and bigram LMs with 2 stage smoothing as examples, we show that our method leads to a bigram LM that outperforms significantly its unigram counterpart and the well-tuned BM25 model.
Scope and Specificity

Scope and Specificity is an investigation of quantifier scope interaction in natural language, with special reference to English and Chinese. In particular, it is concerned with semantic properties of NPs. Quantifier scope plays an important role in current theories of syntax and semantics. However, most studies of quantifier scope are only concerned with the behavior of a small number of quantifiers, e.g. ‘every’, ‘some’, ‘all’. As a result, the generalizations made on the basis of these quantifiers often do not hold when a wider range of quantifiers is considered. In this study a wide variety of NP types are examined with respect to how they interact with other NPs. The key concept explored is that of semantic scope dependency/independence. NPs are considered according to two properties: whether they can induce scope-dependency and whether they can be scope-dependent. By observing how in basic sentences NPs behave with respect to the two properties, the author presents a picture of quantifier scope much different from what has been assumed in the literature.
Modulation of hepatocyte phenotype in vitro via chemomechanical tuning of polyelectrolyte multilayers.

It is increasingly appreciated that since cell and tissue functions are regulated by chemomechanical stimuli, precise control over such stimuli will improve the functionality of tissue models. However, due to the inherent difficulty in decoupling these cues as presented by extracellular materials, few studies have explored the independent modulation of biochemical and mechanical stimuli towards the manipulation of sustained cellular processes. Here, we demonstrate that both mechanical compliance and ligand presentation of synthetic, weak polyelectrolyte multilayers (PEMs) can be tuned independently to influence the adhesion and liver-specific functions of primary rat hepatocytes over extended in vitro culture (two weeks). These synthetic PEMs exhibited elastic moduli E ranging over 200 kPa < E < 142 MPa, as much as one thousand-fold more compliant than tissue-culture polystyrene (Ew 2.5 GPa). The most compliant of these PEM substrata promoted hepatocyte adhesion and spheroidal morphology. Subsequent modification of PEMs with type I collagen and the proteoglycan decorin did not alter substrata compliance, but enhanced the retention of spheroids on surfaces and stabilized hepatic functions (albumin and urea secretion, CYP450 detoxification activity). Decorin exhibited unique compliance-mediated effects on hepatic functions, down-regulating the hepatocyte phenotype when presented on highly compliant substrata while up-regulating hepatocyte functions when presented on increasingly stiffer substrata. These results show that phenotypic functions of liver models can be modulated by leveraging synthetic polymers to study and optimize the interplay of biochemical and mechanical cues at the cell–material interface. More broadly, these results suggest an enabling approach for the systematic design of functional tissue models applied to drug screening, cell-based therapies and fundamental studies in development, physiology and disease. 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
THE RANDOM PHENOTYPE CONCEPT, WITH APPLICATIONS

A random phenotype is defined as a probability distribution over any given set of phenotypes. This includes as special cases the kinds of phenotypes usually considered (qualitative, quantitative, and threshold characters) and all others. Correspondingly general methods are indicated for analyzing data of all forms in terms of the classical Mendelian factor concept (as distinct from the biometrical methods usually applied to measurement and graded data, associated with the effective factor concept). These are applied in a new analysis of the data of E. L. Green (1951, 1954, 1962) on skeletal variation in the mouse. The adequacies of various classical one-factor and several-factor models are considered. Indications of an underlying scale are found from this new standpoint. The results are compared with those obtained by Green using the scaling approach. An illustrative application is also made to some of Bruell's (1962) continuous behavioural data on mice. This work was substantially completed in 1959 but not previously prepared for publication. The same approach was originated and developed independently by R. L. Collins who has treated a wider range of theoretical problems (cf. Collins 1967, 1968a, 1969b, 1970c) and a wider range of applications (cf. Collins and Fuller 1968; Collins 1968b, 1969a, 1970a). A less general independent development is that of Mode and Gasser 1972.
On-line monitoring of drill wear using air-coupled audio microphone when drilling composite materials

The condition of the cutting tool when drilling composite materials is the controlling factor for the surface integrity of hole produced. The high rate of tool wear when drilling composite materials makes finding a way to monitor the condition of the cutting tool without interrupting the drilling process a great necessity. Inspecting the condition of the drill between or during the drilling process is not practical or economical. In an attempt to tackle this problem, a new approach of on-line tool wear monitoring method using an air-coupled audio microphone is proposed. An experimental investigation was conducted on multi-directional carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) composite material using a high speed steel (HSS) drill. The result shows that, the amplitude of the acoustic signal from the microphone decreases when the amount of flank wear increases and the amplitude of thrust force and torque increases with the increase of the flank wear. This result demonstrates that the proposed approach can be used as an effective and economical tool for on-line monitoring of cutting tool condition.