cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ethical Implications of the Snowden Revelations

AbstractThis article addresses a number of ethical dilemmas and practical consequences of the revelations of Edward Snowden about massive electronic surveillance of telephone calls, emails, social media posts, and other “signals intelligence” (or SIGINT) across the entire world but especially including domestic American communications formerly thought immune to such surveillance unless authorized by judicial warrant. Practical consequences matter for all “utilitarian” ethical judgments. The author concludes that by far the largest issue is whether U.S. intelligence professionals regard the U.S. Constitution as supreme law in America or non-disclosure contracts with individual agencies or the U.S. government. Reactions to Snowden follow this pattern, with security-cleared insiders generally considering him a traitor and ordinary people generally considering him a hero for telling the public about illegal activity within the National Security Agency directed against fundamental, and constitutionally protect...
Conflict‐Handling Behaviors of Korean Immigrants in the United States

Although there is a great deal of literature that has focused on conflicts faced by monocultural people, cross-cultural conflict scholars have not yet focused on the conflicts faced by bicultural people. This topic deserves more study as cultural clashes—conflicts between foreign-born residents and Americans—are prevalent. Considering the number of the immigrants in the United States and the speed of globalization, more conflicts could arise not only in the workplace, but also anywhere else, such as between neighbors, coworkers, colleagues, peers, and even among intercultural family members. Therefore, in order to prepare for this type of conflict, this research examined conflict-handling behaviors of bicultural people. Among many immigrants, this study focused on Korean immigrants in the United States through the Conflict Communication Scale (CCS) and compared the results with nationality, the amount of time that the immigrants have lived in the United States, the level of acculturation, and gender.
Identifying overlapping functional modules in biological networks by Markov random walk

Identifying functional modules or pathways in biological networks may help better understand the underlying cellular functional mechanisms. Different from traditional network module identification problems, biological modules often overlap with each other. However, existing functional module identification algorithms can only generate overlapping densely connected modules but ignore the modules within which the molecules rarely interact but have similar interaction patterns to the rest of the network. In this paper, we propose a novel overlapping functional module identification algorithm, which aims to detect overlapping modules by grouping molecules with similar interaction patterns and hence can generate both dense modules as well as sparse modules with biological meaning. We formulate this overlapping module identification problem by considering one-step and two-step Markov random walk (busy Markov random walk) on networks and solve it by an approximate spectral algorithm together with a bottom-up greedy strategy. The proposed algorithm P1P2 is shown to outperform a range of state-of-the-art overlapping module identification approaches on both overlapping benchmarks and real world PPI networks.
Sovereign Violence and the Power of Acting – (Imagining the Unsovereign Law)

Starting from Kant’s distinction between private and public reason, the idea is to challenge the meaning of political intervention today, political discourse. What is to be a scholar in the digital age? What are the limits of the law, and how can one speak of an alternative, unsovereign law? What is to resist subjection and build the new? True maturity and freedom cannot be reconciled with blind obedience and docility in the private sphere. Only lives guided by reason in Spinoza’s sense can overcome the logics of coercion and consent, both leading into subjection and servitude. Yet, for this, it is necessary to think about the role of contingency and the desire for freedom.
Excess capacity in a fixed-cost economy

Abstract This paper proposes a new mechanism that can explain persistent economic slack. The theory shows that when producers face negligible marginal costs and desired spending is below the economy’s capacity, the economy features slack in equilibrium, even when prices are flexible and there are no other frictions. A heterogeneous household version of the model demonstrates how an economy can enter a capacity trap in response to a temporary negative demand shock: when demand by some consumers falls temporarily, other consumers’ permanent income (and hence their desired consumption) also falls. Since output is determined by demand, the permanent fall in desired consumption causes a permanent state of excess capacity.
Nanoscale sensors for assuring the safety of food products

As far as chemical analysis is concerned, foods are among the most difficult matrices to work with because they are complex, heterogeneous substances with a high degree of variety. Assaying foods for trace levels of chemical and microbiological substances is a challenge that often requires the application of time-consuming, expensive analytical instrumentation in dedicated facilities populated by highly trained personnel. Therefore there is a continued demand for new analytical technologies that can detect small concentrations of chemicals or microbes in a more cost- and time-effective manner, preferably in the field, on the production line, and/or non-destructively, with little to no sample pre-treatment, and possibly by individuals with scant scientific training. In the last decade, nanotechnology - a branch of science that takes advantage of the unique chemical and physical properties of matter on the nanoscale - has created new opportunities for both qualitative and quantitative detection of vapors/gasses, small molecules, biopolymers, and even living microbes in a fraction of the time and expense of traditional analytical techniques. This article offers a focused review of recent progress in nanotechnology-enabled biosensing as applied to foods and related matrices, paying particular attention to trends in the field, recent breakthroughs, and current areas of need. Special focus is paid to two primary categories of nanobiosensors - optical and electrochemical - and the discussion includes a comparison of their various strengths and weaknesses as they pertain ensuring the safety of the food supply.
CHANGES IN THE SCOPE OF PROTECTION OF NEMO TENETUR SE DETEGERE PRINCIPLE DUE TO THE MODIFICATIONS INTRODUCED BY LAW 12.654/12 IN CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS: THE (IN) CONSTITUTIONALITY OF COERCIVE COLLECTION OF GENETIC MATERIAL TO DETERMINE THE GENETIC PROFILE

This article deals with the impact of Law 12.654, passed in 2012, in the scope of protection of the principle “nemo tenetur se detegere”. The introduction of compulsory identification of the genetic profile of the person criminally investigated as a means of evidence, with the inclusion of such measures among those listed as a way of criminal identification (Law 12.037), fills the legislative vacuum of matter, becaming imperative the analysis of compatibility of Law 12.654 with the Federal Constitution and the Human Rights Treaties which Brazil is a signatory
The echo-doppler evaluation of left ventricular diastolic function: A current perspective

The role of left ventricular (LV) diastolic function in health and disease is still incompletely understood and under appreciated by most primary care physicians and many cardiologists. Physical examination, electrocardiogram, and chest radiographs are unreliable in making the diagnosis of LV diastolic dysfunction in most individuals, and invasive measurements of cardiac pressures, rates of LV relaxation, and LV compliance are costly, clinically impracticable as they carry increased risk, and require special catheters and software analysis programs. The authors address the definition of LV diastolic dysfunction, history of diastole, LV filling patterns, pulmonary venous flow velocity variables, additional ancillary data, practical echo-Doppler evaluation of LV diastolic function, and limitations.
Colchicine-induced polyploidy has the potential to improve rubber yield in Taraxacum kok-saghyz

Abstract Taraxacum kok-saghyz (TK), also known as rubber dandelion, is under development as a source of natural rubber but has not been fully domesticated. Rubber yield is highly variable and biomass is low compared with most crops. Therefore, it is imperative to apply breeding methods to improve rubber yield and accelerate the domestication process. One strategy to accelerate breeding is polyploid induction, which could improve rubber concentration and plant size. A gradient of colchicine concentrations ranging from 0% to 0.5% was used to treat approximately 5000 seeds for different periods of time (12 h to 96 h), followed by use of flow cytometry to confirm induced tetraploids. The optimal treatment of 0.1% colchicine for 48 h resulted in an induction efficiency of 56.6%. An early-screening strategy successfully identified 2-month old tetraploid seedlings based on atypical leaf morphology. Comparisons of leaf, stomata, root morphological traits as well as biochemical traits including rubber, resin and inulin/sugars concentration were made between tetraploids and diploids. A 47.7% increase in rubber concentration but a decrease in inulin/sugars concentration was observed in tetraploid plants. However, there was no significant difference in the amount of rubber per root system among the greenhouse-grown plants in this research, likely due to root stunting observed in tetraploids and treated diploids. Evaluation of progeny is needed to circumvent the confounding physiological impact of colchicine treatment. However, the increase of rubber concentration observed in tetraploids suggests that polyploid breeding has the potential to improve rubber yield in TK.
Changes in Executive Function Following a Stressful Interpersonal Task Are Associated With Condomless Anal Intercourse Among Men Who Have Sex With Men

Background Executive functioning (EF) describes a set of neurocognitive processes critical to enacting complex health behaviors. However, theoretical frameworks for understanding sexual risk behavior have generally neglected neurocognitive constructs, and beyond a few studies of individuals selected for high substance use, the literature contains virtually no research on this topic with other adults at risk for HIV infection, such as men who have sex with men (MSM). Purpose This study tested whether EF was associated with condomless anal intercourse (CAI) among MSM. Methods Seventy MSM completed cognitive tests assessing EF at two time points-baseline, and approximately 30 min later after engaging in a stressful interpersonal task. Men also reported their sexual behaviors over the past 3 months, including the frequency of CAI. Results Baseline EF was unrelated to CAI. However, CAI was associated with the degree to which performance improved from baseline to post-stressor administration. Compared with norms for practice effects, men who reported CAI improved less than expected from baseline to post-stressor EF performance, whereas men who reported no CAI exhibited a more normative practice effect. Conclusions MSM with histories of greater sexual risk improved less than anticipated from baseline to post-stressor on tests of EF, suggesting that they might be more cognitively depleted by the stressful interpersonal task they engaged in between administrations. It is possible that certain individuals struggle to maintain executive control in stressful interpersonal situations, a finding that could contribute to the difficulty some individuals face executing precautionary behaviors during a sexual encounter.
Dissolved Trace and Minor Elements in Cryoconite Holes and Supraglacial Streams, Canada Glacier, Antarctica

Here we present a synthesis of the trace element chemistry in melt on the surface Canada Glacier, Taylor Valley, McMurdo Dry Valleys (MDV), Antarctica (~78°S). The MDV is largely ice-free. Low accumulation rates, strong winds, and proximity to the valley floor make these glaciers dusty in comparison to their inland counterparts. This study examines both supraglacial melt streams and cryoconite holes. Supraglacial streams on the lower Canada Glacier have median dissolved (<0.4 µm) concentrations of Fe, Mn, As, Cu, and V of 71.5, 75.5, 3.7, 4.6, and 4.3 nM. All dissolved Cd concentrations and the vast majority of Pb values are below our analytical detection (i.e. 0.4 and 0.06 nM). Chemical behavior did not follow similar trends for eastern and western draining waters. Heterogeneity likely reflects distinctions eolian deposition, rock:water ratios, and hydrologic connectivity. Future increases in wind-delivered sediment will likely drive dynamic responses in melt chemistry. For elements above detection limits, dissolved concentrations in glacier surface melt are within an order of magnitude of concentrations observed in proglacial streams (i.e. flowing on the valley floor). This suggests that glacier surfaces are an important source of downstream chemistry. The Fe enrichment of cryoconite water relative to N, P, or Si exceeds enrichment observed in marine phytoplankton. This suggests that the glacier surface is an important source of Fe to downstream ecosystems.
Description of Insomnia

Insomnia is a highly prevalent sleep disorder that has been estimated to affect between 30% and 50% of the general population. Insomnia is diagnosed by the following symptoms: difficulty initiating sleep, maintaining sleep, or having nonrestorative sleep that is also accompanied by daytime dysfunction (DSM-IV-TR) despite adequate opportunity to sleep. These interferences in healthy sleep patterns typically coexist with a variety of comorbid conditions, such as a medical or psychiatric disorder, that can have a profound effect on the individual's functioning and overall quality of life. The purpose of this article is to provide a concise general overview of the descriptive factors that make up insomnia and to explore the causes and consequences of this common disorder.
Network Neutrality and Competition Policy: A Complex Relationship

The claim that guaranteeing interoperability and nondiscrimination would benefit consumers has undisputed intuitive appeal. The fact that interoperability has represented the historical norm may lead some to put the burden of persuasion on those who would move away from that architecture. However, a close examination of the economic tradeoffs underlying network neutrality reveals a number of countervailing considerations that may not be readily apparent at first blush. Not only does network neutrality risk reducing consumer choice in content and applications, it raises the even more significant danger of stifling the development of further competition in the last mile by forestalling the continued emergence of new broadband technologies. Although such an admonition would be well taken under any circumstances, it carries particular force in dynamic industries like broadband that are undergoing rapid technological and marketplace changes.
Influence of Glycosaminoglycan Content on Diffusive Transport of Calcium and Water Across the In Vitro Artery Wall

Previous work has associated the glycosaminoglycan (GAG) content with mass transfer behavior of a number of systems. In the present research, GAG content and mass transfer measurements were carried out on the same sections of porcine thoracic aorta. The results demonstrate that naturally occurring changes in GAG content can account for observed differences in arterial permeability.
School-Year Grammatical Development in Narrative Retells: Spanish-English Dual Language Learners.

Oral narrative retells are rich sources of information for language development. Investigators collected English-language oral narrative retells during the fall and spring from 65 Spanish-English-s...
Penetrating the evidence of EGFR and ALK tyrosine kinase inhibitors for non-small cell lung cancer brain metastases:

The brain is a common metastatic site in lung cancer. Approximately one-third of patients will develop brain metastases during the course of their disease. Median overall survival has been reported between 3 and 14.8 months in patients with brain metastases compared to other metastatic sites. In addition, the lifetime incidence of brain metastases is increasing due to prolonged survival seen in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients due to new systemic therapies and improved neuro-imaging techniques. Several targeted therapies-such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors targeting epidermal growth factor receptors and anaplastic lymphoma kinase-are active in NSCLC and have data to suggested possible effectiveness against brain metastases in these patients.
Repressors of mTORC1 act to blunt the anabolic response to feeding in the soleus muscle of a cast-immobilized mouse hindlimb.

We recently reported results showing that cast immobilization of a rat hindlimb rapidly leads to development of anabolic resistance as demonstrated by failure of oral leucine administration to activate the mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) and stimulate protein synthesis in the soleus muscle. The goal of this study was to assess the possible contribution of several mTORC1 regulatory proteins to the development of anabolic resistance. To accomplish this, 14-week-old male C57BL/6 mice (n = 21) were subjected to unilateral cast immobilization of the hindlimb for either 1 or 3 days, and the immobilized limb was compared to its contralateral control. The mass of the soleus muscle was decreased in the immobilized compared to the non-immobilized limb within 72-h in association with diminished protein synthesis. In agreement with our previous report, a 24-h casting period was sufficient to induce anabolic resistance, as demonstrated by blunted re-feeding-induced activation of mTORC1. Moreover, resistance of mTORC1 activation was associated not only with upregulated expression of REDD1, but also with altered expression of other mTORC1 regulatory proteins, that is, Sestrin1 and DEP domain-containing mTOR interacting protein (DEPTOR). In addition, re-feeding-induced phosphorylation of DEPTOR was significantly impaired in the immobilized compared to the non-immobilized limb. This work builds upon previous discoveries by our laboratory to elucidate the blunted mTORC1 response to stimuli during disuse of skeletal muscle induced by cast immobilization while highlighting new potential therapeutic targets for future countermeasures against muscle atrophy.
Expectations, Challenges and Suggestions for Faculty Teaching Online Courses in Higher Education

Research on online education has predominantly focused on issues related to student attraction, attrition, retention, and motivation, among others. Little attention has been paid to online instructors and yet, the quality of online education requires educators who understand the expectations of online instruction. Using an online survey, this study examined the expectations and challenges for online instructors and the suggestions for improving online instruction. Based on the data collected from seventeen faculty who teach online courses at four mid-western universities in the US, facilitation, instructor presence, and technical support stood out prominently among the expectations. The major challenges for online instructors were: large class sizes, academic dishonesty, lack of connection with students, too many emails, and lack of student self-discipline. The study recommends viable professional development for online instructors as a pre-requisite to teaching online courses.
Breeding for resilience to increasing temperatures: A field trial assessing genetic variation in soft red winter wheat.

Breeding for resilience to climate change is a daunting prospect. Crop and climate models tell us that global wheat yields are likely to decline as the climate warms, causing a significant risk to global food security. High temperatures are known to affect crop development yet breeding for tolerance to heat stress is difficult to achieve in field environments. We conducted an active warming study over two years to quantify the effects of heat stress on genetic variation of soft red winter (SRW) wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Forty SRW cultivars and breeding lines were chosen based on marker genotypes at photoperiod sensitivity and reduced height loci. These genotypes were planted in a randomized complete block design replicated twice across two environments, ambient and artificially warmed. Average heading date occurred 5 days earlier in the warmed environment than in the ambient environment over both years (p ≤ 0.05). On average, grain yield was significantly reduced in the warmed environment by 211.41 kg/ha (p ≤ 0.05) or 4.84%, though we identified 13 genotypes with increased yield in response to warming in both years. Of these genotypes, eight had significantly increased N uptake while six showed significantly increased N utilization efficiency under warming. Under warming, genotypes with wild-type alleles at the Rht-D1 locus display significantly greater yields (p ≤ 0.01) and biomass (p ≤ 0.001) than genotypes with reduced height alleles. Of the 13 genotypes with higher (p ≤ 0.01) yields under warming, nine have the wild-type allele at the Rht-D1 locus in addition to being photoperiod insensitive. The next steps will be to validate these findings in other populations and to develop an efficient breeding/phenotyping scheme that will lead to more resilient cultivars.
Mapping for history: the influence of the 7th Field Survey Company’s 1917 operation maps on the historiography of the 3rd Battle of Gaza

During Palestine Campaign of World War I, the British Army’s Egyptian Expeditionary Force produced a series of operation maps to track and control the progress of their offensive into Palestine. Th...
Quadratic Suffices for Over-parametrization via Matrix Chernoff Bound.

We improve the over-parametrization size over two beautiful results [Li and Liang' 2018] and [Du, Zhai, Poczos and Singh' 2019] in deep learning theory.
Adoptive transfer of anti-cytomegalovirus effect of interleukin-2-activated bone marrow: potential application in transplantation.

This work is a continuation of our studies that showed that interleukin- 2 (IL-2)-activated murine bone marrow (ABM) cells have potent cytotoxic potential against murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV)-infected targets in vitro, without loss of reconstitutive ability in vivo. Our data show that ABM cells lyse the MCMV-infected cells in vitro, at both acute and chronic stages of infection; this lysis is specific for the MCMV- infected cells. ABM cells supplemented with IL-2 therapy virtually eradicated the viral infection and prolonged the survival of MCMV- infected Balb/c mice, whether or not they were immunocompromised by irradiation (P less than .001 in both situations). Efficacy of ABM cells alone or IL-2 alone was less than the combination of ABM cells and IL-2. The efficacy of combination treatment with ABM cells and IL-2 in improving the survival of MCMV-infected mice was comparable, whether used in a preventive or a therapeutic setting. Therapy with ABM plus IL- 2 also prevented the reactivation of chronic MCMV infection after irradiation. Preliminary findings indicate that Thy-1+ and asialo GM1+ cells limited the MCMV proliferation by approximately 30% and 80%, respectively, while BM macrophages limited the proliferation of MCMV by 100%. These results suggest that BM transplantation (BMT) with ABM cells followed by IL-2 therapy may constitute a novel strategy to improve the host resistance against cytomegalovirus infection after BMT.
Improved velocity-selective labeling pulses for myocardial ASL.

PURPOSE To develop and evaluate an improved velocity-selective (VS) labeling pulse for myocardial arterial spin labeling (ASL) perfusion imaging that addresses two limitations of current pulses: (1) spurious labeling of moving myocardium and (2) low labeling efficiency. METHODS The proposed myocardial VSASL labeling pulse is designed using a Fourier Transform based Velocity-Selective labeling pulse train. The pulse utilizes bipolar velocity-encoding gradients, a 9-tap velocity-encoding envelope, and double-refocusing pulses with Malcolm Levitt phase cycling. Amplitudes of the velocity-encoding envelope were optimized to minimize the labeling of myocardial velocities during stable diastole (±2-3 cm/s) and maximize the labeling of coronary velocities (10-130 cm/s during rest/stress or 10-70 cm/s during rest). Myocardial ASL experiments were performed in seven healthy subjects using the previously developed VS-ASL protocol by Jao et al with the two proposed VS pulses and original VS pulse. Myocardial ASL experiments were also performed using FAIR ASL. Myocardial perfusion and physiological noise (PN) were evaluated and compared. RESULTS Bloch simulations of the first and second proposed pulses show <2% labeling over ±3 cm/s and ±2 cm/s, respectively. Bloch simulations also show the mean labeling efficiency of arterial blood is 1.23 over the relevant coronary arterial ranges. In-vivo VSASL experiments show the proposed pulses provided comparable measurements to FAIR ASL and reduced TSNR in 5 of 7 subjects compared to the original VS pulse. CONCLUSION We demonstrate an improved VS labeling pulse specifically for myocardial ASL perfusion imaging to reduce spurious labeling of moving myocardium and PN.
High-temperature discrete dislocation plasticity

Abstract A framework for solving problems of dislocation-mediated plasticity coupled with point-defect diffusion is presented. The dislocations are modeled as line singularities embedded in a linear elastic medium while the point defects are represented by a concentration field as in continuum diffusion theory. Plastic flow arises due to the collective motion of a large number of dislocations. Both conservative (glide) and nonconservative (diffusion-mediated climb) motions are accounted for. Time scale separation is contingent upon the existence of quasi-equilibrium dislocation configurations. A variational principle is used to derive the coupled governing equations for point-defect diffusion and dislocation climb. Superposition is used to obtain the mechanical fields in terms of the infinite-medium discrete dislocation fields and an image field that enforces the boundary conditions while the point-defect concentration is obtained by solving the stress-dependent diffusion equations on the same finite-element grid. Core-level boundary conditions for the concentration field are avoided by invoking an approximate, yet robust kinetic law. Aspects of the formulation are general but its implementation in a simple plane strain model enables the modeling of high-temperature phenomena such as creep, recovery and relaxation in crystalline materials. With emphasis laid on lattice vacancies, the creep response of planar single crystals in simple tension emerges as a natural outcome in the simulations. A large number of boundary-value problem solutions are obtained which depict transitions from diffusional to power-law creep, in keeping with long-standing phenomenological theories of creep. In addition, some unique experimental aspects of creep in small scale specimens are also reproduced in the simulations.
The Virtual Avatar Lab (VAL): Tapping into Virtual Live Environments to Practice Classroom Feedback Conversations

Providing effective feedback is a skill preservice teachers develop through practice. According to Hattie (2012), feedback is essential in the learning process, is prevalent in effective teaching, and its purpose is to help students determine current level of performance, so adjustments can be made to enhance performance to desired level. This qualitative case study was developed to provide 16, K-12 preservice teacher candidates with an opportunity to practice providing feedback in a virtual live environment. Candidates participated in (e.g. interacted with avatar, observed interaction, and/or critiqued interaction) a 60-minute simulation to practice feedback, then completed oral reflection and a written reflective survey (questionnaire) consisting of rating scales and corresponding written response items. Qualitative data collected was coded and analyzed for themes, while quantitative data explored central tendencies, and variations for each survey indicator. Results indicate live simulated sessions in the Virtual Avatar Lab (VAL) were beneficial in developing feedback skills. Teacher candidates reported favorable perceptions with respect to preparation to facilitate feedback conversations, in most cases felt the student avatars were authentic, and felt better prepared to help their future students take ownership of their own areas of strength and room for growth.
Mesoporous Crystalline Niobium Oxide with a High Surface Area: A Solid Acid Catalyst for Alkyne Hydration.

A mesoporous crystalline niobium oxide with tunable pore sizes was synthesized via sol-gel based inverse micelle method. The material shows a surface area of 127 m2/g which is the highest surface a...
Advocacy in Pediatric Emergency Medicine

Abstract Advocacy is a vitally important activity as it applies to all aspects and settings where pediatric care is provided. Advocacy also offers a forum for scholarship, professional and layperson education, mentorship and research. In this issue of Clinical Pediatric Emergency Medicine we explore different topics in pediatric emergency medicine, and examine how we can use our patient care experiences and our position as health care providers to advocate for the well-being of children both inside and outside of the hospital.
Full quantum mechanical simulation of ultra-small silicon devices in three-dimensions: physics and issues

The results of a full three-dimensional, ballistic quantum transport model for a quantum wire silicon MOSFET are presented. We use the recursive scattering matrix approach for simulation of the ballistic transport through the device (Gilbert and Ferry). An efficient, three-dimensional, self-consistent quantum simulation technique (Gilbert and Ferry) was utilized with the inclusion of an adaptable non-uniform mesh to optimize the discretization of the solution space. One of the key issues surrounding the use of quantum simulations is the discretization of the solution space, as it is necessary that proper grid selection keep the corresponding energies within the artificially-created bandstructure, even when applying large bias across the device. Should the energies exceed the numerical bandstructure, then errors will result in the output. However, in addition to keeping the solutions physical, the grid must be optimized to reduce the number of grid points in order to hold the computational time, particularly at high bias (/spl sim/ 0.5 V) to acceptable levels. These constraints stipulate the use of a non-uniform mesh with finer grid spacing in the high potential regions. We apply this methodology to the simulation of a quantum wire SOI MOSFET with a narrow channel (8 nm).
Initiated Chemical Vapor Deposition Kinetics of Poly(4-aminostyrene)

Initiated Chemical Vapor Deposition (iCVD) is a free-radical polymerization technique used to synthesize functional polymer thin films. In the context of drug delivery, the conformality of iCVD coatings and the variety of functional chemical moieties make them excellent materials for encapsulating pharmaceutics. Poly(4-aminostyrene) (PAS) belongs to a class of functionalizable materials, whose primary amine allows decoration of the delivery vehicles with biomolecules that enable targeted delivery or biocompatibility. Understanding kinetics of PAS polymerization in iCVD is crucial for such deployments because drug release kinetics in thin-film encapsulation have been shown to be determined by the film thickness. Nevertheless, the effects of deposition conditions on PAS growth kinetics have not been studied systematically. To bridge that knowledge gap, we report the kinetics of iCVD polymerization as a function of fractional saturation pressure of the monomer (i.e., Pm/Psat) in a dual-regime fashion, with quadratic dependence under low Pm/Psat and linear dependence under high Pm/Psat. We uncovered the critical Pm/Psat value of 0.2, around which the transition also occurs for many other iCVD monomers. Because existing theoretical models for the iCVD process cannot fully explain the dual-regime polymerization kinetics, we drew inspiration from solution-phase polymerization and proposed updated termination mechanisms that account for the transition between two regimes. The reported model builds upon existing iCVD theories and allows the synthesis of PAS thin films with precisely controlled growth rates, which has the potential to accelerate the deployment of iCVD PAS as a novel biomaterial in controlled and targeted drug delivery with designed pharmacokinetics.
A new phenomenological constitutive model for shape memory alloys

Abstract A new thermomechanical constitutive modeling approach for shape memory alloys (SMAs) that undergo a martensite to austenite phase transformation and the associated pseudoelastic and shape-memory responses is presented. The novelty of this new formulation is that a single transformation surface is implemented in order to capture the forward and reverse phase transformations, as well as the reorientation and detwinning of the martensite phase. The framework is akin to the usual flow theory plasticity with kinematic hardening, however in addition to the transformation strain there is also a transformation entropy that is directly related to the martensite volume fraction appearing in prior theories. A transformation surface in effective stress and effective temperature space is introduced and an associated flow rule governs the evolution of the transformation strain and entropy. In order to capture the multitude of SMA behaviors, a transformation potential function is introduced in transformation strain and entropy space for the derivation of the back stresses and back temperatures that define the kinematic hardening behavior. It is this potential function that governs all of the important behaviors within the model. After the description of the general theory, specific forms for the transformation surface and the transformation potential are devised and results for the behaviors captured by the model are provided for a range of thermomechanical loadings. Finally, the model is implemented in the finite element method and applied to the pseudoelastic and shape memory effects of a beam in pure bending.
Estación Final. La emocionante y desconocida historia de los peruanos que salvaron centenares de vidas en la Segunda Guerra Mundial. Hugo Coya .

Para cuando llegaron a rescatarlos, ya era demasiado tarde. Ella llevaba varias horas muerta, luego de que su debil cuerpo soportara los rigores de una caminata que parecia no tener fin. En realidad, debio haber muerto antes, cuando sintio que ya no podia seguir y pidio a sus companeros que la dejaran para no retrasar su marcha. Pero ellos se negaron a hacerlo y aun cuando no se encontraban en mejor condicion fisica, entre seis lograron cargarla un trecho mas, hasta llegar a una granja, donde se percataron de su fallecimiento.
Estratégia-como-prática na economia solidária: resultados e ações de catadores de uma cooperativa

O objetivo deste artigo e analisar a manifestacao da dinâmica dos processos organizacionais na “estrategia como pratica” a partir dos resultados e das acoes dos sujeitos na Cooperativa de Trabalho Amigas e Amigos Solidarios (Cooarlas), do municipio de Canoas/RS. Para conseguir atingir o objetivo, a metodologia utilizada e a de Estudo de Caso. Os resultados evidenciam a trajetoria de uma mudanca estrategica engendrada pelos atores organizacionais (coordenacao e cooperados) que levou a resultados favoraveis. Os avancos do artigo apontam que o estudo da estrategia como pratica no contexto da economia solidaria pode lancar luz sobre a lacuna de que tais estudos ocorrem em um ‘vacuo organizacional’; evidencias da acao dos cooperados como verdadeiros atores sociais da estrategia como pratica; beneficios do estudo estrategia como pratica no contexto da economia solidaria, podendo ser evidenciadas solidariedade, cultura de cooperacao e a construcao de um habitus do trabalho cooperativo.
Memory and Information Processes

This chapter provides an overview of precursors to the information processing view of learning and cognition and on research aimed at understanding how knowledge is represented and processed in human minds. Classic and the constructivist versions of an information processing view are described. Three major contributions of information processing theories are examined, including cognitive task analysis, the mental representations used to explain knowledge, memory, learning, and thinking, and architectural models of the human information processing system. Major assumptions underlying a contemporary information-processing model are outlined to exemplify each of these points. Information processing theories of learning and cognition are related to three critical subject matter domains: reading, writing, and mathematics. Keywords: cognitive processes; information processing; mathematical problem solving; mental representations
The Objectivity of Morality, Rules and Law: A Conceptual Map

I am honored to have been invited to present a Meador Lecture on this year’s Meador Lecture Series’ topic of objectivity. Because this is a law school, and because this lecture is appearing in the Alabama Law Review, I shall assume that the relevant form of objectivity for this lecture is that of objectivity in law. There are, of course many other domains in which questions about objectivity arise. The only other domain the objectivity of which I shall discuss, however, is that of morality. And I shall discuss it only briefly and only insofar as it bears on legal objectivity.Here is how I shall proceed. I will approach legal objectivity by asking what must be true for a proposition expressing a legal norm to be true. What things in the world are the “truthmakers” of legal propositions such as “the maximum speed limit in California is 70 miles per hour”? Once we know what those truthmakers are, we can then ask whether they are objective and in what sense? More specifically, I shall ask about the possible relationship between a norm’s having the status of a legal norm and that norm’s consistency with moral norms. I shall also ask, what are the truthmakers of different types of legal norms — rules and standards? And I shall ask as well, is there a third type of legal norm, the legal principle, and if so, what are its truthmakers?
Stratfor or Stratagainst

Based on what you know about WikiLeaks and Stratfor, which group seems to be the greater threat to society?
Analysis of nucleotide sequence-dependent DNA binding of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase in a purified system

The enzymatic transfer of ADP-ribose from NAD to histone H(1) [defined as trans(oligo-ADP-ribosylation)] or to PARP-1 [defined as auto(poly-ADP-ribosylation)] requires binding of coenzymic DNA. The preceding paper [Kun, E., et al. (2004) Biochemistry 43, 210-216] shows that oligonucleotides of dsDNA can serve as coenzymic DNA for PARP-1 trans- or auto-modification activity. Results of DNA-protein binding (EMSA) experiments reported here demonstrate that short DNA oligonucleotides containing the 5'-TGTTG-3' nucleotide sequence motif preferentially bind to cloned PARP-1 in vitro. The same nucleotide sequence motif is responsible for striated myocyte-selective transcription of a contractile protein gene encoding cardiac troponin T (cTnT). Results of experiments reported here demonstrate that mutation of this motif also abolishes the differentiation-dependent activation of the transfected cTnT promoter in myoblasts cultured in vitro, indicating that nucleotide sequence-dependent binding of PARP-1 to promoter DNA of the cTnT gene is also necessary for differentiation-dependent activation. Thus, PARP-1 has two types of dsDNA binding activity: (1) nucleotide sequence-dependent binding, analyzed here with EMSA experiments, and (2) coenzymic binding, measured catalytically, which does not depend on the nucleotide sequence of the dsDNA. We hypothesize that the well-known association of PARP-1 with chromatin can be attributed to its stable binding to chromosomal dsDNA, some portion of which is likely to be nucleotide sequence-dependent binding. According to this hypothesis, the distribution of this protein-modifying enzyme in chromatin may be targeted to specific genomic loci and vary according to cell type and developmental stage.
Selectivity enhancement for free zone capillary electrophoresis using conventional ion-pairing agents as complexing additives

Abstract Analyte selectivity in capillary zone electrophoresis may be limited due to similarities in the charge/size ration for related compounds. Conventional cationic and anionic ion-pair agents including alkylsulfonic acids and tetraalkylammonium salts have been investigated as additives to the electrophoretic run buffer to improve both the selectivity and resolution for organosolutes, peptides and proteins. Several different factors are responsible for changes in selectivity and resolution, including ionic interaction and hydrophobic association between solutes and additives as well as the modulation of electroosmotic flow. Selectivity improvements due to ionic interaction can be systematically optimized by varying size and concentration of the ion-pairing agent(s) in the buffer system. Butanesulfonic acid in particular appears to very useful for a diversity of applications including improved neurotransmitter separations, peptide mapping and separations of protein mixtures.
Enzymatic deglycosylation of bovine rhodopsin

Abstract We have investigated the action of three endo N -acetylglucosaminidases on rhodopsin. The oligosaccharide chains of native and denatured opsin and rhodopsin, both solubilized and membrane-bound, were shown to be cleaved by endohexosaminidase H, endohexosaminidase F, and peptide- N -glycosidase F (PNGase F) as revealed by SDS-PAGE. These enzymes were shown to be free of protease activity. Under correct conditions, the endoglycosidases could release one or both carbohydrate chains. Rhodopsin and opsin at concentrations between 2 and 65 nmol ml −1 were cleaved, with more complete deglycosylation occurring at the higher concentrations.
The origin and spread of grass-dominated ecosystems in the late Tertiary of North America: preliminary results concerning the evolution of hypsodonty

Abstract Sediment samples were collected in northwestern Nebraska from the following lithologic units: (1) the upper Oligocene Monroe Creek Formation, the lower Miocene Harrison Formation and ‘upper Harrison’ beds of the Arikaree Group; and (2) the lower Miocene Runningwater Formation and the Dawes Clay Member (Box Butte Formation) of the Ogallala Group. The samples were processed using heavy liquid extraction and analyzed for siliceous plant microfossils (phytoliths). All samples yielded well preserved and diverse assemblages dominated by grass phytoliths, but included phytoliths produced by woody and herbaceous dicotyledons, palms, and sedges. The abundance of woody dicotyledons and palms decreased up section. The grass assemblages consisted mainly of Festucoid (C3) phytolith morphotypes. An index assessing the amount of tree cover (d:p, the ratio of dicotyledon phytoliths to grass phytoliths) was employed to interpret the data. According to this analysis, there was open C3-dominated grassland in the study area between 25 and 17 Ma, at least 7 Ma before supposed adaptations to grasslands in ungulates (hypsodonty) originate.
Intercorrelations of Four Relationship Components of the Barrett-Lennard Relationship Inventory:

This study tested Barrett-Lennard's conclusion that the 4 subscales of the Relationship Inventory are relatively independent of each other. Ss were 69 clients participating in initial interviews wi...
Effect of short- vs. long-term estrogen on reinstatement of cocaine-seeking behavior in female rats.

Abstract Estrogen effects on cocaine-induced reinstatement of lever responding were examined in sham-operated, vehicle-treated (SH + VEH), ovariectomized (OVX + VEH), and OVX female Wistar rats with estrogen replacement (OVX + EB). The effect of long- (64 ± 1.56 days) and short-term (9 days) EB treatment on reinstatement of cocaine-seeking behavior was compared in Experiment 1 and 2, respectively, in order to compare the effect of EB when it was present during the development vs. expression of reinstatement of cocaine-seeking behavior. Rats were trained to self-administer 0.4 mg/kg/inf cocaine. After the acquisition criteria were met, rats continued to respond for cocaine for 2 h/day for a 14-day maintenance period. Cocaine was then replaced with saline and the 21-day extinction period commenced. Subsequently, rats were tested for reinstatement of lever responding on the previously drug-paired lever after alternating daily injections of saline or cocaine. In both experiments, there were no differences between groups in self-administration behavior during training, maintenance, or extinction. In Experiment 1, SH + VEH and chronically treated OVX + EB rats had greater cocaine-induced reinstatement than OVX + VEH rats. In Experiment 2, short-term treated OVX + EB rats also showed enhanced cocaine-induced reinstatement compared to OVX + VEH rats. The results indicate that EB-mediated enhancement of cocaine-induced reinstatement is dependent on EB presence during the expression of reinstatement but not during the formation of stimulus–reward associations during the development of cocaine-reinforced behavior.
Interpersonal Sensitivity in Teaching Interactions

This study investigated the relation between the amount learned by high school students in a brief teaching session conducted by their peers and two aspects of the interpersonal sensitivity of teacher and student, encoding ability and decoding ability. Encoding ability was measured with a paper-and-pencil scale of empathic sensitivity believed to measure self-presentation and role-taking ability. Decoding ability was measured with (a) the PONS, a film designed to assess sensitivity to nonverbal behavioral cues, and (b) a measure of person-perception accuracy derived from self-report and rating-of-partner questionnaires. Student learning was strongly correlated with the encoding skill of the teacher but was not correlated with the teacher's decoding ability. The opposite pattern of results emerged for students. Students' learning was correlated with their own decoding skill but was not correlated with their encoding ability. Results support a multidimensional construct of interpersonal sensitivity and demo...