cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Consolidated actor critic reinforcement learning model applied to face detection

Visual attention is the process of directing cognitive resources on one area of a visual field while ignoring other areas. We introduce a computational approach to visual attention by framing it as an adaptive learning process. We devise a control framework based on the consolidated actor critic model in reinforcement learning. Furthermore, we apply the method to face detection and demonstrate that it is accurate. Moreover, the foundations proposed here can be used as a general approach to visual attention and can be extended to other large scale visual search problems.
Lymphocyte populations of Callithrix jacchus marmosets.

Abstract A lymphocyte population of common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus) was identified by rosette formation with African green monkey erythrocytes; the rosette-forming cells appeared to be T lymphocytes, as approximately 62% of circulating lymphocytes and 85% of thymus cells formed rosettes with African green monkey erythrocytes. In addition, common marmoset lymphoid cells carrying T-lymphotropic Herpesvirus saimiri or Herpesvirus ateles formed rosettes with African green monkey erythrocytes and treatment of common marmoset circulating lymphocytes with an anti-T cell serum and complement (C′) eliminated rosette-forming cells. Common marmoset T lymphocytes apparently carry a surface receptor for African green monkey erythrocytes, but unlike humans and other closely related nonhuman primates, T lymphocytes of common marmosets fail to form rosettes with sheep erythrocytes.
Thermofluid-neutronic stability of the rotating, fluidized bed, space-power reactor

Abstract A rotating fluidized bed nuclear reactor has the potential of being a vary attractive option for ultra-high power space systems, especially for propulsion. Research has already examined fuel bed expansion due to variations in state variables, propellant flow rate, and rotational speed, and has also considered problems related to thermal stress. This paper describes the results of a coupled thermofluid-neutronic analysis where perturbations in fuel bed height caused by maneuvering changes in operating conditions alter power levels due to varying absorption of neutrons which would otherwise leak from the system, mainly through the nozzle. This first analysis was not a detailed stability analysis. Rather, it utilized simplified neutronic methods, and was intended to provide an order-of-magnitude assessment of the stability of the reactor with the intention to determine whether or not stability might be a “concept killer”. Stability was compared with a fixed-fuel-bed reactor of identical geometry for three different cases comprising a set of small, medium and large sizes/powers from 250 MW to 5 GW. It was found that power fluctuations in the fluidized bed reactor were larger by 100 db or more than expected in a packed bed reactor of the same geometry, but never resulted in power excursions. Margins to unit gain in some cases, however, were sufficiently small that the approximations in this quasi-2-dimensional model may not be sufficiently accurate to preclude significant excursions.
SUICIDE, RISK, AND INVESTMENT IN THE HEART OF THE AFRICAN MIRACLE

This essay considers new forms of investment, risk, and self-determination, among Botswana's middle and aspirant classes, as well as the loneliness and rage that are at stake when they fail. In it, I use specific instances and more widespread talk of suicides and murder–suicides contemplated, attempted, and accomplished as a vehicle for pondering the social dimensions of investment, and the perils of secrecy and the loneliness that shadow it. Amid a new regime of risk, investment, and self-determination brought by discontinuities of economic boom and widespread AIDS death over the past decade, Batswana are facing new questions about how to invest in relationships, selves, and futures. The essay concludes with a radically different context, a cancer ward, where Batswana seek to exile suicide and nihilism from the beds, minds, and hearts of patients through processes of socialization and paternalism that deny self-determination, while at the same time questing for and demanding investment in high-tech biomedicine.
Determining the absolute surface hydrophobicity of microparticulates using thin layer wicking.

Surface hydrophobicity is an important factor in the transport of microparticulates (MPs) across biological barriers. We have previously shown in our laboratory that the surface properties of polystyrene MPs influence the diffusion and transport through gastrointestinal (GI) mucus and mucin. Unfortunately, most currently used methods for evaluating the surface hydrophobicity of MPs involve a relative measurement resulting in a rank order rather than an absolute hydrophobicity value. Obtaining an absolute assessment of hydrophobicity is necessary in order to obtain meaningful comparisons and correlations across laboratories, polymers, methods of fabrication, and so on. A modified thin layer wicking (TLW) technique was developed and validated to allow for the determination of absolute surface hydrophobicity of intact MPs. The TLW method was validated by constructing a standard curve and comparing the rate of solvent rise through MPs dried on microscope slides to the known contact angle of PLGA polymers. MPs with surface contact angles ranging between 67.04° and 90.18° were evaluated using the TLW technique. The modified TLW technique was also successfully validated using surface-modified polystyrene and OVA MPs. Based on the results of the current study, the modified TLW technique appears to be a reliable and quantitative method for assessing the surface hydrophobicity of intact MPs.
New Neurons: Extraordinary Evidence or Extraordinary Conclusion?

Gould et al . ([1][1]) reported that in the adult primate new neurons may be added to some neocortical association areas. This remarkable finding explicitly challenges previous work indicating that the production of new neurons in the primate neocortex is limited to the fetal period ([2][2]), and,
Isobaric (vapor+liquid) equilibria for the ternary system of (ethanol+water+1,3-propanediol) and three constituent binary systems at P =101.3kPa

Abstract Isobaric (vapor + liquid) equilibrium (VLE) at P = 101.3 kPa have been measured for the ternary system of (ethanol + water + 1,3-propanediol) and for the corresponding binary systems of (ethanol + water), (ethanol + 1,3-propanediol), and (water + 1,3-propnaediol) using a Hunsmann-type equilibrium still with circulation of both vapor and liquid phases. The ternary mixtures were prepared by mixing ethanol and pure water with three concentrations (10, 30, and 50) wt% of 1,3-propanediol in the overall liquid mixtures in order to study the effect of 1,3-propanediol on the VLE of (ethanol + water). The equilibrium compositions of mixtures were analyzed by gas–liquid chromatography. The relative volatilities of ethanol with respect to water were also determined. The results of the investigation indicate the disappearance of the binary azeotrope between ethanol and water when the concentration of 1,3-propanediol is up to 30 wt%. The liquid activity coefficients were calculated using the modified Raoult’s law. The thermodynamic consistency of the VLE data was performed for the three binary systems using Van Ness direct test. The new binary and ternary VLE data were successfully correlated using the Wilson, NRTL, and UNIQUAC models, for which the binary interaction parameters are reported.
Roller-style electrostatic printing of prepatterned few-layer-graphenes

Electrostatic exfoliation of patterned few-layer-graphenes was demonstrated using a method compatible with high throughput roll-to-roll manufacturing. A patterned graphite template was placed on a roller and used to exfoliate patterned graphene on a planar substrate. The exfoliated graphene features were subsequently characterized by Raman spectroscopy. In comparison with previously demonstrated planar electrostatic exfoliation approach, the roller-style method can create a narrower distribution of thickness of few-layer-graphenes, which is attributed to the combinational action of tangential rolling friction and electrostatic forces. This roller-style electrostatic printing technique could be applied for roll-to-roll manufacturing of graphene-based devices in the future.
Numerical simulation and experimental investigation of gas–powder flow from radially symmetrical nozzles in laser-based direct metal deposition

Abstract Laser-based direct metal deposition (DMD) is a solid freeform fabrication process capable of fabricating fully dense and metallurgically sound parts. The process has been greatly enhanced toward multi-directional deposition by the use of discontinuous radially symmetrical powder nozzles to supply the build material. Since many operational parameters depend on the gas–powder stream characteristics between the nozzles and the deposition point, an extensive understanding of the gas–powder flow is necessary. Three-dimensional (3D) multi-phase gas–powder flow structures of radially symmetrical nozzles are modeled using computational fluid dynamics methods. The obtained results are in good agreement with the experimental ones, and they provide a good insight into the process phenomena.
Minor Morphologic Abnormalities of Adrenal Glands at CT: Prognostic Importance in Patients with Lung Cancer

PURPOSE: To determine the prognostic importance of minor morphologic abnormalities of the adrenal glands at computed tomography (CT) in patients with lung cancer. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was approved by the committee on human research; written informed consent was not required. The authors retrospectively identified 197 patients with lung cancer who underwent serial chest or abdominal CT and did not have a focal adrenal mass at baseline CT. Two readers independently classified the morphologic features of each adrenal gland as normal, smoothly enlarged, or nodular at initial CT examination. They separately recorded the presence or absence of metastases to the adrenal glands (ie, any new focal adrenal mass) at final CT examination; a third independent reader arbitrated when interpretations were discordant (n = 11). Multivariate Cox proportional hazard models were used to assess for associations between baseline adrenal gland morphologic features and subsequent development of adrenal metastases. RES...
Alpha Synuclein Inhibits Snare Mediated Vesicle Fusion

Aggregation of the neuronal protein alpha-synuclein (αS) is implicated in the pathology of Parkinson's disease (PD). The causative role of αS in disease is further supported by rare mutations in or gene multiplications of αS that are responsible for early-onset PD. While the link between αS and PD is well established, the physiological roles of αS are not well-understood. A likely function has been suggested in regulation of synaptic vesicle fusion and maintenance of the synaptic vesicle pool, with recent work indicating a direct interaction between αS and SNARE proteins. Here, using an in vitro fusion assay, we investigate the mechanism by which αS modulates SNARE-mediated vesicle fusion. We find that αS inhibits fusion in a manner that correlates with its affinity for the lipid bilayer. Moreover, we do not detect interactions between αS and SNARE proteins in a variety of assays. Although we cannot completely eliminate the possibility of weak or transient interactions with SNARE proteins, our results suggest that αS inhibits fusion through its interaction with the lipid membrane rather than SNARE components.
Non-associated plastic flow in single crystals

Abstract P lastic flow by shears on well-defined crystallographic planes is associated, most often, with the Schmid yield criterion which is expressed in terms of the resolved shear stress on those planes in the direction of the shears. In this case, for time-independent (low-temperature) flow, the yield function for each slip system is also the potential for the shear and. therefore, flow is said to be associated with that function (i.e. normality). Qin and Bassani (1992. J. Mech. Phys. Solids40, 813) propose a yield criterion to accommodate various non-Schmid behaviors. In this paper it is shown that this criterion leads to a nonassociated flow rule (i.e. non-normality). Time-independent constitutive relations are derived for single crystals undergoing non-associative plastic flow. The tension-compression asymmetry predicted for initial yield persists in strain hardening as well. Strain localization in the form of shear bands is investigated for both a single-slip and a symmetric double slip model. It is shown that non-Schmid effects increase the tendency for localization.
Investigation of Hygroscopic Swelling of Polymers in Freezing Temperature

It is well known that coefficients of thermal expansion and hygroscopic swelling vary with temperature. The most significant change takes place at the glass transition temperature of a polymer. The phenomenon of temperature-dependent CHS has been studied by several authors [1, 2] in polymers and polymer-based composites mainly at room temperature and above. However, effect of freezing temperature on hygroscopic swelling of polymers has not been demonstrated. In this study, the behavior of CHS at and below freezing temperature is investigated. Reported results are obtained using a new CHS measurement technique, the digital image correlation method.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Probabilistic structural dynamics of protein folding

We consider stochastic modeling of protein folding. The protein folding problem requires understanding the characteristics of the folded shape and of the folding process. Recent advances in experimental study of protein folding lead to measurements of mean-square displacements of atoms in proteins, via X-ray diffraction and elastic incoherent neutron scattering. We propose to use techniques from probabilistic structural dynamics in the understanding of statistical characteristics such as mean-square displacements for protein folding. Stationary mean-square displacements of atoms in a protein is expressed in terms of potential energy. Non-stationary mean-square displacements can be obtained by numerically solving stochastic differential equations for the motion of atoms or the associated Fokker-Planck equations.
Renal function following combination chemotherapy with ifosfamide and cisplatin in patients with osteogenic sarcoma.

Background Ifosfamide and cisplatin are active agents that are currently used in the treatment of osteosarcoma. Nephrotoxicity has been reported following their use in combination and alone. This study evaluates renal function in children and adolescents (median age 16 years) at least 3 months following completion of a chemotherapy regimen which included 54 g/m2 ifosfamide, 360 mg/m2 cisplatin, doxorubicin, and high-dose methotrexate. Procedure Mean glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was determined by inulin or iothalamate clearance; proximal tubular function was evaluated by measuring fractional excretion of glucose (FEglu), tubular maximum phosphate reabsorption per GFR (TMP/GFR), FE of urate, and 24-hour amino acid excretion. Distal tubular function was evaluated by 24-hour urinary calcium, FE of magnesium, and urinary osmolality after water deprivation. Twenty-four-hour urinary protein excretion was measured. Results The mean GFR was 97 ml/min/l.73 m2. Although 10 of 24 patients had GFRs lower than normal, the lowest value was only 22% below the lower limit of normal and would not account for any clinical compromise. Proximal tubular function evaluation revealed normal FEglu, normal mean TMP/GFR values, and high FE of urate (15.7%). Two of twenty-four patients were shown to have mild generalized aminoaciduria. Distal tubular function evaluation showed normal 24-hour urinary calcium levels (mean 3.4 mg/kg) and FE of magnesium as well as normal urinary osmolality. Twenty-four-hour urinary protein excretion was normal in all patients. Conclusions The lack of clinically significant renal abnormalities observed in patients who received combination chemotherapy with ifosfamide and cisplatin for osteosarcoma is encouraging for future osteosarcoma protocol development. Med. Pediatr. Oncol. 32:93–96, 1999. © 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Characterisation of solid deposits from the thermal-oxidative degradation of jet fuel

A sample of a commercial aviation fuel, Jet A, was heated to 260°C in a flow reactor over Stainless Steel 316 foils to create conditions similar to those that occur at the tip of fuel injectors in jet engines. The degradation of this predominantly aliphatic fuel under oxidative conditions deposited carbonaceous solids that consist of condensed polyaromatic hydrocarbons. Electron microscopy and diffraction analyses showed that the structure of these deposits is comparable to certain types of diesel soot. The formation of solids under oxidative conditions led to the incorporation of oxygen functional groups on the external and internal surface area of the deposits.
Quasi-Phase-Matched Interactions In Lithium Niobate

Phase-matching nonlinear interactions by periodic variations in the nonlinear susceptibility, quasi-phase-matching, offers advantages in accessible tuning range and in choice of nonlinear coefficients over the conventional birefringent technique. Periodically reversed ferroelectric domains can be used to create monolithic structures with the necessary high-spatial-frequency variations in the nonlinear susceptibility. We present two techniques for the fabrication of periodically-poled lithium niobate crystals, and results for bulk and guided-wave second harmonic generation of blue and green light.
Cost-Effectiveness of Sacral Neuromodulation Versus Intravesical Botulinum A Toxin for Treatment of Refractory Urge Incontinence

Purpose: We determined the cost-effectiveness of sacral neuromodulation vs intravesical botulinum toxin A for the treatment of refractory urge incontinence.Materials and Methods: We developed a Markov decision model using a societal perspective to compare costs (2008 U.S. dollars) and effectiveness (quality adjusted life-years) of sacral nerve stimulation and botulinum toxin A. Our primary outcome was the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio, which was defined as (sacral nerve stimulation cost − botulinum toxin A cost)/(sacral nerve stimulation quality adjusted life-year − botulinum toxin A quality adjusted life-year). Sensitivity analyses were performed to assess the impact of varying efficacy, costs and adverse event rates over the range of reported values.Results: In the base case scenario sacral nerve stimulation was more expensive ($15,743 vs $4,392) and more effective (1.73 vs 1.63 quality adjusted life-years) than botulinum toxin A during a 2-year period. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio wa...
Constitutive Differences Between Natural and Artificial Container Mosquito Habitats: Vector Communities, Resources, Microorganisms, and Habitat Parameters

Aquatic containers, including tree holes and vehicle tires, harbor a diverse assemblage of mosquitoes capable of vectoring important diseases. Many studies have examined containers as a mosquito breeding site, although no data exist that have simultaneously compared mosquito communities between tree holes and tires, and few have quantified differences in environmental factors or food resources that may be important for explaining population or community differences. At two times (early and late summer 2009) we sampled two tire and two tree hole sites in south-central Mississippi, and for each container we enumerated mosquito larvae and measured several environmental parameters (canopy cover, water volume, and detritus), and biomass and productivity of fungi and bacteria, and species richness and abundance of protozoans. Tree holes held less water but were more shaded compared with tires; however, after correcting for volume differences, tree holes contained more detritus and were higher in some microorganism measures (protozoan richness, bacterial productivity in the water column). Based on community dissimilarity analysis of mosquitoes, strong differences existed between container types and sampling period; Aedes albopictus (Skuse) and Culex quinquefasciatus (Say) were dominant in tires, whereas Ae. triseriatus (Say) and Orthopodomyia signifera (Coquillett) were dominant in tree holes. This study also reports the use of tires by the invasive mosquito Cx. coronator (Dyar and Knab). Tree holes supported a higher density of larvae but fewer species than tires, though there was variation across time. Our work illustrates that detrital inputs and some microorganisms differ in fundamental ways between tires and tree holes, and because of compositional differences in mosquito communities, these small aquatic habitats cannot be considered to be homogeneous mosquito habitats.
Enteral autonomy in pediatric short bowel syndrome: predictive factors one year after diagnosis.

Abstract Purpose This study examined predictors of achieving enteral autonomy among pediatric short bowel syndrome (SBS) patients remaining on parenteral nutrition (PN) beyond one year. Methods A retrospective single-institution study of 171 pediatric SBS patients (defined as ≥50% small bowel (SB) loss or ≥60days of PN with onset before 6weeks of age) was performed. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards analysis was conducted, with subgroup analysis of patients on PN for ≥1year (n=59). Primary outcome was successful wean from PN. Results Over a follow-up of 4.1±4.8years, 64.3% of children weaned from PN. Mortality was 15.2%. Presence of ≥10% expected SB length (hazard ratio [HR] 6.48, p=0.002) or an ileocecal valve (ICV; HR, 2.86, p Conclusions SBS children on PN ≥1year continue to wean from PN, and those with ≥10% of predicted SB length, NEC, or atresia are more likely to do so. These findings may help direct management and advice for these challenging patients.
Factors Influencing the Metabolic Activity of Bovine Spermatozoa. V. Season

Summary The aerobic metabolic activity (oxygen consumption, fructose utilization, and lactic acid accumulation) of semen and washed spermatozoa from collections made from eight bulls during two seasons (winter and summer) and 2 yr. was determined in two diluents and three treatments. The treatments included the suspension of washed cells in diluent containing fructose or diluted seminal plasma from the same ejaculate or that from the same bull stored from the previous season. Summer-collected cells lived through the 4-hr. incubation at 37° C. better, consumed more oxygen, and accumulated less lactic acid whether incubated as semen or as washed cells resuspended in fructose or in their own diluted seminal plasma. Diluted seminal plasma of the previous season reversed some of these trends. The primary though not exclusive seasonal effect in metabolism resides in the cells.
Development of pit‐defect free smooth a‐plane GaN surfaces on r‐plane sapphire using metalorganic chemical vapor deposition: A growth mechanism study

We report on development of smooth a-plane GaN without the use of lateral epitaxial overgrowth. Effects of GaN buffer growth conditions, namely V/III ratio and temperature, on the quality of high temperature a-plane GaN layers on r-plane sapphire substrates have been studied. Optimization of the buffer growth conditions resulted in surfaces of 2 µm thick overgrown a-plane GaN at high temperature with less pit defects, the presence of which is reported as a common occurrence for a-plane GaN grown on r-plane sapphire. The surfaces were smooth with RMS roughness of less than 2 nm for a 5 µm x 5 µm AFM scanning area. We will present the effect of V/III ratio in low temperature buffer growth and qualitative growth mechanism model that has been constructed based on the structural and morphological study of the layers grown at various stages. Layers were characterized using AFM, SEM, and HRXRD. (© 2006 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Application of the linear-quadratic-Gaussian tracking problem to production planning and control systems

The application of the linear-quadratic-Gaussian (LQG) tracking problem to production planning and control systems is discussed. Decision concepts are developed from an examination of the structure of a generalized production control system. The decision problem is modeled as a LQG tracking problem operating in the presence of persistent disturbances--the disturbances representing the demand for finished goods. The development of a solution leads to a linear, time-invariant decision policy which is a decomposition of the decision input into separate and nearly independent decision tasks. Sufficient conditions for the existence of a solution are presented. An open-loop, closed-loop decision system is presented to show how the decision model can be used to analyze relationships among system structure, performance, and information requirements.
Conjectured statistics for the q,t-Catalan numbers

Abstract We introduce the distribution function F n ( q , t ) of a pair of statistics on Catalan words and conjecture F n ( q , t ) equals Garsia and Haiman's q , t -Catalan sequence C n ( q , t ), which they defined as a sum of rational functions. We show that F n , s ( q , t ), defined as the sum of these statistics restricted to Catalan words ending in s ones, satisfies a recurrence relation. As a corollary we are able to verify that F n ( q , t )= C n ( q , t ) when t =1/ q . We also show the partial symmetry relation F n ( q ,1)= F n (1, q ). By modifying a proof of Haiman of a q -Lagrange inversion formula based on results of Garsia and Gessel, we obtain a q -analogue of the general Lagrange inversion formula which involves Catalan words grouped according to the number of ones at the end of the word.
A venture capitalist's advice for successful strategic alliances

Do's and Don'ts for managing strategic alliances—cooperative agreements that don't create a new corporate entity.
Amplifier performance of the NRL ubitron

Abstract Operation of the Naval Research Laboratory K u -band ubitron has successfully demonstrated a high power/efficiency and broad bandwidth. This device employs a helical wiggler/axial guide field configuration. Performance levels achieved at 16.6 GHz can be summarized as a peak power of 4.2 MW for an efficiency of 17.5% and a gain of 29 dB, and an instantaneous bandwidth of 22%. Substantial beam loss was observed. The specific loss rate was correlated with output power, and reached a level of 50% beam loss at the 4.2 MW level. Nonlinear simulations of the experiment are in good agreement with these observations.
Is Androgynous Sex Role Related to Cigarette Smoking in Adolescents?1

The initiation of potentially health-threatening behaviors by adolescents, despite their realization of the dangers of such behavior, has been attributed to various social influences (e.g., peer pressure). It appears that some adolescents may be more likely to resist such influences than others. The present exploratory investigation tests the hypothesis that adolescents characterized as androgynous in “sex role” terms would be less vulnerable to social influences to engage in one such health-threatening behavior, smoking. Within a sample of seventh graders (n= 3,317), sex role identity was measured by relevant items from the Personal Attributes Questionnaire (PAQ) as was frequency of cigarette smoking. Results indicate that “androgynous” subjects, as hypothesized, may smoke less than those characterized by other sex roles. Results are discussed in the context of our recommendations for more comprehensive testing of the relation between sex role and smoking.
Diode Rectifying Circuits with Capacitance Filters

This paper presents the results of an investigation of the half wave and full wave rectifier circuits with a simple capacitance filter and using either high vacuum or mercury vapor tubes. In the fore part of the paper an equivalent circuit is set up such that when the tube is conducting, a mercury vapor tube is represented by a constant voltage drop or a high vacuum tube by a constant resistance. A detailed analysis of this circuit is carried through in the appendix, and it is found that the output characteristics depend upon three parameters. The results of this analysis are presented in the form of curves giving the angles at which the tubes begin conducting and cease conducting and also the d-c output voltage. For the more special case of no tube drop, curves of ripple voltage, maximum tube current, and tube inverse peak voltage are presented. The comparisons made between the calculated results and test results show very satisfactory agreements. It is shown that the curves given in the paper may be used in the design of rectifier circuits with capacitance filters.
Rawlsian “Neutrality” and Enhancement Technologies

Jason Basl (2010) refocuses the discussions of the morality of enhancement technologies by emphasizing the public policy aspect of any restrictions we might place on their use. Any laws that we mig...
The biological basis of autism

Stimulated by recent advances in genetics and neurobiology, there has been a rapid expansion of studies aimed at elucidating the biological basis of autism. Molecular genetic studies looking for susceptibility genes in this disorder are currently being conducted, and neuroimaging studies attempting to identify characteristic structural and functional brain abnormalities are under way. The results of these studies are likely to have a significant impact on our understanding of the pathogenesis of autism.
Mesoporous silica/nanoparticle composites prepared by 3-D replication of highly filled block copolymer templates

The incorporation of iron platinum (FePt) nanoparticles (NPs) within the walls of mesoporous silica was achieved at high NP loadings using highly filled amphiphilic poly(ethylene oxide-b-propylene oxide-b-ethylene oxide) (Pluronic®) copolymer templates prepared by exploiting selective hydrogen bonding between the pre-synthesized nanoparticles and the hydrophilic portion of the block copolymer. The mesoporous silica/NP composites were then synthesized by means of phase selective condensation of tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS) within the NP loaded block copolymer templates dilated with supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2) followed by calcination. The resulting mesoporous silica composites were prepared at nanoparticle loadings as high as 25 wt% relative to the template (15 wt% relative to mesoporous silica) and were characterized by electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The method described in this report is general and may be applied to a variety of NPs for encapsulation within the pore walls of mesoporous silica.
Commodified language in Chinatown: A contextualized approach to linguistic landscape1

In Washington DC's newly gentrified Chinatown, recent commercial establishments, primarily non-Chinese owned chains, use Chinese-language signs as design features targeted towards people who neither read nor have ethnic ties to Chinese. Using this neighborhood as a case study, we advocate a contextualized, historicized and spatialized perspective on linguistic landscape which highlights that landscapes are not simply physical spaces but are instead ideologically charged constructions. Drawing from cultural geography and urban studies, we analyze how written language interacts with other features of the built environment to construct commodified urban places. Taking a contextually informed, qualitative approach, we link micro-level analysis of individual Chinese-language signs to the specific local socio-geographic processes of spatial commodification. Such a qualitative approach to linguistic landscape, which emphasizes the importance of sociohistorical context, and which includes analysis of signage use, function, and history, leads to a greater understanding of the larger sociopolitical meanings of linguistic landscapes.
Nitrogen Mass Balance of a Tile-drained Agricultural Watershed in East-Central Illinois

Simple nitrogen (N) input/output balance calculations in agricultural systems are used to evaluate performance of nutrient management; however, they generally rely on extensive assumptions that do not consider leaching, denitrification, or annual depletion of soil N. We constructed a relatively complete N mass balance for the Big Ditch watershed, an extensively tile-drained agricultural watershed in east-central Illinois. We conducted direct measurements of a wide range of N pools and fluxes for a 2-yr period, including soil N mineralization, soybean N(2) fixation, tile and river N loads, and ground water and in-stream denitrification. Fertilizer N inputs were from a survey of the watershed and yield data from county estimates that were combined with estimated protein contents to obtain grain N. By using maize fertilizer recovery and soybean N(2) fixation to estimate total grain N derived from soil, we calculated the explicit change in soil N storage each year. Overall, fertilizer N and soybean N(2) fixation dominated inputs, and total grain export dominated outputs. Precipitation during 2001 was below average (78 cm), whereas precipitation in 2002 exceeded the 30-yr average of 97 cm; monthly rainfall was above average in April, May, and June of 2002, which flooded fields and produced large tile and riverine N loads. In 2001, watershed inputs were greater than outputs, suggesting that carryover of N to the subsequent year may occur. In 2002, total inputs were less than outputs due to large leaching losses and likely substantial field denitrification. The explicit change in soil storage (67 kg N ha(-1)) offsets this balance shortfall. Although 2002 was climatically unusual, with current production trends of greater maize grain yields with less fertilizer N, soil N depletion is likely to occur in maize/soybean rotations, especially in years with above-average precipitation or extremely wet spring periods.
Source Effects and Plausibility Judgments When Reading About Climate Change

Gaps between what scientists and laypeople find plausible may act as a barrier to learning complex and/or controversial socioscientific concepts. For example, individuals may consider scientific explanations that human activities are causing current climate change as implausible. This plausibility judgment may be due—in part—to individuals' perceptions about the information source and the certainty associated with the message claim. In this study, we examined the relationship among source credibility (trustworthiness and expertise), perceptions of certainty in message claims, and plausibility perceptions about climate change. Our analysis revealed that trustworthiness and message certainty perceptions were significant predictors of plausibility perceptions, above and beyond knowledge about human-induced climate change. These findings suggest that perceptions about information sources may have an important influence on plausibility judgments and, consequently, on learning about controversial and/or abstrac...
Comparative MF radar and Na lidar measurements of fluctuating winds in the mesopause region

Na lidar and MF radar observations of the mesopause region (≈ 80–105 km) were made over a 2-year period at Urbana, Illinois (40°N, 88°W). The Na lidar data yielded both temperature profiles and Na density profiles which are used to derive independent estimates of the rms horizontal winds. Estimates of the rms horizontal winds from concurrent radar and lidar measurements are obtained on 37 nights, totaling 263 hours. These three sets of rms wind estimates are processed in a common fashion. This analysis yields vertical profiles of the rms winds that do not grow exponentially with altitude, indicating that the gravity wave field is saturated throughout this altitude region. All three techniques reveal an annual maximum in the summer rms horizontal winds. However, the Na density estimates also have a semiannual variation with a second maximum in winter, which was not produced by the other techniques. Estimates of the rms winds derived from lidar Na density and Na temperature data are comparable in magnitude. The radar estimates are systematically larger than both sets of lidar estimates at higher altitudes. The discrepancy between the radar and lidar estimates is found to be greatest at those altitudes where the saturation is most pronounced.
A framework for developing, implementing, and evaluating a cancer survivorship curriculum for medical students.

BACKGROUND Cancer survivorship care is not adequately addressed in current medical school curricula.
Constant stress irradiation-induced compressive creep of graphite at high fluences

One needle coke graphite and two isotropic graphites were irradiated under compressive stresses of 1000, 2000, and 3000 psi at 550 and 800°C to 1·1 × 1021n/cm2. At 550°C, the creep is linear with fluence and occurs at approximately constant volume for all three graphites. At 800°C, the creep is linear with fluence initially, but at 2000 and 3000 psi for the two isotropic graphites, the creep decreases markedly and even becomes negative at the highest fluences. Creep occurs with a small volume decrease at 800°C for all three graphites.
Absence of anomaly in Witten-type compactification

Abstract In the case of Witten-type compactification, we provide a general proof of the conjecture that any anomaly-free theory will remain anomaly free in compactified dimensions.
Quantification of Oxidizer Systems for Porous Silicon Combustion

We present the first quantitative assessment of combustion dynamics of on-chip porous silicon (PS) energetic material using sulfur and nitrate-based oxidizers with potential for improved moisture stability and/or minimized environmental impact compared to sodium perchlorate (NaClO 4 ). Material properties of the PS films were characterized using gas adsorption porosimetry, and profilometry to calculate specific surface area, porosity and etch depth. The PS/sulfur energetic composite was formed using three pore loading techniques, where the combustion speeds ranged from 2.9 – 290 m/s. The nitrate-based oxidizers were solution-deposited using different compatible solvents, and depending on the metal-nitrate yielded combustion speeds of 3.1 – 21 m/s. Additionally, the combustion enthalpies from bomb calorimetry experiments are reported for the alternative PS/oxidizer systems in both nitrogen and oxygen environments.
Less invasive versus conventional double-valve surgery: A propensity-matched comparison

Objective Less invasive approaches to double-valve surgery are used for improved cosmesis; however, few studies have investigated their effect on outcome. We sought to compare these less invasive approaches with conventional full sternotomy. Methods From January 1995 to January 2004, 114 patients underwent primary double-valve surgery through a less invasive approach and 381 through conventional sternotomy. Because there were important differences in the patients' characteristics, a propensity score based on 42 factors was used to obtain 81 well-matched patient pairs (71% of possible matches) for comparison of in-hospital morbidity and mortality, mediastinal drainage, transfusion requirements, pulmonary function, pain, and long-term survival. Results In-hospital mortality was similar for propensity-matched patients: 6.2% (5/81) for those undergoing less invasive surgery and 2.5% (2/81) for those undergoing conventional sternotomy ( P > .4). Occurrences of stroke ( P > .9), renal failure ( P = .4), myocardial infarction ( P > .9), and infection ( P > .9) were also similar. However, 24-hour mediastinal drainage was less after less invasive surgery (median, 250 vs 400 mL; P .0001), but a similar proportion of patients received transfusions (28% vs 40%, P = .2). An equivalent proportion of patients were extubated in the operating room (7.7% vs 7.0%, P > . 9), and median hours to extubation were similar (5.0 vs 6.5 hours). Pain scores were equivalent ( P > .3). Long-term survival was also similar (82% and 76% at 10 years, P = .07). Conclusions Within that portion of the spectrum of double-valve surgery in which propensity matching was possible, less invasive surgery had cosmetic and blood product use advantages over conventional surgery and no apparent detriments.
Fearless Dominance and Self-Centered Impulsivity Interact to Predict Predatory Aggression among Forensic Psychiatric Inpatients

Recent research has begun to investigate the relationship between the Psychopathic Personality Inventory-Revised (PPI-R; Lilienfeld & Widows, 2005) and its primary subscales, Fearless Dominance (FD) and Self-Centered Impulsivity (SCI), and violent behavior. In this follow-up study, we examined the PPI-R subscales’ prospective relationship with predatory, impulsive and psychosis-motivated aggression in an inpatient forensic psychiatric facility (N = 200). FD and SCI each modestly predicted predatory aggression, and SCI was also modestly associated with any form of aggression. Neither subscale predicted impulsive or psychotic aggression. The statistical interaction between FD and SCI significantly improved the prediction of predatory aggression beyond the individual subscales, indicating that those high on both constructs were particularly at risk to engage in such conduct. Moreover, this interactive effect continued to predict predatory aggression even after controlling for the predictive utility of the Ps...
Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Substance Abusers Adapted for Persons Living with HIV/AIDS with Substance Use Diagnoses and Borderline Personality Disorder.

The primary aim of this article is to describe modifications made to Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for a predominantly ethnic minority population of persons living with HIV/AIDS with substance-use diagnoses and borderline personality disorder (BPD) or three features of BPD plus suicidality (i.e., the triply diagnosed). Despite the myriad psychosocial needs of the triply diagnosed, there remains a dearth of treatments available that can adequately address the challenges presented by these individuals' dual diagnostic and HIV status. The key modifications we developed and describe in this article are (a) modification of Stage One, Target 2, behaviors to include HIV treatment adherence targets, (b) new and modified standard skills that address needs of the triply diagnosed client including methadone clinic-relevant skills and adherence skills; (c) expansion of the role of the therapist consultation group to include the DBT Therapist Path to HIV/AIDS Competence and HIV-related psychotherapy themes; and (d) use of a Consumer Advisory Board to provide consultation and feedback on treatment adaptations. A case study is presented that illustrates these modifications.
decapentaplegicOverexpression AffectsDrosophilaWing and Leg Imaginal Disc Development andwinglessExpression

We have used the GAL4-UAS expression system to increase the level of expression of theDrosophilagenedecapentaplegic(dpp) in a pattern approximating its normal pattern in leg and wing imaginal discs. Intermediate increases ofdppexpression have little effect in wing discs but high levels ofdppoverexpression lead to reduction of the scutellum and duplication of posterior wing structures. In leg discs intermediate increases cause supernumerary outgrowths of ventral leg structures in the anterior–ventral region. Greater increases ofdppexpression cause the loss of ventral leg structures with the concomitant fusion of left and right dorsal forelegs. The defects observed in both legs and wings appear to arise through dose-dependent effects ofdpponwingless(wg) expression. A high level ofdppoverexpression in the wing disc causes reduction ofwgexpression in the presumptive scutellar region, consistent with the subsequent reduction of the scutellum. An intermediate increase ofdppexpression in leg discs induces the expansion ofwgexpression into the ventral outgrowths. At higherdppexpression levels, ventralwgexpression in leg discs is eliminated, consistent with the loss of ventral leg cuticle. In the leg disc end knob and in the wing margin primordium, wherewganddppcooperate in producing distal outgrowth,dppoverexpression has no detectable effect either on patterning or onwgexpression. We propose that a critical role fordppin other regions of the leg and wing discs is to reduce or block the expression ofwg.This role ofdppis supported by the observation that ectopicwgexpression is detected in imaginal discs wheredppsignaling is compromised by lowering the activity of one of its receptors,tkv.This antagonism betweendppandwgexpression may be critical to assigning only one disc region as the distal organizer.
Geochemical evidence for the Trindade hotspot trace: Columbia seamount ankaramite

Abstract The Columbia seamount ∼825 km offshore from Brazil at ∼20°S lies on the east–west ‘trace’ of the Trindade hotspot. Continental and oceanic magmatism believed to have originated with this hotspot is alkalic and SiO2-undersaturated, and dates from ∼85 Ma in southern Brazil to
6β-Hydroxy-3-epidigitoxigenin—The major metabolite of digitoxigenin by rabbit liver homogenates

Abstract 3 H-digitoxigenin was metabolized in vitro by rabbit liver homogenates. The major metabolite resulting from this biotransformation was isolated and identified as 6β- hydroxy-3-epidigitoxigenin. Approximately 50 per cent of the substrate was converted to this metabolite after 1 hr of incubation. The previously identified 5β-hydroxydigitoxigenin. 3-dehydrodigitoxigenin and 3-epidigitoxigenin were also present as metabolites. This is the first confirmation of the hydroxylation of digitoxigenin at C 6 .
Semantic flexibility and referential specificity of concrete nouns

Abstract Although many properties may be ascribed to the referent of a concrete noun, a sentence context may emphasize only some of these properties. Three experiments investigated whether unemphasized properties of an object are, nonetheless, included within the representation of a sentence that mentions the object. Results from a cued-recall task, a semantic judgment task, and a semantic priming (lexical decision) task suggested that properties which are central to the typical use of an object tend to be instantiated in the representation of sentence that mentions the object, independent of sentence emphasis. However, properties that are peripheral to the object's typical use tend to be instantiated only when emphasized by the sentence. These results suggest that the interpretation of a concrete noun is a function of both the sentence context and the central properties of the referent denoted by the noun.
Kinetics of reentry of polyoma progeny form I DNA into replication as a function of time postinfection

Abstract The fate of polyoma progeny Form I molecules was monitored at different times in the replication cycle. Molecules labeled by a 20-min pulse of [ 3 H]thymidine at 20 hr postinfection (p.i.) reentered replication at a greater rate than molecules labeled at 28 hr p.i. In addition, a greater proportion of molecules labeled at 20 hr p.i. reentered replication than at 28 hr p.i. However, regardless of the time postinfection examined, progeny molecules appeared to be removed from the replicating pool approximately 3 hr following their initial synthesis. When replication was monitored by a continuous label of [ 14 C]BUdR, labeled molecules substituted with BUdR in both strands accumulated continuously for at least 6 hr.
Hierarchical Multi-Affine (HMA) algorithm for fast and accurate feature matching in minimally-invasive surgical images

The ability to find similar features between two distinct views of the same scene (feature matching) is essential in robotics and computer vision. We are here interested in the robotic-assisted minimally-invasive surgical scenario, for which feature matching can be used to recover tracked features after prolonged occlusions, strong illumination changes, image clutter, or fast camera motion. In this paper we introduce the Hierarchical Multi-Affine (HMA) feature-matching algorithm, which improves over the existing methods by recovering a larger number of image correspondences, at an increased speed and with a higher accuracy and robustness. Extensive experimental results are presented that compare HMA against existing methods, over a large surgical-image dataset and over several types of detected features.