cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The impact of combined trauma and burns on patient mortality.

BACKGROUND: Combined trauma and burn injuries are uncommon and seldom studied. There is a presumption that these patients fare worse than their trauma- and burn-only counterparts, but the mortality risk has not been quantified. METHODS: This was a retrospective cohort study using the 1994 to 2002 National Trauma Data Bank. Trauma- and burn-only patients were categorized according to Injury Severity Score (ISS) and burn severity (percentage body surface area burned [BSAB]), respectively, and combined trauma-burn patients were similarly categorized. Risk ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated comparing combined trauma-burn mortality to trauma-only and burn-only patients by corresponding trauma or burn severity. RRs were adjusted for age, gender, and ISS or burn severity. RESULTS: Compared with minor trauma-only patients (ISS of 1-15), patients with minor trauma, when combined with burn injury, had significantly increased mortality (RR, 4.04; 95% CI, 3.51-4.66). Similarly, relative to minor burn-only patients (BSAB of 1-25%), combined trauma-burn patients with minor burns (RR, 5.00; 95% CI, 3.54-7.06) had significantly increased mortality. For combined trauma-burn patients with more severe burns or trauma, small but significant increased mortality risks were seen relative to major trauma-only patients (ISS of 26+; RR, 1.26; 95% CI, 1.05-1.51) and major burn-only patients (BSAB of 76+; RR, 1.45; 95% CI, 1.15-1.82). CONCLUSION: The large increased risk of death for those with combined minor injuries is of clinical interest because the majority of combined patients fall into this category. Future research should characterize specific causes and types of injury of increased mortality in the patient with combined injuries. Language: en
Self-consistent field study of copolymer adsorption at planar chemically ‘rough’ surfaces: an interplay between the substrate chemical pattern and copolymer sequence distribution

Abstract We extend the one-dimensional self-consistent field (SCF) scheme of Scheutjens-Fleer to three dimensions (3D) and use this three-dimensional SCF model to investigate the adsorption of A–B copolymers from A homopolymer matrices onto planar substrates composed of two chemically distinct sites (C and D), one of which has a preferential affinity for the B segments of the copolymer. To address the role of the substrate chemical heterogeneity on copolymer adsorption, we keep the fraction of the C and D sites constant (50% of each site) and vary their spatial distribution on the substrate. The interplay between the surface chemical heterogeneity and the chain microstructure is examined for A–B diblock, A–B–A, B–A–B triblock, and A–alt–B alternating copolymers. Our results indicate that regardless of the type of the surface chemical heterogeneity, the A–B diblock and triblock copolymers adopt ‘brush’-like and ‘bridge’-like structures, respectively, with the B block being anchored to the substrate. In contrast, the A–alt–B macromolecule is found to be ‘zipped’ to the substrate. For a fixed chemical potential of the copolymer in the A–B/A mixture and the surface adsorption energy of B, the amount of the adsorbed copolymer depends on: (1) the number of the B segments; (2) the copolymer microstructure; and (3) the distribution of the C and D regions on the substrate. Three-dimensional maps of the spatial density of copolymer segments provide insight into copolymer conformation at the mixture/substrate interface and also the ability of the copolymer to recognize and mimic the substrate pattern. In addition, we discuss the circumstances under which the substrate pattern is transferred deep inside the A–B/A mixture and those, which lead to strong damping of the substrate motif as one moves away from the substrate/mixture interface.
Breaking out of the circle: an analysis of the gendered communication behaviors of Hillary Clinton and Sarah Netanyahu

Abstract Among the many challenges first ladies face are a variety of sex-role stereotypes. These sex-role constraints impact the office from such sources as the press and public. This article assesses these stereotypes and the prevalence of other cultural expectations on the first ladyships of the United States and Israel by comparing the experiences of Hillary Rodham Clinton and Sarah Netanyahu.
TU‐D‐J‐6B‐02: Optical Tomographic Imaging of Small Animals

Diffuse optical tomography (DOT) is emerging as a viable new biomedical imaging modality. Using visible and near-infrared light, in the range of 500 to 900 nm, this technique can probe absorption as well as scattering properties of biological tissues. The main applications are currently in brain, breast, limb, and join imaging; however, the area of optical tomographic imaging of small animals is attracting increasing attention. This interest is mainly fueled by recent advances in transgenic manipulation of small animals that has led to many models of human diseases. Using these models it is possible to link specific genes, proteins, and enzymes to molecular, and cellular processes that underlie various disorders. In addition, the advent of novel biochemical markers that are sensitive to molecular processes, defect genes, and cell receptors, makes it for the first time possible to detect diseases on a molecular level long before actual phenotypical symptoms appear. Small animal optical tomography has several advantages over other, more traditional, imaging modalities. For example, optical markers emit low-energy near-infrared photons that are less harmful than more energetic gamma rays emitted from radioactive markers (used in SPECT and PET, for instance). This simplifies synthesis procedures and experimental designs and will be of particular importance for future applications in humans. Furthermore, optical methods typically offer higher sensitivity (as compared to MRI and SPECT) and are relatively inexpensive (as compared to PET, SPECT, and MRI). In this paper we will review underlying principles in optical tomographic imaging as they apply to studies involving small animals. We will describe the basic contrast mechanism involved in imaging of endogenous as well exogenous contrast agents. In addition we will discuss specific features and advantages of different types of optical instrumentation currently available, such as steady-state, frequency-domain, and time-resolved imaging systems. Furthermore we will describe in detail the structure of commonly used image reconstruction schemes and algorithms and point to still existing challenges. Finally, we will provide an overview of the most recent literature in optical small animal imaging, specifically in the areas of blood oximetry, fluorescence and bioluminescence imaging. Educational Objectives: 1. To understand significance, potential, and limits of optical tomographic small animal imaging. 2. To understand the contrast mechanisms that underlie optical tomographic imaging. 3. To understand the basic measurement instrumentation used in optical tomographic imaging. 4. To understand the fundamental concepts and problems involving optical tomographic image reconstruction algorithms. 5. To learn about the major applications of this novel technology.
Intrauterine virus infections and congenital heart disease

The etiologic basis for the vast majority of cases of congenital heart disease remains largely undefined. Viruses have been considered to be likely candidates since the recognition of the association between intrauterine rubella and congenital heart disease. Although the pathogenesis of cardiovascular defects is poorly understood, information gained from the study of congenital rubella syndrome suggests that mechanisms such as focal endothelial cell damage, resulting in obliteration of vascular supply, decreased growth rate, and shortened survival time of certain cells, and disturbed DNA replication in cells whose chromosomes were damaged secondary to the effects of virus replication may be operative in the production of defects in the developing fetus. In addition to rubella there is suggestive, but not conclusive, evidence that Coxsackie B3 and B4 virus infections during pregnancy can result in the birth of infants with a variety of types of congenital heart lesions and that intrauterine mumps virus infection may be etiologically related to the postnatal development of endocardial fibroelastosis (EFE). Although there are a number of other viruses that are potential etiologic agents of congenital heart disease, the current status of information is inadequate to allow even suggestive associations to be made. The most profitable areas for future investigation appear to be: (1) the epidemiology of congenital heart disease, (2) prospective studies of the association of maternal viral infection with abnormal offspring, (3) the in-depth virologic investigation of the infant with a cardiac defect, and (4) the development of experimental animal models of congenital heart disease. Successful control of virus-induced congenital heart disease will depend on the results of these investigations and the development of vaccines against the identified causative viruses and/or safe and effective antiviral chemotherapy for the woman in early gestation who is infected with a known teratogenic agent.
Does Parental Involvement Matter for Student Achievement and Mental Health in High School

Parental involvement in education remains important for facilitating positive youth development. This study conceptualized parental involvement as a multidimensional construct-including school-based involvement, home-based involvement, and academic socialization-and examined the effects of different types of parental involvement in 10th grade on student achievement and depression in 11th grade (approximately ages 15-17 years). In addition, this study tested whether parental involvement influenced adolescent outcomes by increasing their academic engagement in school. A total of 1,056 adolescents participated in the study (51% males; 53% European American, 40% African American, and 7% other). Parental involvement was found to improve academic and emotional functioning among adolescents. In addition, parental involvement predicted adolescent academic success and mental health both directly and indirectly through behavioral and emotional engagement.
Constitutive relations for cracked metal matrix composites

Abstract A method is given for the prediction of the overall stress-strain response of elastoplastic solids containing a doubly periodic rectangular array of cracks. The behavior of the undamaged inelastic material is represented by constitutive laws for metal matrix composites based on a micromechanics analysis. The effect of cracking is incorporated by adopting a second order expansion of the displacement vector, in conjunction with the equations of equilibrium and displacement and traction continuity conditions. Due to the nonlinearity and path dependence of deformation, the stresses need to be represented by a higher order expansion than the second. The method is implemented to predict the overall stress-strain response of a cracked isotropic inelastic material, as well as cracked unidirectional and laminated metal matrix composites.
Comparative utilization of dietary Sr90 and calcium by developing rat fetus and growing rat.

Summary and ConclusionsContinuous feeding experiments with rats on a Sr90 labeled feed indicated that: (a) dietary calcium was utilized for bone growth by a factor of 3.6 over Sr90; (b) about 28.6% of the fetal calcium was derived from maternal calcium; (c) dietary calcium was utilized for bone formation in the developing fetus by a factor of 5.1 over Sr90; (d) this high factor for the fetus was accounted for on the basis that calcium and Sr90 released from the maternal skeleton were deposited in the fetus with the same selectivity of 3.6 for calcium as was observed for the growing rat.
Neurotensin may function as a regulatory peptide in small cell lung cancer.

Abstract Neurotensin (NT) has been postulated to act as a modulatory agent in the central nervous system. Besides its presence in mammalian brain, NT is produced by small cell carcinoma of the lung (SCLC) and cell lines derived from these tumors. Receptors have also been characterized in some SCLC cell lines leading to the suggestion that NT could regulate the growth of SCLC in an autocrine fashion similar to bombesin/GRP. Previously, we had reported that a 10 nM dose of NT and NT(8–13), but not NT(1–8), elevated cytosolic Ca2+, indicating that SCLC NT receptors may use Ca2+ as a second messenger. Using intact SCLC cells we report that time-course incubations with NT lead to the formation of the amino-terminal fragment NT(1–8) and small amounts of the C-terminal fragment NT(9–13). These fragments are formed by metalloendopeptidase 3.4.24.15 cleaving enzyme at the Arg8-Arg9 bond of NT. Significant levels of soluble 3.4.24.15 (10–17 nmoles/mg Pr−/min) are present in SCLC cell lines. Using the in vitro clonogenic assay we tested the effect of 0.5, 5.0 and 10.0 nM doses of NT, NT(1–8) and NT(8–13) on SCLC clonal growth. NT and the C-terminal fragment NT(8–13) stimulated colony formation whereas the N-terminal fragment did not. In summary, NT may function as a regulatory peptide in SCLC through the formation of peptide fragments.
Managing ankle injuries in the emergency department

We review the anatomy and physiology of the ankle joint with attention to the structures most likely to be injured. We discuss the epidemiology of ankle injuries and their physical and radiographic evaluation, including the Ottawa Ankle Rules. Treatment, consultation, and pitfalls are followed by more specific discussions of tendonitis, Achilles tendon injury, tendonous subluxations, tarsal tunnel syndrome, sonovial impingement, and injury to the os trigonum. The references provide a guide for further reading.
Effects of ICRH on the edge plasma in TMX-U tandem mirror

Abstract A Langmuir probe was used to study the effects of ICRH on edge plasmas in TMX-U. Two types of antenna configurations were used for plasma heating, the slot and the loop. During slot antenna operation, the electron temperature near the limiter cutoff radius increased from 30 to 70 eV with 180 kW of transmitted power at slot frequencies ranging from 0.65 ci ⩽1.00. In contrast, the loop antenna showed little heating of edge electrons. The observed edge heating occured without necessarily a concurrent heating of the core electrons. The predicted result based on McVey ANTENA code was also in good qualitative agreement with the observed edge heating. These analyses suggest that Landau and collisional damping of the T-M surface plasma wave was the main mechanism for edge heating. Results on edge density behavior during ICRH are also presented.
GDNF improves dopamine function in the substantia nigra but not the putamen of unilateral MPTP-lesioned rhesus monkeys

Microdialysis measurements of dopamine (DA) and DA metabolites were carried out in the putamen and substantia nigra of unilateral 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-lesioned rhesus monkeys that received intraventricular injections of vehicle or glial-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF, 300 microg) 3 weeks prior to the microdialysis studies. Following behavioral measures in the MPTP-lesioned monkeys, they were anesthetized with isoflurane and placed in a stereotaxic apparatus. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-guided sterile stereotaxic procedures were used for implantations of the microdialysis probes. Basal extracellular levels of DA and the DA metabolites, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) and homovanillic acid (HVA), were found to be decreased by >95% in the right putamen of the MPTP-lesioned monkeys as compared to normal animals. In contrast, basal DA levels were not significantly decreased, and DOPAC and HVA levels were decreased by only 65% and 30%, respectively, in the MPTP-lesioned substantia nigra. Significant reductions in d-amphetamine-evoked DA release were also observed in the MPTP-lesioned substantia nigra and putamen of the monkeys as compared to normal animals. A single intraventricular administration of GDNF into one group of MPTP-lesioned monkeys elicited improvements in the parkinsonian symptoms in these animals at 2-3 weeks post-administration. In addition, d-amphetamine-evoked overflow of DA was significantly increased in the substantia nigra but not the putamen of MPTP-lesioned monkeys that had received GDNF. Moreover, post-mortem brain tissue studies showed increases in whole tissue levels of DA and DA metabolite levels primarily within the substantia nigra in MPTP-lesioned monkeys that had received GDNF. Taken together, these data support that single ventricular infusions of GDNF produce improvements in motoric behavior in MPTP-lesioned monkeys that correlate with increases in DA neuronal function that are localized to the substantia nigra and not the putamen.
Quantitative assessment of Ras over-expression via shotgun deployment of vectors utilizing synthetic promoters

We sought to characterize and compare wild-type and oncogenic Ras over-expression. Because different levels of Ras over-expression can have different effects on cell phenotype, it was important to evaluate a wide range of expression. Different expression levels were achieved by using retroviral vectors equipped with different strength promoters. Cells were “shotgun” transduced with a mixture of these vectors to generate heterogeneous populations exhibiting a range of expression levels. We used flow cytometry to analyze the populations and generate high-resolution, nearly continuous Ras dose-response curves. These efforts revealed that a single-copy level of oncogenic Ras generated maximal imatinib resistance and activated MAPK pathway signaling as effectively as six-fold amplification of wild-type Ras. Although further increased expression lead to even greater signal transduction, this increased expression had minimal or decreasing effects on the proliferation rate. In addition, this study introduces a general method to quantify genetic dose-response relationships and identify gene expression ranges that produce an optimized phenotypic response.
decisivatoR: an R infrastructure package that addresses the problem of phylogenetic decisiveness

One of the major challenges in evolutionary biology is reconstructing the Tree of Life. Many phylogenetic trees have been estimated for many sequence and character datasets. Supertree methods have been developed to take advantage of this infrastructure by combining separate phylogenies into a single "supertree". However, the trees often do not contain enough data to construct a unique supertree. In this case multiple supertrees are consistent with the constituent trees, and there is no a priori way to choose the best. A set of taxa and characters used to build component trees is decisive when they are sufficient to determine a unique supertree. Clearly, it would be useful to know when a set of characters and taxa are decisive, and therefore when they lead to a unique supertree. We have developed and validated an R package, the DECISIVATOR, to provide this service.
The coupling between flow instabilities and incident disturbances at a leading edge

It is now generally agreed that an external disturbance field, such as an incident acoustic wave, can effectively couple to instabilities of a flow past a trailing edge. One purpose of the present paper is to show that there are situations where a similar coupling can occur at a leading edge. The process is analyzed and the effects of experimentally controllable parameters are assessed. It is important to account for such phenomena when evaluating the effect of external disturbances on transition.
Gesture Recognition for Control in Human-Robot Interactions

In co-robotics applications, the robots must be capable of taking inputs from human partners in different forms, including both static and sequential hand gestures, in dynamic interactions for enhanced effectiveness as socially assistive agents. This paper presents the development of a gesture recognition algorithm for control of robots. The algorithm focuses on the detection of skin colors using monocular vision of a moving robot base where the inherent instability negates the effectiveness of methods like background subtraction. The algorithm is implemented in the open-source, open-access robotics software framework of Robot Operating System (ROS). The video feed from the camera is converted into several color spaces, including RGB and YCbCr. Pixels observed in the raw video feed as skin are randomly selected and their properties in each of the color spaces are recorded. A cylinder of infinite length is constructed out of the best fit line for both color spaces, and all points lying within both cylinders are accepted as a skin tone. The gesture recognition features are extracted from the filtered image and can be used for planning the motion of the robot. The procedure is illustrated using the on-board camera on an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV).Copyright © 2014 by ASME
Enhanced transmission in photonic crystals microcavity filters in ridge-waveguide format

The design and applications of one- or two-dimensional photonic crystal microcavity filters have been widely investigated and reported over the last several years. The functionality of these devices can be tailored to suit any specific application such as optical filters, sensors and optical memory. However, the coupling of light into these miniature devices has always been a challenge, in particular, when light transits the waveguide region to the photonic crystal structures. This modal transition results in scattering losses leading to low optical transmission. In this work, twodimensional photonic crystal microcavity filter structures with mode-matching features embedded in ridge waveguides have been designed using Finite Domain Time Difference modeling tool and fabricated on GaAs/AlGaAs substrate using Electron Beam Lithography and Reactive Ion Etching. An increase in optical transmission of about 80 % is obtained by the addition of the mode-matching features.
The Demise of Defense

After defining the terms offense and defense, the interplay of these aspects of warfare through several periods of history is outlined. Subsequent to World War I the offense began to gain ascendancy, and this trend accelerated toward the end of World War II. An analysis of current military weaponry and doctrine leads to the conclusion that defense in the usual sense is not now feasible and that no foreseeable technological developments are likely to change this situation.
A Comparison of the Runs Test for Volatility Forecastability and the LM Test for GARCH Using Aggregated Returns

Christoffersen and Diebold (2000) have introduced a runs test for forecastable volatility in aggregated returns. In this note, we compare the size and power of their runs test and the more conventional LM test for GARCH by Monte Carlo simulation. When the true daily process is GARCH, EGARCH, or stochastic volatility, the LM test has better power than the runs test for the moderate-horizon returns considered by Christoffersen and Diebold. For long-horizon returns, however, the tests have very similar power. We also consider a qualitative threshold GARCH model. For this process, we find that the runs test has greater power than the LM test. Theresults support the use of the runs test with aggregated returns.
Identifying Genes Associated with a Quantitative Trait or Quantitative Trait Locus via Selective Transcriptional Profiling

Genetical genomics is an approach that blends the mapping of quantitative trait loci (QTL) with microarray analysis. The approach can be used to identify associations between the allelic state of a genomic region and a gene's transcript abundance. However, the large number of microarrays required for adequate power results in high material and labor costs that prevent wide adoption of the genetical genomics strategy outside of some well-funded laboratories. We present a method called selective transcriptional profiling that involves selecting an optimal subset of individuals to microarray from a larger set of individuals for which relatively inexpensive quantitative trait and molecular marker data are available. We show how to use microarray data from the selected individuals, along with the trait and marker data from all individuals, to identify genes whose transcript abundance is associated with a quantitative trait of interest through linkage to a trait QTL or correlation with the trait. Our methods for selection and analysis are derived within a missing data framework.
A computational approach to understanding and predicting the behavior of educators using an online curriculum planning tool

This paper presents a computational approach to understanding and predicting the behavior of Earth Science educators using an online curriculum planning tool incorporating digital library resources. It expands on prior work on understanding educators' adoption and use of digital library resources [2] by introducing a methodology for characterizing user behaviors and understanding the trends and frequent patterns of use that are observable from these behaviors.
Distinct domains of syntaxin are required for synaptic vesicle fusion complex formation and dissociation

Membrane fusion resulting in neurotransmitter secretion forms the basis of neural communication. Three multimeric complexes of the protein syntaxin are important in this process: syntaxin and n-sec1; syntaxin, VAMP, and SNAP-25; and syntaxin, VAMP, SNAP-25, alpha SNAP, and NSF (20S complex). In this report, we demonstrate that unique, yet overlapping, domains of syntaxin are required to form these complexes. The formation of higher order heteromultimers has a set of structural requirements distinct from those required for dimeric interactions. Dissociation of the 20S complex by NSF following ATP hydrolysis requires amino-terminal regions of syntaxin that are outside of the binding domains for the 20S constituent proteins. These data are consistent with the hypothesis that conformational changes in syntaxin, resulting from protein-protein interactions and ATP hydrolysis by NSF, mediate neurotransmitter release.
Substituent effects on the redox reactions of tetraphenylporphyrins

The effect of substituents on pi radical reactions of para-substituted tetraphenylporphyrins was investigated by cyclic voltammetry in methylene chloride. In all cases electron donating substituents produced a more difficult reduction and an easier oxidation. Plots of E1/2 vs. a yielded Hammett linear free energy relationships for cation radical and dication formation and anion radical and dianion formation. An average reaction constant of p=0.07+/-0.01 V was obtained. This was true for tetraphenylporphyrins containing the central metals VO, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, and Zn, as well as the free base H2 (p-X)TPP. The value of p appears not to be directly affected by the central metal oxidation state or the overall charge on the complex.
What imaging should we perform for the diagnosis and management of pulmonary infections

Keywords Pneumonia.Empyema.Radiography.Ultrasonography.Computedtomography.Image-guidedpercutaneousinterventionDefinition and pathophysiologyPneumonia is an infection of the lower respiratory tract,involving the lung parenchyma. Whereas most pulmonaryinfections in children are viral and of the upper respiratorytract, bacterial pneumonias have a higher morbidity and aremore frequent indications for imaging. It appears that thelung response to an infective antigen is more age-specificthan antigen (i.e. bacteria vs. viral) dependent [1, 2].The complications of pneumonia include parapneumonic(pleural) effusion, empyema, or abscess. Progression of apleural effusion to empyema is through three stages:exudative, fibrinopurulent and organization. These compli-cations may arise when there is an unbalance between thevirulence of the offending organism and the defensemechanisms of the host, which may be compromised byanatomic factors that impede clearance of secretions(congenital malformations such as pulmonary sequestrationand systemic disease such as cystic fibrosis) and/or immunedeficiency conditions.EpidemiologyWorldwide, there are over 150 million cases of pneumoniaannually in children less than 5 years of age [3]. In theUnited States, 20 million hospitalizations occur annually inchildren, but this count includes viral etiologies [3]. In thedeveloped nations, 5–10% of children under the age of5 years will develop pneumonia annually [4]. The incidenceof pneumonia in children is 34 to 40 per 1,000 [5].Complicated pneumonia such as necrotizing pneumoniaand abscess formation increased in incidence over the yearsbetween 1990 and 2005 [6, 7]. Parapneumonic effusionscomplicate pneumonia in 36–56% of cases, resulting in anincidence of 0.4–0.6 per 1,000 [8]. Empyema complicatesan estimated 0.6% of all childhood pneumonias, resulting inan incidence of 3.3 per 100,000 [9]. There has been arecent emergence of community-acquired MethicillinResistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) pneumonias inchildren, originally thought to be mainly hospital-acquired[10] (Fig. 1).Cost to societyIn the adult population in Europe, the cost to societyresulting from uncomplicated pneumonia (1.1 millioncases annually) is estimated at 8 billion dollars [11].Childhood pneumonias are a frequent cause of doctor visits,antibiotics prescription, loss of work days for parents, andreduction of quality of life [12]. Regarding treatment ofpneumonia with pleural complications, gross total cost isapproximately equal between thoracentesis, pleural drainplacement, or video-assisted thorascopic surgery (VATS),but hospital length of stay is substantially shorter withVATS [8].
Ethnic Social Networks and Self-Employment of Immigrant Men in the US

This paper investigates empirically the importance of ethnic networks for self-employment decisions of immigrant men. The results confirm that ethnic networks, as conceptualized, are important. Consistent with a “pulled” effect framework, being surrounded by others from the same country of origin increases the probability of self-employment more so for individuals in groups with higher self-employment intensity than for individuals in groups with low self-employment intensity. Ethnic networks also work in other ways that are consistent with a “push” factor framework, enhancing the relative choice of self-employment for those with a presumably relative disadvantage in the labor market.
Kinetics of pH response for copolymer films with dilute carboxylate functionality

We have investigated the effects of film composition and thickness on the rate of pH-induced response of a copolymer film containing predominately polymethylene with randomly distributed carboxylic acid side groups (denoted as PM-CO2H). These responsive films are prepared directly onto a gold electrode surface by surface-catalyzed polymerization and subsequent hydrolysis. We measured electrochemical impedance at fixed frequency (100 Hz) to monitor the barrier properties of the polymer film during a step change in pH. At a 1-3% molar acid content, the copolymer films exhibit a 2 order of magnitude change in impedance at 100 Hz when the contacting solution pH changes from 11 to 4 (or 4 to 11). For all films, the rate of protonation is slower than that of ionization, consistent with a more gradual transfer of protons through an increasingly hydrophobic film at the outermost nanometers during the protonation step. Increased acid content within the film accelerates both the rate of protonation and ionization. Thinner films (50 nm) with the same acid content show faster response rate in both directions, since water and ions have a shorter transfer path. A large and reversible pH response was obtained for all films studied, but selection of appropriate film composition and thickness can greatly influence the rate of response.
Biases in quality attribution to mother-child and caregiver-child interaction

Abstract Participants (N = 141) rated videotaped dyadic adult-child interactions on dimensions of quality. Participants who were informed that they were viewing mother-child dyads rated the quality of interactions differently than participants who believed they were watching unrelated care provider-child dyads. “Mothers” were judged more harshly than “providers” in the bad and mixed quality segments but not in the good quality segments. Questionnaires completed by the participants revealed that participants' sex and own child care experiences influenced attitudes toward child care and maternal employment but did not influence quality ratings. Potential explanations for the biases in quality attribution to maternal and non-maternal care providers and the possible invalidity of attitude questionnaires in the detection of these biases are discussed.
Deep-Down Time: Political Tradition in Central Africa

Around 1850 the peoples of central Africa from Duala to the Kunene River and from the Atlantic to the Great Lakes shared a common view of the universe and a common political ideology. This included assumptions about roles, statuses, symbols, values, and indeed the very notion of legitimate authority. Among the plethora of symbols connected with these views were the leopard or the lion, the sun, the anvil, and the drum, symbolizing respectively the leader as predator, protector, forger of society, and the voice of all. Obviously, in each case the common political ideology was expressed in slightly different views, reflecting the impact of differential historical processes on different peoples. But the common core persisted. The gigantic extent of this phenomenon, encompassing an area equal to two-thirds of the continental United States, baffles the mind. How did it come about? Such a common tradition certainly did not arise independently in each of the hundreds of political communities that existed then. However absorbent and stable this mental political constellation was, it must have taken shape over a profound time depth. How and as a result of what did this happen? Is it even possible to answer such queries in a part of the world that did not generate written records until a few centuries ago or less? This paper addresses this question: how can one trace the social construction of such a common constellation over great time depths and over great regional scale? All the peoples involved are agriculturalists and the political repertory with which we are concerned could not easily exist in its known form outside sedentary societies.
The multinational enterprise and economic internationalism

Abstract Multinational enterprises have been praised as means of achieving the most efficient use of the world's resources, and, therefore, as a new means to classical economic internationalism. Examination of their behaviour gives little evidence that they would achieve this goal, for their criteria of decision-making are different and their movement of factors is for company objectives, not economic or market: the market cannot signal long-term investment opportunities. Nor is the multinational enterprise likely to respond to national economic criteria, for its orientation is regional or international, though certainly not yet ‘global’. Conflicts of values and concepts of equity will continue to produce tensions and calls for controls over the multinational enterprise.
Some aspects of zero-memory nonlinear filtering

Abstract The general minimum-mean-square error (MMSE) nonlinear filter is tractable if it is restricted or reduced to have no memory. The importance of the zero-memory nonlinear (ZNL) filter is that it is a fundamental building block for more general nonlinear systems. This paper discusses several problems related to ZNL filtering, in particular, one aspect of the prefiltering problem. The general solution of an inverse problem to the prefiltering problem is discussed in detail, and the cases where it assumes a comparatively simple form are treated. Two examples are given to illustrate the characteristics of the nonlinearities and the resulting errors.
Structure of the catalytic domain of Plasmodium falciparum ARF GTPase-activating protein (ARFGAP)

The crystal structure of the catalytic domain of the ADP ribosylation factor GTPase-activating protein (ARFGAP) from Plasmodium falciparum has been determined and refined to 2.4 A resolution. Multiwavength anomalous diffraction (MAD) data were collected utilizing the Zn2+ ion bound at the zinc-finger domain and were used to solve the structure. The overall structure of the domain is similar to those of mammalian ARFGAPs. However, several amino-acid residues in the area where GAP interacts with ARF1 differ in P. falciparum ARFGAP. Moreover, a number of residues that form the dimer interface in the crystal structure are unique in P. falciparum ARFGAP.
Mode-Locked Two-Photon States

The concept of mode locking in laser is applied to a two-photon state with frequency entanglement. Cavity enhanced parametric down conversion is found to produce exactly such a state. The mode-locked two-photon state exhibits a comblike correlation function. An unbalanced Hong-Ou-Mandel type interferometer is used to measure the correlation function. A revival of the typical interference dip is observed. We will discuss a scheme for engineering of quantum states in time domain.
Accelerated stress testing and diagnostic analysis of degradation in CdTe solar cells

The primary goal of this study was to ascertain the presence and types of mechanisms affecting CdS/CdTe device stability in the temperature range of 60 to 120 ..deg..C. It should be noted that the results presented were specific to cells made using the specific growth conditions described.
A BB&R algorithm for minimizing total tardiness on a single machine with sequence dependent setup times

This paper presents a Branch, Bound, and Remember (BB&R) exact algorithm using the Cyclic Best First Search (CBFS) exploration strategy for solving the \({1|ST_{sd}|\sum T_{i}}\) scheduling problem, a single machine scheduling problem with sequence dependent setup times where the objective is to find a schedule with minimum total tardiness. The BB&R algorithm incorporates memory-based dominance rules to reduce the solution search space. The algorithm creates schedules in the reverse direction for problems where fewer than half the jobs are expected to be tardy. In addition, a branch and bound algorithm is used to efficiently compute tighter lower bounds for the problem. This paper also presents a counterexample for a previously reported exact algorithm in Luo and Chu (Appl Math Comput 183(1):575–588, 2006) and Luo et al. (Int J Prod Res 44(17):3367–3378, 2006). Computational experiments demonstrate that the algorithm is two orders of magnitude faster than the fastest exact algorithm that has appeared in the literature. Computational experiments on two sets of benchmark problems demonstrate that the CBFS search exploration strategy can be used as an effective heuristic on problems that are too large to solve to optimality.
Sputtered dielectric films for GaAs diffusion masks

We have explored the use of sputtered dielectrics, rather than the more conventional thermal or plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition films, as masks for localized zinc diffusion into GaAs. The masks employed in this study were films of Si02, Si3N4, and A12O3, and part of the routine characterization included measurement of the mechanical stress within the films. Zinc diffusion was carried out for 60 min at 600° C in a “leaky tube” diffusion furnace. In short, it was found that (1) the alumina films did not work as diffusion masks, (2) the build-in stress within the SiO2 and Si3N4 films was dependent upon the thickness of the film (increasing with thickness for SiO2, and diminishing with thickness for Si3N4), and (3) the lateral diffusion of the zinc underneath the mask increased with the stress content of the film, regardless of the mask composition.
Invasive Assessment of the Coronary Microcirculation. Superior Reproducibility and Less Hemodynamic Dependence of Index of Microcirculatory Resistance Compared With Coronary Flow Reserve

Background— A simple, reproducible invasive method for assessing the coronary microcirculation is lacking. A novel index of microcirculatory resistance (IMR) has been shown in animals to correlate with true microvascular resistance and, unlike coronary flow reserve (CFR), to be independent of the epicardial artery. We sought to compare the reproducibility and hemodynamic dependence of IMR with CFR in humans. Methods and Results— Using a pressure-temperature sensor-tipped coronary wire, thermodilution-derived CFR and IMR were measured, along with fractional flow reserve (FFR), in 15 coronary arteries (15 patients) under the following hemodynamic conditions: (1) twice at baseline; (2) during right ventricular pacing at 110 bpm; (3) during intravenous infusion of nitroprusside; and (4) during intravenous dobutamine infusion. Mean CFR did not change during baseline measurements or during nitroprusside infusion but decreased during pacing (from 3.1±1.1 at baseline to 2.3±1.2 during pacing, P<0.05) and during d...
Rapid prototyping of thermoset polyester microfluidic devices.

This paper presents a simple procedure for the fabrication of thermoset polyester (TPE) microfluidic systems and discusses the properties of the final devices. TPE chips are fabricated in less than 3 h by casting TPE resin directly on a lithographically patterned (SU-8) silicon master. Thorough curing of the devices is obtained through the combined use of ultraviolet light and heat, as both an ultraviolet and a thermal initiator are employed in the resin mixture. Features on the order of micrometers and greater are routinely reproduced using the presented procedure, including complex designs and multilayer features. The surface of TPE was characterized using contact angle measurements and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Following oxygen plasma treatment, the hydrophilicity of the surface of TPE increases (determined by contact angle measurements) and the proportion of oxygen-containing functional groups also increases (determined by XPS), which indicates a correlated increase in the charge density...
Personality disorders and depression: Hypothetical relations, empirical findings, and methodological considerations

Abstract Concurrent personality disorders are frequently observed among depressed persons. Studies reporting the prevalence of personality disorders in depressed samples generally suggest a 30% to 70% comorbidity rate. The comorbidity of personality disorders and depression is an important area for consideration, as this association has implications for the assessment of depression and personality disorders, treatment choice and outcome, and treatment outcome evaluation. This article reviews the various hypotheses concerning the relationship between personality disorders and depression, summarizes findings from the literature pertaining to this relationship, and discusses relevant methodological considerations. The association between borderline personality disorder and depression is highlighted to illustrate some of the pertinent conceptual and methodological issues. Clinical implications related to the association between personality disorders and depression as well as suggestions for future research are delineated.
β2-Subunit-containing nicotinic acetylcholine receptors are involved in nicotine-induced increases in conditioned reinforcement but not progressive ratio responding for food in C57BL/6 mice

Nicotine administration potentiates conditioned reinforcement in rats, an effect that persists for weeks after chronic exposure. Little is known regarding the nicotinic receptor subtypes that may mediate this effect. The purpose of this study was to determine whether β2-subunit-containing nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (β2*nAChRs) are necessary for lasting effects of nicotine on conditioned and primary reinforcement in mice. β2 knockout (β2KO) and wild-type (WT) mice received 14 days of nicotine exposure (NIC, 200 μg/ml in 2% saccharin) or saccharin alone (SAC) in their drinking water. Five days later, mice received paired presentations of a conditioned stimulus (CS) with water unconditioned stimulus (US) or explicitly unpaired presentations of the CS and US during Pavlovian discriminative approach training. Training was followed by two conditioned reinforcement tests. Mice were subsequently tested for food-reinforced responding in the absence of explicit cues followed by a progressive ratio test. During conditioned reinforcement testing, only mice in the paired condition showed increased responding in the CS-reinforced aperture over inactive apertures. WT-NIC mice showed enhanced conditioned reinforcement compared to WT-SAC animals. β2KO-SAC mice showed elevated conditioned reinforcement compared to WT-SAC subjects, but β2KO-NIC and β2KO-SAC mice did not differ in responding with conditioned reinforcement. Prior nicotine exposure did not alter food-reinforced responding but resulted in elevated break points for food in both genotypes. These data show that nicotine exposure enhances conditioned reinforcement in mice and indicate that β2*nAChRs are necessary for nicotine-dependent enhancement of incentive aspects of motivation but not motivation for primary reinforcement measured by progressive ratio responding.
Small-signal current transients in insulators with traps.

Time-dependent current flow equations solved for insulator with traps if injected space charge produces negligible perturbation on external electric field
Clinical and immunological studies of beekeepers.

Summary Thirty-four beekeepers were interviewed and their blood assayed for the presence of antibodies reacting with bee venom, bee venom phospholipase A (PLA), and whole bee body extract. Following a bee sting, most beekeepers experienced only minimal local tissue reaction. Their serum contained high levels of total antibodies (primarily IgG) reacting to bee venom and phospholipase A. These antibody titres correlated with the frequency of bee stings. Bee venom and PLA specific IgE antibodies were present in serum of some beekeepers. Beekeepers who had experienced allergic reactions were characterized by low total antibody and high venom specific IgE antibody titres. Bee body IgE antibodies were found in varying degree and did not correlate with levels of venom IgE antibodies. There was no difference in the titres of bee body IgE in the sera of beekeepers with and without systemic reactions. The data suggest that allergic reactions are mediated by venom specific IgE and immunity is at least in part a function of other antibodies, probably primarily IgG.
Inhibition of cortisol production. Its effect on gastric secretion and ulcer provocation

Abstract Metopirone reduced the incidence of ulceration from 80% to 9% in dogs with an ulcerogenic operation. The cause of this decreased ulceration is most likely decreased acid secretion, since acid secretion from vagally denervated pouches stimulated with a standard meal and histamine was decreased 75% to 51%, respectively, during the administration of Metopirone. The reduction in free acid secretion and ulcerogenesis was not accounted for by a decrease in parietal cell population.
Diseases of G-Protein-Coupled Signal Transduction Pathways: The Mammalian Visual System as a Model

Abstract G-protein-coupled signaling systems play a role in a diversity of normal physiological functions. Logically, one might predict that mutations in genes encoding any one of the G-protein subunits, G-protein-coupled receptors, or effector proteins of a given signaling pathway could lead to disease. Mutations of G-protein-coupled signaling proteins known to cause human diseases are reviewed here, with a primary emphasis on the mammalian phototransduction system.