cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Photoelectron emission from solid sodides

Abstract Emission of photoelectrons from various sodide salts has been observed over the energy range 3.5−1.5 eV [350–800 nm]. The photoionization action spectrum shows two peaks at 3.4 and 2.0 eV. The quantum yield for emission is low (10 −4 or smaller), indicating a short escape depth of the “hot” electrons which are effectively retrapped. The shape of the higher-energy peak is relatively independent of temperature and is attributed to emission from the sodium anion, Na − . By contrast, the lowenergy emission is markedly broadened and increases more rapidly in amplitude than the second peak when the temperature is increased. This peak, whose shape and amplitude depend on the cation, the complexing agent used, and the age of the film, is attributed to emission of electrons trapped at lattice defect sites. Because the maximum photocurrent occurs at wavelengths at which Na − has its maximum absorption, we suggest a mechanism in which energy transfer from an excited sodium anion to a trapped electron results in electron emission.
Investigation of out-of-plane structural properties of a graphene monolayer with gap-plasmons: mode-selective Raman enhancement and the influence of additional sp3 type defects

We report that Raman enhancements of a graphene monolayer sandwiched at the Au nanoparticle–Au thin film junction are different and can be attributed to the influence of a z-polarized incident field. Closer to the center of the junction, radial breathing like-mode (RBLM) shows dramatic Raman enhancement in terms of the coincidence between the z-polarized incident field formed at the junction and the RBLM phonon axis. The appearance of an additional D* peak can be identified and is attributed to the additional out-of-plane sp3 type defect signal. Correlating I(D*)/I(D) with RBLM intensity variation further substantiates that the observed D* peak is ascribed to another out-of-plane structural defect signal.
fMRI-adaptation evidence of overlapping neural representations for objects related in function or manipulation.

Sensorimotor-based theories of semantic memory contend that semantic information about an object is represented in the neural substrate invoked when we perceive or interact with it. We used fMRI adaptation to test this prediction, measuring brain activation as participants read pairs of words. Pairs shared function (flashlight–lantern), shape (marble–grape), both (pencil–pen), were unrelated (saucer–needle), or were identical (drill–drill). We observed adaptation for pairs with both function and shape similarity in left premotor cortex. Further, degree of function similarity was correlated with adaptation in three regions: two in the left temporal lobe (left medial temporal lobe, left middle temporal gyrus), which has been hypothesized to play a role in mutimodal integration, and one in left superior frontal gyrus. We also found that degree of manipulation (i.e., action) and function similarity were both correlated with adaptation in two regions: left premotor cortex and left intraparietal sulcus (involved in guiding actions). Additional considerations suggest that the adaptation in these two regions was driven by manipulation similarity alone; thus, these results imply that manipulation information about objects is encoded in brain regions involved in performing or guiding actions. Unexpectedly, these same two regions showed increased activation (rather than adaptation) for objects similar in shape. Overall, we found evidence (in the form of adaptation) that objects that share semantic features have overlapping representations. Further, the particular regions of overlap provide support for the existence of both sensorimotor and amodal/multimodal representations.
Isolation of Antagonists of Antigen-Specific Autoimmune T Cell Proliferation

Antigen-specific T cells play a major role in mediating the pathogenesis of a variety of autoimmune conditions as well as other diseases. In the context of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, a murine model of multiple sclerosis, we present here a general approach to the discovery of highly specific ligands for autoreactive cells. These ligands are obtained from a combinatorial library of hundreds of thousands of synthetic peptoids that is screened simultaneously against two populations of CD4+ T cells. Peptoids that recognize autoreactive T cells with extremely high specificity can be identified in the library. Since no specific knowledge is required regarding the nature of the native antigens recognized by the autoreactive T cells, this technology provides a powerful tool for the enrichment and inhibition of autoimmune cells in a variety of disease states.
The physical mechanisms of subcritical collisionless shock-wave formation

The key process in shock wave formation is related to energy dissipation, and the nature of the operative dissipation mechanism determines the basic character of the resulting shock. In the case of collisionless plasmas, the primary problem consists in the identification of the processes which can provide the necessary dissipation in relatively short spatial scale lengths. The present investigation is concerned with the various collisionless dissipation mechanisms which can operate in weak shocks, taking into account the effects of different mechanisms on shock structure. Particular attention is given to a restricted class of quasi-perpendicular low beta low Mach number shocks. Such shocks are traditionally called 'laminar shocks'. Resistive shocks are considered along with subcritical shocks observed with the aid of the ISEE spacecraft.
Ranked solutions of AXC=B and AX=B

Abstract Let GF( p n ) denote the finite field of p n elements, p odd. Let A be an s × m matrix of rank ϱ , B be an s × t matrix of rank β, and C be an f × t matrix of rank v . This paper discusses the number of m × f matrices X of rank k over GF( p n ) which are solutions to the matric equations AXC = B or AX = B .
Experience with eyelid-sparing orbital exenteration: the 2000 Tullos O. Coston Lecture.

Purpose: To provide data on types of lesions that require orbital exenteration and discuss our experience with exenteration, emphasizing the eyelid-sparing technique. Methods: The records were reviewed on all patients who underwent orbital exenteration by the senior author and his colleagues. The underlying disease, method of exenteration, healing times, complications, cosmetic outcome, local tumor control, and patient survival were analyzed. Results: Of 56 orbital exenterations, 47 were done by eyelid-sparing technique and 9 by eyelid-sacrificing technique. The 9 tumors of eyelid origin that required exenteration included basal cell carcinoma (4), sebaceous gland carcinoma (3), squamous cell carcinoma (1 ), and melanoma (1), Four of the eyelid lesions were managed by the eyelid-sparing technique and 5 by the eyelid-sacrificing method. The 24 tumors of conjunctival origin included melanoma (20) and squamous cell carcinoma (4). The eyelid-sparing method was used in 22 of the 24 cases. The 10 primary orbital lesions included melanoma (3), malignant lacrimal gland tumor (3), a rhabdoid tumor, meningioma, Wegener's granulomatosis, and aspergillosis. The eyelid-sparing method was used in 8 of the 10 cases. Among intraocular tumors were uveal melanomas (10) and retinoblastoma (1). The eyelid sparing method was used in all 11. With the eyelid-sparing technique, the mean time from exenteration to wound healing and readiness for a prosthesis was 4 weeks (median, 2 weeks; range, 2 to 24 weeks). With the eyelid-sacrificing technique, the mean time was 68 weeks (median, 34 weeks; range, 2 to 340 weeks). Complications were few and cosmetic results were satisfactory. Local tumor control with exenteration was achieved in 53 of 56 cases, but metastasis occurred in 11 of 20 cases of conjunctival melanoma (55%) and in 6 of 10 patients with uveal melanoma (60%). Metastasis has developed in none of the 3 patients with malignant epithelial tumors of lacrimal gland origin. Conclusions: Orbital exenteration is an appropriate procedure for orbital involvement by unresectable malignant tumors of the eyelids, conjunctiva, intraocular structures, and orbit. In most of these cases, including about half of tumors originating in the eyelids, an eyelid-sparing exenteration can be used to achieve more rapid healing.
A brief statistical review of epidermoid carcinoma of the anal canal and rectum

A brief review of the terminology, incidence and treatment recommended for epidermoid carcinoma of the anal canal and rectum is presented. Statistical records of metastatic spread and five-year survival rates are also stated briefly.
Tree Nuts Are Inversely Associated with Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity: The Adventist Health Study-2

Objective To examine the relationships of nut consumption, metabolic syndrome (MetS), and obesity in the Adventist Health Study-2, a relatively healthy population with a wide range of nut intake. Research Design and Methods Cross-sectional analysis was conducted on clinical, dietary, anthropometric, and demographic data of 803 adults. MetS was defined according to the American Heart Association and the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute diagnostic criteria. We assessed intake of total nuts, tree nuts and peanuts, and also classified subjects into low tree nut/low peanut (LT/LP), low tree/high peanut (LT/HP), high tree nut/high peanut (HT/HP), and high tree/low peanut (HT/LP) consumers. Odds ratios were estimated using multivariable logistic regression. Results 32% of subjects had MetS. Compared to LT/LP consumers, obesity was lower in LT/HP (OR = 0.89; 95% CI = 0.53, 1.48), HT/HP (OR = 0.63; 95% CI = 0.40, 0.99) and HT/LP (OR = 0.54; 95% CI = 0.34, 0.88) consumers, p for trend = 0.006. For MetS, odds ratios (95% CI) were 0.77 (0.47, 1.28), 0.65 (0.42, 1.00) and 0.68 (0.43, 1.07), respectively (p for trend = 0.056). Frequency of nut intake (once/week) had significant inverse associations with MetS (3% less for tree nuts and 2% less for total nuts) and obesity (7% less for tree nuts and 3% less for total nuts). Conclusions Tree nuts appear to have strong inverse association with obesity, and favorable though weaker association with MetS independent of demographic, lifestyle and dietary factors.
The interpersonal communication motives model

This study tested a model of interpersonal communication motives and the construct validity of the Interpersonal Communication Motives Instrument (ICM). Specifically, we hypothesized that ICM would be differentially related to who we talk to, how we talk, and what we talk about. In Study 1, questionnaires were completed by 319 adults who rated their interpersonal communication motives to a target person at one of six relationship levels: stranger, formal friend, co‐worker, close friend, family member, and spouse/lover. Study 2 involved 586 adults who completed questionnaires assessing ICM, likelihood of self‐disclosure, and communicator style. Results indicated that more intimate relationship levels were better seen as fulfilling affection and inclusion motives. Escape and control were related to both the directive and active dimensions of communicator style. Breadth of disclosure was related to pleasure, affection, inclusion, and escape motives; depth of disclosure was related to inclusion, escape, and c...
Natural killer cell cytolytic activity is necessary for in vivo antitumor activity of the dipeptide L-glutamyl-L-tryptophan.

A dipeptide, L-glutamyl L-tryptophan (L-glu-L-trp), was identified in a screen for immunomodulators in the soluble fraction of the thymus. L-glu-L-trp inhibits tumor growth in mice without showing direct cellular toxicity in a variety of human tumor cell lines. L-glu-L-trp antitumor activity in vivo requires the presence of natural killer (NK) cells. Defective trafficking of cytoplasmic granules caused by the Lyst mutation also resulted in loss of antitumor activity of the dipeptide. The effect of L-glu-L-trp on tumor growth in mice with targeted gene mutations demonstrated the absolute requirement for perforin for antitumor activity. The requirement of 2 major modulators of NK cell activity, gamma interferon (IFNgamma) and interleukin (IL)-12, were also tested. L-glu-L-trp had full antitumor activity in IFNgamma knockout mice, but had significantly diminished activity in IL-12 knockout mice. These data show that L-glu-L-trp antitumor activity in mice is dependent on cytolytic cell activity of NK or NKT cells. L-glu-L-trp in vivo regulates NK cell function independent of IFNgamma but partly dependent on IL-12.
Automatic Linking Process Of Seismogram Using Branch Ana Bound Search

Pattern growing technique is proposed in the automatic linking process of seismogram. The branch and bound search algorithm and the distance calculation of Gram approximate function are used to find the best way to correlate the seismic reflectors. The experimental results in simulated seismograms and real seismic data are quite good.
The Inclusion of Inner Surface Breaking Flaws in Probabilistic Fracture Mechanics Analyses of Reactor Vessels Subjected to Planned Normal Cool-Down Transients

The current regulations, as set forth by the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), to insure that light-water nuclear reactor pressure vessels (RPVs) maintain their structural integrity when subjected to planned reactor startup (heat-up) and shutdown (cool-down) transients are specified in Appendix G to 10 CFR Part 50, which incorporates by reference Appendix G to Section XI of the ASME Code. The technical basis for these regulations contains many aspects that are now broadly recognized by the technical community as being unnecessarily conservative and some plants are finding it increasingly difficult to comply with the current regulations. Consequently, a goal of current NRC research is to derive a technical basis for a risk-informed revision to the current requirements that reduces the conservatism and also is consistent with the methods previously used to develop a risk-informed revision to the regulations for accidental transients such as pressurized thermal shock (PTS). Previous publications have been successful in illustrating potential methods to provide a risk-informed relaxation to the current regulations for normal transients. Thus far, probabilistic fracture mechanics (PFM) analyses have been performed at 60 effective full power years (EFPY) for one of the reactors evaluated as part of the PTS re-evaluation project. In these previous analyses / publications, consistent with the assumptions utilized for this particular reactor in the PTS re-evaluation, all flaws for this reactor were postulated to be embedded. The objective of this paper is to review the analysis results and conclusions from previous publications on this subject and to attempt to modify / generalize these conclusions to include RPVs postulated to contain only inner-surface breaking flaws or a combination of embedded flaws and inner-surface breaking flaws.Copyright © 2008 by ASME and U.S. Government
Effective deployment of asynchronous transfer mode into picture archiving and communication system

Abstract The ability to digitize images has led to the prospect of reducing the physical space requirements, material costs, and manual labor of traditional film handling tasks in hospitals. The system which handles the acquisition, storage, and transmission of medical images is called a Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS). One of the most important components of a PACS is the network, which connects the various sub-systems of a PACS. Several high-speed networking technologies have evolved in the last decade, Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) is one of them. This paper discusses some of the issues to be resolved for rapid and effective deployment of ATM into PACS. The work is useful in providing the latest information for any future research on ATM-based PACS.
Production of a Mycobacterium avium ssp. paratuberculosis purified protein derivative (PPD) and evaluation of potency in guinea pigs.

Abstract A Mycobacterium avium ssp. paratuberculosis purified protein derivative (PPD) was produced and the biologic activity evaluated in sensitized guinea pigs. The PPD when adjusted to a protein concentration of 1 mg/ml induced a delayed-type hypersensitivity response comparable to USDA Johnin OT 133-8707. Copyright 2002 The International Association for Biologicals. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
Sound and sentiment: A rhythmanalysis of television

A few decades hence it will be easy to describe the revolution in human perception and motivation that resulted from beholding the new mosaic mesh of the TV image. Today it is futile to discuss it ...
Entrainment instability and vertical motion as causes of stratocumulus breakup

Entrainment instability is thought to be a cause of stratocumulus breakup. At the interface between the cloud and the overlying air, mixtures may form which are negatively buoyant because of cloud droplet evaporation. Quantities devised to predict breakup are obtained from aircraft observations and are tested against cloud observations from satellite. Often, the parameters indicate that breakup should occur but the clouds remain, sometimes for several days. One possible explanation for breakup is vertical motion from passing synoptic cyclones. Several cases suggest that breakup is associated with the downward vertical motion from the cold air advected behind an eastward moving cyclone.
Dosimetric aspects of a 3.3‐MV linear accelerator

Both the design considerations and the dosimetric properties of the Siemens Model 5800 linear accelerator are discussed. This unit is of such an energy (3.3 MV) as to imitate Cobalt-60 teletherapy depth doses. A linear relation of {ital d}{sub max} to depth dose at low energies was found for various wave guides and targets. The energy of the unit can be characterized by its nominal accelerating potential of 2.70 MV, its d{sub 80} of 5.3 cm, its first half-value layer of 0.8 cm lead and the measured energy of the electron beam at 3.3 MeV. The following selected commissioning aspects are reported: central axis depth dose, relative output factors, beam profiles, wedge factors, virtual source position, back scatter factors, penumbra and build-up region.
The origin and effect of space charges in electrospinning

This work involves the study of the origin and effect of space charges in the electrospinning process. Electrospinning is a process used to make solid, nanofibrous polymer mats. These mats are used in tissue engineering as scaffolds for cells. The origin and effect of space charges in this process has not been well-studied.
EEG classification for estimating anesthetic depth during halothane anesthesia

This study establishes the feasibility of using computer-based EEG recognition system to monitor anesthetic depth during halothane anesthesia. Experiments were carried out on ten dogs, at different levels of halothane, recording four channels of EEG data. The anesthetic state of the patient was tested using a tail clamping stimulus. A tenth order autoregressive (AR) model was used to represent the spectral information contained in the EEG signals. The AR model parameters were used as input to a three layer perceptron feedforward neural network. The network was able to correctly classify the depth in 85% of the cases as compared to 65% when only hemodynamic parameters were used as input to the network. This shows that the AR parameters obtained from the EEG signals can be used for decision making during administration of general anesthesia.
Aging compounds western diet-associated large artery endothelial dysfunction in mice: prevention by voluntary aerobic exercise.

Abstract We tested the hypothesis that aging will exacerbate the negative vascular consequences of exposure to a common physiological stressor, i.e., consumption of a “western” (high fat/high sucrose) diet (WD), by inducing superoxide-associated reductions in nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability, and that this would be prevented by voluntary aerobic exercise. Incremental stiffness and endothelium-dependent dilation (EDD) were measured in the carotid arteries of young (5.4 ± 0.3 mo, N = 20) and old (30.4 ± 0.2 mo, N = 19) male B6D2F1 mice fed normal chow (NC: 17% fat, 0% sucrose) or a western diet (40% fat, 19% sucrose) and housed in either standard cages or cages equipped with running wheels for 10–14 weeks. Incremental stiffness was higher in old NC (P l -NAME abolished these respective effects of age, WD and voluntary running on EDD. Ingestion of a WD induces similar degrees of endothelial dysfunction in old and young adult B6D2F1 mice, and these effects are mediated by a superoxide-dependent impairment of NO bioavailability. However, the combination of old age and WD, a common occurrence in our aging society, results in a marked, additive reduction in endothelial function. Importantly, regular voluntary aerobic exercise reduces arterial stiffness and protects against the adverse influence of WD on endothelial function in old animals by preventing superoxide suppression of NO. These findings may have important implications for arterial aging and the prevention of age-associated cardiovascular diseases.
Exploring the Urban Milieu: Billy Wilder, Four Films, and Two Cities in the United States, 1944–1960

Few directors in the United States’ film history rival Samuel William “Billy” Wilder (1906–2002) for both his artistic accomplishments and lasting sinecure in the cultural pantheon. While Wilder's ...
Agronomy and Increased Maize Productivity in Eastern and Southern Africa

ABSTRACT The productivity of resource poor smallholders is low. Policy initiatives that facilitate access to existing maize production technologies are not sufficient to increase productivity for this group. There is a need for a redirected research agenda with priority being given to soil fertility management under constrained smallholder rotational systems. There are a number of technologies, including agroforestry, that offer this potential. Success is dependent on having both a detailed understanding of soil fertility and an understanding of the socio-economic circumstances of the farming community.
Composite Nature of the Stress-Strain Curve of Rubber

Abstract The stress-strain curve of rubber can be imagined to consist of three curves which tend to approach straight lines. The first curve has a high elongation load ratio and intercepts the second portion at an elongation which depends on the temperature. The second curve is parallel to the elongation axis and represents a condition of flow. The third curve has a low elongation to load ratio and represents rubber with a high load carrying capacity. It is evident that the second curve must be avoided as much as possible in most industrial applications. Most industrial applications require the rubber to work only within the limits of the first curve. The first curve is lengthened when the temperature is increased and the rubber can work efficiently to a higher elongation. No evidence has been found regarding the nature of the change which occurs in rubber during the period of flow. Since the flow is reversible, it must be within the molecule and not between molecules.
Enhancing assessment of in-vehicle technology attention demands with cardiac measures

In this paper, the differences between driving performance and cardiac measures in attention assessment research are discussed, particularly with regard to evaluating in-vehicle technology design. A number of ways to enhance a set of measures for the purposes of attention assessment are discussed. Finally, the benefits of including cardiac measures as part of a set of IVT attention assessment tools are discussed.
Determination of inososes with an alkaline solution of copper(II) oxalate-tartrate complex (the Somogyi reagent) and reaction mechanisms involved.

Abstract Four inososes have been analyzed with the Somogyi reagent and empirical equations for their quantitative determination were derived. Results from spectrophotometric and electron-spin resonance studies of the mechanism of oxidation of inososes with the Somogyi reagent at 25 to 55° are in agreement with a one-electron transfer process; however, at 90 to 100°, extensive degradation of inososes by the Somogyi reagent occurs, doubtless caused by generation of transient radicals during the oxidation, as evidenced by results of a radical-scavenging experiment.
Anemia and childhood mortality: Latitudinal patterning along the coast of pre-Columbian Peru

Hrdlicka ([1914] Smithson. Inst. Misc. Collect. 61:1-69) reported that pre-Columbian skeletal material from the coastal lowland Andean region exhibited a high frequency of porotic hyperostosis, a pathological condition of bone that generally is thought to indicate childhood anemia. While subsequent studies tended to reinforce this conclusion, factors implicated in the condition have yet to be fully explored in the region as a whole. This study explores regional and intravalley variation as one step in establishing biocultural variables that increase the apparent risk of childhood anemia. The study sample includes 1,465 individuals: 512 from Peruvian collections housed at the Field Museum of Natural History, and 953 from systematically excavated contexts from Moquegua, Peru. Environmental stressors, such as parasites and disease, rather than specific dietary practices were found to be more likely associated with childhood anemia in these coastal Andean samples. The study supports cribra orbitalia as an earlier expression of porotic hyperostosis and suggests that porotic hyperostosis, as recorded here, cannot be easily dismissed as a result of cranial shape modification. No clear temporal patterns were observed. Finally, the study establishes that comparing data for children and adults can reveal the relative association between childhood anemia and mortality. Childhood mortality associated with anemia was elevated where the presence of tuberculosis or tuberculosis-like conditions was more common and the presence of water-borne pathogens was negligible. In contrast, those buried at lower altitudes, closer to the coast, and consuming mainly marine resources were less likely to die in childhood with anemia than in the other contexts studied.
Natural skin coating of the apple and its influence on scald in storage: IV.—Oxidation products of α‐farnesene

Among the products of aerial oxidation of a-farnesene are carbonyl compounds of lower molecular weight. Several of these have been analysed, as free compounds or derivatives, with the aid of gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. Some of the identified compounds are known to have no effect on scald but three of them, pyruvaldehyde, methyl vinyl ketone and 6-methyl-5-hepten-2-one, require further study.
Technique and outcomes of robot-assisted median arcuate ligament release for celiac artery compression syndrome

Objective Celiac artery compression by the median arcuate ligament (MAL) is a potential cause of postprandial abdominal pain and weight loss that overlaps with other common syndromes. Robotic technology may alter the current paradigm for surgical intervention. Open MAL release is often performed with concurrent bypass for celiac stenosis due to the morbidity of reintervention, whereas the laparoscopic approach is associated with high rates of conversion to open due to bleeding. We hypothesized that a robot-assisted technique might minimize conversion events to open, decrease perioperative morbidity, and defer consideration of vascular bypass at the initial operative setting. Methods We retrospectively analyzed patients treated for MAL syndrome by a multidisciplinary team at a tertiary medical center between September 2012 and December 2013. Diagnosis was based on symptom profile and peak systolic velocity (PSV) >200 cm/s during celiac artery duplex ultrasound imaging. All patients underwent robot-assisted MAL release with simultaneous circumferential neurolysis of the celiac plexus. Postoperative celiac duplex and symptom profiles were reassessed longitudinally to monitor outcomes. Results Nine patients (67% women) were evaluated for postprandial pain (100%) and weight loss (100%). All patients had celiac stenosis by mesenteric duplex ultrasound imaging (median PSV, 342; range, 238-637 cm/s), and cross-sectional imaging indicated a fishhook deformity in five (56%). Robot-assisted MAL release was completed successfully in all nine patients (100%) using a standardized surgical technique. Estimated blood loss was 200 cm/s) compared with preoperative velocities ( P Conclusions Robot-assisted MAL release can be performed safely and effectively with avoidance of conversion events and minimal morbidity. Potential factors contributing to success are patient selection by a multidisciplinary team and replication of the open surgical technique by means of robot-assisted dexterity and visualization. The need for delayed reintervention for persistently symptomatic celiac stenosis is uncertain.
Antarctic Dry Valley Lakes

This symposium was convened by Bob Wharton of the Desert Research Institute, Reno, Nev. Eight papers were presented that depicted ongoing research in these unique environments. Although 98% of Antarctica is ice covered, there are ice-free areas, the “dry-valleys”along the Soya Coast, in the Vestford Hills, and in Southern Victoria Land within 125 km of McMurdo Station. The lakes within the dry valley areas of Southern Victoria Land have been investigated by American, New Zealand, and Japanese scientists since the International Geophysical Year in 1957. The research presented in this symposium dealt primarily with sedimentological, geochemical, and ecological aspects of Lake Vanda in Wright Valley and Lakes Hoare, Chad, and Fryxell in Taylor Valley.
The Crisis of Literacy and the Courage to Teach

A report from the National Endowment for the Arts, among much other such research, reveals that literacy is in serious decline in America. Ramifications of this decline extend beyond English and language departments to affect all other disciplines, ultimately raising the question of how a democracy can function when its citizens abandon the written word. There are ways, David Rothman says, for academics to counteract this trend, venturing outside the walls to foster the literacy of younger children. Those who take on such challenges may find that departmental politics recede somewhat, and they may rediscover faith in the possibilities of education-and even in themselves.
Directional correlation measurements in 18O(3He, pγ)20F

Abstract Directional pγ correlations through the first six excited levels of 20 have been measured in an axially symmetric reaction geometry at 3 He energies of 3.3–3.8 MeV. Interpretation of the correlations leads to probable spin assignment of 3 and 2 for the 0.66 and 0.83 MeV levels, respectively. Possible spin assignments for the 0.99, 1.06, 1.31 and 1.85 MeV levels, and multipole mixing ratios in the corresponding transitions are discussed. Branching ratios of the 0.83 and 1.85 MeV levels are reported.
Conversion disorders on a child psychiatry consultation service.

Abstract In this retrospective study, the records of all psychiatric consultations (563) performed at a children's hospital in a three-year period were reviewed to determine an incidence rate for childhood conversion disorder and in particular to examine which of the existing criteria for conversion disorder would be most evident in our younger population. A comparatively low incidence (4.8%, or 27 cases) was diagnosed according to DSM-III criteria. Then, with the use of broader, psychodynamically based criteria, a high percentage of these pediatric cases were found to manifest lack of an organic cause for the symptoms, the presence of stress, a personal model for the symptoms, and family dysfunction. In contrast, other criteria, such as la belle indifference, primary gain, symbolic meaning of the symptom, and hysterical personality, were infrequently present.
Magnetic susceptibility of charge-transfer organic salts in a spin-density-wave phase: ( Tetramethyltetraselenafulvalenium ) 2 X

The magnetic susceptibility is calculated for tetramethyltetraselenafulvalenium salts ((TMTSF)/sub 2/X) in a spin-density-wave (SDW) phase by using a quasi-one-dimensional quarter-filled Hubbard band in a mean-field approximation. The transverse susceptibility is found to be nearly constant below the SDW transition temperature, while the longitudinal susceptibility drops exponentially with temperature. This behavior is similar to that of the half-filled-band case studied earlier by the present author. The result is compared with the recent data on (TMTSF)/sub 2/AsF/sub 6/.
Specificity relationships in cystine transport in the chicken intestine

Abstract 1. 1. Kinetic analysis over a wide concentration range revealed that cystine influx into sections of chicken small intestine occurs by a single saturable process. 2. 2. Competition studies indicated that all mediated cystine transport appears to take place by a process shared with leucine and basic amino acids, and that other sites can be proposed—one for basic amino acids alone, one for basic amino acids and leucine which excludes cystine, and one for neutral amino acids alone.
Delay in Seeing a Doctor Due to Cost: Disparity between Older Adults with and without Disabilities in the United States

Objective To examine the disparity in delaying seeing a doctor due to cost between older adults with and without disabilities, and whether the disparity could be explained by health and financial variables.
A Monte Carlo approach to quantifying model error in Bayesian parameter estimation

Quantifying the discrepancy between two distributions is considered, using the concept of ? -divergence. The motivation is a Bayesian inference scenario where one is interested in comparing different posterior distributions. Strongly consistent estimators for the ? -divergence between two posterior distributions are developed. The proposed estimators alleviate known computational difficulties with estimating normalizing constants. This approach can be used to study the impact that using an approximate likelihood has on the resulting posterior distribution and also to compare the effectiveness of different model approximations. The methodology is applied to two first-order emulator models and an oceanographic application where evaluation of the likelihood function involves the solution to a partial differential equation.
Nearly unpolarized and linearly polarized laser generation from dye-doped cholesteric liquid crystal laser using a mirror reflector

Usually when optically pumped, dye-doped cholesteric liquid crystal (CLC) laser generates circularly polarized laser light in the same handedness as the cholesteric helix. On a distributed feedback basis, laser light at photonic band edge comes out from both sides symmetrically. In this work, we incorporated a metallic mirror reflector to the CLC laser on one side so that laser light only emits from single direction and hence the extracted output can be enhanced by ~2-5X. Furthermore, upon reflection the mirror reflector introduces a π phase change. Therefore, two different types of CLC lasers with different polarization states are demonstrated by putting the mirror at different substrates. With a mirror attached at the outer side of the liquid crystal substrate, we obtained a nearly unpolarized CLC laser based on incoherent supposition of two orthogonal circularly polarized beams. With mirror coated at one of the inner surfaces of the liquid crystal cell, we obtained a linearly polarized CLC laser based on coherent combination of two orthogonal circularly polarized beams. For these two cases, the output power and polarization states are compared and the physical mechanism is discussed correspondingly. Moreover, the tuning of the linear polarization direction is demonstrated.
Can We Improve Estimates of Seismological Q Using a New “Geometrical Spreading” Model?

Precise measurements of seismological Q are difficult because we lack detailed knowledge on how the Earth’s fine velocity structure affects the amplitude data. In a number of recent papers, Morozov (Geophys J Int 175:239–252, 2008; Seism Res Lett 80:5–7, 2009; Pure Appl Geophys, this volume, 2010) proposes a new procedure intended to improve Q determinations. The procedure relies on quantifying the structural effects using a new form of geometrical spreading (GS) model that has an exponentially decaying component with time, e −γt·γ is a free parameter and is measured together with Q. Morozov has refit many previously published sets of amplitude attenuation data. In general, the new Q estimates are much higher than previous estimates, and all of the previously estimated frequency-dependence values for Q disappear in the new estimates. In this paper I show that (1) the traditional modeling of seismic amplitudes is physically based, whereas the new model lacks a physical basis; (2) the method of measuring Q using the new model is effectively just a curve fitting procedure using a first-order Taylor series expansion; (3) previous high-frequency data that were fit by a power-law frequency dependence for Q are expected to be also fit by the first-order expansion in the limited frequency bands involved, because of the long tails of power-law functions; (4) recent laboratory measurements of intrinsic Q of mantle materials at seismic frequencies provide independent evidence that intrinsic Q is often frequency-dependent, which should lead to frequency-dependent total Q; (5) published long-period surface wave data that were used to derive several recent Q models inherently contradict the new GS model; and (6) previous modeling has already included a special case that is mathematically identical to the new GS model, but with physical assumptions and measured Q values that differ from those with the new GS model. Therefore, while individually the previous Q measurements have limited precision, they cannot be improved by using the new GS model. The large number of Q measurements by seismologists are sufficient to show that Q values in the Earth are highly laterally variable and are often frequency dependent.
Applications of lasers in gastroenterology

In this article the clinical uses of lasers in gastroenterology are reviewed. The endoscopic delivery of light for therapeutic as well as diagnostic purposes is discussed. Current research directions in the field are also indicated where appropriate.
Optimal Array Pattern Synthesis via Matrix Weighting

We present new array beampattern synthesis approaches via semidefinite relaxation (SDR) for arbitrary array. Compared to the conventional approaches of using weight vectors at the array output for array pattern synthesis, which we refer to as the vector weighting approaches (VWA), weight matrices are used at the array output by MWA for much improved flexibility for optimal array pattern synthesis, and globally optimal solutions can be determined efficiently due to convex optimization formulations. Numerical examples are presented to show the excellent performance of MWA.
Prevention of alcoholic fatty liver and mitochondrial dysfunction in the rat by long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids.

Background/Aims We reported that reduced dietary intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) such as arachidonic (AA,20:4n6,omega-6) and docosahexaenoic (DHA,22:6n3,omega-3) acids led to alcohol-induced fatty liver and fibrosis. This study was aimed at studying the mechanisms by which a DHA/AA-supplemented diet prevents alcohol-induced fatty liver. Methods Male Long-Evans rats were fed an ethanol or control liquid-diet with or without DHA/AA for 9 weeks. Plasma transaminase levels, liver histology, oxidative/nitrosative stress markers, and activities of oxidatively-modified mitochondrial proteins were evaluated. Results Chronic alcohol administration increased the degree of fatty liver but fatty liver decreased significantly in rats fed the alcohol-DHA/AA-supplemented diet. Alcohol exposure increased oxidative/nitrosative stress with elevated levels of ethanol-inducible CYP2E1, nitric oxide synthase, nitrite and mitochondrial hydrogen peroxide. However, these increments were normalized in rats fed the alcohol-DHA/AA-supplemented diet. The number of oxidatively-modified mitochondrial proteins was markedly increased following alcohol exposure but significantly reduced in rats fed the alcohol-DHA/AA-supplemented diet. The suppressed activities of mitochondrial aldehyde dehydrogenase, ATP synthase, and 3-ketoacyl-CoA thiolase in ethanol-exposed rats were also recovered in animals fed the ethanol-DHA/AA-supplemented diet. Conclusions Addition of DHA/AA prevents alcohol-induced fatty liver and mitochondrial dysfunction in an animal model by protecting various mitochondrial enzymes most likely through reducing oxidative/nitrosative stress.
Weldable and corrosion-resistant ferritic stainless steels

High-chromium ferritic stainless steels have been little used as materials of construction because they lose their corrosion resistance and ductility when welded. Good as-welded properties depend on controlling interstitial carbon and nitrogen. Three methods of achieving such control are described: 1) reducing the interstitials to critical low levels; 2) including weld ductilizing additives, which “soften” the matrix; 3) using additives to complex the interstitials. The third method is particularly useful, since it eases the requirements for raw-material purity and melting techniques to control carbon and nitrogen.
PlasmoDB: a functional genomic database for malaria parasites

PlasmoDB (http://PlasmoDB.org) is a functional genomic database for Plasmodium spp. that provides a resource for data analysis and visualization in a gene-by-gene or genome-wide scale. PlasmoDB belongs to a family of genomic resources that are housed under the EuPathDB (http://EuPathDB.org) Bioinformatics Resource Center (BRC) umbrella. The latest release, PlasmoDB 5.5, contains numerous new data types from several broad categories--annotated genomes, evidence of transcription, proteomics evidence, protein function evidence, population biology and evolution. Data in PlasmoDB can be queried by selecting the data of interest from a query grid or drop down menus. Various results can then be combined with each other on the query history page. Search results can be downloaded with associated functional data and registered users can store their query history for future retrieval or analysis.
Low temperature specific heat of ErAs

Abstract The specific heat of a sintered sample of ErAs has been measured from 1.4–6.1 K. A single broad κ-like peak in the data occurs at 3.25K. The entropy associated with the peak is approximately R ln4 suggesting an S′ = 3 2 ground state.
Vagotomy and pyloroplasty in the treatment of duodenal ulcer

Summary The aim in the surgical treatment of duodenalulcer and its complications is to obtain permanent Healing with a minimum of disturbance of the function of digestion. It is our opinion, based on a large experience over a period of six years, that vagotomy and pyloroplasty accomplish this end more effectively than any of the other surgical procedures currently in use. Failure to heal the ulcer by vagotomy is almost invariably due to incomplete interruption of the nerves. Complete vagotomy calls for good exposure and a familiarity with the pattern of the vagus nerves in the lower part of the mediastinum. Special emphasis is given to the technic ofpyloroplasty. The commonly used technic of employing two or more rows of sutures to close the pyloroplasty wound causes an infolding of tissues which may interfere with satisfactory emptying of the stomach and thus defeat the purpose of the pyloroplasty. This difficulty is avoided by using a single row of sutures. There has been no evidence of leakage in the more than 500 pyloroplasties performed in our clinic with the one-row suture technic. An important consideration in the successful use of pyloroplasty is the -recognition of its contraindications. It is unsatisfactory for cases in which the pyloroduodenal segment is constricted or distorted by inflammatory edema or excessive scarring. It is also unsuited for cases in which the stomach is dilated and low-hanging. Gastrojejunostomy or limited gastric resection should be used in these situations. An evaluation of 200 patients with two tosix years of follow-up study shows that 89.5 per cent have good results. Five per cent are failures because of definite or suspected evidence of recurrence. The remaining 5.5-per cent are designated as poor results for reasons of post-operative sequelae or manifestations of a disturbed emotional state. The surgical mortality in our entire group ofmore than 500 operations of vagotomy and pyloroplasty is less than 0.5 per cent.
Large-scale health outcomes evaluation: how should quality of life be measured? Part II--Questionnaire validation in a cohort of patients with advanced cancer.

In Part I of this article (pp. 607-618) we described how a brief, generic questionnaire might be used to measure patients’ healthrelated quality of life (HRQOL) over time on a large-scale, national basis. Such a system of “outcomes management” [l] could be used to ascertain the effectiveness of health care services. This information, in turn, could improve clinical decision-making and help society ensure universal access to treatments and procedures that “work”, while curtailing public spending for those that do not. Determining “what works” depends on public values concerning the outcomes of care [2]. In Part I we reported our experience with calibrating a generic four-item questionnairethe Quality of Life and Health Questionnaire (QLHQ)-according to the preferences of about 600 individuals from various walks of life. We did not detect any systematic differences in preferences based on demographic or clinical factors. In Part II we describe our experience with the QLHQ in a cohort of 400 cancer patients. The main purpose of the present study was to test
Homophily or the Queen Bee Syndrome : Female evaluation of female leadership

Nontraditional and traditional women were placed into groups, with both nontraditional and traditional women as leaders, and assigned a simple sorting task. Results indicate that (a) nontraditional women evaluated female leadership in general more positively than did traditional women, (b) traditional women responded more positively to their own experience of traditional leadership than did nontraditional women, and (c) nontraditional women responded more positively to their own experience of nontraditional leadership than to traditional leadership. This study failed to substantiate the hypothesized higher evaluation of traditional leadership over nontraditional leadership among traditional women, lending some support to the Queen Bee Syndrome theory offemale competition. The significant results of this study suggest the validity of distinguishing between women who reject traditional sex roles and women who accept traditional sex roles when examining gender in communication research.
A simple stimulus cue for controlling disruptive classroom behavior. Methodological implications for behavior change procedures.

In two separate classrooms, a red light which had no specific consequences attached was used to reduce the talking-out and out-of-seat behavior of elementary school subjects. Following baseline phases, the light was introduced for a one-week period. An observer activated the light whenever the targeted behaviors occurred. Following a return to baseline, the light was reintroduced for a second one-week period. Results indicated that for both subjects a 95% or greater reduction in targeted behaviors occurred during the red-light phases. The results demonstrated the short-term effectiveness of a simple procedure which does not require specific back-up consequences for the reduction of disruptive behavior. The author concluded that studies using stimulus cues as part of reward or punishment procedures should employ a baseline procedure which controls for the effect of the stimulus cue without specific back-up consequences.