cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Rapid computation of single PET scan rest-stress myocardial blood flow parametric images by table look up.

Purpose We have recently reported a method for measuring rest-stress myocardial blood flow (MBF) using a single, relatively short, PET scan session. The method requires two IV tracer injections, one to initiate rest imaging and one at peak stress. We previously validated absolute flow quantitation in ml/min/cc for standard bull's eye, segmental analysis. In this work, we extend the method for fast computation of rest-stress MBF parametric images. Methods We provide an analytic solution to the single-scan rest-stress flow model which is then solved using a two-dimensional table lookup method (LM). Simulations were performed to compare the accuracy and precision of the lookup method with the original non-linear method (NLM). Then the method was applied to 16 single scan rest/stress measurements made in 12 pigs: 7 studied after infarction of the left anterior descending artery (LAD) territory, and 9 imaged in the native state. Parametric maps of rest and stress MBF as well as maps of left (fLV) and right (fRV) ventricular spill-over fractions were generated. Regions of interest (ROIs) for 17 myocardial segments were defined in bull's eye fashion on the parametric maps. The mean of each ROI was then compared to the rest (K1r) and stress (K1s) MBF estimates obtained from fitting the 17 regional TACs with the NLM. Results In simulation, the LM performed as well as the NLM in terms of precision and accuracy. The simulation did not show that bias was introduced by the use of a predefined two-dimensional lookup table. In experimental data, parametric maps demonstrated good statistical quality and the LM was computationally much more efficient than the original NLM. Very good agreement was obtained between the mean MBF calculated on the parametric maps for each of the 17 ROIs and the regional MBF values estimated by the NLM (K1map LM=1.019 x K1ROI NLM + 0.019, R2=0.986; mean difference= 0.034 ± 0.036 mL/min/cc). Conclusions: We developed a table lookup method for fast computation of parametric imaging of rest and stress MBF. Our results show the feasibility of obtaining good quality MBF maps using modest computational ressources, thus demonstrating that the method can be applied in a clinical environment to obtain full quantitative MBF information. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Temperature dependent characterization of Ga 2 O 3 MOSFETs with Spin-on-Glass source/drain doping

β-Gallium oxide (Ga 2 O 3 ) is an increasingly attractive choice for next generation power electronics applications due to its large bandgap, good mobility giving rise to a high Baliga's figure of merit (BFoM), mature bulk and thin film growth technologies with excellent doping control over several orders [1-3]. Moreover, recent experimental MOSFETs have shown large breakdown voltages (750 V), large on current densities (0.6 A/mm), enhancement mode operation, and record high breakdown field strengths (3.8 MV/cm); all of which show the potential of the technology for high efficiency power devices. Source/drain (S/D) contact and access resistance need to be reduced in power devices to decrease the conduction losses. Si ion-implantation was used previously to reduce the source resistance. Alternatively, we have proposed a novel, simple and effective Sn-doped Spin-on-Glass (SOG) doping to achieve a high doping density at the surface, thus reducing the specific contact resistivity (ρ c ) [4]. A ρ c of 2.1±1.4 × 10−5 Ω·cm2 was obtained for 20 nm ultra-shallow junctions which is comparable to ion-implanted S/D junctions. Large drain current density (40 mA/mm) was measured in MOSFETs with SOG S/D doping. Here, we report the temperature dependent characteristics of Ga 2 O 3 MOSFETs with spin-on-glass S/D doping.
The Poetic Workspace.

Traditional management education has been widely criticized for an overemphasis on rational, analytic, arms-length approaches to the detriment of softer, more intuitive capacities. Most critics agr...
A Tetra-Orthogonal Strategy for the Efficient Synthesis of Scaffolds Based on Cyclic Peptides

We have developed a straightforward and robust strategy for synthesizing a family of cyclic peptide scaffolds for the presentation of defined moieties in a wide range of orientations. Specifically we are exploring quinoxaline as the moiety, as a potential nucleic acid binding motif. The method requires the use of four degrees of orthogonality, which in turn allow the extension of the main chain, incorporation of the target side chains, on-resin cyclization, and the revelation of an amino group upon cleavage to increase solubility. We show that related approaches fail for a range of reasons, including the failure of cyclization. Following the optimization of the approach with a single cyclic peptide, we synthesized a family of all possible bis and tris quinoxaline adducts showing by ESI–MS that the desired full length cyclic product is produced in a majority of cases.
Combined molecular and spin dynamics simulation of bcc iron with lattice vacancies

Using an atomistic model that treats both translational and spin degrees of freedom, we have performed combined molecular and spin dynamics simulations to study dynamic properties of BCC iron with varying vacancy concentrations. Atomic interactions are described by an empirical many-body potential while spin interactions are handled with a Heisenberg-like Hamiltonian with a coordinate dependent exchange interaction. By calculating the Fourier transform of spatial and temporal correlation functions, vibrational and magnetic excitations have been studied. The creation of vacancies in the material has shown splitting of the characteristic transverse spin-wave excitations, indicating the production of additional excitation modes. By merging two vacancies to form a nearest neighbor pair, we find that these modes become more distinct. Investigation of longitudinal spin-wave excitations reveals interactions between constituent components of the split transverse excitations.
1L Is the New Bar Prep

Law school graduates, in growing numbers, are failing the bar exam. This reality is all the more staggering when we consider that these graduates have been preparing for the bar exam since their first year of law school. First-year legaI-writing courses teach students specific fundamental skills that are the foundation for success on the bar exam. This Article provides the perspective that the goal of passing the bar exam and teaching Iaw students to think and write like lawyers is a symbiotic relationship. It directly analyzes the correlation between the fundamental skills associated with thinking like a lawyer and successful bar-essay writing. The question then becomes, if law schools are teaching these skills, why do students continue to struggle with the bar exam? To answer that question, this Article analyzes the challenges law students face when they are required to apply the skills learned in an earlier context to a later assignment. Without proper instruction and sustained practice, it is unrealistic to expect law students to retain the skills necessary to solve one legal problem and then later apply those same skills to solve a different problem. This Article emphasizes how law schools have a duty to bridge the gap and foster the transfer of learning from the first year of law school to bar preparation. To guide law schools in better preparing their students for passing the bar exam, this Article concludes with a comprehensive approach detailing how law faculties can facilitate the transfer of fundamental skills from the beginning to the end of law school. "By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail." -Benjamin Franklin
Room temperature 2D memristive transistor with optical short-term plasticity

Memristive devices with short-term plasticity (STP), gate tunability, site controllability, and light sensitivity have generated significant interest for wide range of applications, especially mimicking the neural network. However, there is still no memristive device that can accomplish all those goals in tandem at room temperature. To fill that void, in this work, lT-phase quantum dot superlattice is created on 2H-phase monolayer single crystal molybdenum disulfide (MoS 2 ) back-gated field-effect transistor by focused electron beam irradiation. The quantum dots work as charge traps that induce memristive resistance. The memristive resistance can be controlled by applying gate bias and shows STP to light stimulation. Thus, this work demonstrates the first room temperature light sensitive memristive transistor that can serve as artificial retina device for artificial intelligence, and memristive receiver for optical-electrical neuromorphic interface.
Urban wetland seed bank profiles in south-central New York State1,2

Wetlands are important habitats in urban landscapes that reduce flooding and improve water quality, yet urban wetland seed banks are rarely studied. Our main objective was to profile urban wetland seed banks in south-central New York. We exposed sediment cores from four wetlands in Broome County, New York, to flooded and drawdown treatments for 16 mo, and recorded community composition and seedling density. We found high spatial variation in species richness and seedling density among the four sites. Species richness ranged from 28 to 56 species, with sample-based extrapolation (Sest), Jackknife1, and Chao1 analyses estimating similar expected species richness values (Sest projected 37.9–77.0 species, Jackknife1 analysis estimated 40.5–77.8 species, and Chao1 projected 32.2–79.1 species). Mean seedling density ranged from 3,367 seedlings/m2 to 19,132 seedlings/m2. These seed banks were dominated by obligate wetland species (75.8–93.3%). Invasive species comprised a high percentage of seedlings for three wetlands (40.8–80.9%), but not for the fourth site (4.2%). Lythrum salicaria, Typha sp., and Ludwigia palustris were common species based on relative seedling density for three seed banks, while Leersia oryzoides, Schoenoplectus tabernaemontani, and Alisma triviale were common species in the fourth site. Similarity indices between the standing vegetation and their respective seed banks, based on presence/absence data, were low (13–34%). Species richness and seedling densities were within the ranges of natural wetland seed bank studies.
RAFT Polymerization of an Intrinsically Stretchable Water-Soluble Block Copolymer Scaffold for PEDOT

Despite the common association of π-conjugated polymers with flexible and stretchable electronics, these materials can be rigid and brittle unless they are designed otherwise. For example, low modulus, high extensibility, and high toughness are treated as prerequisites for integration with soft and biological structures. One of the most successful and commercially available organic electronic materials is the conductive and brittle polyelectrolyte complex poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS). To make this material stretchable, additives such as ionic liquids must be used. These additives may render the composite incompatible with biological tissue. In this work, we describe the synthesis of an intrinsically stretchable variant of the conductive polymer PEDOT:PSS that is free of additives. The approach involves the synthesis of a block copolymer comprising soft segments of poly(poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether acrylate) (PPEGMEA) and hard segments of poly(styrenesulfonate) ...
A Logo-Based Tool-Kit and Computer Coach to Support the Development of General Thinking Skills

One of the major arguments for teaching pupils to program in Logo is the claim that this experience results in the acquisition of general thinking skills. However, research concerning this “cognitive-effects hypothesis” has shown that Logo as such does not lead to the spontaneous development of general thinking skills; this can only be obtained if Logo is embedded in a powerful teaching-learning environment aimed at the acquisition and transfer of those skills. These findings have led us to address the following research question: Is it desirable to build a part of the instructional support into the computer system? In order to study this issue, we developed a Logo-based tool-kit and computer coach that supports the acquisition of a Logo programming strategy, including planning and debugging skills. In this contribution we present the theoretical and empirical background and the design of this computer system.
Symbolic Generation of Efficient Simulation/Control Routines for Multibody Systems

Techniques for improving the efficiency of simulation subroutines generated with the aid of computer algebra are presented in the form of MACSYMA utility functions.
The Significance of the 1978 Rehabilitation Act Amendments for Educators of Deaf-Blind Children:

The “Rehabilitation, Comprehensive Services, and Developmental Disabilities Amendments of 1978” (P.L. 95-602) should have a great impact on the welfare of deaf-blind children. This legislation mand...
The influence of proximity of prenatal services on small-for-gestational-age birth.

Some studies suggest that prenatal services may decrease the risk of poor fetal growth for full-term infants, but have not examined the influence of the availability of community health and social services. The availability of prenatal services may have a stronger effect among women already at high risk of a small-for-gestational-age (SGA) birth. Singleton full-term (≥37 weeks gestation) California births for 1997–98 (n = 744,736) were geocoded to maternal Census tract of residence. Women were placed into one of three demographic risk groups utilizing combinations of maternal age, marital status, parity, and education. SGA was defined as birthweight less than the 10th percentile for gestational age. Locations of WIC sites, prenatal care providers, and perinatal outreach programs were geocoded. Multilevel logistic regression was used to model the influence of community health care services on SGA, adjusting for additional maternal and community factors. There was no association between SGA and community services available for either high- or low-risk women, in either unadjusted or adjusted models. The addition of maternal prenatal care utilization to models did not change the results. Maternal residence near prenatal services was not associated with SGA, regardless of demographic risk; other community factors may warrant consideration.
Obesity and Immune Functions

The chapter reviews the literature pertaining to the role of obesity in modulating immune function. Obesity is found in both genetic and diet-induced obese animal models as well as in obese humans to impair immune response; both innate and acquired immune functions are affected. The immune dysfunction during obesity increases host susceptibility to infections and to chronic inflammatory diseases.
Cellulose Synthase Stoichiometry Varies among Species and Tissues.

Cellulose, the most abundant biopolymer on earth, is an important structural component of the primary and secondary cell wall of plant cells. It is also found in animals (tunicates), oomycetes, and bacteria ([Kumar and Turner, 2015][1]). Besides providing support and rigidity in living organisms,
Compressed-sensed-domain L1-PCA video surveillance

We consider the problem of foreground and background extraction from compressed-sensed (CS) surveillance video. We propose, for the first time in the literature, a principal component analysis (PCA) approach that computes the low-rank subspace of the background scene directly in the CS domain. Rather than computing the conventional L 2 -norm-based principal components, which are simply the dominant left singular vectors of the CS measurement matrix, we compute the principal components under an L 1 -norm maximization criterion. The background scene is then obtained by projecting the CS measurement vector onto the L 1 principal components followed by total-variation (TV) minimization image recovery. The proposed L 1 -norm procedure directly carries out low-rank background representation without reconstructing the video sequence and, at the same time, exhibits significant robustness against outliers in CS measurements compared to L 2 -norm PCA.
The Main Challenges and Their Ethical Nature

This chapter discusses the main existing challenges of Global Governance for Health Research, as follow: (1) Exploitation and Helicopter Research, (2) The Problem of Double Standards, (3) Ethical Imperialism and Colonialism, (4) Bilateralism vs. Multilateralism, (5) Biopolitics vs. Bioethics, and (6) The problems associated with Data Sharing, Big Data, and International Collaborations. By discussing these challenges, this chapter shows that the power-relation is a crucial element in all such challenges. Among the above challenges, the first five ones are mostly relevant to research collaborations (and power-relations) between developed and developing countries. The last one, however, is more relevant to the collaborations (and power-relations) among researchers from developed countries, although it can also be relevant to the partnerships between developed and developing countries and even the collaborations among developing countries. It goes without saying that all these challenges have essential and integrated ethical components; therefore, dealing with them needs an ethical framework. The third chapter also uses a model created by Thomas Weiss, titled the “frameworks of gaps,” for shedding more light on the characteristics of these challenges in the context of the current theories of Global Governance. This model formulates the elements of the above challenges within a five-fold set of gaps that exist in the following arenas: (1) Knowledge, (2) Norms, (3) Policies, (4) Institutions, and (5) Compliance.
Determining Viscosity of Blenderized Formula: A Novel Approach Using the International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative Framework

Background Blenderized formula (BF) can be used in place of standard enteral formula and is composed of blenderized whole foods and purees. Benefits of using BF include reduced vomiting and retching, in part related to a higher viscosity. Commercially prepared BFs vary significantly in viscosity when comparing available products. Viscosity can be measured using a viscometer, although this requires expensive and sophisticated equipment. We proposed an alternative method to describe viscosity of BFs using the International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI) framework. This flow test provides a simple and objective method to describe liquid thickness and requires only a 10-mL luer tip syringe and stopwatch. Methods Full-strength BFs were measured using the IDDSI flow test and compared with a standard enteral formula. BFs were then diluted until a slightly thick viscosity was achieved, which correlated to the viscosity of the reference formula. Results IDDSI flow-test results indicated that undiluted BFs ranged in viscosity, from slightly thick to extremely thick, when measured at room temperature. The volume of water required to achieve a slightly thick viscosity ranged from 0 to 270 mL per serving, resulting in a wide variation in dilution of formula. Conclusion The IDDSI flow test was simple to perform and can serve as a tool to determine the viscosity of BFs.
Rejoinder to “CACE and meta‐analysis (letter to the editor)” by Stuart Baker

First, we thank Dr. Baker for his thoughtful comments on our paper describing a Bayesian hierarchical model to estimate the complier average causal effect (CACE) in meta-analysis. It brings out several points that are helpful to readers in understanding estimation of CACE in randomized trials with noncompliance.
Review: Lawrence Halprin, by Kenneth I. Helphand

Kenneth I. Helphand Lawrence Halprin Athens: University of Georgia Press, in association with Library of American Landscape History, 2017, 256 pp., 138 color and 11 b/w illus. $26.95 (paper), ISBN 9780820352077 Lawrence Halprin (1916–2009) was recognized during his lifetime as one of the preeminent American practitioners of landscape architecture, planning, and urban design. His extensive corpus of written, built, and visionary projects celebrated designing for human experience. Halprin shaped the built environment through design practices inspired by the arts and by the patterns of the natural world. Keenly attuned to the cultural context of his era, Halprin spent his career addressing social issues, the dilemmas of urbanization, and environmental concerns. In his recent, incisive monograph, Kenneth I. Helphand, professor emeritus of landscape architecture at the University of Oregon and fellow of the American Society of Landscape Architects, introduces readers to Halprin's professional oeuvre and legacy through careful analysis of his most influential and enduring projects. Helphand is ideally suited to unpack Halprin's design methods, theoretical position, and approach to professional practice. Drawing on insights from his deep knowledge of landscape history and theory, Helphand is able to explain and assess Halprin's designs clearly. He astutely leverages the existing scholarship on Halprin, notably the 2012 special issue of Landscape Journal (vol. 31, nos. 1–2) to which he contributed, and the handful of books written on individual Halprin projects such as the FDR Memorial and Sea Ranch. The book is well grounded in carefully cited archival research and bibliographic references. While pursuing his research in the Lawrence Halprin Collection at the Architectural Archives of the University of Pennsylvania, Helphand culled many of the plans, views, details, and sketches that enhance this richly illustrated volume. In his overview of Halprin's career, Helphand describes the landscape architect's background and formative experiences, including the time he spent on an Israeli kibbutz, his service in World War II, and his education and work experiences. This discussion is complemented by a survey of selected projects that demonstrate the …
The diastereoselective synthesis of quaternary substituted thioindolines from sulfur ylide intermediates.

The Rh(II)-catalyzed coupling of chiral 2-thiopyranylindoles with vinyl diazoacetates results in the generation of indolines having quaternary substitution at C(3) in high diastereoselectivity.
Assessment of adaptation, policy, and capacity building outcomes from 14 processes

Abstract In the US alone, there are over 200 tools that support climate adaptation planning, along with a large number of case studies documenting their use. Case studies frequently document positive results. Systematic assessment of processes can provide important benefits, including justification for action and expenditures, promotion of learning and adaptive management, accountability, and ensuring “fit” with other goals. There are very few such assessments in the context of climate adaptation planning, despite of the emphasis on the development and use of planning tools by federal and state agencies, university researchers, and non-profit organizations. We undertook an effort to assess the outcomes resulting from fourteen applications of the Vulnerability, Consequences, and Adaptation Planning Scenarios (VCAPS) process, which we helped develop and implement. VCAPS is designed to facilitate information exchange, co-production of knowledge, and stakeholder collaboration while helping communities appraise climate change-related risks and devise strategies to manage them. Using qualitative interviews we explored the perceived value and the measurable performance outcomes of VCAPS at both individual and community scales occurring 3–10 years after the processes were conducted, allowing participants to take a broader view of “success” and reflect on how different forms of success emerged over time. Although the assessment of each case is based on a small number of interviews, we learned that VCAPS informed plans and decisions of municipalities, informed actions and decisions of other public and private actors, generated broader support for subsequent actions, helped efforts to secure/seek funding for climate adaptation actions, developed material resources to support planning, and promoted learning among participants. This assessment also reinforces prior work showing that deliberative planning tools/processes are conducive to developing adaptive capacities; processes should be closely coordinated with regular governance activities to impact policy and action; adequate time for deliberation needs to be budgeted; participants need support to “think outside the box” and consider adaptation strategies that are both incremental and transformational as well as highlight potential undesirable consequences of adaptation; and processes, like VCAPS, produce actionable outcomes when participants agree on the immediacy of the issue. We conclude with observations about the need for evaluation of participatory processes and the challenges of defining success of tools to support municipal climate change adaptation planning.
Distributed Fiber Optic Measurements of Strain and Temperature in Long-Span Composite Floor Beams with Simple Shear Connections Subject to Compartment Fires.

Abstract This study explores an instrumentation strategy using distributed fiber optic sensors to measure strain and temperature through the concrete volume in large-scale structures. Single-mode optical fibers were deployed in three 12.8 m long steel and concrete composite floor specimens tested under mechanical or combined mechanical and fire loading. The concrete slab in each specimen was instrumented with five strain and temperature fiber optic sensors along the centerline of the slab to determine the variation of the measurands through the depth of the concrete. Two additional fiber optic temperature sensors were arranged in a zigzag pattern at mid-depth in the concrete to map the horizontal spatial temperature distribution across each slab. Pulse pre-pump Brillouin optical time domain analysis (PPP-BOTDA) was used to determine strains and temperatures at thousands of locations at time intervals of a few minutes. Comparisons with co-located strain gauges and theoretical calculations indicate good agreement in overall spatial distribution along the length of the beam tested at ambient temperature, while the fiber optic sensors additionally capture strain fluctuations associated with local geometric variations in the specimen. Strain measurements with the distributed fiber optic sensors at elevated temperatures were unsuccessful. Comparisons with co-located thermocouples show that while the increased spatial resolution provides new insights about temperature phenomena, challenges for local temperature measurements were encountered during this first attempt at application to large-scale specimens.
Neuroimaging of depression with diffuse optical tomography during repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation.

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is an effective and safe treatment for depression; however, its potential has likely been hindered due to non-optimized targeting, unclear ideal stimulation parameters, and lack of information regarding how the brain is physiologically responding during and after stimulation. While neuroimaging is ideal for obtaining such critical information, existing modalities have been limited due to poor resolutions, along with significant noise interference from the electromagnetic spectrum. In this study, we used a novel diffuse optical tomography (DOT) device in order to advance our understanding of the neurophysiological effects of rTMS in depression. Healthy and depressed subjects aged 18–70 were recruited. Treatment parameters were standardized with targeting of the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex with a magnetic field intensity of 100% of motor threshold, pulse frequency of 10 per second, a 4 s stimulation time and a 26 s rest time. DOT imaging was simultaneously acquired from the contralateral dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. Six healthy and seven depressed subjects were included for final analysis. Hemoglobin changes and volumetric three-dimensional activation patterns were successfully captured. Depressed subjects were observed to have a delayed and less robust response to rTMS with a decreased volume of activation compared to healthy subjects. In this first-in-human study, we demonstrated the ability of DOT to safely and reliably capture and compare cortical response patterns to rTMS in depressed and healthy subjects. We introduced this emerging optical functional imaging modality as a novel approach to investigating targeting, new treatment parameters, and physiological effects of rTMS in depression.
Diagnosis of respiratory disease in feedlot cattle occurring after being in feedlot for 45 days

During 1985 eleven feedlots located in Kansas and Nebraska under direct health care programs instituted by the author, received a total of 372,175 cattle. There was a 7% morbidity rate in these cattle and a .65% mortality. Respiratory diseases accounted for 65% of the morbidity and the mortality during this period. Of the 26,674 cattle treated in these feedlots, 33% of them had been on feed for more than 45 days and of the 2,420 animals that died, 46% of these had been in the feedlot for more than 45 days.
Review of Grief Therapies for Older Adults.

The objective of this review is to provide background on common theories of grief, describe the impact of grief on older adults and to introduce various modalities that are currently used and/or being researched for treatment. The objective is also to condense information and identify what has been found beneficial versus what has been found lacking. A brief examination of overlap of other disorders is done. It also will suggest what further research is necessary on this subject, and highlight what research is being done during the COVID-19 Pandemic. The latest research of grief primarily involves refining the definitions of grief. More concrete definitions of grief will help for better screening tools, and thus target interventions more appropriately. There is considerable need for applying it to the unique and real-world COVID-19 pandemic. Grief disorders are relatively common and the symptoms overlap other disorders. Since the treatments differ, identifying grief disorders is important, especially in the elderly who are more susceptible to grief disorders. Therapy improves grief better than medications, but medications will help with any co-occurring disorders. No clear superior therapy has been identified but research continues. The pandemic has highlighted the need to refine the definitions of grief disorders and to treat them effectively.
The control of meridional differential surface heating over the level of ENSO activity: A heat-pump hypothesis

Numerical experiments with a coupled model have been carried out to test the heat-pump hypothesis for ENSO. The hypothesis states that the level of ENSO activity is controlled by the meridional differential surface heating over the Pacific: either an enhanced surface heating over the equatorial region or an enhanced cooling over the subtropical/extratropical ocean may result in a regime with stronger ENSO events. Moreover, ENSO may be a mechanism that regulates the long-term stability of the coupled equatorial ocean-atmosphere system. The results from the numerical experiments are shown to be consistent with this hypothesis. A stronger tropical heating or a stronger subtropical/extratropical cooling tends to increase the contrast between the SST in the tropical western Pacific warm-pool and the temperature of the equatorial thermocline water and thereby destabilize the coupled equatorial ocean-atmosphere system. In response, a regime with stronger ENSO events sets in. The stronger ENSO events transport more heat downward and poleward, cooling the warm-pool SST and warming the equatorial thermocline water. In the presence of ENSO, the difference between the time-mean warm-pool SST and the time-mean temperature of the equatorial thermocline water is found to be insensitive to changes in the external forcing.
Managing novelty and cross-agency cooperation in digital government

This study examines the management challenges of managing digital government. In particular, we highlight two extraordinary (but not unique) managerial challenges that digital government poses: novelty and cross-agency cooperation. Digital government is novel because it offers some fundamentally new possibilities for how government does business. The management of digital government is, in significant part, the management of ideas, creativity, and knowledge. Digital government requires cross-agency cooperation because of functional needs for scale, consistency, and integration. We argue, therefore, that a hierarchical, silo-based model of management would be doomed to failure with respect to managing digital government. In this study, we examine how four governments that have adopted a project-based approach have coped with the challenges of novelty and cross-agency collaboration. In each of these four projects, we interviewed all of the members of the core project team, focusing on how these individuals shared knowledge and organized their efforts, how they dealt with the multiple types of expertise engaged in the project, and how they engaged the multitude of agencies affiliated with the project.
Footprints of yesterday's syntax: Diachronic development of certain verb prefixes in an OSV language (Nadëb)

Abstract The paper presents an example of the usefulness of the method of internal reconstruction as applied to synchronic variation in the behaviour of postpositions and verb prefixes in Nadeb. These variations are interpreted as stages in a diachronic process of syntactic change, which appears still to be continuing in the language, and which provides an explanation for the presence of some of the many verb prefixes in an OSV language. An attempt is made to suggest a possible future course of this process.
Influence of TiO2 Nanoparticles on Early C3S Hydration

The effect of nanoanatase titanium dioxide (TiO2) powder on early-age hydration kinetics of tricalcium silicate (C3S) was investigated. Isothermal calorimetry was performed on C3S pastes with 0%, 5%, 10%, and 15% of TiO2 addition by weight, and two mathematical models—the Avrami (or JMAK) model and the boundary nucleation model (BN model)—were fitted to the data. For all of the mixes, the addition of TiO2 increased the peak reaction rate, and increased the degree of hydration at 12 and 24 h. The rate of hydration of 10% and 15% TiO2 pastes were accelerated, while the 5% TiO2 paste was delayed, lengthening the induction period as compared with the control paste. The model fits demonstrate that the BN model captures the kinetics of the reaction better, particularly in the deceleration period, than the Avrami model. This is related to the ratio of rate parameters (kB/kG) of the BN model, that the increasing ratio gives a more unsymmetrical shape of a rate curve. The increase in kB/kG with TiO2 addition at 5%, 10%, and 15% suggests that hydration product is formed on or near the surfaces of TiO2 particles, as well as on the C3S surface. These results demonstrate that the addition of TiO2 nanoparticles accelerates the early hydration by providing additional nucleation sites, forming the foundation for future optimization of photocatalytic and other nanoparticle-containing cements.
The histone acetyltransferase Elp3 plays in active role in the control of synaptic bouton expansion and sleep in Drosophila

The histone acetyltransferase Elp3 (Elongator Protein 3) is the catalytic subunit of the highly conserved Elongator complex. Elp3 is essential for the complex functions of Elongator in both the nucleus and cytoplasm of neurons, including the epigenetic control of neuronal motility genes and the acetylation of α-tubulin that affects axonal branching and cortical neuron migration. Accordingly, misregulation of Elp3 has been implicated in human disorders that specifically affect neuronal function, including familial dysautonomia, a disease characterized by degeneration of the sensory and autonomic nervous system, and the motor neuron degenerative disorder amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. These studies underscore the importance of Elp3 in neurodevelopment and disease, and the need to further characterize the multiple nuclear and cytoplasmic based roles of ELP3 required for neurogenesis in animal models, in vivo. In this report, we investigate the behavioral and morphological consequences that result from targeted reduction of ELP3 specifically in the developing Drosophila nervous system. We demonstrate that loss of Elp3 during neurodevelopment leads to a hyperactive phenotype and sleep loss in the adult flies, a significant expansion in synaptic bouton number and axonal length and branching in the larval neuromuscular junction as well as the misregulation of certain genes known to be involved in these processes. Our results uncover a novel role for Elp3 in the regulation of synaptic bouton expansion during neurogenesis that may be linked with a requirement for sleep.
Therapeutic indicators of acute encephalopathy in patients with complex febrile seizures.

Background The aim of this study was to identify predictors of neurologic damage in children with febrile seizures or altered consciousness within 6 h of seizure onset. Methods The present study included 86 children (age range, 4–159 months old), who fulfilled the diagnostic criteria for complex febrile seizures on admission between October 2002 and November 2008. Using the Pediatric Cerebral Performance Category Scale (PCPC), the children were classified into two groups: poor outcome (PCPC = 2–6) and good outcome (PCPC = 1). Clinical profiles and laboratory findings were compared between the groups. Results Of the 86 children, 17 fell into the poor outcome and 69 into the good outcome group. Using univariate analysis, three early risk factors for poor outcome were identified: (i) consciousness disturbance or hemiplegia at 6 h from onset; (ii) refractory status epilepticus; and (iii) elevation of aspartate aminotransferase to >90 IU/L within 6 h of onset. Using these criteria, children in the poor outcome group were identified with a 94% sensitivity and 67% specificity rate (odds ratio, 36.6; 95% confidence interval: 4.87–1560). During the study period, the inpatients who met the criteria for acute encephalopathy also fell into the poor outcome group. Conclusions The development of neurologic damage in children with complex febrile seizures can be predicted within 6 h of onset, using the identified risk factors. The authors propose an assumption of severe febrile seizures (SFS) in children who fulfill these risk factors. Using SFS as an inclusion criterion, an interventional study for acute encephalopathy can be designed.
The role of B cell-activating factor in autoimmune myasthenia gravis

B cell-activating factor (BAFF) is important in the development and maturation of B cells and their progeny-plasma blasts and plasma cells. There is increasing evidence that BAFF is involved in the pathogenesis of several autoimmune diseases including myasthenia gravis. Increased expression of BAFF and receptors for BAFF have been demonstrated in thymus of patients with myasthenia gravis, and an increase in serum levels of BAFF have been reported in patients with myasthenia gravis. While the exact role of BAFF in the pathogenesis of myasthenia gravis is not clear, BAFF and its receptors may provide potential targets for therapy in patients with myasthenia gravis.
Nano-to-micro self-assembly using shear flow devices

This work aims at developing a new technique to precisely assemble nano-materials into micro-or even meso-scale devices. For example, our long-term goal is to use massively architected motor-molecules to build muscle-like actuators in which these molecules work in parallel to output large forces. As an important first step, we report here the successful development of a much improved shear-flow-enhanced self-assembly method over the baseline spontaneous assembly method in test tubes. More specifically, we have engineered special thiolated model molecules (bisdisulfide/C/sub 28/H/sub 34/O/sub 4/S/sub 4/) and demonstrated the nano-to-micro self-assembly through flow interface using thiol-gold bonding chemistry. Our method has produced gold/molecule aggregates as big as 50 /spl mu/m that are completely made of 30 nm gold nanoparticles and 3 nm model molecules.
Development of a thin scintillation films fission-fragment detector and a novel neutron source

Investigation of prompt fission and neutron-capture Υ rays from fissile actinide samples at the Detector for Advanced Neutron Capture Experiments (DANCE) requires use of a fission-fragment detector to provide a trigger or a veto signal. A fission-fragment detector based on thin scintillating films and silicon photomultipliers has been built to serve as a trigger/veto detector in neutron-induced fission measurements at DANCE. The fissile material is surrounded by scintillating films providing a 4π detection of the fission fragments. The scintillations were registered with silicon photomultipliers. A measurement of the 235 U( n,f ) reaction with this detector at DANCE revealed a correct time-of-flight spectrum and provided an estimate for the efficiency of the prototype detector of 11.6(7)%. Design and test measurements with the detector are described. A neutron source with fast timing has been built to help with detector-response measurements. The source is based on the neutron emission from the spontaneous fission of 252 Cf and the same type of scintillating films and silicon photomultipliers. Overall time resolution of the source is 0.3 ns. Design of the source and test measurements with it are described. An example application of the source for determining the neutron/gamma pulse-shape discrimination by a stilbene crystal is given.
New coupled-inductors current-doubler topology

Point-of-load DC-DC converters for current and next generation of ICs for communication systems and microprocessors are increasingly becoming stricter than ever. This is due to the required tight dynamic tolerances allowed for supply voltages and high dynamic performance demand coupled with very high power density. A new coupled-inductors current-doubler topology is proposed in this paper. The advantages of the proposed topology include higher voltage step-down ratio suitable for lower output voltages, better current ripple cancellation resulting in lower output current ripple, smaller isolation transformer turns ratio and lower secondary turns current when used in isolated topology, and can be designed to achieve symmetric transient response at both step-up and step-down transients when used in nonisolated topology. Theoretical analysis and simulation results are presented, and verified by experimental results.
Response of human tumor blood flow to local hyperthermia

Abstract The effect of heat on blood flow in human tumors was studied as a function of time during 1 hour of local hyperthermia induced by 915 MHz microwaves. Blood flow was determined from the rate of thermal clearance by use of the bio-heat transfer equation. The rate of thermal clearance was measured at intervals of approximately 10 minutes throughout the treatment session by turning off the microwave power for 50 seconds. Tumor blood flow increased by amounts varying from 15 to 250% during the first 20–50 minutes of heating at 41–45°C, after which it remained relatively constant during the remainder of the treatment session. The sharp reduction in blood flow or vascular stasis reported in most transplantable rodent tumors after comparable heating was not observed in human tumors. The maximum blood flow observed in heated human tumors ranged from 10–40 ml/min/100 gm. The systematic error due to thermal conduction was estimated to be equivalent to a blood flow of less than 3 m/min/100 gm.
Dimethylthiourea Reverses Sepsis-Induced Pulmonary Hypertension in Piglets

ABSTRACT Dimethylthiourea (DMTU), a putative hydroxyl radical scavenger, attenuates thromboxane generation and pulmonary hypertension in the piglet model of group B streptococcal (GBS) sepsis. This study tested the hypothesis that DMTU reverses ongoing GBS-induced pulmonary hypertension coincident with decreased thromboxane production. Piglets (n = 15) received a 60 min infusion of GBS (10 8 efu/kg/min). Mean pulmonary artery pressure ( P - pa), arterial blood gases (ABGs), and thromboxane B 2 (TXB) levels were measured at 10 min intervals throughout the study. GBS infusion resulted in a marked increase in pulmonary artery pressure (mean ∆ P - pa = 31 mm Hg) and a significant decline in PaO 2 (mean = −80 torr) within 10 min of beginning the infusion. pH decreased from a mean of 7.47 to 7.37. DMTU, 750 mg/kg, or normal saline vehicle was infused over 10–15 min beginning 10 min after initiating GBS. P - pa decreased significantly within 10 min of DMTU infusion. Piglets receiving vehicle had a slow decline in P - pa. Piglets receiving DMTU also had an improvement in Pao 2 and showed no further drop in pH. Piglets receiving vehicle had no improvement in Pao 2 and demonstrated a continued decline in pH. TXB levels did not differ between the groups at any time interval. We conclude that DMTU can partially reverse GBS-induced pulmonary hypertension, but may function through mechanisms independent of thromboxane generation.
The kinetics of lumiflavin reduction by N-methyl-1,4-dihydronicotinamide: direct evidence for a preequilibrium complex between oxidized lumiflavin and N-methyl-1,4-dihydronicotinamide.

Abstract The rates of anaerobic reduction of LF by NMNH exhibited saturation kinetics with a dissociation constant (K 1 ) of 0.11 M and a first order rate constant (k 2 ) of 7.1 sec −1 . Substitution of deuterium at the C-4 position of NMNH showed a 2.7 fold kinetic isotope effect on k 2 with no effect on K 1 . During the reductive reaction, a long wavelength absorbing species was observed. The formation of this species was too fast to be measured by stopped flow techniques but its rate of disappearance was the same as the rate of reduction of the flavin. The turnover number of LF with O 2 and NMNH was significantly faster than the rate of anaerobic reduction of LF by NMNH. Therefore, the preequilibrium complex must react directly with O 2 .
The in vitro metabolism of thryoxine, triiodothyronine and their acetic and propionic acid analogues

The metabolism of thyroxine, triiodothyronine and their acetic and propionic acid analogues has been studied by placing these I131 labelled substrates in buffered medium with or without added tissue. Spleen, kidney and liver slices, homogenates and fractions of homogenates were used. Samples of medium and⁄or homogenized slices, usually after three hours' incubation at 37° C, were chromatographed and quantitated by strip counting. The only product of deiodination detected was iodide. When thyroxine endogenously labelled with I131 was used, no 3, 5 diiodothyronine or other partially deiodinated thyronines or derivatives were formed, although activity was low and small amounts of other products could not be ruled out. Deiodination was inhibited by a nitrogen atmosphere, boiling, heavy metals, cyanide, 2 methyl 1, 4 naphthoquinone, a chelating agent (Versene), and estrogenic substances. No antithyroid substances, including iodide and propylthiouracil, had any effect; iodinated tyrosines and organic iodine com...