cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pd/Ge contacts to n-type GaAs

Abstract Sintered metal-semiconductor contacts, formed by thin, evaporated layers of Pd and Ge on n -type GaAs, were studied using Auger electron spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, secondary ion mass spectroscopy, current-voltage measurements, and capacitance-voltage measurements. Prior to sintering, the as-deposited Pd/Ge/GaAs contacts were rectifying and exhibited a reproducible Schottky barrier energy φ Bn of 0.67±0.02 eV. Auger analysis indicated the initial behavior of the contact structure, upon sintering, to be an interdiffusion and reaction of Pd and Ge on a non-reacting GaAs substrate. Two germanide phases, Pd 2 Ge and PdGe, were identified using X-ray diffraction and Auger analysis. The intervening Ge layer prevented the reaction of Pd with the GaAs substrate at low temperatures. Because of the PdGe reaction, φ Bn increased to approximately 0.85 eV. Sintering at higher temperatures (i.e. between 300 and 400°C) produced additional reactions between Pd and the GaAs substrate. The electrical properties of the contact remained rectifying and φ Bn exhibited little change from the value of 0.85 eV with the interdiffusion of Pd, Ga, and As. Sintering above 400°C resulted in the formation of ohmic contacts. The diffusion of Ge to the GaAs interface was found to correlate with the onset of ohmic behavior. Current conduction in the contact was best described by thermionic-field emission theory, and a specific contact resistance of 3.5 × 10 −4 Ω-cm 2 was obtained after sintering above 550°C, independent of the initial impurity concentration in the substrate. Over the entire range of sintering temperatures (i.e. at or below 600°C), the interaction between the thin-film layers appeared to be governed by diffusion-controlled, solid-phase processes with no evidence of the formation of a liquid phase. As a result, the surface of the contact structure remained smooth and uniform during sintering.
Diffusion first passage times: Approximations and related differential equations☆

Abstract A finite spectral expansion is presented for the distribution of first passage to a fixed level, by a diffusion process with reflecting lower boundary. The n -term expansion derived here matches the first n moments of the passage time distribution. We derive also an interesting representation for the moment generating function of the first passage distribution.
Analysis and computations of oscillating crack propagation in a heated strip

This paper presents a computational analysis and several simulations of an existing experiment, which deals with a quasi-static thermal crack propagation in a glass plate. The experimental observation was that a straight or oscillatory crack propagation occurred depending on the plate width and thermal loading. The goal here is to simulate this experiment with the recent numerical tool such as XFEM. First, the analysis of the settings of the experiment is developed by providing the computed energy release rate of the crack for a wide range of experiment settings parameters. Second, different crack propagations are simulated, and show a good agreement with the experimental observation of straight or oscillatory paths. Third, a study of the results given by the fracture criteria (maximum hoop stress and Local Symmetry criteria) is also presented for this particular experiment in order to evaluate their differences.
Scaling in the third dimension -prospects for silicon-based interposer and 3D integration

Classical constant field scaling has reached a point of diminishing returns as a result of fundamental limitations, increased process complexity and lithographic challenges. Si-based passive interposers offer the possibility of integrating heterogeneous technologies on a silicon substrate as well as the possibility synthesizing very large chips with silicon like latencies. 3D die stacking allows for an additional integration of two or more functional die with a die to die interconnect density that allows for a variety of possibilities all the way from power and I/O integration, to block and macro level integration, and in limit circuit level integration across strata. In this talk we will share the work we have doing on both interposers integrating SiGe analog die with 45nm ASICs as well as the integration of logic and memory in some key embodiments. We will discuss the challenges we face in technology, reliability, thermo-mechanical stability, design and test. Finally, we will discuss options that allow for higher levels of integration using wafer level bonding technology.
Petrology of volcanic rocks from an aseismic rise: Implications for the origin of the Rio Grande rise, South Atlantic Ocean

Abstract Igneous material dredged from the Rio Grande rise, South Atlantic Ocean, includes basaltic rocks, some having mafic nodules and megacrysts, and volcanic breccias composed largely of basaltic fragments. These samples represent the only volcanic rocks recovered from this aseismic rise. Bulk compositions show alkalic basalt, trachybasalt, and trachyandesite; the rock types are similar to those of nearby Tristan da Cunha, Gough, and the Walvis ridge. Microprobe analyses show basaltic groundmass to have olivine, Fo 85 , pyroxene, Fs 13 Wo 46 , feldspar, An 71 , plus interstitial alkali feldspar. Mafic nodules and megacrysts have olivine, Fo 86–90 and pyroxene Fs 6–7.5 Wo 45–46 ; Al 2 O 3 2.5–4 wt.%. The Rio Grande rise rocks have compositional characteristics of an alkalic basaltic suite, and not of mid-ocean ridge tholeiite. Based on mineral compositions, nodules and megacrysts in basalt are interpreted as cognate inclusions. Because oceanic alkalic basaltic rocks are almost invariably associated with islands and seamounts, the Rio Grande rise probably represents a series of alkalic-basalt islands that formed and eventually subsided during rifting of the South Atlantic; the dredged volcanic breccias are probably slump deposits from those volcanoes. This interpretation lends support to the Rio Grande rise having formed at a hot spot, but the possibility of alkalic rocks having formed along fracture zones should not be discounted.
An optical potential for nuclei with collective states

In first approximat ion the optical potent ia l is s imply related to the target densi ty (x), and the elastic scat ter ing of medium-energy protons (2) and or-particles (8) can be of use in determining the size and shape of closed-shell nuclei. In contrast for nuclei which possess s t rongly excited low-lying states the corrections to the first-order optical potent ia l arising from the vi r tual excitat ion of these collective states may be important , and unless they are explici t ly included in a coupled-channel calculation the parameters of the result ing opt ical potent ia l are no longer s imply re la ted to the ta rge t densi ty and appear to be anomalous (4,~). The contributions from these collective states are reflected as differences in the optical potent ia ls employed in coupled.channel and DWBA calculations, and i t is of interest to systemat ical ly unders tand the connection between them (5). The determinat ion of a local optical potent ia l which reproduces the elastic pa r t of a given mult ichannel scattering problem is quite complicated, and the solution is nonunique (6). In this note we present a simple construction of a local optical potent ia l which uses the high-energy eikonal approximat ion as an in termediary (*). Although our approach is quite general , i t is best i l lus t ra ted in terms of a specific example. Fo r the sake of s implici ty the development is carried out for the generalized optical potent ia l int roduced for v ibra t ional nuclei by BOHR and MOTT~LSON (s):
Antigenically intact hemagglutinin in circulating avian and swine influenza viruses and potential for H3N2 pandemic

Antigenically intact hemagglutinin in circulating avian and swine influenza viruses and potential for H3N2 pandemic
Péclet number and crystal growth in a channel.

We present experimental results on the growth of a needle-shaped crystal from an undercooled liquid in a rectangular capillary. We have studied the crossover from the Saffman-Taylor solution at small P\'eclet number to the Ivantsov solution at large P\'eclet number. Surface tension anisotropy is studied by comparing succinonitrile and pivalic acid for different orientations of the crystalline axis. Finally, we show evidence that, at least above a certain value of the P\'eclet number, the growth at constant velocity is not steady state.
Fluvial processes in geomorphology and environmental management: The 2006 Benjamin Franklin Medal in Earth and Environmental Science awarded to Luna B. Leopold and M. Gordon Wolman

Abstract Starting in the 1950s Luna B. Leopold and M. Gordon Wolman transformed the field of geomorphology with quantitative and process-orientated studies designed to understand landscape adjustments to temporal and spatial changes in sediment supply and streamflow. By integrating fundamental science with keen observations they developed the first comprehensive and mechanistic understanding of rivers and floodplains. Their research has not only provided a quantitative framework for understanding landscape evolution, it is a cornerstone of modern water resource management and environmental impact analysis. Specific research areas included quantifying: (1) the “hydraulic geometry” of rivers; (2) the morphology and processes of rivers; (3) channel networks and the longitudinal profiles of rivers; (4) processes controlling floodplain formation; (5) the magnitude and frequency of geomorphic processes; and (6) the cycle of sedimentation in response to urban development. Much of this research was published in seven co-authored articles and in a widely used 1964 book that they co-authored with John Miller, Fluvial Processes in Geomorphology. While their contributions are synergistically linked and stem from their co-authored papers, their individual contributions are distinct and extend over 50 years. For these accomplishments, Luna Leopold and M. Gordon Wolman were awarded the 2006 Benjamin Franklin Medal in Earth and Environmental Science.
Fulminant Wilson disease.

![Figure][1] A 37-year-old woman with no previous medical problems noted malaise, jaundice, and dark urine that rapidly progressed to severe liver failure. She was referred for an evaluation of anemia. Her hemoglobin was 7.3 g/dL, reticulocyte count 132 000/μL, bilirubin 29.6 mg/dL, lactate
Two cases of stem cell therapy for pulmonary hypertension: A clinical report

In this report we discuss two cases of patients with Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension. Both patients were evaluated and were recommended therapy according to current acceptable guidelines. Despite these recommendations, each patient sought on their own accord, additional therapy in the form of stem cell therapy. They subsequently received an infusion of stem cells into their pulmonary circulation. Objective and subjective measures were followed prior to and following infusion. After a review of each case we briefly discuss the decisions a physician must face when a patient seeks therapies not proven safe or effective by a governing authority.
Protein Interactions in Solution Characterized by Light and Neutron Scattering: Comparison of Lysozyme and Chymotrypsinogen

The effects of pH and electrolyte concentration on protein-protein interactions in lysozyme and chymotrypsinogen solutions were investigated by static light scattering (SLS) and small-angle neutron scattering (SANS). Very good agreement between the values of the virial coefficients measured by SLS and SANS was obtained without use of adjustable parameters. At low electrolyte concentration, the virial coefficients depend strongly on pH and change from positive to negative as the pH increases. All coefficients at high salt concentration are slightly negative and depend weakly on pH. For lysozyme, the coefficients always decrease with increasing electrolyte concentration. However, for chymotrypsinogen there is a cross-over point around pH 5.2, above which the virial coefficients decrease with increasing ionic strength, indicating the presence of attractive electrostatic interactions. The data are in agreement with Derjaguin-Landau-Verwey-Overbeek (DLVO)-type modeling, accounting for the repulsive and attractive electrostatic, van der Waals, and excluded volume interactions of equivalent colloid spheres. This model, however, is unable to resolve the complex short-ranged orientational interactions. The results of protein precipitation and crystallization experiments are in qualitative correlation with the patterns of the virial coefficients and demonstrate that interaction mapping could help outline new crystallization regions.
Optimisation of delay and risetime in iterative multistage wideband amplifier circuits

Criteria are derived for minimising the overall delay and risetime of the step-function response in iterative multistage wideband amplifier circuits. The treatment takes into account collector?base capacitances, and it provides explicit results suitable for use in circuit design.
A note on the method of “differential regression” in analysis of variance

Some time ago, the author (Hendricks, 1935 a ) pointed out a modification which may occasionally be desirable in the application of co-variance analysis to experimental data. It was suggested that, in some instances, it is more logical to base the analysis on the assumption that the slope of the line of regression varies from class to class than on the assumption that the regression coefficient has the same value for each class of observations.
Study of a Lipohydroperoxide Breakdown Factor in Soy Extractsa

SUMMARY The rapid decrease in linoleic acid hydroperoxides observed with relatively high levels of soy flour extract was investigated. The hydroperoxide breakdown factor can be eliminated by high-temperature short-time treatment of soy extracts. The addition of KCN to reaction mixtures caused a partial inhibition of the breakdown factor activity. Variations in hydroperoxide breakdown activity with variations in pH and reaction time were studied. A possible optimum at pH 8-9 was indicated. Qualitative evidence for the presence of a lipohydroperoxidase was obtained with well-known reagents that produce a specific color reaction with peroxidases.
The Structure of Light Nuclei

Nuclear size parameters, nuclear phenomena, and nuclear interactions are discussed in terms of cluster, shell, liquid drop, and collective representations of nuclei. Results obtained by the several means are evaluated and are compared when posslble. The appropriateness of each model for certain applications is also examined. 334 references. (D.C.W.)
MODELING HOLES AND INCLUSIONS BY LEVEL SETS IN THE EXTENDED FINITE-ELEMENT METHOD

A methodology to model arbitrary holes and material interfaces (inclusions) without meshing the internal boundaries is proposed. The numerical method couples the level set method (S. Osher, J.A. Sethian, J. Comput. Phys. 79 (1) (1988) 12) to the extended finite-element method (X-FEM) (N. Moes, J. Dolbow, T. Belytschko, Int. J. Numer. Methods Engrg. 46 (1) (1999) 131). In the X-FEM, the finite-element approximation is enriched by additional functions through the notion of partition of unity. The level set method is used for representing the location of holes and material interfaces, and in addition, the level set function is used to develop the local enrichment for material interfaces. Numerical examples in two-dimensional linear elastostatics are presented to demonstrate the accuracy and potential of the new technique.
BDNF enhances the functional reinnervation of the striatum by grafted fetal dopamine neurons.

Abstract Transplantation of fetal dopaminergic neurons to the striatum can ameliorate neurological deficits exhibited by experimental animals and human graft recipients with Parkinson’s disease. Recovery, however, is incomplete due to suboptimal survival of grafted cells and limited synaptic integration with the host brain. A number of neurotrophic factors have recently been shown to promote the survival and differentiation of dopamine neuronsin vitro.In the present study we examined the effects of one such factor, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), on the development of fetal substantia nigra following transplantation to the dopamine-depleted striatum of adult rats. Infusion of BDNF greatly enhanced the reinnervation of the host striatum by the engrafted dopamine neurons, as determined by tyrosine hydroxylase immunostaining, and also increased the effect of the graft on locomotor behavior induced by amphetamine administration. These effects became apparent during the 4-week period of BDNF infusion and persisted for an additional 6 weeks following the termination of BDNF delivery. These findings demonstrate that BDNF exerts a significant effect on the functional reinnervation of the striatum by transplanted fetal dopamine neurons in the rat, and suggest that application of this factor might similarly improve the clinical efficacy of neural transplantation employed in the treatment for Parkinson’s disease.
Observation of Bs0–B¯s0 Oscillations

We report the observation of B s 0 – B ¯ s 0 oscillations using 1 fb −1 of data from p p ¯ collisions with the CDF II detector at the Fermilab Tevatron. We measure the probability, as a function of proper decay time, that the B s 0 decays with the same, or opposite, flavor as its flavor at production, which is determined using opposite-side and same-side flavor identification methods. We find a signal consistent with B s 0 – B ¯ s 0 oscillations, with a significance greater than 5 σ . We measure Δ m s = 17.77 ± 0.10 ( s t a t ) ± 0.07 ( s y s t ) ps −1 .
New evidence of subsonic jet noise mechanisms

Measurements of sound gradient near a subsonic jet have shown that coherent sound is emanated from the flow in the form of narrow beams. Within any given short period of time, sound appears to come from small volumes in the jet with a preferred direction of propagation for that particular moment. These conclusions are drawn from a large data base using correlation techniques, and are further confirmed by additional experiments.
Neutron-scattering studies of the structure and dynamics of /sup 36/Ar monolayer films adsorbed on basal-plane-oriented graphite

Elastic- and inelastic-neutron-scattering methods have been used to study the low-temperature properties of argon films adsorbed on graphite. At $T=5$ K the film forms a two-dimensional triangular lattice incommensurate with the substrate. The spectrum of neutrons inelastically scattered in the plane of the film is found to be consistent with calculations based on a simple two-dimensional phonon model in which interactions with the substrate are neglected.
Inhibition of malolactic fermentation by a peptide produced by Saccharomyces cerevisiae during alcoholic fermentation

The ability of Saccharomyces to inhibit Oenococcus oeni during the alcoholic fermentation by mechanisms other than SO(2) production was investigated. During fermentation in synthetic grape juice, S. cerevisiae strain RUBY.ferm inhibited the malolactic fermentation by O. oeni while strain EC1118 did not despite both strains producing similar amounts of SO(2). The bacterial inhibition exerted by RUBY.ferm was diminished when the wine was treated with proteases but not through the addition of nutrients. Wine fermented by RUBY.ferm was fractionated based on molecular weight and each fraction tested for the ability to inhibit the growth of O. oeni. The fraction containing compounds larger than 3 kDa was the sole inhibitory fraction. The inhibitory fraction was analyzed by SDS PAGE and showed a 5.9 kDa protein band present in wine fermented by RUBY.ferm that was not present in wine fermented by a non-antagonistic yeast, S. cerevisiae strain Saint Georges S101. The ability of the peptide to inhibit O. oeni seemed to be dependent on the presence of SO(2).
The use of participation in decision making: A consideration of the Vroom-Yetton and Vroom-Jago normative models.

Empirical evaluations of normative models of decision making provided by Vroom and Yetton (1973) and Vroom and Jago (1988) are reported. Thirty-six military officers enrolled in a graduate program provided a total of 132 descriptions of actual decisions evenly divided between successful and unsuccessful outcomes. Decision process utilized and attributes of the situations which attended the actual decisions were identified and compared to prescriptions in each of the models. Strong support was provided for the ability of the Vroom-Yetton model, which uses a feasible set approach, to predict decision outcomes. A single best, Maximum Overall Effectiveness (Oeff) decision approach of the Vroom-Jago model was not supported. However, when percentage Oeff approaches were examined, the ability of the Vroom-Jago model to identify the relative efficacy of various decision processes was strongly supported. The computational complexity of these models calls their practical utility for operational decision making into question; however, their potential contribution to management development and theory is discussed.
Self-concept, locus of control, goal blockage, and coronary-prone behavior pattern in children and adolescents: Bogalusa heart study.

Summary Four measures that are hypothesized to be correlates of cardiovascular risk factor variables were tested in children and adolescents. A psychosocial questionnaire, including Type A coronary-prone behavior pattern and three additional measures (self-concept, locus of control, and goal blockage), was administered to 384 ten- to 17-year-old students in a biracial public school. Whites scored higher than did blacks on Type A behavior, and Type A behavior increased with age. Contrary to other reports, a negative relationship was found (excluding white boys and black girls) between self-concept and Type A behavior. Blacks had a higher level of self-concept than did whites. Boys were found to have a more external locus of control than did girls, and blacks were more externally oriented and experienced greater goal blockage than did whites. Sufficient test-retest reliability was found to justify use of the four measures in future research.
Transport properties of Ag-YBa2Cu3O7−x fibers prepared by a polymer-metal-complex precursor process

Abstract We report studies of the properties of an Ag-YBa2Cu3O7−x (Ag-123) fiber typical of those we have produced by a variation of the polymer-metal-complex (PMC) precursor technique of Chien et al. Detailed results for the temperature, current and magnetic field dependence of the DC electrical transport properties are presented for a fiber of diameter ≈ 15 μm which has a DC jc=1300 A/cm2 at 77K (10 nV/cm criterion) and 15 500 A/cm2 at 4.2 K (1 μV/cm criterion) in zero field. The results differ significantly from non-silver-added prepared by the same PMC process.
Slip Flow Convection in Isoflux Rectangular Microchannels

Laminar forced convection in thermally developing slip flow through isoflux rectangular microchannels is analytically investigated. Local and fully developed Nusselt numbers, fluid temperatures, and wall temperatures are obtained by solving the continuum energy equation for hydrodynamically fully developed slip flow with the velocity slip and temperature jump condition at the walls. Heat transfer may increase, decrease, or remain unchanged, compared to nonslip flow conditions, depending on aspect ratios and two-dimensionless variables that include effects of the microchannel size or rarefaction and the fluid/wall interaction. The transition points that separate heat transfer enhancement from reduction are acquired for different aspect ratios
Orientation-dependent piezoelectric Eshelby S -tensor for a lamellar structure in a transversely isotropic medium

This paper provides explicit expressions for the orientation-dependent piezoelectric Eshelby S-tensor with a lamellar structure in a transversely isotropic medium. Many piezoelectric or ferroelectric materials prefer to form a lamellar structure during a change of nano-scale microstructure and domain switch; such a lamellar morphology is energetically more favorable than other shapes in a diffusionless process. According to the above observation, this paper seeks to derive the Eshelby tensor in a coupled field with the consideration of lamellar structure. In general, Eshelby's tensor can be obtained through a Green's function technique, but it is usually given in an integral form. Due to the geometric simplicity of a lamellar structure, a simple explicit form of piezoelectric S-tensor can be obtained directly from the interfacial continuous conditions. In a transversely isotropic medium, the angle between the global symmetric axis and one of the local parallel to the surface of the lamellar inclusion is the key geometrical factor in the construction of the S-tensor. Two special cases with 90° and 180° orientation that bear significant relevance to domain switch in ferroelectric ceramics are discussed in detail.
Extrinsic obstruction of the Bjork-Shiley valve in the mitral position

Abstract Four recently seen patients with acute, extrinsic obstruction of a Bjork-Shiley prosthesis in the mitral position are described. In 2 of them, the disc occluder was stuck in the closed position by a strand of chordal tissue, which was compressed between the disc edge and valve rim. In another patient, sticking of the disc by a similar mechanism was caused by a suture that migrated into the valve orifice. Intermittent malfunction of the valve in the fourth patient was related to interference with valve opening by ventricular myocardium and occurred when the patient lay on his right side. The mechanisms of extrinsic obstruction of the Bjork-Shiley valve and their recognition, treatment, and prevention are discussed.
Digitizing the Middle Ages

The digitization of the Middle Ages has been going on for well over a decade. In the past ten years or so, numerous projects have been started with an eye to recording and preserving medieval artifacts – manuscripts and other material objects – in the potentially more readily accessible and more easily manipulable digital form. Students and teachers of the literature, history and culture of the Middle Ages stand to benefit from these projects in exciting ways. But how easy is it to find, say, high-quality images of medieval manuscripts, and what can one do with them? This article provides an initial taxonomy and overview of how to locate what is currently available and ongoing in the ‘field’ of medieval digitization, and focuses primarily on resources for teaching and study in the areas of literature and manuscript studies – although the resources listed here can obviously be consulted for the full range of sub-disciplines of Medieval Studies. It concludes with a suggestion for an inexpensive and very practical digitization technique that takes advantage of readily available manuscript materials – especially for those who find themselves thousands of miles from the nearest repository of medieval manuscripts.
Concanavalin A-mediated cell agglutinability induced by vaccinia virions.

Abstract The induction of enhanced concanavalin A (Con A)-mediated cellular agglutinability by purified vaccinia virus was examined quantitatively. Increased HEp-2 cell agglutinability by the lectin occurred within the first hour of infection and persisted without further change throughout the virus infectious cycle. Ultraviolet, but not heat-inactivated, virus was as effective as infectious virus in causing increased Con A agglutinability. Inhibition of viral and host cell protein synthesis by Streptovitacin A failed to alter the lectin response to vaccinia virus infection. Fluorescein-labeled Con A was observed to form clusters and large fluorescent patches on the infected cell surface during the earliest stage of infection. Studies with 125I-labeled Con A revealed an early but minimal increase in lectin binding to infected cells. After the first hour of infection, no further increase in Con A binding was observed. When cells were exposed to purified vaccinia virus surface tubules (Stern, W., and Dales, S. (1976). Virology 75, 232–241) increased Con A agglutinability comparable to that obtained with native virus was demonstrated. Con A-mediated agglutinability of cells was temperature-dependent and displayed a higher temperature transition in infected cells. These data suggest that upon contact with the host cell, vaccinia virions or surface tubules induce alterations in the plasma membrane which are reflected in an enhanced agglutinability by Con A.
Exploring the complexities of value creation: The role of engagement strength

Abstract Regulatory engagement theory (Higgins, E. T. (2006). Value from hedonic experience and engagement. Psychological Review , 113 , 439–460; Higgins, E.T. & Scholer, A.A. (2009). Engaging the consumer: The science and art of the value creation process. Journal of Consumer Psychology ) proposes that engagement strength plays a critical role in the creation of value intensity. We discuss the ways in which engagement, in this model, can be distinguished from arousal, motivation to act, and experienced difficulty. We distinguish between the mechanisms and predictions made by regulatory engagement theory versus cognitive dissonance theory and a goal systems approach. We also describe the complexities and conditions under which some sources of engagement strength (e.g., regulatory fit) may relate to value creation. For instance, while regulatory fit has more typically been associated with increased engagement strength, regulatory nonfit may also sometimes increase engagement by serving as an obstacle to be overcome. We review existing evidence and highlight open questions related to the role of engagement strength in creating value.
Metallic adhesion layer induced plasmon damping and molecular linker as a nondamping alternative.

Drastic chemical interface plasmon damping is induced by the ultrathin (∼2 nm) titanium (Ti) adhesion layer; alternatively, molecular adhesion is implemented for lithographic fabrication of plasmonic nanostructures without significant distortion of the plasmonic characteristics. As determined from the homogeneous linewidth of the resonance scattering spectrum of individual gold nanorods, an ultrathin Ti layer reduces the plasmon dephasing time significantly, and it reduces the plasmon scattering amplitude drastically. The increased damping rate and decreased plasmon amplitude are due to the dissipative dielectric function of Ti and the chemical interface plasmon damping where the conduction electrons are transferred across the metal–metal interface. In addition, a pronounced red shift due to the Ti adhesion layer, more than predicted using electromagnetic simulation, suggests the prevalence of interfacial reactions. By extending the experiment to conductively coupled ring-rod nanostructures, it is shown t...
The impact of biotechnology on the chemical industry in the 21st century

Although the overall size of the industrial chemicals business is US$1.4 trillion worldwide, growth has slowed in some market segments. In order to reestablish and sustain growth, materials with higher information content and improved economics based on renewable resources will be required. These challenges have motivated the pursuit of biotechnology by several traditional chemical companies, such as DuPont, Dow, BASF and Monsanto. Even though each company might differ in their strategic approach, their common goal is the same: to create high-value materials using biotechnology.
Effects of geomorphology, habitat, and spatial location on fish assemblages in a watershed in Ohio, USA

In this paper, we evaluate relationships between in-stream habitat, water chemistry, spatial distribution within a predominantly agricultural Midwestern watershed and geomorphic features and fish assemblage attributes and abundances. Our specific objectives were to: (1) identify and quantify key environmental variables at reach and system wide (watershed) scales; and (2) evaluate the relative influence of those environmental factors in structuring and explaining fish assemblage attributes at reach scales to help prioritize stream monitoring efforts and better incorporate all factors that influence aquatic biology in watershed management programs. The original combined data set consisted of 31 variables measured at 32 sites, which was reduced to 9 variables through correlation and linear regression analysis: stream order, percent wooded riparian zone, drainage area, in-stream cover quality, substrate quality, gradient, cross-sectional area, width of the flood prone area, and average substrate size. Canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) and variance partitioning were used to relate environmental variables to fish species abundance and assemblage attributes. Fish assemblages and abundances were explained best by stream size, gradient, substrate size and quality, and percent wooded riparian zone. Further data are needed to investigate why water chemistry variables had insignificant relationships with IBI scores. Results suggest that more quantifiable variables and consideration of spatial location of a stream reach within a watershed system should be standard data incorporated into stream monitoring programs to identify impairments that, while biologically limiting, are not fully captured or elucidated using current bioassessment methods.
Overview of 2009 Indianapolis conference white paper: the goal of an integrated viral clearance strategy.

Indianapolis meeting. In 2009, the 1st Viral Clearance Symposium was held in Indianapolis, IN to interactively discuss methods for virus removal and inactivation during biopharmaceutical manufacture. This conference series was initiated with the goal of gathering the world's top experts on this
High-Density Single Particle Tracking on the Plasma Membrane using High-Speed Hyperspectral Imaging

We have developed a high-speed, line-scanning hyperspectral microscope (HSM) capable of acquiring 30 frames per second with 128 spectral channels per spatial pixel. The HSM allows simultaneous single particle tracking (SPT) of up to eight spectrally distinct quantum dots (QDs), improving the useable labeling density in SPT by nearly an order of magnitude as compared to single-color SPT. In addition, HSM imaging allows the spectral uniqueness of QDs within the same spectral family to be used for resolving ambiguities in trajectory reconstruction.We describe our physical instrument as well as the required analysis for hyperspectral SPT of multi-color QDs. Our analysis extends multi-emitter fitting previously developed in our lab for accurate localization of single fluorophores at higher density [Huang, F. et al., Biomed Opt Express 2011;2(5):1377] to three dimensions (x, y, lambda). Using a finite pixel 3D Gaussian estimate for their combined point spread function and spectral features, simultaneous spatial localization and spectral identification of QDs is achieved. The algorithm is implemented in CUDA to take advantage of parallel processing of GPUs. Trajectories are constructed with spatial and spectral localization information using a cost matrix approach for global optimization. Finally, squared displacements from single particle trajectories are used to build viscosity maps of the plasma membrane.We demonstrate high-density SPT by performing viscosity mapping of the plasma membrane, which provides important spatial and temporal information about local membrane effects on receptor mobility. We have applied HSM viscosity mapping to investigate the influence of the membrane environment on QD-IgE bound to FceRI. Changes in mobility and confinement of FceRI due to receptor crosslinking (receptor aggregation and signal initiation), latrunculin-beta treatment (induces actin depolymerization), and PMA treatment (induces actin polymerization) are examined.
Central line mechanical complication rate in emergency medicine patients.

Abstract. Central line (CL) placement in the emergency department (ED) is a common practice. Previously published small-scale studies have quoted mechanical complication rates in emergency medicine patients of 10-15%. Objective: To determine the mechanical complication rate of central venous catheterization in a large (65,000 visits/year) academic urban ED. Methods: This was a retrospective review of all ED-placed CLs over a three-year period from May 1995 to May 1998. Data were collected as part of a monthly quality assurance project and analyzed using Fisher's exact test (significance = p < 0.05). Central lines were defined as subclavian, internal jugular, femoral, and interosseous lines. Mechanical complication was defined as a pneumothorax, hematoma, line misplacement, or hemothorax. Results: There were 22 complications of a total of 643 CLs placed [complication rate 3.4% (95% CI = 1.9% to 4.8%)]. The complication rate for patients with a confirmatory chest x-ray receiving a subclavian or internal jugular CL (excluding all patients who died prior to x-ray evaluation of CL) was 6.2% (22/355) (95% CI = 3.9% to 9.3%). There were 402 (63%) CLs placed during a code with a complication rate of 2.2% (95% CI = 1.0% to 4.2%), 79% (317/402) medical and 21% (85/402) trauma codes. Thirty-seven percent (241) of the CLs were placed on an “elective urgent” basis. Residents placed the majority of CLs (567/643), with a complication rate of 3%. There was no statistically significant difference in complication rates based on level of resident training. Conclusions: The CL mechanical complication rate in the ED at this institution is 3.4%. This is substantially lower than previously reported mechanical complication rates.
Nuclear magnetic resonance study of the side-chain conformation of α-helical poly-β-benzyl-l-aspartate

Abstract The nuclear magnetic resonance spectra of the two homopolymers, poly-β-benzyl- l -aspartate and poly-β-methyl- l -aspartate, are investigated in both the random-coil and left-handed α-helical conformations. Comparing the side-chain resonances, it is possible to exclude, in chloroform solutions, certain wrap-around conformations in poly-β-benzyl- l -aspartate which involve the phenyl ring. In addition, for this polymer there is no evidence of an interaction between the phenyl rings which would result in a regular side-chain structure. These conclusions are based on the lack of any noticeable shift in side-chain resonances due to the anisotropic magnetic field of the phenyl ring. Denaturation studies indicate that, in contrast to right-handed α-helical poly-γ-benzyl- l -glutamate, the phenyl ring does not play a major part in stabilizing the left-handed α-helix of poly-β-benzyl- l -aspartate.
Survivable Routing with Risk-Level Disjoint in WDM Optical Networks

This paper investigates the survivable routing in backbone optical transport networks with shared-risk link groups (SRLG) constraints, and proposes a new risk-level disjoint protection (RLDP) algorithm for provide different service level for different connection request. Compared with the conventional SRLG- disjoint protection (SDP) algorithm, RLDP performs better resource utilization and blocking probability. Simulation results are shown to be promising.
A numerical investigation of 3-D small-scale yielding fatigue crack growth

Abstract The 3-D small-scale yielding (SSY) model provides a computational framework to study fatigue crack growth in thin, metallic components (and test specimens) containing an initially sharp, straight-through crack. This work describes a finite element study of plasticity-induced crack closure in the 3-D SSY model under mode I, constant amplitude cyclic loading with a ratio R=Kmin/Kmax. A purely kinematic hardening model with constant modulus represents the material constitutive behavior. This paper first addresses key computational issues and proposes modeling guidelines leading to 3-D numerical results for fatigue crack growth in SSY that exhibit convergence with mesh refinement. Specifically, computed crack opening loads show an independence of finite element mesh refinement when (a) the plastic zone at peak load encloses more than 10 eight-noded brick elements (b) the reverse plastic zone encloses at least two elements, and (c) the half-thickness has at least five element layers. The paper also describes stress and deformation fields at the crack front for a growing fatigue crack and provides an understanding of localized 3-D effects on the normalized remote opening load value Kop/Kmax. In addition, the computational studies demonstrate that the similarity scaling relationship established for R=0 [Roychowdhury and Dodds, Fatigue Fract. Engng. Mater. Struct. (accepted for publication)] also holds for the non-zero ratio R=0.1––a value commonly adopted in experimental programs. In particular, Kop/Kmax, at each location along the crack front remains unchanged when the peak load (Kmax), thickness (B) and material flow stress (σ0) all vary to maintain a fixed value of K =K max /σ 0 B .
Audit Culture and a Different Kind of Publishing Crisis in the Academy

An essay on the publishing crisis within the Academy due to the current misapplied audit culture.
POCIS: a system to generate pseudo top-of-atmosphere ocean color image for sensor and system evaluation

It requires frequent and high-resolution measurements of biogeochemical properties of the oceans in order to obtain the status of the ecosystems and evaluate its role in modulating the climate. Because of the limited coverage and high cost, such a task could not be achieved via traditional ship surveys. Satellite sensors, because of its high revisit time and synoptic coverage, can provide key measurements to remedy the weakness of ship surveys. To ensure reliable and consistent measurements from an ocean color satellite, it not only requires the sensor be well designed and calibrated, also requires the processing software be robust for a wide range of ecosystems. All these require adequate data in order to evaluate and characterize the whole system. Such data, however, will not be available until the sensor is functioning properly in the sky. To overcome this dilemma, we developed POCIS (Pseudo Ocean Color Image Simulator), which can generate top-of-atmosphere ocean color images based on sensor specs. Such images, which can be both regional and global, can then be fed into current/future processing system to generate proxy products, thus not only help to ensure the readiness of the processing system, but also help to identify weakness and strengths of such a system before its launch, and setup the bases for eventual improvements. Details of POCIS, along with examples of proxy VIIRS image products, are presented to demonstrate its capabilities and potentials.
Signal Integration via PKR

The vital role of interferons (IFNs) as mediators of innate immunity is well established. It has recently become apparent that one of the pivotal proteins in mediating the antiviral activity of IFNs, the double-stranded RNA (dsRNA)-activated protein kinase (PKR), also functions as a signal transducer in the proinflammatory response to different agents. PKR is a member of a small family of kinases that are activated by extracellular stresses and that phosphorylate the alpha subunit of protein synthesis initiation factor eIF-2, thereby inhibiting protein synthesis. The activation of PKR during infection by viral dsRNA intermediates results in the inhibition of viral replication. PKR also mediates the activation of signal transduction pathways by proinflammatory stimuli, including bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), and interleukin 1 (IL-1). PKR is a component of the inhibitor of kappaB (IkappaB) kinase complex and plays either a catalytic or structural role in the activation of IkappaB kinase, depending on the stimulus. The activities of the stress-activated protein kinases p38 and c-Jun NH(2)-terminal kinase (JNK) are also regulated by PKR in a pathway that leads to the production of proinflammatory cytokines. This review will focus on the role of PKR in nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kappaB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways, because these have been the subjects of a series of publications over the past year that have reported conflicting findings. Although the conflicts may not be resolved in this review, suggestions are made for experiments that could lead to a clearer understanding of the mechanisms involved.
Cold stress-induced modulation of cell immunity during acute Toxoplasma gondii infection in mice.

Infection with Toxoplasma gondii in the acute phase results in nonspecific suppression of immunologic function in mice and humans. The present study examined the effects of a physical stressor, i.e., cold stress (CS), on macrophage function (nitrite production, parasite survival) and splenic blastogenesis in the acute phase of murine T. gondii infection. In our stress paradigm, female BALB/c mice were placed in cold water (1 + 0.5 C), 5 min each day for 8 days. Nitrite production and parasite survival were measured in cultured peritoneal macrophages obtained from mice subjected to CS after in vivo activation with interferon-y/lipopolysaccharide (CS + ACT), and in vitro infection with T. gondii tachyzoites. Peritoneal macrophages from CS + ACT mice showed decreased nitrite production compared to control but activated cells (ACT). Spleen cell proliferation to in vitro stimulation with the mitogens concanavalin A (Con A) and anti-CD3, and Toxoplasma lysate antigen (TLA) was measured in splenocytes obtained from BALB/c mice during the acute phase of infection with T. gondii. Mice subjected to CS and infection (CS + INF) had maximum splenocyte proliferation on days 8 and 15 followed by a subsequent decline on day 28 postinoculation (PI). In contrast, infected mice not subjected to stress (INF) showed decreased splenocyte proliferation on days 8 and 15 followed by an increase on day 28 PI. The rate of mortality was decreased in the CS + INF compared to the parINF group during acute infection. These results suggest that CS may alter the pathogenesis of T. gondii infection by modulating acute-phase responses, provoking a state of transient disequilibrium between the host and parasite.
The reproductive behavior of Anthidium maculosum (Hymenoptera: Megachilidae) and the evolutionary significance of multiple copulations by females

1. Some males of the megachilid bee Anthidium maculosum establish territories at patches of flowering Monarda and may remain there for up to at least 21 days. The frequency of male-male interactions and territorial takeovers appears partly dependent upon population density. 2. Males that do not hold territories tend to be smaller than territorial individuals. They either visit many territories repeatedly as wandering intruders or occupy a corner of one territory as satellite males. They always flee when challenged by territory owners but often return sooner or later. Although most matings are performed by territory owners, non-aggressive subordinates do occasionally copulate. 3. Females may mate dozens of times in the span of a week. Multiple mating may be an adaptation designed to cope with male harassment while they exploit the food resources in territories. It may save time and energy and reduce foraging interruptions to copulate passively for 30 s rather than to try to evade or repel the large, aggressive males. 4. A male may mate with the same female at intervals of about 6 min and may guard her against intruders during her visit to his territory. These traits may help a territorial male to be the last male to copulate with a female prior to oviposition. If sperm precedence occurs in A. maculosum only this last male is likely to fertilize her egg.