cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Computational anisotropic plasticity for high-rate forming applications

Abstract Constitutive models and solution algorithms for anisotropic elastoplastic material strength are developed for use in high-rate explicit multi-dimensional continuum mechanics codes. The constitutive modeling is posed in an unrotated material frame using the polar decomposition theorem. Continuous quadratic and discontinuous piecewise yield functions obtained from polycrystal simulations for metallic hexagonal-close-packed and cubic crystal structures are utilized. Associative flow formulations incorporating these yield functions are solved using various solution algorithms; explicit, semi-implicit and geometric normal return schemes are assessed for stability, accuracy and efficiency. Isotropic scaling (hardening) of the anisotropic yield surface shapes is included in the modeling. An explosive forming application involving large strain was selected to investigate the effect of using anisotropic materials. Axisymmetric two-dimensional forming simulations were performed for both crystal structures producing resultant formed shapes that are unique to the material's initial yield anisotropy, and are distinct from isotropic results.
Constructed narratives a tangible social interface

Constructed Narratives is a tangible social interface designed for use in public spaces where people have the opportunity to encounter the game and subsequently learn about each other. The hardware and software system architecture developed for this project could be applied for experimental computer-based interfaces for several human computer interaction domains including collaborative learning (CSCL), and collaborative design activities in the tradition of computer supported collaborative work (CSCW). The current domain explored for Constructed Narratives is that of computer systems designed to enable shared experience through play, or computer supported collaborative play (CSCP).
X chromosome inactivation: theme and variations.

My contribution to this special issue on Vertebrate Sex Chromosomes deals with the theme of X chromosome inactivation and its variations. I will argue that the single active X – characteristic of mamm
Missile Impact Resistance of a Metal Mesh Roofing System

AbstractThis paper presents the results of impact tests on a roof system constructed with expanded metal mesh welded to a steel frame. The roof system was designed to be installed on a masonry structure that will protect an emergency power generator at a special-needs hurricane shelter during 177 km/h winds. The structure and roof system must meet the windborne debris impact criteria for large missiles from ASTM Standards E1996-09 and E1886-05, which state that the system must resist penetration by a nominal 51×102 mm lumber plank weighing 4.08 kg traveling at 54.7 km/h. Several impacts on the metal mesh were made by firing lumber missiles from an air cannon. The typical damage was mesh deformation and mesh tearing at the impact location and at the welds. The results showed that the tested roof system meets the impact criteria for all tested weld spacings. A smaller weld spacing of 102–229 mm was found to work best in the system, whereas a larger weld spacing of 508 or 762 mm resulted in weld failure that...
The carrier effect of gamma globulin when a polyethylene glycol separation technique is used in digoxin radioimmunoassay.

The concentration of protein in the gamma globulin fraction has an important effect on the precipitation of [3H] digoxin bound to specific antibodies when polyethylene glycol is used as a separating agent in digoxin radioimmunoassay. Other serum protein fractions at similar concentrations had much less effect on this precipitation.
snRNP mediators of 3' end processing: functional fossils?

Abstract Examples of RNA recognition by other RNA molecules are now believed to be telltale remnants of the early evolution of the gene expression apparatus. In the maturation of eukaryotic messenger RNAs, snRNPs — whose small RNA components base pair with conserved sequences in the pre-mRNA — are major players. Our current understanding of snRNP participation in both splicing and histone mRNA 3′ end formation forces the presumption that snRNPs also are essential but elusive mediators of the third well-characterized RNA processing reaction, polyadenylation.
Lack of vitamin D3 synthesis by goldfish (Carassius auratusl)

Abstract 1. 1. Goldfish (Carassius auratus L. ) did not accumulate radioactive vitamin D in their visceral organs after they were injected with cholesterol-4-14C, 7-dehydrocholesterol-4-14C, dl -mevalonic acid-2-14C, sodium acetate-1,2-14C and l -amino acid mixture-U-14C. 2. 2. No conversion of dl -mevalonate-2-14C to vitamin D3 was detected over a 10-day period, whether the fish were maintained in the dark or continuously exposed to a fluorescent light. 3. 3. Almost all the radioactivity retained viscera after injection of 7-dehydrocholesterol-4-14C was sterol; none of the radioactivity which remained unprecipitated with digitonin was vitamin D3.
Access to what? Alzheimer's disease and esthetic sense-making in the contemporary art museum

Abstract Drawing on ethnographic fieldwork and in-depth interviews at two metropolitan art museums, I examine how educators and participants frame the benefits of art museum programs for people with Alzheimer's disease. Both groups see participation in recreational activities, such as museum tours, as an important way to maintain normalcy in the face of chronic illness. This corresponds to art museums’ institutional logic of open “access.” In exploring what people see the programs as giving access to, I show that educators frame art in relativist language to facilitate interaction, a frame I call “art-means-everything.” In contrast, participants—people with Alzheimer's and their caregivers—experience art in terms of beauty and ideas, or a frame of “art-means-aesthetics.” For sociologists of art and cultural organizations, this study calls for attention to how institutional meanings emerge at the local level. It also suggests opportunities for greater dialogue between sociological studies of culture and health.
A Survey of the Duties and Job Performance of Student Assistants in Access Services.

The results of a recently conducted Web-based survey of Access Services department supervisors are presented in this article. The survey, which was completed by 94 respondents, identified 19 core tasks completed by student assistants and further found a high overall approval of student assistant job performance. The information generated by the survey suggested improved approaches to training student assistants based on methods currently used by other respondents to the survey.
Pseudomembranous Enterocolitis and Hemorrhagic Necrotizing Enterocolitis in Hirschsprung's Disease

From 1977 to 1991, we encountered 67 patients with Hirschsprung's disease and 14 of them developed enterocolitis, with 3 cases being fatal. Enterocolitis occurred preoperatively in 12 infants, as well as after ileostomy in one and after a pull-through procedure in another. Seven infants had severe enterocolitis, including three with pseudomembranous enterocolitis and four with hemorrhagic necrotizing enterocolitis. Enterocolitis in Hirschsprung's disease mainly occurs due to intestinal obstruction and ischemia; however, in some cases, Clostridium difficile overgrowth and its toxin also appears to be related to severe pseudomembranous enterocolitis. In severe enterocolitis, antibiotics and enterostomy often prove to be ineffective, and thus an early resection of the affected bowel appears to be necessary. Moreover, when the aganglionic segment extends to the small bowel, severe enterocolitis tends to occur in the aganglionic intestine even after performing an enterostomy, and a resection of the aganglionic bowel is therefore recommended to allow for adequate lavage of the segment distal to the enterostomy site.
A sensitive and robust competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for Brazil nut ( Bertholletia excelsa L.) detection.

Undeclared Brazil nut residue in food products is of great concern because it can trigger life-threatening allergic reactions in sensitive patients. A rabbit polyclonal antibody-based competitive ELISA (IC50 = 23.2 ± 9 ng/mL, n = 76) with good sensitivity, detection range of 10−90 ng/mL, was developed. The ELISA could detect Brazil nut seed proteins over a pH range of 5−12. The optimal pH range for the detection assay was 7−10. Among the 66 tested foods/ingredients, only cinnamon exhibited statistically significant interference (1.36%, p = 0.05). Exposing Brazil nut seeds to processing did not adversely affect the nut seed protein detection using the assay. Brazil nut seed protein recovery from 100 mg of foods spiked with 10 and 1 μg of soluble Brazil nut proteins or 100 and 10 μg of defatted Brazil nut flour exhibited a wide recovery range, 63−315%, indicating protein−food matrix interaction.
Effects of bioturbation in controlling turtlegrass (Thalassia testudinum Banks ex König) abundance: evidence from field enclosures and observations in the Northern Gulf of Mexico☆

Abstract Bioturbation by stingrays and sand dollars can limit the distribution of temperate zone seagrass (eelgrass, Zostera marina Lamarck) meadows through the disruption of the root-rhizome matrix. The effects of bioturbation by these organisms on tropical or subtropical seagrass (turtlegrass, Thalassia testudinum Banks ex Konig) meadows are less well known. Stingray enclosure studes in St. Joseph Bay, Florida (29°N, 85.5°W) found that rays were unable to create unvegetated patches within continuous turtlegrass and that only large (disc width ≥0.9 m) rays (Dasyatis americana Hildebrand & Schroeder) can damage rhizomes at the turtlegrass/sand flat interface habitats. Field surveys found large rays to be abundant in turtlegrass habitats only during July–August. These data indicate that stingrays are not responsible for the widespread occurrence of unvegetated patches within St. Joseph Bay. Additional exclosure experiments found that sand dollars (Mellitta quinquiesperforata Leske) did not affect turtlegrass colonization of unvegetated sand flats. Comparisons of sand flat perimeters enclosing sand dollars at ambient densities (5–15 individuals/m2) and those from which sand dollars were removed showed no inhibition of turtlegrass colonization of unvegetated sand patches after a 2-yr period. However, stone crab (Menippe spp.) burrow construction at the seaward edge of turtlegrass habitats was found to cause significant, previously unreported, losses of turtlegrass habitat (average seagrass recession > 1 m/7 months). We conclude that bioturbation has less impact on turtlegrass than eelgrass habitats due to thicker, deeper turtlegrass rhizomes, and coarser sediment grain size.
Hot carrier relaxation in InAs/GaAs quantum dots

Abstract The carrier dynamics in self-organized InAs/GaAs quantum dot (QD) pairs formed in the variable composition amount approach are investigated. Time-resolved photoluminescence measurements as a function of temperature and of the tunnel-barrier thickness demonstrate the influence of slowed-down intradot carrier relaxation in strongly confined systems. In particular, we demonstrate that the carrier-capture efficiency decreases with increasing temperature and find efficient energy transfer between excited states of the QDs. Both effects are attributed to slowed-down carrier-relaxation in the QDs.
Role of protein tyrosine kinases and phosphatases in isotype switching: crosslinking CD45 to CD40 inhibits IgE isotype switching in human B cells

Abstract Protein tyrosine kinases and protein tyrosine phosphatases play an important role in the transduction of signals via antigen receptors in T and B cells, and in CD40-dependent B-cell activation. To examine the role of tyrosine kinases and phosphatases in B-cell isotype switching, we examined the effects of the engagement of the transmembrane phosphatase CD45 on the synthesis of IgE induced by IL-4 and anti-CD40 monoclonal antibody (mAb). Crosslinking CD45 to CD40 using biotinylated mAbs and avidin strongly inhibited CD40-mediated IgE synthesis in IL-4-treated human B cells. CD40 CD45 crosslinking did not affect e germline transcription in B cells stimulated with IL-4, but strongly inhibited induction of Sμ Se switch recombination as detected by a nested primer polymerase chain reaction assay. The B-cell src-type tyrosine kinase lyn, which is activated following CD40 engagement, is a potential target for the effects of CD45 observed in our experiments, because CD45 CD40 crosslinking resulted in the inhibition of CD40-mediated lyn phosphorylation and activation. These results suggest an important role for protein tyrosine kinases and phosphatases in CD40-mediated induction of isotype switching to IgE.
Five-day schedule of vinzolidine, an oral vinca alkaloid, in a variety of tumors

This Phase I–II trial evaluated vinzolidine (VZL), a semisynthetic vinblastine derivative administered on a five-day oral schedule every 21 days, with 60% of the total dose on day 1 followed by 10% of the total on each of the following four days. Forty-four patients with advanced malignancies were entered in this study and 34 were evaluable for response. Three patients responded, with complete remissions in patients with adenocarcinoma of the lung (39+ weeks) and adenocarcinoma of the pancreas (20 + weeks) and a minor response in a patient with metastatic carcinoid (6 weeks). Myelosuppression was the dose-limiting toxicity, and was remarkable for its unpredictability among patients and even in the same patient receiving a constant dose of vinzolidine. There was one drug related death associated with myelosuppression. This study was closed because of the erratic myelotoxicity of oral vinzolidine. However, the activity observed with vinzolidine merits future trials, using a parenteral formulation which may have more predictable toxicity.
Calculation of instrument functions

Abstract The calculation of an accurate instrument function can be facilitated by choosing an appropriate representation space. Here I show that for a Fourier transform spectrometer the physical space is the best space to use in calculating an accurate instrument function. Several examples are calculated including the instrument function for a Fourier interferometer illuminated with uncollimated radiation with misaligned mirrors whose interferogram is apodized.
Suggestibility in young drug dependent and normal populations.

Summary This pilot study investigates the suggestibility of 19 drug-abusers compared with 20 non-abusers by means of a paper and pencil test designed specifically for this study. A t-test of results indicates no significant difference between groups but an analysis of control item scores raises questions of abuser responses. Implications of results for drug-abuser rehabilitation suggest that those approaches which work with non-abusers may have the greater effect. Additional study is needed to expand and confirm tentative results.
An empirical test of feedbacks in public utility regulation

Abstract Current methods for estimation of the cost of capital in public utility rate making results in a feedback mechanism where pressures from capital markets attenuate potential deviations from a cost of capital rate of return. An empirical model of the electric utility industry reveals an inverse relationship between security prices and the allowed rate of return, thus supporting the feedback hyopothesis. Further, the attenuation effect is augmented by net present value effects of growth in demand.
Super-resolution fluorescence nanoscopy applied to imaging core–shell photoswitching nanoparticles and their self-assemblies

Using photo-actuated unimolecular logical switching attained reconstruction (PULSAR) nanoscopy, the structures of photoswitchable polymeric nanoparticles self-assembled on the surfaces of CaCl2 crystals at the nanoscale were revealed; the photoswitching events and the locations of the photoswitchable fluorescent dyes inside the hydrophobic cores of the core–shell type polymeric nanoparticles were determined.
Erythro-megakaryocytic transcription factors associated with hereditary anemia

Most heritable anemias are caused by mutations in genes encoding globins, red blood cell (RBC) membrane proteins, or enzymes in the glycolytic and hexose monophosphate shunt pathways. A less common class of genetic anemia is caused by mutations that alter the functions of erythroid transcription factors (TFs). Many TF mutations associated with heritable anemia cause truncations or amino acid substitutions, resulting in the production of functionally altered proteins. Characterization of these mutant proteins has provided insights into mechanisms of gene expression, hematopoietic development, and human disease. Mutations within promoter or enhancer regions that disrupt TF binding to essential erythroid genes also cause anemia and heritable variations in RBC traits, such as fetal hemoglobin content. Defining the latter may have important clinical implications for de-repressing fetal hemoglobin synthesis to treat sickle cell anemia and β thalassemia. Functionally important alterations in genes encoding TFs or their cognate cis elements are likely to occur more frequently than currently appreciated, a hypothesis that will soon be tested through ongoing genome-wide association studies and the rapidly expanding use of global genome sequencing for human diagnostics. Findings obtained through such studies of RBCs and associated diseases are likely generalizable to many human diseases and quantitative traits.
The effect of partial zona dissection on the fertilizing capacity of chronically obstructed mouse caput epididymal sperm

Purpose Having observed that sperm from the chronically obstructed caput epididymis fertilize poorly in vitro,we investigated the effect of partial zona dissection (PZD) on fertilization in a murine model of unilateral proximal epididymal obstruction. Cleavage rates were compared for zona-intact oocytes and PZD oocytes incubated with sperm from the following epididymal segments: the obstructed caput, the contralateral nonobstructed caput, the contralateral cauda, and a sperm-free preparation to control for parthenogenesis.
Impact on wafer process of sub-120-nm design rule mask

Optical lithography makes various problems in the low k1 range due to high MEF and low process margin. This has an impact upon CD variation, pattern collapse, pattern thinning, and undesirable repeating defect throughout the wafer process. Moreover, it is difficult to understand main factor that affected process problems. In this paper, mainly we study impacts on wafer process using 120nm design rule mask. Experimentally, w use full field mask composed of DRAM structure with cell array and periphery patterns. 0.70 NA KrF exposure tool and APSM are used to get high process margin and good pattern fidelity. As a result, we got about 10 percent EL and 0.5 micrometers DOF or more in actual process. Also CD variation was controlled within 15nm using CMP and BARC. However, mask CD variation was amplified on wafer, especially wafer CD variation was very serious in the edge of cell array by optical proximity effect, stand wave effect, and mask. Patterning and etching process occurred line thinning, and it was inspected as repeating defect. TO get optimum process result, it was very important to control mask CD and wafer CD within process window after mask CD correlation. We could find that mask or wafer process have an influence on unexpected problem for 120nm process with low k1 value.
Evaluation of a diabetes management program using selected HEDIS measures

Abstract Objective To evaluate the efficacy of a community-based, pharmacist-directed diabetes management program among managed care organization enrollees using National Committee for QualityAssurance (NCQA)–Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS) performance measures. Design Randomizedcontrolled trial. Setting Regional community pharmacy chain in Tulsa, OK, from November 2005 to July 2007. Patients 52 participants with diabetes and hypertension who were enrolled in a managed care organization. Intervention Diabetes management versus standard care. Main outcome measures Comprehensive diabetes care measures of glycosylated hemoglobin (A1C Results 46.7% of intervention group participants achieved theA1C goal, while 9.1% of control group participants achieved the goal ( P P Conclusion A communitypharmacy–based diabetes management program was effective in achievingA1C andblood pressure goals measured byNCQA–HEDIS performance standards. Program participants werestatistically significantly more likely to achieve two of three HEDIS standardsduring a 9-month period.
Total hip arthroplasty in cerebral palsy : long-term follow-up results

Patients with cerebral palsy frequently develop coxarthrosis after acquired hip dislocation or dysplasia. Nineteen total hip arthroplasties (THA) were performed in 18 patients with cerebral palsy and end-stage hip degeneration. The average age at arthroplasty was 30 years (range, 16-52 years). All components were cemented, and four hips required bone graft augmentation of the deficient acetabulum. Spica casts were used in 16 of 18 patients to minimize the incidence of dislocation and trochanteric nonunion. The average follow-up time was ten years (range, three to 17 years). Seventeen of 18 patients (94%) had pain relief and improved function after arthroplasty. One stem loosened at three years, and one acetabular component loosened at 15 years. One stem and one acetabular component were revised for malposition. Survivorship analysis was 95% at ten years for loosening and 86% with removal for any reason. Total hip arthroplasty can provide long-term relief and improved function in cerebral palsy patients with severe coxarthrosis.
Temperature and moisture effects on the production of dissolved organic carbon in a Spodosol

Leaching of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) from the forest floor is an important C flux and influences other biogeochemical fluxes in forests. To determine what controls the quantity and quality of the DOC produced, we examined the effects of microclimate on DOC production in Oa-horizon material from a red spruce forest. Samples incubated under different temperature and moisture conditions were leached with a mechanical-vacuum extractor every 7 days for 8 to 10 weeks, or once after 1 to 14 days. The concentration and, in some cases, the composition of the DOC in the extracts were measured. Production of DOC in dry samples (moisture content from 0.5 to 1.7 g g−1) was approximately 1.2 mg g−1 in the first week, but declined by 77% over 8 weeks. In sieved samples, production declined to 40% of initial values, whereas production in unsieved, moist samples declined by less than 30%. In wetter samples (moisture content from 1.8 to 5 mg g−1) DOC production increased by approximately 0.1 mg g−1 week−1 for every g g−1 increase in moisture content. The production of DOC increased exponentially with temperature, with Q10 values of 1.7 for soil with a moisture content of 2.5 g g−1, and 2 for wetter material. The composition of the DOC extracted from the driest samples suggested disruption of microbial biomass. Wetter incubation conditions increased the proportion of hydrophobic acids, whereas warmer incubation conditions increased the proportion of hydrophilic acids. The production of DOC was relatively fast in the first 2 days of incubation, and then slowed to approximately 90 μg g−1 week−1. Production rates in the first 2 days of incubation were higher under warmer conditions. Replicated experiments were useful in constructing precise curves relating the response of DOC production and composition to temperature and moisture.
Systematic Reviews: The Heart of Evidence-based Practice

Research utilization approaches in nursing recently have been replaced by evidence-based practice (EBP) approaches. The heart of the new EBP paradigm is the systematic review. Systematic reviews are carefully synthesized research evidence designed to answer focused clinical questions. Systematic reviews (also known as evidence summaries and integrative reviews) implement recently developed scientific methods to summarize results from multiple research studies. Specific strategies are required for success in locating systematic reviews. Major sources of systematic reviews for use by advanced practice nurses in acute and critical care are the Online Journal of Knowledge Synthesis for Nursing, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, and the Cochrane Library. This discussion describes systematic reviews as the pivotal point in today's paradigm of EBP and guides the advanced practice nurse in locating and accessing systematic reviews for use in practice.
Contribution of tubuloglomerular feedback to renal arteriolar angiotensin II responsiveness

Contribution of tubuloglomerular feedback to renal arteriolar angiotensin II responsiveness. The purpose of the present study was to test the hypothesis that a component of the afferent arteriolar vasoconstrictor response to angiotensin II (Ang II) requires an intact tubuloglomerular feedback (TGF) mechanism. Enalaprilat-treated male Sprague-Dawley rats served as tissue donors for study of renal microvascular function using the in vitro blood-perfused juxtamedullary nephron technique. Arteriolar lumen diameter responses to exogenous Ang II were determined before and after TGF blockade (papillectomy or 50 µ m furosemide). Before TGF blockade, 10nm Ang II significantly reduced diameters of both midafferent (53 ± 5%) and efferent (43 ± 9%) arterioles. TGF blockade did not alter baseline diameter of either arteriole, but significantly blunted the mid-afferent vasoconstriction evoked by 10nm Ang II (44 ± 7% inhibition by papillectomy; 43 ± 10% inhibition by furosemide). Similar behavior was observed at afferent arteriolar sites near the glomerulus; however, efferent arteriolar Ang II responsiveness was not altered by papillectomy. The impact of TGF blockade on afferent arteriolar Ang II responsiveness was most prominent at high peptide concentrations (10nm), while not significantly influencing the response to 1nm Ang II. In contrast, the afferent vasoconstrictor effect of norepinephrine was unaffected by papillectomy. These data indicate that the vasoconstrictor influence of exogenous Ang II on afferent, but not efferent, arterioles of intact juxtamedullary nephrons includes both TGF-dependent and TGF-independent components.
Substance Abuse Treatment of American Indian Adolescents: Comorbid Symptomatology, Gender Differences, and Treatment Patterns

ABSTRACT Objective To describe the patient population and use of mental health treatment at a residential substance abuse treatment program for American Indian and Alaska Native adolescents. Specifically, this article (1) reports the level of psychiatric symptomatology among the patient population; (2) compares male and female patients in terms of demographics, symptomatology, and receipt of mental health treatment; and (3) examines the degree of association between patient psychiatric symptomatology and the receipt of mental health treatment. Method Medical records were reviewed for all 64 patients admitted over a 1-year period. Data included patient characteristics such as substance use and psychiatric symptomatology as well as the receipt of mental health treatment. Results Sixty-eight percent of patients screened positive for at least one psychiatric symptom type. Females reported greater substance use and were more likely to report that they were victims of abuse. Females also were more likely than males to receive mental health treatment even though males had at least equal need. Finally, there was no significant relationship between measures of psychopathology and subsequent receipt of mental health treatment. Conclusions Reassessment of the methods for identifying and treating patients with comorbid psychopathology within programs of this nature is indicated.
Atmospheric aerosol scavenging processes and the role of thermo- and diffusio-phoretic forces

Abstract In-cloud and below-cloud scavenging due to snow crystals is reviewed, outlining the theoretical models, laboratory and field measurements which take into account also the role of phoretic forces in this process. In-cloud scavenging includes contributions from both nucleation and impaction, while below-cloud scavenging includes only impaction. Scavenging of aerosol particles by ice has been modelled only for simple shapes (planar and columnar ice crystals) and restricted size range, in view of the large variety of shapes and, consequently, the complicated flow patterns of air, water vapour and heat around the crystal. A significant feature of theoretical efficiency curves is the predominant minimum for aerosol particles of radius between 0.01 and 0.1 μm where phoretic forces are active, analogous to the particle scavenging behaviour of water drops. Experiments on aerosol particle scavenging by snow include field measurements, experiments where natural snow crystals are allowed to fall through laboratory generated aerosol, and experiments where both crystals and aerosol are generated in the laboratory. Contradictory results have been found in laboratory and field experiments concerning the role of phoretic forces. In particular, an important discrepancy arises relating to the roles of thermophoresis and diffusiophoresis in the scavenging of submicron particles by ice crystals growing in mixed-phase clouds, consisting of water vapour, supercooled liquid droplets and ice particles. A decrease in scavenging efficiency as a function of crystal diameter is reported both theoretically and experimentally. By comparing aerosol scavenging by drops and snow, most studies agree that, in terms of equal mass of precipitation, snow is more efficient at scavenging atmospheric particles than rain.
Wafer FAB experience of implementing 50-kV vector e-beam mask writer and dry etch process for 130-nm technology node generation

As the chip making industry gearing up for mass production of 130nm device technology node, Critical Dimension (CD) control becomes ever more important. Among many sources of possible contributions, there is increasing trend that the contributions are being identified for mask making processes itself. For example, at 180nm node, mask contribution to CD control has been 40~45 percent while at 250nm node the contribution was 60 percent if existing mask making processes are continue to be employed. 60~70 percent of CD non-uniformity contribution from mask is clearly not acceptable. Therefore, we have engaged with our mask suppliers to bring in 50-kV e-beam vector mask pattern generator and dry etch process quickly for critical levels of 130nm device technology node production ramp. In this paper, we will share wafer FAB experiences of quickly implementing the 50-kV vector e-beam pattern generator and dry etch process for 130nm device node ramp. We will be discussing benefits realized from this transition in terms of; mask and wafer pattern fidelity improvements, mask CD linearity Improvements, e-beam writer process resist tone effects, finally and most importantly, impact on the wafer level CD control; Across the Chip Linewidth Variation (ACLV) reductions.
Role of Magnesium in Soda-Lime Glasses : Insight into Structural, Transport, and Mechanical Properties through Computer Simulations

The role of Mg in soda-lime glasses was elucidated by classical molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The effect of the replacement of CaO for MgO on the structure, transport, and elastic properties of a series of glasses with compositions 15Na2O·(10 − x)CaO·xMgO·75SiO2 (x = 0, 5, and 10 mol) was studied. Different structural roles were found for the Ca and Mg ions. The former, coordinated by six oxygen atoms, acts as a network modifier, while the latter, four-fold coordinated, participates in the silica network. Consequently, Na ion diffusion is favored by the replacement of MgO for CaO in these glasses, as shown by variation in the computed diffusion coefficients and activation energy of the process in the series of glasses studied. Moreover, the consequences of these structural modifications on the elastic properties (Young’s modulus, shear modulus, bulk modulus, Poisson’s ratio, and compressibility) of the glasses were evaluated by means of energy minimization techniques carried out on the structures o...
Image processing by software parallel computation

Abstract A model for software parallel computing of packed data as grey-level and binary images is presented. This semiparallel processing system is divided into five layers, three of which are described in detail; low-level parallel operations, high-level parallel operations and procedures for image processing. The system has been implemented on a simple sequential minicomputer and an increase of computing speed has been obtained compared with sequential pixel processing. Two suggestions are made for a related hardware work.
A unified approach to temporal segmentation of motion JPEG and MPEG compressed video

A common framework for rapid scene analysis for detecting scene changes in compressed motion JPEG and MPEG videos is proposed. We develop algorithms to detect both abrupt and gradual scene changes. The algorithms operate directly on the DC sequence which can be easily extracted from motion JPEG and MPEG compressed video without decompression. The DC images capture most of the essential "global" information, but is of a small fraction of the original data size. Operating on these images offers significant computation savings. Experimental results show that the proposed algorithms are fast and effective in detecting abrupt scene changes and gradual transitions.
The influence of cirrhosis on steady-state blood concentrations of unbound propranolol after oral administration.

The disposition of Propranolol in blood has been investigated in 9 normal subjects and 7 patients with biopsy proven, well compensated cirrhosis using a protocol which allowed the estimation of the steady-state systemic availability of propranolol after oral administration. In addition, the systemic clearances of both antipyrine and indocyanine green (ICG) have been measured.
A Simple Upper Bound of the Gaussian Q-Function with Closed-Form Error Bound

We present a simple upper bound of the Gaussian Q-function with its closed-form error bound. The proposed approximation can be applied to the evaluation of the average error probability of digital modulations with its error bound. Our bit error rate (BER) bound can be easily applied to fading channels.
Comparing Pharmacy Benefit Managers: Moving Well Beyond the Simple Spreadsheet Analysis

Unabated increases in prescription drug demands, advancing technology, and rising drug inflation rates combined with a sagging economy, continue to intensify budget pressures for payors responsible for delivering pharmacy benefits to plan members. At the same time, high levels of complexity and resource requirements in drug benefit administration have led to a state in which plan sponsors remain heavily dependent on pharmacy benefit managers to assist in these efforts. With pharmacy representing such a critical component of healthcare delivery from clinical and economic perspectives, it is essential that sponsors exercise high levels of due diligence in pharmacy benefit manager review and appraisal to ensure proper balance of quality clinical care, sufficient access, and optimal cost-efficiency in the delivery of such benefits. This review is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of current pharmacy benefit management business practices and help equip plan sponsors with the knowledge, strategies, and safeguards to drive a well-informed pharmacy benefit selection process and, inevitably, a better-aligned pharmacy benefit management–payor relationship.
Epigenetic Silencing of CYP24 in Tumor-derived Endothelial Cells Contributes to Selective Growth Inhibition by Calcitriol *

Calcitriol (1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol), the most active form of vitamin D, has selective anti-proliferative effects on tumor-derived endothelial cells (TDEC) compared with Matrigel-derived endothelial cells (MDEC). Although both cell types have an intact vitamin D receptor-signaling axis, this study demonstrates that upon treatment with calcitriol, 24-hydroxylase (CYP24) mRNA, protein and enzymatic activity were markedly induced in MDEC in a time-dependent manner but not in TDEC. Furthermore, treatment of MDEC with a CYP24 small interfering RNA restored sensitivity to calcitriol. To investigate the lack of CYP24 induction in TDEC, we examined methylation patterns in the promoter regions of the CYP24 gene in these two cell types. We identified two putative CpG island regions located at the 5' end. Using methylation-specific PCR and bisulfite sequencing, we determined that these CpG islands were hypermethylated in TDEC but not in MDEC. These data may explain the recruitment of vitamin D receptor to the promoter region in MDEC but not TDEC, as revealed by chromatin immunoprecipitation analyses. Treatment of TDEC with the DNA methyltransferase inhibitor 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine restored calcitriol-mediated induction of CYP24, which led to loss of sensitivity to calcitriol growth inhibitory effects. CYP24 promoter hypermethylation was also observed in endothelial cells isolated from other tumors but not in endothelial cells isolated from normal mouse tissues. These observations indicate that the methylation status of the CYP24 promoter differs in endothelial cells isolated from different microenvironments (tumor versus normal) and that methylation silencing of CYP24 contributes to selective calcitriol-mediated growth inhibition in endothelial cells.
The Role of Vertical Mixing in the Temporal Evolution of Ground-Level Ozone Concentrations

Aircraft measurements taken during the North American Research Strategy for Tropospheric Ozone-Northeast field study reveal the presence of ozone concentration levels in excess of 80 ppb on a regional scale in the nocturnal residual layer during ozone episodes. The air mass containing increased concentrations of ozone commonly is found on a horizontal spatial scale of about 600 km over the eastern United States. The diurnal variation in ozone concentrations at different altitudes, ozone flux measurements, and vertical profiles of ozone suggest that ozone and its precursors trapped aloft in the nocturnal residual layer can influence the ground-level ozone concentrations on the following day as the surface-based inversion starts to break up. A simple onedimensional model, treating both meteorological and chemical processes, has been applied to investigate the relative contributions of vertical mixing and photochemical reactions to the temporal evolution of the groundlevel ozone concentration during the daytime. The results demonstrate that the vertical mixing process contributes significantly to the ozone buildup at ground level in the morning as the mixing layer starts to grow rapidly. When the top of the mixing layer reaches the ozone-rich layer aloft, high ozone concentrations are brought down into the mixing layer, rapidly increasing the ground-level ozone concentration because of fumigation. As the mixing layer grows further, it contributes to dilution while the chemical processes continue to contribute to ozone production. Model simulations also were performed for an urban site with different amounts of reduction in the ground-level emissions as well as a 50% reduction in the concentration levels of ozone and its precursors aloft. The results reveal that a greater reduction in the ground-level ozone concentration can be achieved by decreasing the concentrations of ozone and precursors aloft than can be achieved from a reduction of local emissions. Given the regional extent of the polluted dome aloft during a typical ozone episode in the northeastern United States, these results demonstrate the necessity and importance of implementing emission reduction strategies on the regional scale; such regionwide emission controls would reduce effectively the long-range transport of pollutants in the Northeast.
Attractive Women Want it All: Good Genes, Economic Investment, Parenting Proclivities, and Emotional Commitment

The current research tests the hypothesis that women have an evolved mate value calibration adaptation that functions to raise or lower their standards in a long-term mate according to their own ma...
OspC-independent infection and dissemination by host-adapted Borrelia burgdorferi.

Borrelia burgdorferi OspC is required for the spirochete to establish infection in a mammal by tick transmission or needle inoculation. After a brief essential period, the protein no longer is required and the gene can be shut off. Using a system in which spirochetes contain only an unstable wild-type copy of the ospC gene, we can obtain mice persistently infected with bacteria lacking OspC. We implanted pieces of infected mouse skin subcutaneously in naive mice, using donors carrying wild-type or ospC mutant spirochetes, and found that both could infect mice by this method, with similar numbers of wild-type or ospC mutant spirochetes disseminated throughout the tissues of recipient mice. Recipient mouse immune responses to tissue transfer-mediated infection with wild-type or ospC mutant spirochetes were similar. These experiments demonstrate that mammalian host-adapted spirochetes can infect and disseminate in mice in the absence of OspC, thereby circumventing this hallmark of tick-derived or in vitro-grown spirochetes. We propose a model in which OspC is one of a succession of functionally equivalent, essential proteins that are synthesized at different stages of mammalian infection. In this model, another protein uniquely present on host-adapted spirochetes performs the same essential function initially fulfilled by OspC. The strict temporal control of B. burgdorferi outer surface protein gene expression may reflect immunological constraints rather than distinct functions.
Effects of Metabolic Acidosis on Ventricular Isometric Systolic Tension and the Response to Epinephrine and Levarterenol

Hyperglycemia and hypoxia acidosis are known to occur during periods of shock. The plasma levels of catechol amines have been reported to be elevated during periods of shock. Injection of epinephrine or levarterenol can produce increments in blood glucose and have been shown to elicit a metabolic acidosis. In the present studies the effects of reducing circulating blood volume or infusion of lactic acid and of forced CO 2 inhalation on ventricular isometric systolic tension (VCF) and the cardiovascular response to test injections of levarterenol were studied. The experiments with a reduction in circulating blood volume and with lactic acid infusions resulted in a decrease in arterial pH. whole blood total CO 2 and whole blood CO 2 combining power. Concomitant with these changes there was a marked depression of VCF and the response to test injections of levarterenol. Correction of the acid-base changes with 2-amino-2-hydroxymethyl, 1, 3-propane diol resulted in an immediate improvement in VCF and in the response to levarterenol. This change occurred despite a greater increase in blood lactate levels. Anaerobic metabolism with lactate production leads to a decrease in total blood CO 2 and an increase in dissolved CO 2 . This decrease in the CO 2 -carrying capacity would lead to an increase in tissue CO 2 . Since the heart is markedly depressed by CO 2 , this increment could be largely responsible for the myocardial depression. The oxygen debt which the heart can incur is thought to be limited. Therefore, the build-up of CO 2 one of the end-products of aerobic metabolism, would depress oxidative metabolism according to the law of mass action. This hypothesis was further tested by forced CO 2 ventilation which resulted in a marked depression of VCF and the response to levarterenol. Correction of the respiratory acidosis by the administration of THAM which increased the CO 2 -carrying capacity of the blood resulted in an immediate improvement in VCF and the levarterenol response.
Preclinical Evaluation of a Novel RXR Agonist for the Treatment of Neuroblastoma

Neuroblastoma remains a common cause of pediatric cancer deaths, especially for children who present with advanced stage or recurrent disease. Currently, retinoic acid therapy is used as maintenance treatment to induce differentiation and reduce tumor recurrence following induction therapy for neuroblastoma, but unavoidable side effects are seen. A novel retinoid, UAB30, has been shown to generate negligible toxicities. In the current study, we hypothesized that UAB30 would have a significant impact on multiple neuroblastoma cell lines in vitro and in vivo. Cellular survival, cell cycle analysis, migration, and invasion were studied using alamarBlue® assays, FACS, and Transwell® assays, respectively, in multiple cell lines following treatment with UAB30. In addition, an in vivo murine model of human neuroblastoma was utilized to study the effects of UAB30 upon tumor xenograft growth and animal survival. We successfully demonstrated decreased cellular survival, invasion and migration, cell cycle arrest and increased apoptosis after treatment with UAB30. Furthermore, inhibition of tumor growth and increased survival was observed in a murine neuroblastoma xenograft model. The results of these in vitro and in vivo studies suggest a potential therapeutic role for the low toxicity synthetic retinoid X receptor selective agonist, UAB30, in neuroblastoma treatment.
Lymphocyte-Specific Compensation for XLF/Cernunnos End-Joining Functions in V(D)J Recombination

Mutations in XLF/Cernunnos (XLF) cause lymphocytopenia in humans, and various studies suggest an XLF role in classical nonhomologous end joining (C-NHEJ). We now find that XLF-deficient mouse embryonic fibroblasts are ionizing radiation (IR) sensitive and severely impaired for ability to support V(D)J recombination. Yet mature lymphocyte numbers in XLF-deficient mice are only modestly decreased. Moreover, XLF-deficient pro-B lines, while IR-sensitive, perform V(D)J recombination at nearly wild-type levels. Correspondingly, XLF/p53-double-deficient mice are not markedly prone to the pro-B lymphomas that occur in previously characterized C-NHEJ/p53-deficient mice; however, like other C-NHEJ/p53-deficient mice, they still develop medulloblastomas. Despite nearly normal V(D)J recombination in developing B cells, XLF-deficient mature B cells are moderately defective for immunoglobulin heavy-chain class switch recombination. Together, our results implicate XLF as a C-NHEJ factor but also indicate that developing mouse lymphocytes harbor cell-type-specific factors/pathways that compensate for the absence of XLF function during V(D)J recombination.
A comprehensive neuropsychological profile of women with psychogenic nonepileptic seizures

The purpose of this study was to compare the neuropsychological profile of women with VEEG-confirmed diagnoses of psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) with that of an age- and education-matched group of women with left temporal lobe epilepsy (LTLE). Results indicate that in a relatively homogenous PNES sample, no severe neurocognitive impairments were present, further supporting a psychologically versus neurologically driven pathology of PNES. In comparison to age-stratified normative data, the PNES group demonstrated only a modest deficiency across neuropsychological domains and a relative area of weakness in attention and working memory, and generally outperformed their counterparts with LTLE. Although the attentional deficits in the PNES group may have been influenced by their elevated levels of emotional distress, symptoms of depression and anxiety were significant and common in both patients with PNES and those with LTLE, and therefore, the utility of psychological factors in discriminating these groups is limited. The present findings warrant the use of longitudinal research with patients with PNES to identify changes in the presentation of this condition as well as its subsequent neurocognitive and emotional impairments.