cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Neutron Irradiation for Prevention of Latch-Up in MOS Integrated Circuits

Bulk silicon integrated circuits can exhibit latch-up effects which arise from regenerative switching in the parasitic bipolar transistors inherent in the complex circuit configurations. This is especially true for bulk CMOS integrated circuits in which parasitic vertical NPN and lateral PNP bipolars are connected in an SCR fashion. One method for preventing latch-up is lifetime control utilizing neutron irradiation. This work characterizes the long-term annealing of neutron irradiation induced changes in the parasitic bipolar gains of MOS/LSI integrated circuits. A theoretical model, which fits both isothermal and isochronal annealing data, is used to characterize the annealing. Using this model, a procedure has been established for neutron irradiation of LSI integrated circuits which will guarantee that latch-up will not occur during the normal lifetime of the circuits. A detailed discussion of the procedure employed for neutron irradiation of integrated circuits is given, and the results of this procedure applied to several thousand MSI and LSI circuits are described.
Decomposition of mineral absorption bands using nonlinear least squares curve fitting: Application to Martian meteorites and CRISM data

Abstract This study advances curve-fitting modeling of absorption bands of reflectance spectra and applies this new model to spectra of Martian meteorites ALH 84001 and EETA 79001 and data from the Compact Reconnaissance Imaging Spectrometer for Mars (CRISM). This study also details a recently introduced automated parameter initialization technique. We assess the performance of this automated procedure by comparing it to the currently available initialization method and perform a sensitivity analysis of the fit results to variation in initial guesses. We explore the issues related to the removal of the continuum, offer guidelines for continuum removal when modeling the absorptions and explore different continuum-removal techniques. We further evaluate the suitability of curve fitting techniques using Gaussians/Modified Gaussians to decompose spectra into individual end-member bands. We show that nonlinear least squares techniques such as the Levenberg–Marquardt algorithm achieve comparable results to the MGM model ( Sunshine and Pieters, 1993 , Sunshine et al., 1990 ) for meteorite spectra. Finally we use Gaussian modeling to fit CRISM spectra of pyroxene and olivine-rich terrains on Mars. Analysis of CRISM spectra of two regions show that the pyroxene-dominated rock spectra measured at Juventae Chasma were modeled well with low Ca pyroxene, while the pyroxene-rich spectra acquired at Libya Montes required both low-Ca and high-Ca pyroxene for a good fit.
Formulae for Estimating Rater Reliability from the Significance of Treatment Effects

The ability to discriminate true treatment effects in clinical research depends on the reliability of measurements. Rating scales are often used to assess treatment effects, but raters differ in their individual reliabilities. Rather than considering a rating instrument to have inherent reliability, it is important to focus on the reliability of the instrument in the hands of particular raters. Formulae for estimating individual rater reliabilities from analysis of treatment effects are presented and evaluated. However, results indicate that large sample sizes, large true treatment effects, and large differences in the actual reliabilities of the raters are required for the approach to prove useful.
Supercritical extraction of organosulfur from coal using acetone-water mixtures

Abstract Binary mixtures of acetone and water at their supercritical conditions have been investigated for their ability to remove organic sulfur from high sulfur Midwestern coals. The reduction of organic sulfur from Ohio 5/6 and Indiana 5 coals has been as high as 61% (based on a BTU basis) The experiments have been carried out following a statistical experimental design and the optimal process conditions and discerning characteristics of the process have been identified. The solvent composition and the extraction conditions can be tailored in such a way as to selectively remove sulfur and further increase the calorific value of the treated coal.
Microdeletion of 17q22q23.2 encompassing TBX2 and TBX4 in a patient with congenital microcephaly, thyroid duct cyst, sensorineural hearing loss, and pulmonary hypertension

Microdeletions of the long arm of chromosome 17 are being reported with increasing frequency. Deletions of 17q22q23.2 may represent a genetically recognizable phenotype although its spectrum of genomic abnormalities, clinical manifestations, and critical regions are not fully delineated. Isolated reports and small case series suggest that deletions of 17q22q23.2 result in haploinsufficiency of dosage sensitive genes NOG, TBX2, and TBX4, which may be responsible for many aspects of the phenotype. Shared clinical features in this group of patients include microcephaly, prenatal onset growth restriction, heart defects, tracheoesophageal fistula, and esophageal atresia (TEF/EA), skeletal anomalies, and moderate to severe global developmental delay. We describe a female patient who presented with severe congenital microcephaly, thyroglossal duct cyst, sensorineural hearing loss, mild tracheomalacia, abnormal auricles, pulmonary hypertension, developmental delay, and postnatal onset growth delay. She had no TEF/EA or heart defects. Using a high density oligonucleotide microarray, we identified a microdeletion at 17q22q23.2, resulting in the heterozygous loss of several genes, including TBX2 and TBX4 but not NOG. The breakpoints did not lie within known segmental duplications. This case helps to further delineate the critical region for TEF/EA, which is likely confined to the chromosomal region proximal to 17q23.1, and suggests that genes in 17q23.1q23.2 may be associated with thyroglossal duct cysts. The role of TBX2 and TBX4 in pulmonary hypertension warrants investigation.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus F and G Proteins Induce Interleukin 1α, CC, and CXC Chemokine Responses by Normal Human Bronchoepithelial Cells

Human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a ubiquitous respiratory virus that causes serious lower respiratory tract disease in infants and young children worldwide. Studies have shown that RSV infection modulates chemokine expression patterns, suggesting that particular cytokine expression profiles may be indicators of disease severity. In this study, we show that RSV F or G protein treatment of fully differentiated primary normal human bronchial epithelial cells induces apical and basolateral secretion of interleukin 8 (IL-8), interferon-inducible protein 10 (IP-10), monocyte chemotactic protein 1 (MCP-1), and RANTES (regulated on activation, normal T cell expressed and secreted). Purified RSV G (attachment) protein was shown to stimulate the secretion of interleukin 1alpha and RANTES, whereas purified F (fusion) protein elicited the production of IL-8, IP-10, and RANTES. Studies of ultraviolet-inactivated RSV showed that treatment of normal human bronchial epithelial cells induces apical IL-8, IP-10, and MCP-1 secretion independent of infection, suggesting that RSV proteins alone modify the chemokine response pattern, which may affect the early immune response before infection.
Design of Compensators for Meeting the Specification of Peak Value

This paper describes a method for designing a compensator that will drive the peak value of the unit step response to a specified value and will eliminate the steady-state error. This method is an iterative method. An assumption of dominant closed-loop complex poles is required. The method was simulated and the desired results were obtained.
Autosomal dominant torsion dystonia with onset in infancy

We report a man and his daughter who had onset of dystonia during the first year of life, primarily involving their legs and consisting of both sustained postures and rhythmical 2-3 Hz twisting movements. They also had eccentric and irregularly shaped pupils, but no other neurological abnormalities. This disorder differs from all familial dystonia syndromes described in the literature, including classic idiopathic torsion dystonia, which has a later age of onset. This disorder probably represents a new autosomal dominant dystonia syndrome.
SAVIC: A SIMULATION, VISUALIZATION AND INTERACTIVE CONTROL ENVIRONMENT FOR MOBILE ROBOTS

A Simulation, Animation, Visualization and Interactive Control (SAVIC) environment has been developed for the design and operation of an integrated robotic manipulator system. This unique system possesses the abilities for (1) multi-sensor simulation, (2) kinematics and locomotion animation, (3) dynamic motion and manipulation animation, (4) transformation between real and virtual modes within the same graphics system, (5) ease in exchanging software modules and hardware devices between real and virtual world operations, and (6) interfacing with a real robotic system. This research is focused on enhancing the overall productivity of an integrated human-robot system. This paper describes a working system and illustrates the concepts by presenting the simulation, animation and control methodologies for a unique mobile robot with articulated tracks, a manipulator, and sensory modules.
Predicting the effects of drainage systems on corn yields

Abstract Stress day index (SDI) models were incorporated in the water management simulation model, DRAINMOD, to quantify the effect of soil water stresses on corn yields. The effects of a combination of excessive and deficient soil water conditions were approximated by a simple first-order crop response model, YR = YRw × YRd, where YR is the overall relative yield, and YRw and YRd are the relative yields due to excessive and deficient soil water conditions, respectively. The accuracy of the modified water management model was evaluated by comparing predicted and measured corn yields for 16 plot years of experimental data on the Tidewater Research Station near Plymouth, NC. The predicted and measured results were in good agreement with the model describing 63% of the variation in yields for the 12-year period. Use of the modified water management model was demonstrated by simulating the performance of several drainage system designs for a Portsmouth sandy loam soil. The results of the simulation show that a maximum long-term relative yield of 80% of the potential corn yield can be obtained with a drain spacing of 40 m or less with good surface drainage. Higher yields could not be obtained without irrigation to reduce deficit soil water conditions. The response of long-term average corn yields to surface drainage varies inversely with the intensity of subsurface drainage. The 25-year average yield for 100 m spacing was only 47% of the potential yield when the surface drainage was poor as compared to 61% of potential yield for good surface drainage.
Computational survey of representative energetic materials as propellants for microthruster applications

Microthrusters are critical for the development of terrestrial micromissiles and nano air vehicles for reconnaissance, surveillance, and sensor emplacement. With the maturation of MEMS manufacturing technology, the physical components of the thrusters can be readily fabricated. The thruster type that is the most straightforward is chemical combustion of a propellant that is ignited by a heating element giving a single shot thrust. Arrays of MEMS manufactured thrusters can be ganged to give multiple firings. The basic model for such a system is a solid rocket motor. The desired elements for the propellant of a chemical thruster are high specific impulse (I sp ), high temperature and pressure, and low molecular weight combustion gases. Since the combustion chamber of a microthruster is extremely small, the propellant material must be able to ignite, sustain and complete its burn inside the chamber. The propellant can be either a solid or a liquid. There are a large number of energetic materials available as candidates for a propellant for microthrusters. There has been no systematic evaluation of the available energetic materials as propellant candidates for microthrusters. This report summarizes computations done on a series of energetic materials to address their suitabilities as microthruster propellants.
Design for manufacture of micromachined fabry—pérot cavity-based sensors

Abstract Currently, the operation of a number of sensors is based on the measurement of the optical path length of a micro-Fabry—Perot cavity. In this paper we consider the impact of manufacturing variations on the performance of such sensors, and discuss designs that minimize the impact of these variations. In particular, we consider how random variations in thickness of the cavity mirrors influence the accuracy with which the gap can be measured. We find that an optimum combination of initial gap and mechanical travel of the cavity that gives the least variation in response curve exists for a given mirror design. This approach determines the device design that maximizes the manufacturing yield of Fabry—Perot sensors with a specified level of performance.
Lead isotope studies of metal sources for ancient Nigerian ‘bronzes’

INTEREST in the composition of Nigerian ‘bronzes’ began in 1897, the year of the British punitive expedition to the city of Benin, when Nigerian metal art was brought to the attention of the western world as a spoil of war. In spite of the dissemination of much of this art to museums, and the subsequent focus of research, important questions concerning the chronological ordering of the pieces and relationships among forms and iconographies remain unanswered.
STRANDEDNESS OF VICIA FABA CHROMOSOMES AS REVEALED BY ENZYME DIGESTION STUDIES

Chromosomes and nuclei isolated from neutral formalin-fixed Vicia faba lateral roots were treated with trypsin, pepsin, RNase, or DNase. Only trypsin affected the morphology of the chromosomes and nuclei. The appearance of the chromosomes after trypsin digestion indicated that each chromatid contained four strands that could be seen with an ordinary light microscope. The experiments are interpreted as indicating that mitotic chromosomes of Vicia faba are multistranded and that the linear continuity of the chromosome is dependent on protein.
Evaluating Parents in Child Protection Decisions: An Innovative Court-Based Clinic Model

Providing relevant, timely forensic evaluations is challenging because of the differing worlds of mental health and law. In this study, the authors evaluated an innovative, court-based clinic model for improving acquisition and use of clinical information in juvenile court in a 3-year pilot project prior to wide-scale implementation. The authors investigated the extent to which 170 evaluations of parents in the child protection division met criteria recommended in the forensic literature by comparing reports across four groups categorized by source (inside or outside court; part of pilot project or not). Findings suggested greater use of recommended practices and more timely, consistent reports by the pilot clinic. The findings provide preliminary support for the model and guidance for improving forensic evaluations in child protection.
A prototype infrastructure for distributed robot-agent-person teams

Effective coordination of robots, agents and people promises to improve the safety, robustness and quality with which shared goals are achieved by harnessing the highly heterogeneous entities' diverse capabilities. Proxy-based integration architectures are emerging as a standard method for coordinating teams of heterogeneous entities. Such architectures are designed to meet imposing challenges such as ensuring that the diverse capabilities of the group members are effectively utilized, avoiding miscoordination in a noisy, uncertain environment and reacting flexibly to changes in the environment. However, we contend that previous architectures have gone too far in taking coordination responsibility away from entities and giving it to proxies. Our goal is to create a proxy-based integration infrastructure where there is a beneficial symbiotic relationship between the proxies and the team members. By leveraging the coordination abilities of both proxies and socially capable team members the quality of the coordination can be improved. We present two key new ideas to achieve this goal. First, coordination tasks are represented as explicit roles, hence the responsibilities not the actions are specified, thus allowing the team to leverage the coordination skills of the most capable team members. Second, building on the first idea, we have developed a novel role allocation and reallocation algorithm. These ideas have been realized in a prototype software proxy architecture and used to create heterogeneous teams for an urban disaster recovery domain. Using the rescue domain as a testbed, we have experimented with the role allocation algorithm and observed results to support the hypothesis that leveraging the coordination capabilities of people can help the performance of the team.
Rapid detection of foodborne microorganisms on food surface using Fourier transform Raman spectroscopy

Abstract Fourier transform (FT) Raman spectroscopy was used for non-destructive characterization and differentiation of six different microorganisms including the pathogen Escherichia coli O157:H7 on whole apples. Mahalanobis distance metric was used to evaluate and quantify the statistical differences between the spectra of six different microorganisms. The same procedure was extended to discriminate six different strains of E. coli . The FT-Raman procedure was not only successful in discriminating the different E. coli strain but also accurately differentiated the pathogen from non-pathogens. Results demonstrate that FT-Raman spectroscopy can be an excellent tool for rapid examination of food surfaces for microorganism contamination and for the classification of microbial cultures.
Rhododendron thickets alter N cycling and soil extracellular enzyme activities in southern Appalachian hardwood forests

Summary Rhododendron maximum L., a spreading understory shrub, inhibits overstory regeneration and alters forest community structure in southern Appalachian hardwood forests. Using paired plots and reciprocal litter transplants in forests with and without R. maximum cover, we examined the influence of R. maximum on litter mass and quality, N cycling and soil extracellular enzymes. Standing stocks of soil organic matter, soil N, leaf litter mass and fine root biomass were greater in forests with R. maximum than those without. Tannin extracts from R. maximum foliage, and leaf litter and fine roots collected under R. maximum had a relatively high capacity to precipitate protein compared to extracts from trees. Across the growing season, soil inorganic N availability was generally lower under R. maximum , mostly due to reduced NO 3 − availability. Our data suggest that R. maximum litter alters N cycling through the formation of recalcitrant polyphenol–organic N complexes. Soil extracellular enzymes indicate the potential processing rates of organic substrates. Between forest types, polyphenol oxidase activity was greatest in R. maximum O horizons, regardless of litter type, suggesting that the local microbial community can better degrade and access protein–tannin-complexed N. Protease activity did not differ between forest types, but was greater on R. maximum leaf litter than hardwood leaf litter. The alteration of the N cycle via the formation of polyphenol–organic N complexes may contribute to hardwood seedling suppression, while the enzymatic release of these complexes by ericoid mycorrhizal fungi may increase N acquisition for R. maximum and contribute to its expansion in southern Appalachian forests.
The phosphatase PHLPP controls the cellular levels of protein kinase C.

The life cycle of protein kinase C (PKC) is controlled by multiple phosphorylation and dephosphorylation steps. The maturation of PKC requires three ordered phosphorylations, one at the activation loop and two at COOH-terminal sites, the turn motif and the hydrophobic motif, to yield a stable and signaling-competent enzyme. Dephosphorylation of the enzyme leads to protein degradation. We have recently discovered a novel family of protein phosphatases named PH domain leucine-rich repeat protein phosphatase (PHLPP) whose members terminate Akt signaling by dephosphorylating the hydrophobic motif on Akt. Here we show that the two PHLPP isoforms, PHLPP1 and PHLPP2, also dephosphorylate the hydrophobic motif on PKC βII, an event that shunts PKC to the detergent-insoluble fraction, effectively terminating its life cycle. Deletion mutagenesis reveals that the PH domain is necessary for the effective dephosphorylation of PKC βII by PHLPP in cells, whereas the PDZ-binding motif, required for Akt regulation, is dispensable. The phorbol ester-mediated dephosphorylation of the hydrophobic site, but not the turn motif or activation loop, is insensitive to okadaic acid, consistent with PHLPP, a PP2C family member, controlling the hydrophobic site. In addition, knockdown of PHLPP expression reduces the rate of phorbol ester-triggered dephosphorylation of the hydrophobic motif, but not turn motif, of PKC α. Last, we show that depletion of PHLPP in colon cancer and normal breast epithelial cells results in an increase in conventional and novel PKC levels. These data reveal that PHLPP controls the cellular levels of PKC by specifically dephosphorylating the hydrophobic motif, thus destabilizing the enzyme and promoting its degradation.
Charmonium in lattice QCD and the nonrelativistic quark model

We compare the results of a numerical lattice QCD calculation of the charmonium spectrum with the structure of a general nonrelativistic potential model. To achieve this we form the nonrelativistic reduction of derivative-based fermion bilinear interpolating fields used in lattice QCD calculations and compute their overlap with cc meson states at rest constructed in the nonrelativistic quark model, providing a bound-state model interpretation for the lattice data. Essential gluonic components in the bound states, usually called hybrids, are identified by considering interpolating fields that involve the gluonic field-strength tensor and which have zero overlap onto simple cc model states.
Throughput analysis and admission control for IEEE 802.11a

We propose a new Markov model for the distributed coordination function (DCF) of IEEE 802.11. The model incorporates carrier sense, non-saturated traffic and SNR, for both basic and RTS/CTS access mechanisms. Analysis of the model shows that the throughput first increases, and then decreases with the number of active stations, suggesting the need for an admission control mechanism.We introduce such a mechanism, which tries to maximize the throughput while maintaining a fair allocation. The maximum achievable throughput is tracked by the mechanism as the number of active stations increases. An extensive performance analysis shows that the mechanism provides significant improvements.
Enhanced spatial resolution measures: an alternative to conventional illumination analysis

Fold or illumination analyses are often used to quickly assess the ability of a particular seismic survey to image regions of the subsurface. Although this type of analysis can provide some useful insights such as detecting areas that are not imaged by the experiment, it is difficult to apply for quantitative analysis of image quality. Moreover, we show that the information obtained can be misleading under some important conditions like subsalt imaging. The primary objective of this paper is to compare the conventional fold or illumination approach to enhanced spatial resolution analysis based on the theory of Beylkin (1984). Specifically, Gibson et al. (1998) and Gibson and Tzimeas (1999) proposed a quantitative image resolution analysis combining the use of spatial resolution images and the standard deviation of tabulated wavenumber domain results. We test both approaches with calculations for a homogeneous model and a 3D salt structure model to make the comparison. Results from the fold analysis using the homogeneous model show that it is obviously insensitive to the depth of the target. The fact that resolution decreases with depth limits the utilization of fold as an illumination measure, though fold can still be used to determine whether a particular experiment can improve signal to noise ratio. On the other hand, our proposed spatial resolution measures correctly predict the decrease of image resolution not only with depth but also with lateral position. In the case of the 3D model, fold predicted best illumination underneath the salt diapir because ray bending focused the ray paths into this area. The spatial resolution measures, however, showed once more that image resolution decreases in the subsalt area. Moreover, they added to our understanding of why fold analysis failed to predict the right illumination for such targets.
The Hematopoietic Stem Cell in Myelodysplasia

The mechanisms underlying hematopoietic stem cell or progenitor cell abnormalities in myelodysplastic syndromes (MDSs) remain poorly characterized. Current evidence exists for multiple intrinsic and extrinsic influences upon the stem cell in these disorders. These influences are outlined in this review and include: stem cell characteristics in MDSs, as compared with those in acute myelogenous leukemia; the role of increased apoptosis; the role of signaling pathway abnormalities; the influences of immune modulation; and the effect of stromal cells and stromal cell cytokine production. Despite numerous studies that have examined these factors, how they converge to produce a situation in which accelerated proliferation and accelerated death occur simultaneously remains largely an unexplored area. It is anticipated that future studies that focus on well-characterized and purified progenitor populations in these disorders will elucidate the process by which ineffective hematopoiesis results from the influences of stem cell abnormalities versus abnormalities in the stem cell's microenvironmental and immunologic milieu.
Parametric Study of Posttensioned Inverted-T Bridge System for Improved Durability and Increased Span-to-Depth Ratio

Rehabilitation of the existing bridges is one of the most pressing needs in maintenance of the transportation infrastructure. As an example, more than 2,000 bridges in Kansas alone need to be replaced during the next decade. The majority of these bridges have spans of 30 m (100 ft) or less, and shallow profiles. The inverted-T (IT) bridge system has gained increasing popularity in recent years due to its lower weight and relatively larger span-to-depth ratio compared to the prestressed I-girder bridges. However, there are some limitations in replacing the existing cast in place (CIP) bridges with IT system. Implementation of posttensioning, which is the focus of this paper, is a promising solution for these limitations. This leads to a higher span-to-depth ratio and reduces potential transverse cracks in the CIP deck which is a major concern for corrosion of the reinforcement. An analytical research was conducted to identify the major parameters influencing the performance of a posttensioned IT bridge system. This was followed by a parametric study to explore the scope of these parameters and specify the design limits in terms of posttensioning stages, timing scenarios, and posttensioning forces. Concrete strength and different methods for estimating time-dependent restraining moments were addressed in this parametric study.
A comparison of the replication cycles of simian virus 40 in human diploid and African green monkey kidney cells.

Abstract Simian virus 40 (SV40), which is capable of inducing transformation of human diploid cells, replicated to only a limited extent in WI-38 cultures and failed to cause any cytopathic changes. Less than 3 infectious particles were produced per cell in WI-38 cultures. In contrast, SV40 replicated extensively in primary African green monkey kidney cells (GMK) and in an established cell line (BS-C-1) obtained from GMK, with 100 and 50 infectious particles produced per cell, respectively. In addition, the virus caused extensive cytopathic changes in these cells. A comparison of the infectious cycle in a lytic (BS-C-1 and GMK) and in a transformable (WI-38) system, revealed that there was no difference in virus adsorption or entrance into eclipse in the two systems. Furthermore, there was no suppression of ribonucleic acid (RNA) or protein synthesis in WI-38 cells, nor in the stationary phase or replicating GMK cells following infection with SV40. The only early function that differed in the two systems was the production of SV40 Induced Complement Fixing Antigen (SV40 ICFA). Less than 3% of the WI-38 cells in a culture infected with a high multiplicity of virus developed SV40 ICFA during the first 7 days postinfection, whereas 80–100% of infected GMK cells were positive for ICFA 3 days after infection. There were marked differences in the infectious cycle of SV40 in replicating and stationary phase GMK cells. The yield of virus per cell, the development of cytopathic effects, and the production of SV40 ICFA were comparatively low in replicating cells; cells infected while replicating continued to multiply despite infection and have been subcultured 14 times since the addition of virus.
Noncrosslinked organosilicon matrix for luminescence-quenching-based fiber optic oxygen sensors

We have developed a silica-filled, noncrosslinked, organosilicon matrix for trapping a luminescent dye. The matrix is used for fiber optic oxygen sensing based on the luminescence quenching phenomenon. The rheological properties of the matrix material are such that it simplifies fabrication of the extremely small sensors required for intra-arterial applications. The dye seems to be distributed between sites in the continuous organosilicon phase and the dispersed silica phase. The relative populations in the two phases can be adjusted by certain additives which generate compounds that elute silica, such as acetic acid. The quenching constant of the system depends not only on the presence or absence of such eluants, but on the chemical nature of the additive as well. We were able to tailor the composition of matrix so as to optimize the sensitivity over the physiological range of oxygen concentration. Our observations on the composition dependence of the oxygen sensitivity of the matrix are presented.© (1993) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Roll-to-roll synthesis of vertically aligned carbon nanotube electrodes for electrical double layer capacitors

Abstract Research in carbon nanomaterials has seen tremendous growth in recent years; however, technological advances are limited by the lack of continuous and scalable synthesis methods. Here we present a scalable roll-to-roll process for synthesizing vertically-aligned multi-walled carbon nanotubes (VACNTs) on Al foil ribbons which are continuously drawn through a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) reactor operating at ambient pressure and a relatively low growth temperature (600 °C). Electrodes comprised of VACNT forests synthesized in this process are directly assembled into supercapacitor cells, which yield high power densities (1270 W/kg) and energy densities (11.5 Wh/kg). These devices exhibit excellent cycle stability with no loss in performance over more than a thousand cycles.
Allergenic Properties of Roasted Peanut Allergens May Be Reduced by Peroxidase

Peanut allergy is a public health issue. The culprits are the peanut allergens. Reducing the allergenic properties of these allergens or proteins will be beneficial to allergic individuals. In this study, the objective was to determine if peroxidase (POD), which catalyzes protein cross-linking, reduces the allergenic properties of peanut allergens. In the experiments, protein extracts from raw and roasted defatted peanut meals at pH 8 were incubated with and without POD in the presence of hydrogen peroxide at 37 degrees C for 60 min. The POD-treated and untreated samples were then analyzed by SDS-PAGE, western blots, and competitive inhibition ELISA. IgE binding or allergenicity was determined in blots and ELISA. Results showed that POD treatment had no effect on raw peanuts with respect to protein cross-linking. However, a significant decrease was seen in the levels of the major allergens, Ara h 1 and Ara h 2, in roasted peanuts after POD treatment. Also, polymers were formed. Despite this, a reduction in IgE binding was observed. It was concluded that POD induced the cross-linking of mainly Ara h 1 and Ara h 2 from roasted peanuts and that, due to POD treatment, IgE binding was reduced. The finding indicates that POD can help reduce the allergenic properties of roasted peanut allergens.
Generation time and the stability of sex-determining alleles in oyster populations as deduced using a gene-based population dynamics model

Abstract Crassostrea oysters are protandrous hermaphrodites. Sex is thought to be determined by a single gene with a dominant male allele M and a recessive protandrous allele F, such that FF animals are protandrous and MF animals are permanent males. We investigate the possibility that a reduction in generation time, brought about for example by disease, might jeopardize retention of the M allele. Simulations show that MF males have a significantly lessened lifetime fecundity when generation time declines. The allele frequency of the M allele declines and eventually the M allele is lost. The probability of loss is modulated by population abundance. As abundance increases, the probability of M allele loss declines. Simulations suggest that stabilization of the female-to-male ratio when generation time is long is the dominant function of the M allele. As generation time shortens, the raison d’etre for the M allele also fades as mortality usurps the stabilizing role. Disease and exploitation have shortened oyster generation time: one consequence may be to jeopardize retention of the M allele. Two alternative genetic bases for protandry also provide stable sex ratios when generation time is long; an F-dominant protandric allele and protandry restricted to the MF heterozygote. In both cases, simulations show that FF individuals become rare in the population at high abundance and/or long generation time. Protandry restricted to the MF heterozygote maintains sex ratio stability over a wider range of generation times and abundances than the alternatives, suggesting that sex determination based on a male-dominant allele (MM/MF) may not be the optimal solution to the genetic basis for protandry in Crassostrea.
Updating, Employing, and Adapting: A Commentary on What Does It Mean to “Employ” The RE-AIM Model

The Reach Effectiveness Adoption Implementation Maintenance (RE-AIM) model was developed to improve the likelihood of translating health promotion intervention research into practice. In their evaluation of grant proposals focusing on the dissemination and implementation, Kessler and colleagues (2012) proposed a method for evaluating the degree to which RE-AIM was "fully employed" across proposals. The article includes excellent operational definitions and important additions related to the use of qualitative and cost data. However, in our review of the article, we identified a number of areas that would benefit from further consideration. Specifically, we provide additional recommendations related to the employment of the model across different trial types, the need to focus on cost across RE-AIM dimensions, and the use of qualitative data.
Network connectivity for permanent, transient, independent, and correlated faults

This paper develops a method for the quantitative analysis of network connectivity in the presence of both permanent and transient faults. Even though transient noise is considered a common occurrence in networks, a survey of the literature reveals an emphasis on permanent faults. Transient faults introduce a time element into the analysis of network reliability. With permanent faults it is sufficient to consider the faults that have accumulated by the end of the operating period. With transient faults the arrival and recovery time must be included. The number and location of faults in the system is a dynamic variable. Transient faults also introduce system recovery into the analysis.
Role of Cavitation in Bulk Ultrasound Ablation: A Histologic Study

The role of cavitation in bulk ultrasound ablation has been evaluated in a series of in vitro experiments. Fresh bovine liver tissue was ablated with a 3.1 MHz ultrasound image‐ablate probe at 31 W/cm2 for 20 minutes under normal and elevated ambient pressures. A 1 MHz passive cavitation detector recorded acoustic emission signals which were quantified by computation of average subharmonic, broadband, and low‐frequency emission levels. After ablation, tissue was sliced and stained with 2% TTC to evaluate thermal damage. Emission levels were quantified and correlated with tissue ablation histology. The results indicate that bubble activity significantly affects heat deposition in ultrasound bulk ablation, in a manner different from high‐intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) ablation.
The role of experience in plant foraging by the aphid parasitoid Diaeretiella rapae (Hymenoptera: Aphidiidae)

Experiments were conducted to test the hypothesis that plant learning by a relative plant-specialist parasitoid wasp should influence the probability of orienting to plant odors (plant finding) and the duration of searching on a plant after landing (plant examining). The insect tested was Diaeretiella rapaeM'Intosh (Hymenoptera: Aphidiidae), a parasitoid wasp that usually attacks aphids on cruciferous plants, but occasionally on other plants. Laboratory experiments using collard as the cruciferous plant and potato as the novel plant demonstrated that postemergence (adult) plant experience affected plant examining only on the less preferred plant, potato, and was reversible and relatively long-term (that is, lasted >2 days). Postemergence experience with potato did not increase orientation to potato odor in a wind tunnel, but postemergence experience with collard resulted in a trend of increased likelihood of flying to collard odor. Preemergence treatments affected plant finding but not plant examining.
Fraud at a public authority

Abstract This case describes a fraud committed at a public authority which operated a municipal facility that was used for sporting events and concerts. The fraud was committed by the authority’s chief accounting officer who stole tens of thousands of dollars in cash over a period of several years. The case describes how the cash was stolen and concealed by the authority’s chief accountant. Case questions ask students to identify internal control weaknesses that allowed the fraud to be committed, recommend improvements to internal controls, and identify how the auditor should have searched for the fraud. Assessment evidence indicates that the case is effective in meeting identified learning objectives. The case has been used in the first auditing course, and it would also be suitable for use in a forensic accounting course.
Preparing inservice elementary science teachers: The role of the instructor’s site observations

The Project in Science Education and Equity (Project SEE) is designed to prepare inservice elementary science teachers in a district with a high percentage of minority students. Teacher and bilingual aide teams participate in a 33-week program that has the following goals: 1. to involve participants in leaming science content appropriate for the elementary-level educator; 2. to develop participants' knowledge of science pedagogy which enhances the science learning of all students, especially English Language Leamers (ELLs); and 3. to increase participants' awareness of career connections to mathematics and science through a developed partnership with scientists. These goals are being achieved through the collaborative efforts of the California State University, San Bemardino School of Education and School of Natural Sciences, Fontana Unified School District, and industry scientists. The goals of this teacher enhancement project are similar to those of many others. What makes Project SEE unique is its use of school site visits as a means of project support and evaluation. This aniclebriefly outlines the project design and then focuses on the role of site observations within the project. Specifically, the purpose for site observations, procedures for implementation of these visits, and what is learned from these visits will be described.
Healthcare use after screening for lung cancer

BACKGROUND: To evaluate the benefits of lung cancer screening, all effects of screening need to be considered. The aim of this study was to determine whether screening had an effect on healthcare use, specifically whether use increased for those with a false-positive or indeterminate screening result. METHODS: Recruited were 400 individuals participating in a lung cancer screening study at the University of Pittsburgh. Self-reported outpatient healthcare use information was collected for the 6 months before, 0 to 6 months after, and 6 to 12 months after screening. The screening outcomes were negative, indeterminate, and suspicious. Repeated-measures Poisson regression models were used to examine changes in use over time and how changes over time varied among the screening outcome groups. RESULTS: Approximately 58% of participants had a negative screening result, 36% had an indeterminate result, and approximately 6% had a suspicious result. The percentage of individuals who had any incidence of each type of outpatient use increased after screening, with the greatest increase noted for those with a suspicious screening result. Adjusted mean use significantly increased for nearly all types of use and for all 3 screening results categories in the 6 months after screening, but mostly declined to prescreening levels in the next 6 months. CONCLUSIONS: Outpatient healthcare use was found to increase after screening for all individuals who were screened for lung cancer, regardless of the screening finding. The cost of the lung-related visits alone was substantial. Therefore, if lung cancer screening prevalence is increased, attendant follow-up healthcare costs are also likely to increase. Cancer 2010. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Hormones and breast cancer

The study of steroid hormone receptors in human breast cancer provides insight into tumor biology and forms the rationale for many therapeutic modalities. Clinical assays for estrogen and progesterone receptors improve the selection of patients who may benefit from hormonal therapy. In addition, receptor content in breast cancer tissue is useful for determining prognosis. Together with other new prognostic factors, hormone receptors help to distinguish among patients with primary breast cancer who are at risk for early recurrence.
LGM Vena Cava Filter: Objective Evaluation of Early Results

One hundred one LG-Medical (LGM) vena cava filters were placed in 97 patients at four institutions. Placement was a complete technical success in 90% (91 of 101). In 6% of attempts, LGM filter insertion was complicated by incomplete opening of the filter. Pulmonary embolism after filter placement was not definitely demonstrated in any patient. The probability of inferior vena cava patency was 92% at 6 months after filter insertion. Thrombosis at the insertion site was seen in eight of 35 patients (23 %) evaluated with duplex ultrasound or venography. Thrombus was observed in 37% of filters at follow-up examination, with cephalic extension of thrombus above the filter in 20% of all patients examined. Filter migration (greater than 1 cm) was seen in 12%; significant angulation was observed in only one patient (2%). In vitro experimentation demonstrated that incomplete opening of the LGM filter during placement can be avoided, in part, by brisk retraction of the insertion cannula. The low-profile introducer system of the LGM filter allows increased alternatives in selecting the site for filter insertion. The low-profile system also makes outpatient filter placement a possibility. No significant difference in the prevalence of thrombosis at the insertion site following LGM filter insertion was noted compared with previous results reported for percutaneous transfemoral placement of the Greenfield filter. The nonopaque sheath does not permit careful localization prior to filter deposition. Modification of the LGM filter to include a radiopaque sheath is suggested.
Researchers focus attention on remarkable Io

Jupiter's moon Io is one of the most remarkable and dynamic objects in the solar system. Extremely high heat flow, produced by tidal heating, generates extensive volcanic activity. This leads to a unique surface geology and chemistry, a dynamic though tenuous atmosphere, and a complex interaction with Jupiter's magnetosphere, which generates extensive clouds of ionized and neutral material that fill the magnetosphere. Our understanding of Io has increased greatly in the last few years, thanks to intensive study from ground-based telescopes, Earth-orbiting telescopes including the Hubble Space Telescope (HST), and particularly because of the close-up observations by the Jupiter-orbiting Galileo spacecraft. Galileo flew 900 km above Io in December 1995 and has since been observing Io periodically from distances as close as 300,000 km.
Optical image reconstruction based on the third-order diffusion equations

This paper presents a third-order diffusion equations-based optical image reconstruction algorithm. The algorithm has been implemented using finite element discretizations coupled with a hybrid regularization that combines both Marquardt and Tikhonov schemes. Numerical examples are used to compare between the third- and first-order reconstructions. The results show that the third-order reconstruction codes are more stable than the first-order codes, and are capable of reconstructing void-like regions. From the examples given, it has also been shown that the first-order codes fail to both qualitatively and quantitatively reconstruct the void-like regions.
MITOCHONDRIA GENESIS IN THE RETINAL PHOTORECEPTOR INNER SEGMENT.

Partial reconstruction of the neonatal Lebistes photoreceptor inner segments from serial thin sections and other data render morphogenetic evidence that the mitochondria of the ellipsoid body arise de novo in the perinuclear cytoplasm and differentiate in a vitreal-to-scleral gradient.
The amygdala regulates the antianxiety sensitization effect of flumazenil during repeated chronic ethanol or repeated stress.

Background The benzodiazepine receptor antagonist flumazenil reduces anxiety-like behavior and sensitization of anxiety-like behavior in various models of ethanol withdrawal in rodents. The mechanism and brain region(s) that account for this action of flumazenil remain unknown. This investigation explored the potential role of several brain regions (amygdala, raphe, inferior colliculus, nucleus accumbens, and paraventricular hypothalamus) for these actions of flumazenil.
Diffusional influences on deactivation rates: Experimental verification

The internal diffusion-deactivation model of Krishnaswamy and Kittrell (1981a) is tested and verified by using laboratory deactivation data on the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide by immobilized catalase. Through an analysis of the influence of diffusional phenomena on the deactivation kinetics, estimates of the intrinsic deactivation rate constant have also been provided.
Photodissociation of F2 in crystalline krypton: effect of molecule—lattice prealignment

Photodissociation studies of F2 isolated in crystalline krypton are reported. At an excess energy of I. 16 eV, the dissociation quantum yield is 12%. The quantum yield reaches unity for excess energies above 2.5 eV. At 4 K, dissociation probabilities are higher than at 12 K. This inverse temperature dependence is ascribed to prealignment of the molecule along a reaction cone of the cage.