cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Spindle Cell Carcinoma of the Larynx and Hypopharynx

We reviewed the clinical records of 34 patients with laryngeal (25) and hypopharyngeal (9) spindle cell carcinomas who were treated at our institution between 1960 and 1990. All the spindle cell carcinomas were studied using paraffin section immunostains, and we performed ploidy analysis of the sarcomatoid component in 31 patients. Of the 31 patients who underwent their initial treatment at our institution, 25 were men and 6 were women (median age at presentation, 64.6 years). A T1 glottic tumor, usually seen as an exophytic firm mass, was the most common type of tumor observed (16 cases). The spindle cells were nondiploid in 86% of the carcinomas, with positive keratin immunostains in 74%. The median follow-up time was 3.7 years. Recurrence of the tumor after partial or total laryngectomy or pharyngectomy occurred in 10 patients. Eight patients died of their disease. The Kaplan-Meier estimate of surviving at least 3 years after initial treatment was 56.8%. Keratin positivity adversely affected the overall survival rate (p < 0.02). The survival rate of patients with hypopharyngeal tumors was worse than that of patients with laryngeal lesions (p < 0.001). The presence of keratin positivity and nondiploid DNA content in the spindle cell population supports the neoplastic epithelial origin of these tumors (sarcomatoid carcinoma). The overall tumor behavior and surgical therapy appeared to be comparable with those of squamous cell carcinomas at a similar stage.
Turbulent flow and bed pressure within headcut scour holes due to plane reattached jets

Soil erosion remains the principle cause of soil degradation worldwide, and the development and migration of headcuts in rills, crop furrows, and gullies can significantly increase soil losses on hillslopes, upland areas, and agricultural fields. Experiments were conducted to define the time-mean turbulent flow characteristics within fixed headcut scour holes typical of upland concentrated flows and to assess the distribution of these flow and pressure parameters for discrete areas of the scour hole domain. These data show that: (1) flow within headcut scour holes is analogous to plane turbulent reattached wall jets; (2) turbulence maxima are associated with the jet entry, recirculation eddies, and flow reattachment; (3) turbulent velocities are distributed asymmetrically about the free jet axis within the scour hole; (4) turbulent velocities associated with the reattached wall jet display good similarity collapse when scaled with the jet entry velocity; and (5) distributions of wall pressure near reattac...
Esmolol in the anaesthetic management of a boy with Romano–Ward syndrome

The Romano–Ward syndrome is a congenital form of long Q-T syndrome which frequently causes syncope, dysrhythmias and sudden death. Certain anaesthetic drugs can precipitate dangerous dysrhythmias. Chronic β-adrenergic blockade is the therapy of choice for symptomatic patients and establishment of complete and total β-blockade is recommended for symptomatic patients having anaesthesia and surgery. We report the successful use of esmolol to establish rapid and total β-blockade before a short elective out-patient procedure and suggest that esmolol may be useful for other patients with Romano–Ward syndrome having anaesthesia and surgery.
Pizza over the Internet: e-commerce, the fragmentation of activity and the tyranny of the region

The question this paper explores is the extent to which e-commerce may be liberating consumers and merchants from the constraints of space (and time) that have traditionally led to predictable regional patterns of retail location. Is distance dead, have the laws of regional organization dissolved away in the age of Internet shopping? Following a discussion of some figures, trends and definitions relating to e-commerce, the paper develops a tentative theoretical framework for the study of this question. First, the fragmentation of activity hypothesis suggests that the activity of shopping can be decomposed into a large number of different sub-activities, some of which can better be carried out physically and others electronically from a variety of different locations. Next, noting that the sub-activity of paying for a purchase is the single most critical one for the survival of a local retail presence, a general game-theoretic model is outlined to help to estimate the relative amounts of physical vs. Inter...
Scale/Analytical Analyses of Freezing and Convective Melting With Internal Heat Generation

Using a scale/analytical analysis approach, we model phase change (melting) for pure materials which generate constant internal heat generation for small Stefan numbers (approximately one). The analysis considers conduction in the solid phase and natural convection, driven by internal heat generation, in the liquid regime. The model is applied for a constant surface temperature boundary condition where the melting temperature is greater than the surface temperature in a cylindrical geometry. The analysis also consider constant heat flux (in a cylindrical geometry). We show the time scales in which conduction and convection heat transfer dominate.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
Birth weight and infant growth: “catch-up” vs. “slow-down” growth

Purpose To examine the relationship between fetal growth and infant growth at about 12 months Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study based on 3,302 births followed up between 8–18 months from Louisiana Women, Infant and Children Supplemental Food Program, 1999–2001. Infant growth was measured as infant weight gain percent (IWG %) defined as the weight gain from birth to infant weight divided by the birth weight. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to compare the infant growth measures according to birth weight category and small, large, or appropriate-for gestational age (i.e., SGA, LGA, AGA) status. Results There was a reverse relationship between birth weight category and IWG%. The IWG % of birth weight categories of Conclusion Low birth weight or SGA infants have a significant “catch-up” growth, whereas high birth weight or LGA infants have a significant “slow-down” growth. The potential impact of this growth change in SGA and LGA infants in the postnatal period on later life disorders need to be determined.
Is Minimally Invasive Total Knee Arthroplasty Associated with Lower Costs Than Traditional TKA

Background Studies of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) approaches to TKA have shown decreased postoperative pain, earlier return to function, and shorter lengths of stay in the hospital. However, it is unclear whether these differences translate into decreased costs or charges associated with care.
Selfish DNA: the ultimate parasite

The DNA of higher organisms usually falls into two classes, one specific and the other comparatively nonspecific. It seems plausible that most of the latter originates by the spreading of sequences which had little or no effect on the phenotype. We examine this idea from the point of view of the natural selection of preferred replicators within the genome.
Effect of anoxic anoxia on body weight loss in rats.

SummaryThe body weight loss in rats is proportional to the altitude up to 28,000 ft. The thresholds for increased total body weight loss, “net loss” (insensible water loss) and fecal excretion lie between 4,000 and 8,000 ft.; that for urine, below 4,000 ft. The administration of cocaine did not change the urinary response to anoxia (28,000 ft.)
HIV/AIDS and lipodystrophy: Implications for clinical management in resource-limited settings

Introduction : Lipodystrophy is a term used to describe a metabolic complication of fat loss, fat gain, or a combination of fat loss and gain, which is associated with some antiretroviral (ARV) therapies given to HIV-infected individuals. There is limited research on lipodystrophy in low- and middle-income countries, despite accounting for more than 95% of the burden of HIV/AIDS. The objective of this review was to evaluate the prevalence, pathogenesis and prognosis of HIV-related lipoatrophy, lipohypertrophy and mixed syndrome, to inform clinical management in resource-limited settings. Methods : We conducted a structured literature search using MEDLINE electronic databases. Relevant MeSH terms were used to identify published human studies on HIV and lipoatrophy, lipohypertrophy, or mixed syndrome in low-, low-middle- and upper-middle-income countries through 31 March 2014. The search resulted in 5296 articles; after 1599 studies were excluded (958 reviews, 641 non-human), 3697 studies were extracted for further review. After excluding studies conducted in high-income settings ( n =2808), and studies that did not meet inclusion criteria ( n =799), 90 studies were included in this review. Results and Discussion : Of the 90 studies included in this review, only six were from low-income countries and eight were from lower middle-income economies. These studies focused on lipodystrophy prevalence, risk factors and side effects of antiretroviral therapy (ART). In most studies, lipodystrophy developed after the first six months of therapy, particularly with the use of stavudine. Lipodystrophy is associated with increased risk of cardiometabolic complications. This is disconcerting and anticipated to increase, given the rapid scale-up of ART worldwide, the increasing number and lifespan of HIV-infected patients on long-term therapy, and the emergence of obesity and non-communicable diseases in settings with extensive HIV burden. Conclusions : Lipodystrophy is common in resource-limited settings, and has considerable implications for risk of metabolic diseases, quality of life and adherence. Comprehensive evidence-based interventions are urgently needed to reduce the burden of HIV and lipodystrophy, and inform clinical management in resource-limited settings. Keywords: HIV; AIDS; lipodystrophy; fat redistribution; antiretroviral therapy. (Published: 15 January 2015) Citation: Finkelstein JL et al. Journal of the International AIDS Society 2015, 18 :19033 http://www.jiasociety.org/index.php/jias/article/view/19033 | http://dx.doi.org/10.7448/IAS.18.1.19033
Prognostication of copper-aluminum wirebond reliability under high temperature storage and temperature-humidity

Gold wire bonding has been widely used as first-level interconnect in semiconductor packaging. The increase in the gold price has motivated the industry search for alternative to the gold wire used in wire bonding and the transition to copper wire bonding technology. Potential advantages of transition to Cu-Al wire bond system includes low cost of copper wire, lower thermal resistivity, lower electrical resistivity, higher deformation strength, damage during ultrasonic squeeze, and stability compared to gold wire. However, the transition to the copper wire brings along some trade-offs including poor corrosion resistance, narrow process window, higher hardness, and potential for cratering. Formation of excessive Cu-Al intermetallics may increase electrical resistance and reduce the mechanical bonding strength. Current state-of-art for studying the Cu-Al system focuses on accumulation of statistically significant number of failures under accelerated testing. In this paper, a new approach has been developed to identify the occurrence of impending apparently-random defect fall-outs and pre-mature failures observed in the Cu-Al wirebond system. The use of intermetallic thickness, composition and corrosion as a leading indicator of failure for assessment of remaining useful life for Cu-al wirebond interconnects has been studied under exposure to high temperature and temperature-humidity. Damage in wire bonds has been studied using x-ray Micro-CT. Microstructure evolution was studied under isothermal aging conditions of 150°C, 175°C, and 200°C till failure. Activation energy was calculated using growth rate of intermetallic at different temperatures. Effect of temperature and humidity on Cu-Al wirebond system was studied using Parr Bomb technique at different elevated temperature and humidity conditions (110°C/100%RH, 120°C/100%RH, 130°C/100%RH) and failure mechanism was developed. The present methodology uses evolution of the IMC thickness, composition in conjunction with the Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm to identify accrued damage in wire bond subjected to thermal aging. The proposed method can be used for quick assessment of Cu-Al parts to ensure manufactured part consistency through sampling.
APPLICATION OF THE METHOD OF MOMENTS TO THREE-BODY SCATTERING.

Abstract The method of moments is investigated as a possible iterative method of solution of the Faddeev equations. The method is shown to converge rapidly to the three-body wave function for the case of zero energy neutrons scattering off deuterium. It is suggested that the method should be appropriate for the treatment of three-body break-up with separable or local potentials.
Measurement of refractive index of PF-5060

Abstract For optical studies of boiling heat transfer process, it is essential that the refractive index and its dependence on temperature for the test liquid be known. In this work a simple set-up was built to measure the refractive index of Fluorinert Liquid PF-5060 with temperature compensation and temperature control. The pinhole laser light beam was used for determining the refraction angle. The refractive index data obtained in the temperature range 0–60°C is found to correlate linearly with temperature.
The equity constrained shortest path problem

Abstract This paper examines the problem of finding the shortest path on a network subject to “equity” constraints. A Lagrangean dual bounding approach is utilized, which relaxes the “complicating constraints” of the problem. After solving the Lagrangean dual, the duality gap is closed by finding the t shortest paths with respect to the Lagrangean function. Both looping and loopless paths are considered. A quick-and-dirty heuristic procedure is also suggested. We report a sampling of our computational experiences with the model.
The universal virus database ICTVdB

The International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses database is a universally available taxonomic research tool for understanding relationships among all viruses. ICTVdB's fundamental goals are to provide researchers with precise virus identification and to link the agreed taxonomy to sequence databases.
Dynamic responses of reactive metallic structures under thermal and mechanical ignitions

We have studied dynamic thermo-mechano-chemical responses of reactive metallic systems, both in clouds of small oxygen-free particles (≈1-10 urn in diameter) produced by fracturing Zr-rich bulk metallic glass and in pure Zr metal foils (≈25 urn thin), under thermal (laser ablation or pulse electrical heating) and mechanical loadings. The mechanical fracture/fragmentation and fragments reactions were time resolved using an integrated set of fast six-channel optical pyrometer, high-speed microphotographic camera, and time- and angle-resolved synchrotron x-ray diffraction. These small-scale tabletop real-time experiments performed on or near surfaces of reactive metals provide fundamental data, in atomistic scales or of particle clouds, regarding fragmentation mechanics, combustion mechanisms and kinetics, and dynamics of energy release under thermal and mechanical loadings. We present the results of pure Zr and Zr-rich amorphous metals, not only signifying diversified combustion mechanisms depending on microstructures, particle sizes, oxygen pressure, and ignition conditions but also providing fundamental data that can be used to develop and validate thermochemical and mechanochemical models for reactive materials.
Coagulation of Whole Blood Stimulates Interleukin-1β Gene Expression

To study interleukin (IL)-1 beta gene expression, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction was used on 25-microL whole blood samples from 11 healthy subjects. Coagulated and unclotted whole blood was compared. There was no evidence of IL-1 beta gene expression in any time zero samples (i.e., whole blood from which mRNA was immediately extracted) from 11 subjects, whereas a 388-bp band representing IL-1 beta mRNA was detected in all coagulated samples. No mRNA for IL-1 beta was detected in EDTA-anticoagulated whole blood, although in these samples the addition of lipopolysaccharide as a positive control induced the expression of IL-1 beta. In time course studies on samples allowed to clot, mRNA for IL-1 beta was detectable after 30 min. These findings demonstrate that IL-1 beta gene expression is not present in circulating cells of healthy subjects and that coagulation is a stimulus for IL-1 beta gene expression. This may be a mechanism by which thrombosis produces inflammation and fever.
Precision-focused Textual Inference

This paper describes our system as used in the RTE3 task. The system maps premise and hypothesis pairs into an abstract knowledge representation (AKR) and then performs entailment and contradiction detection (ECD) on the resulting AKRs. Two versions of ECD were used in RTE3, one with strict ECD and one with looser ECD.
Actin retrograde flow and actomyosin II arc contraction drive receptor cluster dynamics at the immunological synapse in Jurkat T cells

Actin retrograde flow and actomyosin II contraction have both been implicated in the inward movement of T cell receptor (TCR) microclusters and immunological synapse formation, but no study has integrated and quantified their relative contributions. Using Jurkat T cells expressing fluorescent myosin IIA heavy chain and F-tractin—a novel reporter for F-actin—we now provide direct evidence that the distal supramolecular activation cluster (dSMAC) and peripheral supramolecular activation cluster (pSMAC) correspond to lamellipodial (LP) and lamellar (LM) actin networks, respectively, as hypothesized previously. Our images reveal concentric and contracting actomyosin II arcs/rings at the LM/pSMAC. Moreover, the speeds of centripetally moving TCR microclusters correspond very closely to the rates of actin retrograde flow in the LP/dSMAC and actomyosin II arc contraction in the LM/pSMAC. Using cytochalasin D and jasplakinolide to selectively inhibit actin retrograde flow in the LP/dSMAC and blebbistatin to selectively inhibit actomyosin II arc contraction in the LM/pSMAC, we demonstrate that both forces are required for centripetal TCR microcluster transport. Finally, we show that leukocyte function–associated antigen 1 clusters accumulate over time at the inner aspect of the LM/pSMAC and that this accumulation depends on actomyosin II contraction. Thus actin retrograde flow and actomyosin II arc contraction coordinately drive receptor cluster dynamics at the immunological synapse.
From the Ground Up: Creating a Sustainable Library Outreach Program for International Students

ABSTRACTIn spring 2014, the Henry Madden Library at Fresno State implemented an outreach program for incoming international students consisted of a campus orientation presentation, library orientation and tours, information literacy workshops, and international peer-advisor training. Assessment as a result of the program has shown a high level of use of help services among international students, as well as moderately higher use of several services and resources amongst students who attended the library orientation.
The Southern Economy

This essay surveys some of the key themes in Southern economic history and traces the development of the region through the colonial and revolutionary eras, the antebellum period, the Civil War and Reconstruction, the post-bellum period, and the modern period. In particular, I highlight the findings of economic historians on the economics of slavery and focus on the development of Southern institutions in light of the antebellum slave society. The resurgence of the Southern economy is examined in light of recent hypotheses about technological change, policy, and productivity growth.
Adaptive optimal control algorithm for continuous-time nonlinear systems based on policy iteration

In this paper we develop a new online adaptive control scheme, for partially unknown nonlinear systems, which converges to the optimal state feedback control solution for affine in the inputs nonlinear systems. The derivation of the optimal adaptive control algorithm is presented in a continuous-time framework. The optimal control solution will be obtained in a direct fashion, without system identification. The algorithm is an online approach to policy iterations based on an adaptive critic structure to find an approximate solution to the state feedback, infinite-horizon, optimal control problem.
The ethics of consuming: community, agency, and participation in global food systems

It is easy enough to think about preparing food, growing food, and eating food as straight-forward affairs, or mere biological necessities. However, these processes are wrapped up in social relations, personal identities, and political power. Broadly critical frameworks can help pull apart the varying dimensions in this complex and dynamic relationship in order to provide guidance for reforming our relationship to the food we consume in a more democratic and participatory direction. To that end, we explore the normative implications of the current organization of the world food system from multiple perspectives in critical theory, the philosophy of science, and political philosophy. We offer ethical and political analyses at the levels of community activism, national food policy, and global consumerist capitalism to show how an approach that sees these multiple levels as interactive can provide concrete reasons for supporting certain effective solutions.
Porous materials: Less is more

The presence of porosity in a material was first shown by Robert Hooke (1635–1703) who, in his investigations of the natural world using the newly available microscope, observed that the structure of cork was based on regular hollow units which he termed “cells”, because they reminded him of the cells of a monastery.1 Indeed, the fact that most natural structures are porous is a clear indication that porosity plays a determining role in establishing a well-defined and suitable set of properties under constrained optimization conditions, compatible with bottom-up growth.2 A similar observation can also be made for natural and processed foods, in which the presence of porosity is instrumental in tailoring important characteristics such as the geometric surface area (and therefore the dissolution rate and the intensity of flavors), the elastic modulus and toughness (with directly affects the chewing experience), the permeability (adding the possibility of homogeneously mixing fluid and solid components), and even the ratio between profit and direct cost (most of the food products comprise a high volume fraction of quite inexpensive air…).3,4
Indirect immunofluorescence localization of ponticulin in motile cells.

Ponticulin is the major actin-binding integral glycoprotein in plasma membranes isolated from log-phase Dictyostelium discoideum amebae. As such, this protein appears to be an important link between the plasma membrane and actin filaments (Wuestehube and Luna: Journal of Cell Biology 105:1741–1751, 1987). In this study, indirect immunofluorescence microcopy was used to examine the distribution of ponticulin in randomly moving D. discoideum amebae and in amebae engaged in cell migration and phagocytosis. Ponticulin is distributed throughout the plasma membrane and also is present in intracellular vesicles associated with the microtubule-organizing center-Golgi complex adjacent to the nucleus. In aggreating amebae, ponticulin is concentrated in regions of lateral cell-cell contact and in arched regions of the plasma membrane. Ponticulin also is present, but not obviously enriched, in filopodia, in the actin-rich anterior end of polarized cells, and in detergent-insoluble cytoskeletons. In amebae engaged in phagocytosis of yeast, ponticulin is present but not enriched in phagocytic cups and is associated with intracellular vesicles around engulfed yeast. These results suggest that ponticulin is stably associated with actin filaments in certain regions of the plasma membrace and that the actin-binding activity of ponticulin may be tightly controlled. Indirect immupofluorescence microscopy and immunoblot analysis demonstrate that human polymorphonuclear leukocytes also contain a 17 kD protein that specifically cross-reacts with antibodies affinity-purified aganst D. discoideum ponticulin. As in D. discoideum, the mammalian 17 kD ponticulin-analog appears to be localized in plasma membrane and is evident in actin-rich cell extensions. These results indicate that ponticulin-mediated linkages between the plasma membrane and actin may be present in higher eukaryotic cells.
Aberrant over-expression of TRPM7 ion channels in pancreatic cancer: required for cancer cell invasion and implicated in tumor growth and metastasis

Our previous studies in zebrafish development have led to identification of the novel roles of the transient receptor potential melastatin-subfamily member 7 (TRPM7) ion channels in human pancreatic cancer. However, the biological significance of TRPM7 channels in pancreatic neoplasms was mostly unexplored. In this study, we determined the expression levels of TRPM7 in pancreatic tissue microarrays and correlated these measurements in pancreatic adenocarcinoma with the clinicopathological features. We also investigated the role of TRPM7 channels in pancreatic cancer cell invasion using the MatrigelTM-coated transwell assay. In normal pancreas, TRPM7 is expressed at a discernable level in the ductal cells and centroacinar cells and at a relatively high level in the islet endocrine cells. In chronic pancreatitis, pre-malignant tissues, and malignant neoplasms, there is variable expression of TRPM7. In the majority of pancreatic adenocarcinoma specimens examined, TRPM7 is expressed at either moderate-level or high-level. Anti-TRPM7 immunoreactivity in pancreatic adenocarcinoma significantly correlates with the size and stages of tumors. In human pancreatic adenocarcinoma cells in which TRPM7 is highly expressed, short hairpin RNA-mediated suppression of TRPM7 impairs cell invasion. The results demonstrate that TRPM7 channels are over-expressed in a proportion of the pre-malignant lesions and malignant tumors of the pancreas, and they are necessary for invasion by pancreatic cancer cells. We propose that TRPM7 channels play important roles in development and progression of pancreatic neoplasm, and they may be explored as clinical biomarkers and targets for its prevention and treatment.
PREPARATION AND UTILIZATION OF PROTEIN CONCENTRATES AND ISOLATES FOR NUTRITIONAL AND FUNCTIONAL IMPROVEMENT OF FOODS

Concentration and isolation of proteins from different sources is primarily aimed at providing a satisfactory solution for protein malnutrition/undernutrition and effective utilization of the underutilized protein sources. Several sources ranging from algae to soybeans have been studied for the purpose. All the current methods of protein concentrates/isolates production are based on two principles, namely, 1) Physical separation of the protein rich fraction, and 2) Solubilization of the proteins followed by precipitation and/or drying. The thus concentrated/isolated proteins are either directly, or after modifications (enzymatic or chemical) are utilized. Commercial production has been limited to only few sources such as soybeans, groundnuts, cottonseeds, and sunflower seeds due to either technological and/or consumer acceptance problems. Flavor, color, and textural compatibility of the protein concentrates/isolates with the carrier and the want of globally acceptable vehicle are some of the major constraints in production and utilization of the protein concentrates/isolates. The amino acids imbalance of the native proteins and subsequent processing losses of essential amino acids further compound the problem. Utilization of protein concentrates/isolates from human food purposes has used several foods including spaghetti, macaroni, pasta, bread, and cookies. Other modes of utilization include meat extenders, high protein beverages, and ration diets for mass feeding programs. Cereals appear to be the most commonly used vehicle for this nutrient propagation.
Prevalence and significance of lactic acidosis in diabetic ketoacidosis

Abstract Purpose The prevalence and clinical significance of lactic acidosis in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) are understudied. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of lactic acidosis in DKA and its association with intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay (LOS) and mortality. Methods Retrospective, observational study of patients with DKA presenting to the emergency department of an urban tertiary care hospital between January 2004 and June 2008. Results Sixty-eight patients with DKA who presented to the emergency department were included in the analysis. Of 68 patients, 46 (68%) had lactic acidosis (lactate, >2.5 mmol/L), and 27 (40%) of 68 had a high lactate (>4 mmol/L). The median lactate was 3.5 mmol/L (interquartile range, 3.32-4.12). There was no association between lactate and ICU LOS in a multivariable model controlling for Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II, glucose, and creatinine. Lactate correlated negatively with blood pressure ( r = −0.44; P r = 0.34; P = .004). Conclusions Lactic acidosis is more common in DKA than traditionally appreciated and is not associated with increased ICU LOS or mortality. The positive correlation of lactate with glucose raises the possibility that lactic acidosis in DKA may be due not only to hypoperfusion but also to altered glucose metabolism.
Practical Synthesis of 4‐Fluoro‐2‐(methylthio)benzylamine and the Corresponding Sulfone and Sulfonamide

Abstract Practical syntheses of 4‐fluoro‐2‐(methylthio)benzylamine 1 and the corresponding 2‐methylsulfonyl analog 2 are reported. The methylthio moiety was introduced regioselectively by two methods. In the first method, metallation of 4‐fluoro‐2‐bromobenzoic acid, followed by treatment with dimethyl disulfide resulted in an easily isolated intermediate, which was suitable for further elaboration to the benzylamine 1. In the second method, selective nucleophilic aromatic substitution of 2,4‐difluorobenzonitrile with methanethiolate was explored, and a mechanistic rationale was offered for solvent effects on regioselectivity. Optimized conditions furnished the key 4‐fluoro‐2‐(methylthio)benzonitrile for further functionalization to the 2‐methylsulfonyl‐4‐fluorobenzylamine 2. In addition, the analogous sulfonamide 3 was prepared in a straightforward manner from 5‐fluoro‐2‐methylbenzenesulfonyl chloride.
Amorphous Cu-In-S nanoparticles as precursors for CuInSe2 thin-film solar cells with a high efficiency.

CuInSe2 (CISe) absorber layers for thin-film solar cells were fabricated through the selenization of amorphous Cu–In–S nanoparticles, which were prepared by using a low-temperature colloidal process within one minute without any external heating. Two strategies for obtaining highly dense CISe absorber films were used in this work; the first was the modification of nanoparticle surface through chelate complexation with ethanolamine, and the second strategy utilized the lattice expansion that occurred when S atoms in the precursor particles were replaced with Se during selenization. The synergy of these two strategies allowed formation of highly dense CISe thin films, and devices fabricated using the absorber layer demonstrated efficiencies of up to 7.94 % under AM 1.5G illumination without an anti-reflection coating.
Lipid Reserves of Lesser Scaup (Aythya affinis) Migrating Across a Large Landscape are Consistent with the “Spring Condition” Hypothesis

ABSTRACT. The “spring condition” hypothesis (SCH) states that nutrition during spring migration affects survival, reproductive success, and, ultimately, population size of migratory birds. The North American population of Lesser Scaup (Aythya affinis) has experienced a marked decline, apparently because of poor recruitment. An important prediction of the SCH is that female Lesser Scaup have low lipid reserves during spring migration. We previously reported that lipid reserves and body mass of females collected on migratory stopover areas in northwestern Minnesota in springs 2000–2001 were lower than those on the same areas in the 1980s and markedly lower than those collected at Pool 19 of the Mississippi River in 2000–2001, an important preceding stopover area. However, it was unclear whether these findings represented a site-specific result or a landscape-scale phenomenon. Accordingly, we examined lipid and body mass of 641 female Lesser Scaup migrating across seven eco-physiographic regions of Iowa, Min...
Nonparametric Density Estimation for Stochastic Optimization with an Observable State Variable

In this paper we study convex stochastic optimization problems where a noisy objective function value is observed after a decision is made. There are many stochastic optimization problems whose behavior depends on an exogenous state variable which affects the shape of the objective function. Currently, there is no general purpose algorithm to solve this class of problems. We use nonparametric density estimation to take observations from the joint state-outcome distribution and use them to infer the optimal decision for a given query state s. We propose two solution methods that depend on the problem characteristics: function-based and gradient-based optimization. We examine two weighting schemes, kernel based weights and Dirichlet process based weights, for use with the solution methods. The weights and solution methods are tested on a synthetic multi-product newsvendor problem and the hour ahead wind commitment problem. Our results show that in some cases Dirichlet process weights offer substantial benefits over kernel based weights and more generally that nonparametric estimation methods provide good solutions to otherwise intractable problems.
Hyaluronic acid (with fibronectin) as a bioimplant for the vocal fold mucosa.

Objectives To measure the viscoelastic shear properties of hyaluronic acid, with and without fibronectin, and to compare them with those of the human vocal fold mucosa and other phonosurgical biomaterials. Methods Viscoelastic shear properties of various implantable biomaterials (Teflon, gelatin, collagen, fat, hyaluronic acid, and hyaluronic acid with fibronectin) were measured with a parallel-plate rotational rheometer. Elastic and viscous shear properties were quantified as a function of oscillation frequency (0.01-15 Hz) at 37 degrees C. Results The shear properties of hyaluronic acid were relatively close to those of human vocal fold mucosal tissues reported previously. Hyaluronic acid at specific concentrations (0.5%-1%), with or without fibronectin, was found to exhibit viscous shear properties (viscous shear modulus and dynamic viscosity) similar to those of the average male and female vocal fold mucosa. Conclusions According to a theory that establishes the effects of tissue shear properties on vocal fold oscillation, phonation threshold pressure (a measure of the ease of phonation) is directly related to the viscous shear modulus of the vibrating vocal fold mucosa. Therefore, our findings suggest that hyaluronic acid, either by itself or mixed with fibronectin, may be a potentially optimal bioimplant for the surgical management of vocal fold mucosal defects and lamina propria deficiencies (e.g., scarring) from a biomechanical standpoint.
When Curriculum-Based, Technology-Enhanced Field Experiences and Teacher Inquiry Coalesce: An Opportunity for Conceptual Change?.

National agencies advocate the use of field experiences to help prepare teachers to integrate technology in their classrooms. However, prospective teachers often fail to synthesise the integration of technology with the complexities of teaching during such experiences. This study suggests teacher inquiry, a strategy for helping educators systematically and intentionally study their own practice, provides important benefits for prospective teachers participating in curriculum-based, technology-enhanced field experiences. Specifically, this study explores whether or not engagement in teacher inquiry can promote conceptual change related to teaching with technology. Thirteen inquiries conducted by prospective teachers in six elementary schools were analysed and one instrumental case was identified. The case exemplifies how curriculum-based, technology-enhanced field experiences and teacher inquiry may coalesce to support conceptual change for prospective teachers. In fact, the marriage of curriculum-based, technology-enhanced field experiences and teacher inquiry embodies research-based conditions necessary for conceptual change. Teacher inquiry is widely recognised and supported in the general teacher education literature yet its use by prospective teachers in curriculum-based, technology-enhanced field experiences is novel. This exploratory study highlights its potential and encourages further research into its usefulness as a tool to prepare the next generation of teachers to be effective technology-using educators.
Enterprise Information Systems Capability and GHG Pollution Emissions Reductions.

This paper adds to IT sustainability literature by empirically examining the degree to which enterprise information systems capability impacts organizational greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). We accomplish this by analyzing a unique data set combining surveys of corporate IT, GHG emissions and environmental practices with other secondary sources that contain financial and environmental metrics. We find that high levels of Enterprise Support IS Capability combined with the adoption of firm GHG pollution reduction targets help to reduce firm GHG emissions. On the other hand, the adoption of reduction targets in less IS-capable firms is associated with higher emissions. Our research highlights the role of information technology in firm sustainability programs and the value of information to pollution reduction.
Pursuing Constitutional Dialogue within Socialist Vietnam: The 2010 Debate

This article tells the story of the constitutional debate that took place in 2010, as it was reported in state-owned newspapers. This analysis relies on John Gillespie’s discussion of the rule of law in Vietnam as the analytical framework, and on Mark Sidel’s work on the constitutional amendment process in 2001 to better understand the scope of the debate. The analysis reveals three general characteristics of elite constitutional discourse in the 2010 debate. First, it blended elements of both the conventional rhetoric and liberal interpretations of the concept of a “law-based state.” Second, the intellectual environment of the elite in 2010, as reflected in popular media, were quite supportive of the separation of state powers, with three clearly-defined state organs – legislative, executive, judiciary – to balance and check one another. Third, the myth of the ‘democratic’ 1946 Constitution was revived as a significant talking point in order to justify the need for fundamental change in the structure of state powers. A close analysis of these characteristics has revealed the centrist and pragmatic nature of the constitutional discourse. Reformers within the country are clearly attempting to cope with the constraints of political boundaries while trying to push for reform.
Density-Independent Population Growth

In this chapter, we examine the simplest models of population growth: those which assume density independence. We say that the growth of a population is density independent if the birth and death rates per individual do not depend on the population size. We begin with models that also ignore the effects of age structure, and then move on to include the effects of age structure. We look at both species with overlapping generations, like humans, and those with discrete generations, like many butterflies. The predictions of these models set the stage for the rest of our investigations of population dynamics. The approach we use to set up these models will be used again and again. Additionally, we introduce many of the mathematical tools that are used throughout our investigations.
Effects of collisional and vibrational velocity on proton and deuteron transfer in the reaction of HOD+ with CO.

Reaction of HOD+ with CO was studied over the collision energy (Ecol) range between 0.18 and 2.87 eV, for HOD+ in its ground state and with one quantum in each of its vibrational modes: (001) - predominantly OH stretch; (010) - bend, and (100) - predominately OD stretch. In addition to integral cross sections, product recoil velocity distributions were also measured for each initial condition. The dominant reactions are near-thermoneutral proton and deuteron transfer, generating HCO+ and DCO+ product ions by a predominantly direct mechanism. The HCO+ and DCO+ channels occur with a combined efficiency of 76% for ground state HOD+ at our lowest Ecol, increasing to 94% for Ecol around 0.33 eV, then falling at high Ecol to ∼40%. The HCO+ and DCO+ channels have a complicated dependence on the HOD+ vibrational state. Excitation of the OH or OD stretch modes enhances H+ or D+ transfer, respectively, and inhibits D+ or H+ transfer. Bend excitation preferentially enhances H+ transfer, with no effect on D+ transfer...
Resonant inelastic light scattering investigation of low-lying gapped excitations in the quantum fluid at ν=5/2.

The low-lying neutral excitation spectrum of the incompressible quantum Hall fluid at $\ensuremath{\nu}=5/2$ is investigated by inelastic light scattering. Gapped modes are observable only in a very narrow filling factor range centered at $5/2$ at energies that overlap estimates from transport activation gaps. The modes are interpreted as critical points in the wave-vector dispersion of excitations that preserve spin orientation. For very small changes $|\ensuremath{\delta}\ensuremath{\nu}|\ensuremath{\lesssim}0.01$ the gapped modes disappear and a continuum of low-lying excitations takes over indicating the transition from an incompressible fluid at $5/2$ to a compressible state. Observations of spin wave modes indicate spin polarization of the $5/2$ and $2+1/3$ quantum Hall fluids.
Silicon-Framed Tensile Specimens: Techniques and Results

The silicon-framed tensile specimen design has been used in tensile tests of thin films of a variety of metals and epitaxial silicon. A piezo-actuated microtensile test device holds the specimen while the silicon frame is cut just before testing, imposes the tensile displacement, and provides voltages proportional to force and displacement. This technique is appropriate for films that are hundreds of micrometers long, tens to a few hundred micrometers wide, and from 0.3 to 15 micrometers thick. The specimen film must be amenable to lithographic patterning, must adhere well to the silicon substrate, and must resist a silicon etchant. The specimen fabrication is a bulk-micromachining process, because the silicon substrate is etched through underneath the specimen film. Uniaxial yield strength, ultimate tensile strength, and elongation to maximum load can be measured using the microtensile tester. The addition of laser illumination and digital photography allows implementation of electronic speckle pattern interferometry, for accurate measurement of local displacement. This addition allows evaluation of the tensile Young’s modulus. Compared to bulk material, thin films of copper and aluminum have lower apparent Young’s moduli, higher yield and ultimate tensile strengths because of their fine grain size, and lower elongation to failure. Correlation between properties measured by indentation and by tensile testing needs further study.
The Ammonia Mechanism in Alkalosis Due to Overventilation

SummaryA comparison has been made of fluctuations of ammonia secretion and fixed base excretion associated with the development and recession of alkalosis from forced breathing. The results appear to be out of harmony with the base regulatory theory of ammonia production.
Gun Control on College and University Campuses in the Wake of District of Columbia v. Heller and McDonald v. City of Chicago

From the Constitution’s ratification in 1791 until its 2008 District of Columbia v. Heller decision, the Supreme Court had never held that a statute violated the Second Amendment. In invalidating Washington, D.C.’s extensive gun control prohibitions, which extended into the home, the Court declared that the Second Amendment protects citizens’ right to keep and bear arms in the home for the purpose of self-defense, so long as the weapon was of the kind used for such purposes at the founding. Moreover, in contrast to precedents going back to the nineteenth century, the Court stated this right was independent of any militia service by the gun user. In 2010 in McDonald v. City of Chicago, the Court declared the Second Amendment was enforceable against the states. In practical terms this meant that as of 2010 a new protection was incorporated into the Bill of Rights. Thus, the Second Amendment joined its constitutional cousins including, for example, the First Amendment Free Speech and Religion Clauses, as rights limiting states’ power.This article examines the capacity of public colleges and universities to enact campus gun control policies affecting students, faculty, staff, and others, in light of the landmark Heller and McDonald decisions and judicial interpretations of those cases, along with state constitutional and statutory constraints on the ability of public college and university officials to act autonomously in fashioning campus gun control policies. Through this examination, this article derives principles to guide campus officials in the quest to fulfill their policy goals, while remaining faithful to citizens’ individual Second Amendment right to “keep and bear arms,” and state limitations on campus institutional power. The article makes observations about areas in which campus officials should feel secure in enacting firearm controls, as well as where ambiguities remain, and concludes that the political branches of state government, rather than lofty constitutional principles, may determine who prevails in this contentious policy debate.
Fine Structural Localization of Adenosine Triphosphatase in Human Platelets and Other Blood Cells

Adenosine triphosphatase activity has been localized in human blood cells by combined histochemical and electron microscopic technics. Deposits of lead phosphate, indicative of enzymic activity, were observed on the surface membranes of erythrocytes, lymphocytes and platelets. Intracellular ATPase activity was found in lymphocyte mitochondria and nucleoli. Blood platelets contained organelles in their hyaloplasm with dense accumulations of the enzyme reaction product. The distribution of lead phosphate in platelet organelles suggested that they were mitochondria, but some platelet granules may also contain ATPase activity.