cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fracture Behavior of Granular Polycrystalline Silicon Using Micro-scale and Macro-scale Indentation Techniques

Three batches of polycrystalline silicon (polysilicon) produced with the fluidized bed reactor method were used to study the fracture behavior using micro-scale and macro-scale indentation techniques. The fracture toughness was determined to be 0.60, 0.74, and 0.86 MPa m0.5 using Vickers microhardness tests for three samples with a high, medium, and low hydrogen content, respectively. In the same order of the samples, Rockwell hardness tests showed that they failed at applied loads of 45, 55, and 60 kg, respectively. These results show that the fracture behaviors of both techniques are in agreement; the highest toughness materials can withstand higher loads prior to fracture in the Rockwell hardness test. The microstructure of the granular product has been documented and the only significant difference between the samples is the solute hydrogen content. Therefore, a Rockwell hardness instrument can be used as a rapid way to assess the relative fracture toughness of the as-grown polysilicon for solar applications, and the technique is insensitive to small amounts of porosity in these materials.
Highly Efficient Circulating Tumor Cell Isolation from Whole Blood and Label-Free Enumeration Using Polymer-Based Microfluidics with an Integrated Conductivity Sensor

A novel microfluidic device that can selectively and specifically isolate exceedingly small numbers of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) through a monoclonal antibody (mAB) mediated process by sampling large input volumes (≥1 mL) of whole blood directly in short time periods ( 97%) by designing capture channels with the appropriate widths and heights. The isolated CTCs were readily released from the mAB capturing surface using trypsin. The released CTCs were then enumerated on-device using a novel, label-free solution conductivity route capable of detecting single tumor cells traveling through the detection electrodes. The conductivity readout provided near 100% detection efficiency and exquisite specificity for CTCs due to scaling factors and the nonoptimal electrical properties of potential interferences (erythrocytes or leukocytes). The simplicity in manufacturing the device and its ease of operation make it attractive for clinical applications requiring one-time use operation.
A Survey of T-2 Toxin, Ochratoxin, and Aflatoxin for Their Effects on the Coagulation of Blood in Young Broiler Chickens

Abstract Day old broilers were fed graded concentrations of dietary T-2 toxin, ochratoxin, and aflatoxin. After three weeks, the body weights, whole blood clotting times, recalcification times, and prothrombin times were measured. At growth inhibition doses, T-2 toxin had no effect on whole blood clotting and recalcification times but did cause a significant (P
Assessment of the intrarater and interrater reliability of an established clinical task analysis methodology.

Background: Task analysis may be useful for assessing how anesthesiologists alter their behavior in response to different clinical situations. In this study, the authors examined the intraobserver and interobserver reliability of an established task analysis methodology. Methods: During 20 routine anesthetic procedures, a trained observer sat in the operating room and categorized in real-time the anesthetist's activities into 38 task categories. Two weeks later, the same observer performed task analysis from videotapes obtained intraoperatively. A different observer performed task analysis from the videotapes on two separate occasions. Data were analyzed for percent of time spent on each task category, average task duration, and number of task occurrences. Rater reliability and agreement were assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients. Results: Intrarater reliability was generally good for categorization of percent time on task and task occurrence (mean intraclass correlation coefficients of 0.84-0.97). There was a comparably high concordance between real-time and video analyses. Interrater reliability was generally good for percent time and task occurrence measurements. However, the interrater reliability of the task duration metric was unsatisfactory, primarily because of the technique used to capture multitasking. Conclusions: A task analysis technique used in anesthesia research for several decades showed good intrarater reliability. Off-line analysis of videotapes is a viable alternative to real-time data collection. Acceptable interrater reliability requires the use of strict task definitions, sophisticated software, and rigorous observer training. New techniques must be developed to more accurately capture multitasking. Substantial effort is required to conduct task analyses that will have sufficient reliability for purposes of research or clinical evaluation.
Sagacity in Cats

THE following facts are curious: I should be glad if any of your readers can inform me whether anything of the kind has been already noticed. I have a cat of half-Persian breed; she is about eight years old, and has always been remarkable for her aversion to strangers, more especially to children. If children have at any time come into the house where she was, she has invariably decamped and secreted herself. She never could bear to be handled or pulled about (which so many cats seem to enjoy) by anyone but by her master.
Children's Perception of Roles in Intervention.

Sixteen children enrolled in school intervention for articulation disorders were interviewed regarding their view of the roles of speech-language pathologists, teachers, and children both in classr...
The anxiolytic serotonin 5-HT1A receptor agonists buspirone, ipsapirone and gepirone are inhibitors of tyrosine hydroxylation in rat striatum

The anxiolytics buspirone (BUS), ipsapirone (IPSAP) and gepirone (GEP) were investigated as 5-HT1A receptor-mediated inhibitors of tyrosine hydroxylation (TH) in a synaptosome-rich preparation of rat striatum. BUS, IPSAP and GEP were moderately potent inhibitors of TH with EC50 values of 48.4 microM, 50 microM and 836 microM, respectively. By comparison, 8-OH-DPAT, a 5-HT1A receptor selective agonist, has been previously shown to be more potent with an EC50 value of 7.0 microM. Each of these agents demonstrated full agonist activity at the striatal 5-HT1A receptors regulating TH. The inhibitory effects of each agent were attenuated by prior exposure to the 5-HT1A antagonist NAN-190, (10 microM) (P < 0.05), but not by the dopamine D2 antagonist (-)-sulpiride (10 microM). The potencies of 8-OH-DPAT, BUS, IPSAP and GEP were correlated with their reported affinities for the 5-HT1A receptor (P < 0.01) but not the dopamine D2 receptor. These results support the hypothesis that BUS, IPSAP and GEP inhibit TH through activation of a striatal 5-HT1A heteroreceptor on dopamine nerve terminals.
The theory of top-loaded antennas: Integral equations for the currents

The general problem involving the distribution of current and the driving-point impedance of a top-loaded antenna is formulated. Consideration is given to an idealized structure having one or more cylindrical top-loading elements. For the practically important case involving conductors of small radius, the axial currents are obtained as the solution to a pair of coupled integral equations. Approximate solutions obtained by numerical methods for the inverted L -, T -, and four-element top-loaded antennas are compared with measured driving-point impedances. Satisfactory agreement indicates the possibility of utilizing the theory in the analysis of practical configurations involving many top-loading elements.
Endoscopic ultrasound in the diagnosis and therapy of chronic pancreatitis

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) has been shown to be a useful tool in the staging of gastrointestinal, pancreaticobiliary, and mediastinal malignancies. EUS also plays a significant role in the evaluation of submucosal tumors, and its therapeutic role in celiac plexus neurolysis has been established in the setting of malignancy. Previously, the retroperitoneum has been difficult to image by conventional imaging modalities such as transabdominal ultrasound and computed tomography (CT) scan. Although endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is considered by many to be the gold standard for diagnosing chronic pancreatitis, it does not give information on the pancreatic parenchymal changes that may be seen in the early stages of chronic pancreatitis. EUS is highly sensitive in imaging the pancreas. In patients with a suspicion of chronic pancreatitis, especially in early stages, this is an invaluable tool. EUS appears to be more sensitive than ERCP and secretin testing in diagnosing mild chronic pancreatitis and thus may help to direct therapy. EUS-guided fine-needle aspiration is useful when pancreatic carcinoma is suspected in patients with chronic pancreatitis.
Vocal communication of affect and its perception in three- to four-year-old children.

Little information is available on very young children's identification of vocal-verbal expressions of affect and the accurate differentiation of various affect types. The present study examined the perception of affective prosodic intonation patterns in 10 normal children aged 39 to 48 months. Audio-recordings of affective intonation patterns (angry, happy, neutral, and sad) served as perceptual stimuli. The children were asked to match each auditory stimulus with an appropriate visual-facial representation. Analysis showed that children's correct identification exceeded errors by more than 2 to 1. There was a significant difference in the identification of different types of emotions. All types of affect, except neutral, occurred above chance. Misperceptions from all categories fell predominantly into the happy category, an apparent “pollyanna” effect Receptive language age, sex, and IQ did not affect the outcome, but chronological age did. Results are discussed in terms of perceptual salience of acoust...
UHV studies of the interaction of CO with small supported metal particles, Ni/mica

The interaction of carbon monoxide with small palladium particles supported on UHV-cleaved and heat-treated single-crystal mica was studied. The Pd particles were characterized and tested using the techniques of flash thermal desorption, Auger electron spectroscopy, core electron energy loss spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. Evidence is presented for CO decomposition on Pd particles during CO adsorption-desorption experiments. The rate of CO decomposition increased rapidly with diminishing particle size. Residual carbon from CO decomposition blocked CO adsorption and had a strong poisoning effect on the CO oxidation reaction.
Annexin A5-Functionalized Bimodal Nanoparticles for MRI and Fluorescence Imaging of Atherosclerotic Plaques

Apoptosis and macrophage burden are believed to correlate with atherosclerotic plaque vulnerability and are therefore considered important diagnostic and therapeutic targets for atherosclerosis. These cell types are characterized by the exposure of phosphatidylserine (PS) at their surface. In the present study, we developed and applied a small micellar fluorescent annexin A5-functionalized nanoparticle for noninvasive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of PS exposing cells in atherosclerotic lesions. Annexin A5-mediated target-specificity was confirmed with ellipsometry and in vitro binding to apoptotic Jurkat cells. In vivo T1-weighted MRI of the abdominal aorta in atherosclerotic ApoE−/− mice revealed enhanced uptake of the annexin A5-micelles as compared to control-micelles, which was corroborated with ex vivo near-infrared fluorescence images of excised whole aortas. Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) demonstrated that the targeted agent was associated with macrophages and apoptotic cells, wherea...
A future cities survey research design for policy analysis

Abstract Strategies for the analysis of public policy have been a major focus of interest among social scientists during the last decade. This paper introduces a survey research design and perspective which differ from most current strategies for public policy analysis. The design, which is basically an ex post facto correlational design, employs an unconventional sampling technique to derive policy-impact statements from a small sample. The policy analysis perspective of this research is focused on making prescriptive rather than descriptive statements. The specific research is the “URBIS” project, a study which is evaluating the impact of automated information systems upon the operations of local governments. After briefly discussing the general logic of public policy analysis, this paper details the methods and critical issues of this research design. The paper suggests that the URBIS research strategy might be viewed as one general model for public policy analysis.
Decomposition of infinite matrices

Abstract We consider the problem of decomposing a matrix of integers according to constraints on the row and column sums, in the case when the original matrix is infinite. Some necessary conditions and some sufficient conditions are found for the existence of such a decomposition, generalizing results of Ball for the finite case. Connections with the Transversal Problem for infinite sets are pointed out.
Reassessing zooarchaeological quantification

Abstract Currently available means of quantifying archaeological fauna for the purpose of assessing original species ratios of the ancient kill are generally inadequate to the task. Depositional processes and the distortion they may create will, in most cases, skew such calculations, which are uniformly dependent upon some measure of representativeness in bone recovery frequencies. Examples of depositional bias are given, and encouragement is offered to zooarchaeologists to undertake taphonomic study of their collections as a means of documenting formative processes and identifying potential accumulative‐attritional agencies. An alternative approach to species ratio estimation is presented that utilizes decay functions based upon bone loss rates and depositional time intervals that would be modeled on a case by case basis.
Integrated analysis of microarray data and gene function information.

Microarray data should be interpreted in the context of existing biological knowledge. Here we present integrated analysis of microarray data and gene function classification data using homogeneity analysis. Homogeneity analysis is a graphical multivariate statistical method for analyzing categorical data. It converts categorical data into graphical display. By simultaneously quantifying the microarry-derived gene groups and gene function categories, it captures the complex relations between biological information derived from microarray data and the existing knowledge about the gene function. Thus, homogeneity analysis provides a mathematical framework for integrating the analysis of microarray data and the existing biological knowledge.
Treatment of alopecia areata with squaric acid dibutylester

Squaric acid dibutylester is a topical sensitizing agent utilized for the treatment of alopecia areata. The mechanism of action is not fully understood, but is believed to redirect the inflammatory response by invoking allergic contact dermatitis. Several studies have compared the efficacy of squaric acid dibutylester to other treatments vs placebo with favorable results. This contribution reviews the history of the topical sensitizing agent squaric acid dibutylester and discusses the mechanism of action, the use in alopecia areata, and the efficacy and safety of this therapeutic agent.
Aortic Valve Endocarditis with Aortic Root Abscess Cavity: Surgical Treatment with Aortic Valve Homograft

Aortic valve endocarditis with an aortic root abscess cavity was treated by a modification of the standard technique of aortic homograft implantation in 3 patients. At a mean follow-up of 35 months, all 3 patients were well without reoperation or signs of aortic incompetence. This technique may, in some cases, be an alternative to the more complex procedure of homograft aortic root replacement with coronary reimplantation.
Cold-Air Outbreak during GALE: Lidar Observations and Modeling of Boundary Layer Dynamics

Two cold-air outbreaks were studied during the Genesis of Atlantic Lows Experiment. A lidar system was operated to observe the boundary layer evolution and the development of clouds. On the first day (January 30, 1986) boundary layer rise was less than 50 percent of the value for the second day (March 2, 1986). On the first day only a thin broken cloud cover formed, while on the second day a thick solid cloud deck formed - although the average moisture content was 60 percent of that on the first day. A trajectory slab model was employed to simulate the evolution of the layer over the ocean near the east Atlantic shore. The model allows for vertical gradients in conservative variables under neutrally buoyant conditions. The primary effect of these assumptions, which are based on observed thermodynamic profiles, is to reduce cloudiness to be more in line with observations. Boundary-layer depth was reasonably well predicted as was sensible and latent heat flux.
Alterations in contact and density-dependent arrest state in senescent WI-38 cells

Normal human WI-38 fibroblast-like cells in culture undergo a process of senescence, one feature of which is a gradual decline in proliferative capacity. As these cells reach the end of their replicative life span they exhibit decreases in the fraction of cells able to synthesize DNA, in the number of doublings per passage (constant seeding density), and in the cell harvest and saturation densities. They also display increased average cell cycle times, largely at the expense of longer G1 intervals. These alterations are accompanied by morphologic changes, including cell enlargement. Before the end of the replicative life span or phase-out, there is a highly reproducible (55/58 sublines) cell loss of approximately 50%; however, a stable population survives that can exist in a viable yet nonproliferative state for many months. This stable population maintains an extremely low saturation density, representing <5% of that achieved by early passage cultures. Further, we show that maximum harvest densities achieved by senescent cells are lower, irrespective of seeding densities, i.e. when placed at cell densities higher than those normally achieved by senescent cultures they display a net decline in cell number. This decline continues until the cell density approximates the density that would have been achieved had the cultures been seeded at standard density (1×104 cells/cm2). By measuring the accumulation of an mRNA species,EPC-1, that is expressed when early passage cultures reach a growth-arrested state via density-dependent contact inhibition, we also show that senescent cells are unable to produce this transcript at either their normal confluent density or at high cell density obtained by overseeding. The above results suggest that there are significant alterations in cell-to-cell contact sensitivity and arrest state of senescent cultures. These changes result in both a cytotoxic response to crowding and failure to express at least one molecular marker which is induced as young cells approach growth arrest by contact inhibition.
Adiponectin changes in relation to the macronutrient composition of a weight-loss diet

Adiponectin is an adipose-derived protein with beneficial metabolic effects. Low adiponectin is associated with obesity and related diseases. Significant weight loss increases adiponectin, reducing disease risk. This study compared the effects of two weight-loss diets with different macronutrient compositions on adiponectin. Eighty-one obese women in two cohorts were randomized to a low-fat (LF) or a low-carbohydrate (LC) diet. All subjects underwent equivalent weight-loss intervention, with weight and other measures assessed at baseline and after 6 (cohort I) or 4 (cohort II) months. Body fat was measured by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry. Adiponectin was measured by radioimmunoassay. Diet intake was assessed using 24-h recalls and 3-day diet records. Data were analyzed via t-tests and repeated-measures factorial ANOVA using time, diet, and replicate (cohort I vs. cohort II) as factors. Age, weight, body fat, BMI, adiponectin, and diet were similar at baseline. Following intervention, macronutrient composition of the diet was vastly different between the groups, reflecting the assigned diet. Both groups lost weight and body fat (P < 0.001), with effect in LC dieters greater than LF dieters (-9.1 kg vs. -4.97 kg weight, P < 0.05 and -5.45 kg vs. -2.62 kg fat, P < 0.001). Adiponectin increased in the LC (+1.92 mcg/ml, P < 0.01), but not the LF (+0.86 mcg/ml, P = 0.81), group. There was no correlation between weight loss and increase in adiponectin. These results confirm that diet-induced loss of weight and body fat is associated with increased adiponectin concentrations. This effect is evident with weight loss of 10% or more, and may be greater with LC diets.
Developing an eLearning support model

In this paper, I will examine the development and implementation of providing technical and pedagogical support for the University of Wisconsin (UW) system-wide Course Management System, utilizing a centrally located Help Desk that is staffed primarily by a student workforce.The requirements and delivery of support have shifted in recent years, and some services require a faster turnaround for problem resolution. This paper will also examine the obstacles and challenges that became apparent to us when we designed a new on-demand support model. This model is driven by the needs of the course instructors/designers, who often require support in real time.This discussion demonstrates:How the Help Desk provides system-wide technical supportThe benefits of engaging students as part of the support teamHow to separate technical and pedagogical IssuesHow a knowledge base is utilized for quick and consistent solutionsThe benefits of designing a support workflow for quick problem routing
Characterization of Glucose Transporter 8 (GLUT8) in the Ovine Placenta of Normal and Growth Restricted Fetuses

Facilitated glucose transporters (GLUTs) in the chorionic epithelium are primary conduits for glucose delivery to placental and fetal tissues. The objective of this study was to characterize GLUT8 in the ovine placenta and determine if differences in mRNA and protein concentrations occur in an ovine model of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). A GLUT8 partial mRNA was generated, which shares 95 per cent identity with bovine GLUT8 nucleotide sequence. Northern hybridization identified a 2.1 kilobase transcript. GLUT8 mRNA concentrations normalized to β-actin mRNA concentrations increased during late gestation. Western immunoblots with an affinity-purified anti-mouse GLUT8 antiserum detected GLUT8 in late gestation ovine placenta plasma membranes. GLUT8 was immunolocalized to the chorionic epithelial layer and uterine epithelial cells from mid to late gestation. GLUT8 mRNA and protein concentrations at 135 days gestational age were decreased by 34.8 per cent and 21.8 per cent, respectively (P<0.05), in an ovine placental insufficiency model of IUGR. Identification of GLUT8 in the ovine placenta indicates a potential role for GLUT8 in mediating glucose uptake within the placenta and transport to the fetus. Further studies are necessary to confirm this hypothesis and whether the observed decreases in GLUT8 in the PI–IUGR model might contribute, at least in part, to the placental glucose transport deficit that occurs in this model.
Cell-Type-Specific Induction of the UL9 Gene of HSV-1 by Cell Signaling Pathway

The origin-binding protein, encoded by the UL9 gene of herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1), has the properties of an initiator of DNA replication. In this communication, we report that the UL9 promoter contains a cAMP-response element (CRE). Transient expression analyses show that dibutyryl cyclic AMP, known to elevate intracellular cAMP level, can induce the UL9 promoter in a rat pheochromocytoma cell line (PC12) but not in a non-neuronal human cell line (HeLa). Interestingly, a transcription factor that increases expression of a neuropeptide gene by interacting with CRE can also activate the UL9 promoter independent of cell type. Thus, our data suggest that extracellular stimuli, capable of interacting with the signaling pathway in neuronal cells, can activate UL9 gene expression, and different proteins may regulate UL9 expression in different cell types.
General factors governing the efficiency of luminescence devices

Factors which determine the luminescence efficiency of activated wide band gap materials are discussed in general terms. These materials find usage in a large variety of luminescent devices. The factors affecting the efficiency can be classified into two broad categories. The first has been thoroughly studied and entails interactions which lead to nonradiative dissipation of optical energy at the specific active site. The second set concerns interactions leading to the delocalization and the transport of optical energy away from the originally excited state. Recent spectroscopic results from these studies have allowed the absolute placement of the ground state of the active centers with respect to the intrinsic bands of the host crystal and have allowed us to elucidate the systematics of such placement. These results are relevant to materials which evince the property of persistent phosphorescence and which are of our current interest. Developments in these materials, as well as a number of new applications, will be touched upon.
Flexor Tendon Reconstruction: Current Concepts and Techniques

Flexor tendon reconstruction is uncommon today given the advances in flexor tendon repair and postrepair rehabilitation. Nonetheless, patients with a delay in the diagnosis of a flexor tendon laceration or patients with a failed flexor tendon repair may be candidates for reconstruction. Flexor tendon reconstruction includes flexor tenolysis, 1-stage tendon grafting, and 2-stage tendon grafting. This article reviews the surgical indications, the surgical techniques, and the reported outcomes of these procedures.
The regulatory region of the L-arabinose operon: a physical, genetic and physiological study.

Abstract A fine-structure physical and genetic map was constructed of a 1000 base-pair region of the l -arabinose operon of Escherichia coli. This region consists of the ara regulatory sequences contained between the araC and araB genes and portions of these flanking genes. Point mutations, Mu phage insertions, and bacterial deletions as well as arabinose-induced and basal enzyme levels in the strains were used in constructing a genetic map of the region. These ordered positions were then located more accurately by mapping the point mutations against physically located endpoints of deletions isolated on the two non-defective transducing phage λparaB114 and λparaC116. Phage possessing deletions ending in the arabinose regulatory region were isolated from indicating-plates on which deletions removing none, part, or all of either the araC or araB genes carried on the phage could be distinguished. Phage stocks were enriched for such deletions prior to plating by treatment with chelating agents and heat (Parkinson & Huskey, 1971). Deletions into the ara region on either phage shorten the ara DNA homology region formed from heteroduplexes between λparaB114 and λparaB116. Therefore the physical locations of these deletion endpoints were determined by electron microscopy of the appropriate heteroduplexes and/or by gel electrophoresis of the central duplex following S1 nuclease digestion (Lis & Schleif, 1975b). 18 of the 32 deletions isolated and mapped in this region were measured physically. The space between araC and araB, containing the regulatory elements of the operon, is estimated to be about 300 base-pairs.
Effect of Methyl tert-Butyl Ether on the Bioconcentration and Photoinduced Toxicity of Fluoranthene in Fathead Minnow Larvae (Pimephales promelas)

The use of methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) in reformulated gasoline in motorized watercraft can lead to the presence of both unburned MTBE and fossil fuel combustion products in aquatic environments. MTBE has been added to unleaded gasoline to decrease vehicular carbon monoxide emissions in the atmosphere since the 1980s. Fluoranthene is among the most prevalent polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) identified in the exhaust of internal combustion engines, and it has toxic effects on organisms in the presence of near-ultraviolet radiation. Because the interactions between MTBE and PAHs were not known, the toxicities of MTBE and fluoranthene together in fish were studied. Four-day-old fathead minnow larvae were exposed to combinations of fluoranthene and MTBE in a laboratory system under simulated sunlight for 96 h. Fish exposed to both MTBE and fluoranthene experienced higher mortality as compared to fish exposed only to fluoranthene. Fish exposed to MTBE alone did not exhibit increased mortality as comp...
Cholecystectomy for Biliary Dyskinesia: How Did We Get There?

The focus of biliary dyskinesia (BD) shifted within the last 30 years, moving from symptoms after cholecystectomy (CCY) to symptoms with morphological normal gallbladder, but low gallbladder ejection fraction. We searched the pubmed database to systematically review studies focusing on the diagnosis and treatment of gallbladder dysfunction. Impaired gallbladder contraction can be found in about 20 % of healthy controls and an even higher number of patients with various other disorders. Surgery for BD increased after introduction of laparoscopic CCY, with BD now accounting for >20 % of CCY in adults and up to 60 % in pediatric patients. The majority of cases reported were operated in the USA, which differs from surgical series for cholelithiasis. Postoperative outcomes do not differ between groups with abnormal or normal gallbladder function. Functional gallbladder testing should not be seen as an indicator of relevant biliary tract disease or prognostic marker to identify patients who may benefit from operative intervention. Instead biliary dyskinesia should be considered as a part of a spectrum of functional disorders, which are generally managed conservatively. Small proof of concept studies have demonstrated effects of medical therapy on biliary dysfunction and should thus be never tested in appropriately designed trials.
See what i'm saying?: using Dyadic Mobile Eye tracking to study collaborative reference

To create intelligent collaborative systems able to anticipate and react appropriately to users' needs and actions, it is crucial to develop a detailed understanding of the process of collaborative reference. We developed a dyadic eye tracking methodology and metrics for studying the multimodal process of reference, and applied these techniques in an experiment using a naturalistic conversation elicitation task. We found systematic differences in linguistic and visual coordination between pairs of mobile and seated participants. Our results detail measurable interactions between referential form, gaze, and spatial context and can be used to enable the development of more natural collaborative user interfaces.
Degradation mechanisms of lithium-rich nickel manganese cobalt oxide cathode thin films†

This paper reports a method to prepare Li-rich NMC (Li1.2Mn0.55Ni0.15Co0.1O2) thin film cathodes for Li-ion batteries using RF magnetron sputtering and post-annealing in O2. Thin film cathodes with high reversible capacities (260 mA h g−1) and potential profiles similar to those of the powder material have been obtained. Structural and electrochemical studies show that the grown materials consist of a layered structure with trigonal symmetry in which Li/TM ordering is partially achieved. Using XPS we determine that the surface is comprised of Mn4+, Co3+ and Ni2+ cations inside an O2− framework. The loss mechanisms of these electrodes have been studied after 184 cycles. The data after cycling shows the absence of Li/TM ordering, confirming that Li2MnO3 activation is irreversible, while electron diffraction data indicates extensive structural modifications upon cycling. In addition, we identified that the surface chemistry is dominated by inorganic species (LiF, Lix′POy′Fz′, LixPFy), along with small amounts of organic species with C–O and O–CO groups such as PEO, LiOR and RCO2Li. Moreover, XPS results indicate that Ni and Co migrate into the bulk while the reduction of Mn4+ into Mn3+ is clearly evidenced, as expected from the activation of Li2MnO3 domains and discharging to 2.5 V.
Determinants of state laws addressing obesity

Little is known about why some states enact more laws addressing obesity than others. This study examines what factors influence the enactment of laws using a data set of the 90 laws enacted over 2001–2010 in 30 states. Odds of enacting laws are mostly unrelated to state variation in education, population density, income, political party structure and obesity prevalence. Factors that significantly influence number of laws include education, black and Hispanic percentages of population and age. Examination of categories of laws indicates cases where political party structure and obesity prevalence influence cumulative numbers of laws, but often in conflicting directions. The negative but weak (p = 0.054) effect of obesity prevalence on the cumulative number of all laws also suggests that state governments that enact most laws are those with relatively low obesity prevalence. This study indicates opportunities for future research to examine which laws addressing obesity are most effective among the diverse ...
Some remarks on trigonometric interpolation

The object of this paper is to consider the problem of (0, 1, 2, 4) trigonometric interpolation when nodes are taken to bex kn=(2kπ/n),k=0, 1 …,n−1. Here the interpolatory polynomials are explicitly constructed and the corresponding convergence theorem is proved, which is shown to be best possible in a certain sense. It is interesting to compare these results with those of Saxena [6], where the convergence theorem requires the existence off m (x).
Competition, cooperation, and optimization in Multi-Hop CSMA networks

The purpose of this paper is to present a new method for the study of competition and cooperation relationships among nodes in a network with a CSMA (Carrier Sense Multiple Access) protocol implemented with an exponential backoff process. Self-organized behavior is proposed. We propose a "Channel Utilization Model" with a new derived variable "channel access rate" which applies for all traffic loads. These models are applied with different optimization methods.
Lipoidal crystals in onion

Elongated acicular and tabular crystals have been found in the laticiferous cells ofAllium cepa (var. “Yellow Globe”). Although these show predominantly lipoidal properties, a possible proteinaceous relationship has been discussed.
Oxygen-sensitive δ-Opioid Receptor-regulated Survival and Death Signals NOVEL INSIGHTS INTO NEURONAL PRECONDITIONING AND PROTECTION

The detrimental effect of severe hypoxia (SH) on neurons can be mitigated by hypoxic preconditioning (HPC), but the molecular mechanisms involved remain unclear, and an understanding of these may provide novel solutions for hypoxic/ischemic disorders (e.g. stroke). Here, we show that the delta-opioid receptor (DOR), an oxygen-sensitive membrane protein, mediates the HPC protection through specific signaling pathways. Although SH caused a decrease in DOR expression and neuronal injury, HPC induced an increase in DOR mRNA and protein levels and reversed the reduction in levels of the endogenous DOR peptide, leucine enkephalin, normally seen during SH, thus protecting the neurons from SH insult. The HPC-induced protection could be blocked by DOR antagonists. The DOR-mediated HPC protection depended on an increase in ERK and Bcl 2 activity, which counteracted the SH-induced increase in p38 MAPK activities and cytochrome c release. The cross-talk between ERK and p38 MAPKs displays a "yinyang" antagonism under the control of the DOR-G protein-protein kinase C pathway. Our findings demonstrate a novel mechanism of HPC neuroprotection (i.e. the intracellular up-regulation of DOR-regulated survival signals).
The relationship between the vascular responses to the peptides ranatensin and angiotensin

Abstract Renatensin an undecapeptide isolated from Rana pipiens skin was found to be pressor in dogs. The threshold intravenous dose was similar to angiotensin (0.01 μg/kg) but the dose response curve was more horizontal and the duration of action of ranatensin was substantially longer. Pretreatment with phenoxybenzamine HCl (5 mg/kg) if anything slightly enhanced the pressor response to ranatensin, suggesting an action independent of α-receptors and noradrenaline release. The finding of cross tachyphylaxis between the two peptides which have no obvious structural similarity suggest also that the two peptides may occupy closely associated receptors and interfere with each others association constants.
Hydrogen chloride adsorption and coadsorption with hydrogen or water on platinum (111)

Abstract Aqueous chloride ions accelerate the corrosion of all metals, and chloride chemistry is essential to the preparation of noble metal catalysts. To improve the understanding of the interactions of chloride species with metals, the adsorption of anhydrous HCl on Pt(111) at 90 K and its coadsorption with hydrogen and water were studied by high resolution electron energy loss spectroscopy (HREELS), temperature programmed desorption (TPD), low energy electron diffraction (LEED), and Auger electron spectroscopy (AES). Low coverages of HCl fully dissociate to form a disordered mixture of adsorbed H and adsorbed Cl. Higher exposures produce first a well-ordered 3 × 3 phase and then an increasingly disordered form which saturates just above the density of one layer of close-packed Cl; no multilayer of HCl ice can be grown. Coadsorption of HCl and water produces adsorbed H 3 O + . The thermal desorption of water indicates two types of water stabilization by HCl, but there is no evidence for water molecules bound directly to adsorbed Cl. The chemistry of HCl+H 2 O coadsorption, which is dominated by strong PtCl interactions, is contrasted with that of the previously-studied HF+H 2 O system, which is dominated by hydrogen bonding effects.
Acoustic quality factor of copper, brass and beryllium copper from 50 mK to 300 K

Abstract The amplitude-independent background mechanical quality factors (reciprocal internal frictions) of oxygen-free electronic (OFE) copper (C 10100), free-turning brass (C36000) and beryllium copper (C17200) were measured in the temperature range 50 mk – 300 K. The data were obtained from measurements on 1 kHz torsional modes of mechanical resonators configurated to minimize extraneous internal friction effects. The resonant frequency dependence on temperatures was also obtained, giving the temperature dependence of the dynamic shear modulus. Strongly enhanced quality factors were obtained from appropriate heat treatment.
Heart failure: Telephone monitoring improves outcomes in patients with CHF.

Klersy et al. have performed a meta-analysis of remote monitoring of patients with heart failure. Programs using structured telephone support (telephone-monitoring approach) were combined with those using transmission of physiological data (technology-assisted approach) in combination with telephone communication. Results from this study may inform policy makers regarding a potential solution to reducing hospital readmissions.
Teaching Software Engineering with LEGO Serious Play

LEGO Serious Play (LSP) is a methodology that helps people brainstorm and discuss complex ideas through storytelling and metaphors. LSP has been successfully applied in higher education as a mechanism for team building and promoting creativity. In this paper, we discuss using LSP to teach several core software engineering topics through hands-on case studies. Initial results suggest that LSP has a positive impact on student learning, while also improving student engagement with the course material. This paper describes the details of two LSP-based case studies along with many practical aspects of using LSP to teach software engineering.
Estimating susceptibility of biological control agents to pesticides: influence of life history strategies and population structure

Abstract In this study we examined the influences that differing life history strategies and population structures at the time of pesticide exposure have on population susceptibility to pesticides. We used life table data and a matrix projection model to incorporate combinations of mortality (lethal effect) and reductions in fecundity (sublethal effect) into estimates of intrinsic population growth rates ( r ) for a predator, the seven-spot lady beetle, Coccinella septempunctata L., and its prey, the pea aphid, Acyrthosiphon pisum Harris, and an aphid parasitoid, Diaeretiella rapae (M’Intosh). All three species exhibited differences in key life history variables. The aphid had the highest r and shortest generation time, the ladybeetle had the lowest r and longest generation, while the parasitoid exhibited intermediate life history characteristics. When the model was run with populations started as neonates (aphids) or eggs (lady beetle, parasitoid) for each species, ladybeetle populations were much more susceptible than either aphid or parasitoid populations 30 days after simulated exposure to a pesticide. For example, 50% mortality and a 50% reduction in fecundity resulted in a population headed toward extinction (negative r ) for the ladybeetle while the parasitoid population grew exponentially (positive r ) even after sustaining 70% mortality and a 70% reduction in fecundity. The aphid species maintained exponential growth after sustaining 80% mortality and an 80% reduction in fecundity. Thus, differences in life history variables accounted for the greater susceptibility of the ladybeetle to a pesticide than its aphid prey or the parasitoid over a set time interval. These differences in susceptibility were greatly reduced when the model was run starting with a mixed age/stage population (the stable age distribution) for each species indicating that population structure at the time of pesticide exposure plays a critical role in population susceptibility. These results suggest that life history attributes as well as population structure at the time of pesticide exposure both play a major role in population susceptibility to pesticides, highlighting the need to explicitly consider differences in life history variables among species when calculating compatibility of pesticides and biological control agents as well as the population structure of beneficial species at the time of pesticide application.
Generation of Multipotent Induced Neural Crest by Direct Reprogramming of Human Postnatal Fibroblasts with a Single Transcription Factor

Neural crest (NC) generates diverse lineages including peripheral neurons, glia, melanocytes, and mesenchymal derivatives. Isolating multipotent human NC has proven challenging, limiting our ability to understand NC development and model NC-associated disorders. Here, we report direct reprogramming of human fibroblasts into induced neural crest (iNC) cells by overexpression of a single transcription factor, SOX10, in combination with environmental cues including WNT activation. iNC cells possess extensive capacity for migration in vivo, and single iNC clones can differentiate into the four main NC lineages. We further identified a cell surface marker for prospective isolation of iNCs, which was used to generate and purify iNCs from familial dysautonomia (FD) patient fibroblasts. FD-iNC cells displayed defects in cellular migration and alternative mRNA splicing, providing insights into FD pathogenesis. Thus, this study provides an accessible platform for studying NC biology and disease through rapid and efficient reprogramming of human postnatal fibroblasts.
GPRA and the Development of Performance Measures

The Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA, 1993; P.L. 103-62) is the legislative framework that requires federally funded programs to define and report performance objectives. The intent of the GPRA is to improve federal management of multi-program systems, like those treating co-occurring substance and mental health disorders. This paper is designed to promote an understanding as to how GPRA was developed and implemented.
Single Modulator Deformable Mirror Joint Transform Correlator

An architecture which uses a single modulator in a joint transform correlator is proposed. Normally, the single most expensive component in an optical correlator is the spatial light modulator, thus this implementation would greatly reduce the cost and size of optical pattern recognition systems. The deformable mirror device (DMD) is a potential candidate for implementation of the single modulator correlator because of its ability to operate at KHz processing speeds.
Heat-shock protein 70 antisense oligomers enhance proteasome inhibitor-induced apoptosis

Recent evidence supports a role for heat-shock protein 70 (hsp70) and the 26 S proteasome in regulating apoptosis, although the precise nature of their involvement is not known. In the present study, control and Bcl-x(L)-overexpressing, interleukin-3-dependent FL5.12 cell lines were treated with the proteasome inhibitor N-benzoyloxycarbonyl (Z)-Leu-Leu-leucinal (MG132). Basal proteasome activity appeared to be approximately 30% lower in bcl-x(L) cells compared with control cells using a substrate for the chymotrypsin-like activity. However, no difference in proteasome activity was detected using substrates for the trypsin-like or peptidylglutamyl peptide-hydrolysing activities. In addition, protein levels of the 20 S proteasome beta-subunit, as determined by Western blot analyses, were similar in control and bcl-x(L) cells, leading to the conclusion that proteasome activities were the same in these two cell lines. At 24 h after treatment with 500 nM MG132, apoptosis in bcl-x(L) cells (22%) was less than that observed in control cells (34%). Concomitantly, caspase activity in control cells, as assessed by N-acetyl-l-aspartyl-l-glutamyl-l-valyl-l-aspartyl-7-amino-4-methylcou marin (Ac-DEVD-AMC), was twice that observed in bcl-x(L) cells. By 48 h after MG132 treatment, apoptosis and caspase activity in bcl-x(L) cells were similar to those observed in control cells at 24 h. Proteasome inhibition stimulated increases in hsp70 protein levels in control and bcl-x(L) cells by 12 h, although the maximal increases found in bcl-x(L) cells were less. Blocking this induction with hsp70 antisense oligonucleotides potentiated apoptosis after treatment with MG132. Inhibiting caspase activity with a broad-spectrum caspase inhibitor, t-butoxycarbonyl-Asp(OMe)-fluoromethyl ketone, prevented MG132-induced apoptosis. The more specific caspase-3 inhibitor, Ac-DEVD-aldehyde, afforded less protection, although both inhibitors completely inhibited Ac-DEVD-AMC cleavage. These data indicate that both hsp70 and Bcl-x(L) provide some protection against proteasome inhibitor-induced apoptosis.