cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Application of new thin BARC technology for KrF lithography at 80-nm node device

The new thin BARC has been developed for the application of small size patterning below 100nm by the optimized simulation and the evaluations on each substrate condition of silicon nitride and silicon oxide. The optical parameters of thin BARC of Exp225 are 1.81 and 0.58 for n and k values, respectively. They are obtained by the simulation for the lower reflectivity at the conditions of silicon nitride and silicon oxide. The optimized BARC thickness of Exp225 are 320a and 460a for silicon nitride and oxide substrate, respectively, at the condition of reflectivity. These thickness are much lower than those of commercial BARC of DUV44 for the same substrate conditions. The pattern profile and process margin are compared between the inorganic SiON and organic BARC. The dense L/S pattern profile of 100nm size on SiON shows the severe standing wave and undercutting. However, the pattern on Exp225 is much stable and gives wider depth of focus margin than that of SiON condition. The 85nm dense L/S pattern with feasible process margin is obtained by the application of Exp225 at the thickness of 320a. The baking temperature is also investigated for the application of mass production. The most optimized baking temperature ranges of Exp225 are between 205°C and 225°C. From the experimental results, it is confirmed that the application of thin BARC is much effective for the small size patterning of 80nm node device. And it is thought that 80nm node device by KrF lithography is possible under the conditions of thin BARC, high contrast resist and high NA exposure tool.
Chiral stationary phase design : a study in optimization

A π-basic, brush-type chiral stationary phase (CSP) derived from (S)-N-(1-naphthyl)leucine undecenyl ester has been shown to effectively separate the enantiomers of a broad array of π-acidic analytes. Armed with a mechanistic hypothesis as to how this CSP differentiates between the enantiomers of π-acidic derivatives of α-amino acids, the structure of this CSP was modified in a series of steps, each intended to enhance the enantioselectivity of the CSP. Specifically, brush-type CSPs were prepared from N-(5-naphthyl)leucine di-n-propyl amide and from N-(5-acenaphthyl)leucine di-n-propyl amide. The latter selector was also incorporated into a polysiloxane, then coated and bonded to silica. The rationale for each of the structural changes, and its effect on the enantioselectivity of the resulting CSP is described.
Multiple calcium channels mediate neurotransmitter release from peripheral neurons.

Abstract We examined the effects of dihydropyridine drugs on evoked neurotransmitter release from cultured neonatal rat sensory and sympathetic neurons. Depolarization with K+-rich solutions increased the release of substance P from cultured sensory neurons. This release was enhanced by BAY K8644 and (+)-202791 and was blocked by a variety of other dihydropyridines including (-)-202791, by Co2+, or in Ca2+-free solutions. K+-rich solutions also stimulated the release of [3H]norepinephrine from cultured sympathetic neurons. This release was also completely blocked by Co2+ or in Ca2+-free solution. In contrast to the situation in sensory neurons, however, the evoked release of [3H]norepinephrine was completely resistant to the blocking effects of dihydropyridine such as nimodipine. However, BAY K8644 was able to enhance the evoked release of [3H]norepinephrine, and this enhancement was blocked by nimodipine. These results are discussed in relation to the possible participation of multiple types of calcium channels in the release of neurotransmitters.
Multiple head and neck tumors following treatment for craniopharyngioma

To report a unique case of a patient with multiple head and neck tumors following treatment for craniopharyngioma. Retrospective review of the medical record. There is an association between radiation treatment for primary intracranial malignancies and the subsequent development of other intracranial tumors. At the same time, reports regarding the association between thyroid cancer and radiation exposure are abundant within the literature. We present a unique case of a young female who underwent resection and radiation treatment for a craniopharyngioma in 1988. With the exception of bitemporal visual loss and panhypopituitarism requiring hormone replacement therapy, the patient had a relatively uneventful course until 2005. At that time, she developed hearing loss and incapacitating vertigo, which was ultimately attributed to a temporal bone Langerhans histiocytosis. A year and a half later, she was noted to have a thyroid nodule, the pathology of which revealed papillary carcinoma. Seven months after that, she developed new auditory and vestibular symptoms attributable to an acoustic neuroma. This case is remarkable because neither Langerhans histiocytosis following radiation of a craniopharyngioma nor this distinctive combination of head and neck tumors in general have ever been previously reported.
Experiments with a reported anorexigenic tripeptide: PyroGluHisGlyOH

Abstract A newly described tripeptide, pyroGluHisGlyOh, which was reported to produce profound and long-term anorexia and weight loss in female mice, was initially tested in female rats. After total does of either 8, 16, or 32 μg SC of the peptide, administered across an eight day interval, there was no detectable effect on food intake, body weight, or estrous cycles of female rats. In a second study, we attempted to verify the anorexigenic potency of this peptide in mice. Total doses of 3.4 and 6.8 μg, injected across a 20 day period, had no effect on the food intake or body weight of S/W albino female mice. Thus, the anorexigenic potency of pyroGluHisGlyOH has yet to be established.
Frequency selectivity of hearing in the green treefrog, Hyla cinerea.

1. Frequency selectivity of hearing was measured in the green treefrog,Hyla cinerea. A psychophysical technique based on reflex modification was used to obtain masked threshold estimates for pure tones (300–5,400 Hz) presented against two levels of broadband masking noise. A pure tone (S-1) presented 200 ms prior to a reflex-eliciting stimulus (S-2) inhibited the motor reflex response to S-2. The magnitude of this reflex modification effect varied systematically with the sound pressure level (SPL) of S-1, and threshold was defined as the SPL of S-1 at which the reflex modification effect disappeared. 2. Masked thresholds were used to calculate critical ratios, an index of the auditory system's frequency selectivity. The frequency selectivity of the treefrog's hearing is greatest and critical ratios are lowest (22–24 dB) at about 900 and 3,000 Hz, the two spectral regions dominant in the male treefrog's species-specific advertisement call. These results suggest that the treefrog's auditory system may be specialized to reject noise at biologically relevant frequencies. 3. As in other vertebrates, critical ratios remain constant when background noise level is varied; however, the shape of the treefrog's critical ratio function across frequencies differs from the typical vertebrate function that increases with increasing frequency at a slope of about 3 dB/octave. Instead, the treefrog's critical ratio function resembles its pure tone audiogram. Although the shape of the treefrog's critical ratio function is atypical, the critical ratio values themselves are comparable to those of many other vertebrates in the same frequency range. 4. Critical ratio values here measured behaviorally do not match critical ratio values previously measured physiologically in single eighth nerve fibers. This suggests that frequency selectivity of hearing in the green treefrog is mediated in the central, rather than the peripheral, auditory system and probably does not arise directly from the tuning of the individual auditory nerve fibers.
Voltage controlled nano-injection system for single-cell surgery

Manipulation and analysis of single cells is the next frontier in understanding processes that control the function and fate of cells. Herein we describe a single-cell injection platform based on nanopipettes. The system uses scanning microscopy techniques to detect cell surfaces, and voltage pulses to deliver molecules into individual cells. As a proof of concept, we injected adherent mammalian cells with fluorescent dyes.
Comments on Dr. Foxcroft's classification system.

What is the purpose of a taxonomic system for prevention? From a functional contextualist perspective (Biglan & Hayes, 1996; Hayes, Strosahl, & Wilson, 2012), one would hope that the system contributes to the prediction and influence of behavior with precision, scope, and depth (Biglan & Hayes, 1996; Hayes et al., 2012). We precisely predict and influence a phenomenon when we can use a limited number of concepts that unambiguously apply to the phenomenon or its context. Our analyses are broad in scope when they apply to a wide range of phenomena. An analysis has depth when it coheres with analyses at other levels, such as an analysis of the environmental influences on behavior that is consistent with an analysis of the biological processes that mediate these influences on behavior. In this sense, to say that a taxonomic system is functional implies that it contributes to prediction and influence.
Effects of Apolipoprotein A-I on ATP-binding Cassette Transporter A1-mediated Efflux of Macrophage Phospholipid and Cholesterol FORMATION OF NASCENT HIGH DENSITY LIPOPROTEIN PARTICLES

The mechanism of formation of high density lipoprotein (HDL) particles by the action of ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) is not defined completely. To address this issue, we monitored efflux to apoA-I of phosphatidylcholine (PC), sphingomyelin (SM), and unesterified (free) cholesterol (FC) from J774 macrophages, in which ABCA1 is up-regulated, and investigated the nature of the particles formed. The various apoA-I/lipid particles appearing in the extracellular medium were separated by gel filtration chromatography. The presence of apoA-I in the extracellular medium led to the simultaneous formation of more than one type of poorly lipidated apoA-I-containing particle: there were 9- and 12-nm diameter particles containing approximately 3:1 and 1:1 phospholipid/FC (mol/mol), respectively, which were present together with 6-nm monomeric apoA-I. Removal of the C-terminal alpha-helix (residues 223-243) of apoA-I reduced phospholipid and FC efflux and prevented formation of the 9- and 12-nm HDL particles; the apoA-I variant formed larger particles that eluted in the void volume. FC loading of the J774 cells also led to the formation of larger apoA-I-containing particles that were highly enriched in FC. Besides creating HDL particles, ABCA1 mediated release of larger (20-450-nm diameter) FC-rich particles that were not involved in HDL formation and that are probably membrane vesicles. These particles contained 1:1 PC/SM in contrast to the HDL particles, which contained 2:1 PC/SM. This is consistent with lipid raft and non-raft plasma membrane domains being involved primarily in ABCA1-mediated vesicle release and nascent HDL formation, respectively.
How missing genes interact.

Epistasis is an interaction among genes that makes the phenotypic effect of an allele dependent on which alleles are present at other loci. Two new genomic studies find abundant epistasis in the yeast genome, with significant implications for the evolution of sex and for the inference of genetic pathways from genomic data.
Prenatal stress puzzle, the oxytocin piece: Prenatal stress alters the behaviour and autonomic regulation in piglets, insights from oxytocin

Abstract Developmental changes in response to prenatal stressors (PNS) can result in anxiety and abnormal social development in the offspring. Oxytocin (OT) reduces anxiety, whereas OT deficiencies are associated with social behaviour deficits. Hence, we hypothesized that OT could reverse some of the PNS effects. Female offspring from three socially stressed (PNS 35–56 days of gestation) and three control sows were tested at 18 days of age. In each litter, two piglets received 24 IU of OT intranasally and two piglets received saline as a control treatment. After 45 min, each piglet was isolated for 15 min in a separate room. The PNS piglets displayed fewer alert behaviours during social isolation than control piglets (saline-control: 93.6 ± 0.2, OT-control: 82.5 ± 0.2, saline-PNS: 52.0 ± 0.2, and OT-PNS piglets: 67.8 ± 0.2). All other behavioural differences were the result of the administration of OT to PNS piglets, which reestablished a few behavioural changes such as the time spent standing in PNS piglets, with OT-PNS piglets standing more than saline-PNS piglets (77.8 ± 6.7 s vs. 57.1 ± 6.7 s respectively), and as much as saline- and OT-controls (76.7 ± 6.7 s and 70.0 ± 6.7 s respectively). Furthermore, saline-PNS piglets spent more time sitting than control piglets, and OT reversed this effect in OT-PNS piglets, with OT-PNS piglets sitting no more than controls. Prenatal stress and the administration of OT interacted in their effect on the heart rate, with OT-control and PNS piglets (saline or OT) having lower mean heart rate than saline-control piglets (saline-control: 168 ± 4, OT-control: 159 ± 4, saline-PNS: 146 ± 5, and OT-PNS piglets: 149 ± 5). Neither PNS nor OT administration influenced the RMSSD of the heart rate. In conclusion, these preliminary results suggest that social stress in mid-gestation results in some behavioural differences and alters the development of the autonomic nervous system in the sow's offspring, in this case female offspring. Exogenous OT administration reversed some behavioural changes, suggesting a common physiological basis.
Permitted complexity in phonological development: One child's acquisition of spanish consonants

Abstract Data are presented from one subject (J) which show a gradual development of the complexity of words in terms of syllable structure and degree of phonetic similarity of co-occurring consonants. During the age range of 1;9 to 2;6, J's data show a highly systematic progression of stages, each characterized by fewer restrictions on the number, order, and type of syllables and on the co-occurrence of consonants than earlier stages. The functioning of the three major classes of consonants is described in terms of a strength hierarchy. The possibility is noted that the systematicity of the corpus may be related to the fact that J was a non-imitator for the first four months of testing. Several types of data support the interpretation that the limits on complexity seen at each stage of development are limits on the child's production (not perception or storage) at that time. It is suggested that, for this child, the ‘word’ is the unit of production performance in terms of which the phonological complexity is constrained. Within such a context, the limitations on complexity seen in J's phonological data may reflect a general psychological process, similar to that noted in other aspects of language acquisition. The interpretation also fits with the notion of a limit on the permitted complexity at [any] one stage. Bellugi (1968: 40).
Multidisciplinary Freshman Engineering

Abstract - A transformative first-year engineering experience has been created with the goal to immerse students in the experience of what it means to be an engineer. Students start the process of becoming an engineer, not just studying engineering. They focus on multidisciplinary engineering system investigations and discovery learning. The interaction of technology, business, human values, and complexity to achieve innovation is directly experienced by students through the application of the engineering system design process to real-world problems. The students embrace a new attitude towards learning and knowledge. They are expected to come prepared for class, ready to learn and dynamically interact. Faculties have a new attitude towards teaching, mentoring students, and addressing different learning styles: kinesthetic, aural, visual, and written. Active, integrative, inquiry- guided teaching is becoming the norm. Changing attitude and behavior is difficult for all involved, but it is happening.
Far-infrared spectrum and barrier to internal rotation in N-methylaziridine

Abstract The high resolution far-infrared spectrum of N-methylaziridine has been observed in the range 265-60 cm−1. Transitions involving torsional vibrational levels up to v = 3 were found. With the help of Ueda and Shimanouchi's results [J. Mol. Spectrosc. 28, 350 (1968)] for the band envelopes of asymmetric rotors, the spectrum can be explained as a composite of several type-B bands whose origins are located very accurately (±0.1 cm−1). From this information the potential function for hindered internal rotation of the methyl group is given by V(α)= 1252 2 (1 − COS 3α) − 26.3 2 (1 − COS 6α) cm −1 , with the barrier height equal to 1252 cm−1 or 3590 cal/mol. The effect of uncertainty in the moment of inertia of the methyl group in determining the barrier height is discussed. It is also demonstrated that the small cos 6α term in the expression for V(α) has a considerable effect on the energy levels and that the simpler form V(α) = ( V 3 2 ) (1 − cos 3α) is inadequate to explain the observed spectrum. An approximate calculation of the relative band intensity has been made.
An integral probe for capillary zone electrophoresis/continuous-flow fast atom bombardment mass spectrometry

An integral probe for capillary zone electrophoresis/continuous-flow fast atom bombardment mass spectrometry was constructed and operated in either the coaxial or liquid-junction interface mode. Results using these interfaces for the analyses of synthetic peptides are presented. The coaxial arrangement attains the best electrophoretic performance, generally providing a greater number of theoretical plates. However, in that the electrophoresis times are generally greater for the liquid-junction interface because there is no mechanical flow resulting from the source vacuum, the overall separation efficiency of the liquid-junction interface is equal to or greater than that of the coaxial interface. In addition, the liquid-junction interface is easier to set up and operate, and allows larger inner diameter capillaries to be used to achieve higher sample loads.
Rethinking global environmental governance: coordinating ecological policy

This forum piece seeks evaluate the milestones in global environmental politics and policy research in the past 20 years in order to identify the challenges for this policy area. Many achievements have been made but it is obvious that the challenges faced in terms of global environmental degradation have not become any less. While an impressive amount of knowledge has been gathered and the field of global environmental politics is now firmly established as one of the main subfields of political science and/or international relations, it cannot really be said that a concomitant amount of progress has been made in defining effective pathways for designing international networks ameliorating environmental degradation or in offering solutions to the policy community on how to resolve major global environmental problems.
The importance of recidivism research in understanding criminal behavior

Abstract Robert Martinson believes that a new epoch in criminology research has arrived, “the essence of which is a change in the dependent variable from recidivism to crime rate (combined with cost).” However, no study or evaluation should be discounted simply because it measures recidivism as a parameter of criminality. If adhered to, the Martinson thesis could retard scientific inquiry and clog the normal processes of data generation and theory construction. The new epoch of criminology research will involve the construction and testing of higher-order theories derived from more basic facts and empirical generalizations.
Optimal cooperative time-fixed impulsive rendezvous

New capabilities have been added to a method that had been developed for determining optimal, i.e., minimum fuel, trajectories for the fixed-time cooperative rendezvous of two spacecraft. The method utilizes the primer vector theory. The new capabilities enable the method to accomodate cases in which there are fuel constraints on the spacecraft and/or enable the addition of a mid-course impulse to one of the vehicle's trajectories. Results are presented for a large number of cases, and the effect of varying parameters, such as vehicle fuel constraints, vehicle initial masses, and time allowed for the rendezvous, is demonstrated.
H–2K-, H–2I- and H–2D- restricted hybridoma contact sensitivity effector cells

Mice primed with 4-hydroxy-3-nitrophenylacetyl-O-succini-mide (NP-O-Su) generate hapten-specific T cell-mediated contact or cutaneous hypersensitivity (CS) responses1. Analysis of the effector T cells mediating these in vivo responses suggested that multiple T-cell subpopulations were involved2. It has not been possible previously to separate these cell populations physically by conventional means. Therefore, to separate these cells and to provide a uniform source of CS effector cells for future analyses, we hybridized the CS effector cell population with AKR-derived BW5147 thymoma cells. We now describe five H–2-restricted hybridoma T-cell clones isolated from this fusion. Each hybridoma possesses haptenspecific CS activity and four also crossreact with 4-hydroxy-3-nitrophenylacetyl (NP) derivatives. Two of the hybridoma clones are specific for NP associated with H–2I gene products; two others for NP associated with H–2D products; and one for NP associated with H–2K gene products.
Effect of metabolic level of the host upon the pathogenesis of rabies in the bat.

Recognition in 1953 of the presence of rabies in insectivorous bats of the United States stimulated interest in the relationship of their unique physiological characteristics to the pathogenesis of viral disease. Ito and Saito (1952) had previously reported a prolonged infection of the brain of Pipistrellus abramus, but an absence of viremia or antibody response to intracerebral inoculation with Japanese B encephalitis virus during hibernation. They found that these animals developed brain titers of 102 ,
The decomposition method applied to systems of partial differential equations and to the reaction-diffusion Brusselator model

In this work, systems of linear and nonlinear partial differential equations and the reaction-diffusion Brusselator model are handled by applying the decomposition method. The advantage of this work is twofold. Firstly, the decomposition method reduces the computational work. Secondly, in comparison with existing techniques, the decomposition method is an improvement with regard to its accuracy and rapid convergence. The decomposition method has the advantage of being more concise for analytical and numerical purposes.
Polymorphism of Plasma Esterases in Rainbow Trout

Abstract Horizontal starch-gel electrophoresis was conducted on the nonspecific plasma esterases of two populations of rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri). The enzymes were found to be polymorphic and a possible system of genetic control was postulated.
Patient-Centered Research Abstracts: Impact of the Switch of Nicotine Replacement Therapy to Over-The-Counter Status.

PURPOSE: Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) sales switched from prescription to over-the-counter (OTC) status in April 1996. The change was expected to benefit public health by increasing smokers' access to NRT, and industry data show a doubling of NRT sales since the switch. We used a population-based sample to assess whether OTC availability increased smokers' rates of 1) NRT use, 2) quit attempts, and 3) cessation. METHODS: We analyzed data from the Massachusetts Tobacco Surveys, telephone surveys of a probability sample of Massachusetts (MA) residents (response rates 68%–78%). We compared responses from past-year smokers in 1993 (pre-OTC; N = 1784) to those from 1997–99 (post-OTC; N = 1240), using multiple logistic regression. We also compared the demographic characteristics of NRT users before and after the OTC switch among smokers who had made a quit attempt in the past year. RESULTS: There was no significant change over time in the proportion of respondents using NRT at a quit attempt in the past year (20.1% pre-OTC vs. 19.9% post-OTC) and no significant change in the proportion of smokers who made a quit attempt or who quit smoking. Half of smokers who used NRT post-OTC used it to "delay or cut down" their smoking but not to make a quit attempt. Fewer non-whites used NRT post-OTC (3.3%) compared to pre-OTC (20.7%) (adjusted p = .002), but the proportion of whites using NRT did not change (20.6% pre-OTC to 21.9% post-OTC). A higher proportion of 18–30 year-olds and a lower proportion openface> 45 year-olds used NRT post-OTC compared to pre-OTC (adjusted p = .0004). CONCLUSION: We find no evidence that the OTC switch was associated with increased NRT use, quit attempts, or cessation rates among MA smokers, and one explanation may be that smokers purchase OTC NRT for reasons other than cessation. Since the switch, access to NRT appears to have increased for young adults but decreased for older and minority smokers. Even though NRT is now sold OTC, it remains important for physicians to encourage and monitor its use.
Distributional analyses for children's inhalation risk assessments.

The discussion here is divided into three parts. First there is a generic introduction to variability and uncertainty and a discussion of some underappreciated features of these concepts that have nontrivial implications for structuring risk analyses. Next are some suggestions for a way forward to build a better quantitative understanding of relevant variability and uncertainty. The process involves building databases of putative analogous cases to represent the concerns that are now reflected in the various point-estimate “uncertainty factors” or “adjustment factors” in the formulas used to derive current reference doses and reference concentrations (RfDs and RfCs). The use of such databases is illustrated with some limited selections from our own databases where some preliminary comparisons between child and adult population variability in activity and respiratory response parameters are possible. A final section reflects on the current evolution of practice in estimating variability in risk assessments.
Impulsive decision making and working memory.

Decision making that favors short-term over long-term consequences of action, defined as impulsive or temporally myopic, may be related to individual differences in the executive functions of working memory (WM). In the first 2 experiments, participants made delay discounting (DD) judgments under different WM load conditions. In a 3rd experiment, participants high or low on standardized measures of impulsiveness and dysexecutive function were asked to make DD judgments. A final experiment examined WM load effects on DD when monetary rewards were real rather than hypothetical. The results showed that higher WM load led to greater discounting of delayed monetary rewards. Further, a strong direct relation was found between measures of impulsiveness, dysexecutive function, and discounting of delayed rewards. Thus, limits on WM function, either intrinsic or extrinsic, are predictive of a more impulsive decision-making style.
Health impact assessment in the United States: Has practice followed standards?

Abstract As an emerging practice, Health Impact Assessment is heterogeneous in purpose, form, and scope and applied in a wide range of decision contexts. This heterogeneity challenges efforts to evaluate the quality and impact of practice. We examined whether information in completed HIA reports reflected objectively-evaluable criteria proposed by the North American HIA Practice Standards Working Group in 2009. From publically-available reports of HIAs conducted in the U.S. and published from 2009 to 2011, we excluded those that were components of, or comment letters on, Environmental Impact Assessments (5) or were demonstration projects or student exercises (8). For the remaining 23 reports, we used practice standards as a template to abstract data on the steps of HIA, including details on the rationale, authorship, funding, decision and decision-makers, participation, pathways and methods, quality of evidence, and recommendations. Most reports described screening, scoping, and assessment processes, but there was substantial variation in the extent of these processes and the degree of stakeholder participation. Community stakeholders participated in screening or scoping in just two-thirds of the HIAs (16). On average, these HIAs analyzed 5.5 determinants related to 10.6 health impacts. Most HIA reports did not include evaluation or monitoring plans. This study identifies issues for field development and improvement. The standards might be adapted to better account for variability in resources, produce fit-for-purpose HIAs, and facilitate innovation guided by the principles.
Computer-game-based tutoring of mathematics

This in-situ, descriptive case study examined the potential of implementing computer mathematics games as an anchor for tutoring of mathematics. Data were collected from middle school students at a rural pueblo school and an urban Hispanic-serving school, through in-field observation, content analysis of game-based tutoring-learning interactions, and achievement test. Findings suggested that game-based tutoring is dynamic in terms of its timing, initiation, content, style, and tutee reaction created. There was an improvement in students' state test performance at the pueblo school after the game-based tutoring program, but the improvement was not statistically significant at the urban school. The study can serve as a catalyst for insight and further research of using educational gaming as an instructional artifact to augment other instructional approaches.
Contemporary research in Operations Management

Although the field of Operations Management has a long history with a rich body of research, many changes are emerging in today's economy. The turbulent world economy and frequent natural, financia...
An efficient composite formula for multidimensional quadrature

A (2s+1)-point, second-degree quadrature formula for integration over an s-dimensional hyper-rectangle is presented. All but one of the points lie on the surface with weights of opposite sign attached to points on opposite faces. When a large volume is subdivided into congruent rectangular subdivisions, only one point is required in each interior subdivision to achieve second-degree accuracy.
Loss of protein kinase C theta, Bcl10, or Malt1 selectively impairs proliferation and NF-kappa B activation in the CD4+ T cell subset

The cytosolic proteins protein kinase Ctheta (PKCtheta), Bcl10, and Malt1 play critical roles in TCR signaling to the transcription factor NF-kappaB. Our data confirm that CD4(+) T cells from PKCtheta, Bcl10, and Malt1 knockout mice show severe impairment of proliferation in response to TCR stimulation. Unexpectedly, we find that knockout CD8(+) T cells proliferate to a similar extent as wild-type cells in response to strong TCR signals, although a survival defect prevents their accumulation. Both CD4(+) and CD8(+) knockout T cells express activation markers, including CD25, following TCR stimulation. Addition of exogenous IL-2 rescues survival of knockout CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cells, but fails to overcome the proliferation defect of CD4(+) T cells. CD4(+) T cells from knockout mice are extremely deficient in TCR-induced NF-kappaB activation, whereas NF-kappaB activation is only partially impaired in CD8(+) T cells. Overall, our results suggest that defects in TCR signaling through PKCtheta, Bcl10, and Malt1 predominantly impair NF-kappaB activation and downstream functional responses of CD4(+) T cells. In contrast, CD8(+) T cells maintain substantial NF-kappaB signaling, implying the existence of a significant TCR-regulated NF-kappaB activation pathway in CD8(+) T cells that is independent of PKCtheta, Bcl10, and Malt1.
Design Features of the ASN-7 Navigational Computer

Most navigation systems proposed have been so radical as to require a revolution for their implementation. The system described herein would employ existing ground and airborne equipment with the addition of a small, new unit in the aircraft. This unit would employ only well-known circuits and techniques. The working of the system is explained, and data are presented on the accuracy to be expected.
Auditory and motion metaphors have different scalp distributions: an ERP study.

While many links have been established between sensory-motor words used literally (kick the ball) and sensory-motor regions of the brain, it is less clear whether metaphorically used words (kick the habit) also show such signs of “embodiment.” Additionally, not much is known about the timing or nature of the connection between language and sensory-motor neural processing. We used stimuli divided into three figurativeness conditions – literal, metaphor, and anomalous – and two modality conditions – auditory (Her limousine was a privileged snort) and motion (The editorial was a brass-knuckle punch). The conditions were matched on a large number of potentially confounding factors including cloze probability. The electroencephalographic response to the final word of each sentence was measured at 64 electrode sites on the scalp of 22 participants and event-related potentials calculated. Analysis revealed greater amplitudes for metaphorical than literal sentences in both 350-500ms and 500-650ms timeframes. Results supported the possibility of different neural substrates for motion and auditory sentences. Greater differences for motion sentences were seen in the left posterior and left central electrode sites than elsewhere on the scalp. These findings are consistent with a sensory-motor neural categorization of language and with the integration of modal and amodal information during the N400 and P600 timeframes.
Developing financial and energy accounting models for woody biomass systems

Abstract A system of accounting models was developed for short rotation intensive culture (SRIC) Populus plantations to determine the financial and energy costs involved in supplying woody biomass feedstock to a conversion process. The models established the variable and fixed cost structure of alternate strategies proposed for growing, harvesting and storing the product. The least cost pattern of supply had financial costs of $65 per oven-dry metric tonne (Mg −1 (OD)) and energy costs of 8901 megajoules (MJ) Mg −1 (OD). Limitations to the models included adherence to a fixed technical design and production level for each of the alternate strategies and the use of point estimates for production and pricing coefficients.
Operative treatment of articular fractures of the hand

Abstract Articular fractures of the hand present a formidable challenge to the treating physician. The goal is restoration ofarticular congruity, preservation of joint stability, and return of hand function. The treatment algorithm is different, depending on the particular joint, degree of instability, and amount of articular involvement. The surgical technique requires careful handling of the soft tissue and the small fracture fragments. Fracture fixation may be accomplished by miniscrews, K-wires, or tension band wiring. Early motion is initiated if rigid fixation is obtained. Outcome varies with the severity of injury and ability to restore articular and joint alignment. This article discusses the operative treatment of articular fractures at the interphalangeal, metacarpophalangeal, and carpometacarpal joints of the hand.
Karyotype Studies in 18 Ependymomas with Literature Review of 107 Cases

Abstract Cytogenetic studies from 17 pediatric ependymomas and 1 ependymoblastoma are presented. Eight tumors had abnormal karyotypes. Another 107 published cases of cytogenetic analyses from pediatric and adult ependymomas or ependymoblastomas were reviewed. Of the total 125 tumors, 83 (66%) had abnormal karyotypes, of which 24 had a sole autosomal abnormality. Approximately one third had monosomy 22 ( − 22) or breakpoint 22q11 ∼ 13, with a higher incidence in adult (56%) versus pediatric (28%) tumors. Structural abnormalities of chromosomes 1, 6, and 17, and numerical abnormalities of 7, 9, 12, and 20, in particular, are also discussed. Although no primary cytogenetic abnormality is evident, these findings may provide direction for additional investigations regarding the classification of these tumors.
The photoelectron spectroscopic characterization of vapors above heated alkali tetrafluoroaluminates, alkali tetrachloroaluminates, and ammonium tetrachloroaluminate

Abstract The high-temperature He(I) photoelectron spectra of gas-phase alkali tetrafluoroaluminates, alkali tetrachloroaluminates, and ammonium tetrachloroaluminate have been obtained. The identities of the vapor-phase entities were assigned from data derived by electron diffraction, mass spectrometry, and matrix-isolation and vapor infrared spectroscopies. The ionization energies observed in the spectra have been assigned molecular-orbital origins through the use of theoretical calculations and comparisons with analogous compounds.
The roles of revascularization and resorption on endurance of craniofacial onlay bone grafts in the rabbit

A total of 32 New Zealand white rabbits underwent subperiosteal implantation of fresh autogenous unicortical calvarial and iliac crest grafts on their snouts with microscrew rigid fixation. After 3 and 10 days, vascularity was assessed by latex casting, and osteoclastic activity was determined by histochemical staining for tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase. After 70 days, volumetric analysis and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase staining were performed on six animals. The calvarial grafts demonstrated greater volume maintenance than the iliac bone (72 percent versus 32 percent, p<0.025). There were significantly greater osteoclastic activity and revascularization in the cancellous portion of calvarial and iliac crest bone grafts by the 11th day of onlay grafting
NOVEL MRI–BASED SCREENING PROTOCOL TO IDENTIFY ADOLESCENTS AT HIGH RISK OF SUDDEN CARDIAC DEATH

United States guidelines for preparticipation screening of competitive athletes estimate a combined prevalence of 0.3% for high–risk cardiovascular conditions (hr–CVC) thought to be associated with sudden cardiac death (SCD). However, there is minimal prospective data regarding the true
Effects of Political and Business Ties on Developing Marketing Dynamic Capabilities in Emerging Economies: The Evidence from Russia

Since the effects of the institutional environment and its non-market factors have not been thoroughly explored within the relatively new domain of marketing dynamic capabilities (MDCs), this paper advances our understanding of the phenomenon by assessing whether political and business ties of MNEs may serve as the driving forces behind the development of MDCs. The findings demonstrate that managerial ties have a major impact on development of MDCs within an MNE’s subsidiary in emerging markets. In essence, this paper argues for an institutionally contextualized “Dynamic Capabilities” approach by proposing that ties may compensate for institutional voids in emerging economies.
Advances in the surgical treatment of morbid obesity

Due to the rapidly expanding prevalence of obesity, bariatric surgery is becoming an increasingly popular treatment option. Bariatric surgeries including Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) produce long-term weight loss and metabolic improvement, reducing mortality. This review discusses the important benefits and risks of RYGB and VSG, highlighting hypothesized mechanisms for these effects. We present data suggesting that VSG, albeit a newer procedure, may be as effective as RYGB with fewer adverse effects including less surgical risk, reduced nutritional deficiency, and less incidence of dumping syndrome. This may position VSG as an increasingly important procedure, particularly for the treatment of pediatric obesity.
Fabrication Methods for Au Nanocluster Devices

The deposition chemistry of hexanethiol-stabilized gold nanoclusters self-assembled on Au and SiO2 surfaces by reaction with a series of α,ω-alkanedithiols is studied using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and electrical measurements. Testing of micron-scale devices shows that high conductivity is achieved only for a narrow range of dithiols and with a sharp efficiency threshold. Nanoscale devices exhibit similar behavior though with much evidence of “granularity” in the deposition.
Cross‐linking induces homodimer formation and inhibits enzymatic activity of chicken stomach ecto‐aryrase

We have investigated the effect of cross-linking on the enzymatic activity and oligomer formation of the chicken stomach ecto-apyrase. Cross-linking with the hydrophobic, lysine-specific dithiobis(succinimidylpropionate) (DSP) caused equal inhibition of ATPase and ADPase activity in both the membrane-bound and detergent-solubilized ecto-apyrase. The inhibitory effect of cross-linking was reversed upon the addition of the reductant dithiothreitol. Western blots of aliquots of the cross-linked samples show decreased amounts of the monomeric 80 kDa ecto-apyrase and the appearance of a 160 kDa dimer under conditions inducing enzyme inhibition. Therefore, the chicken stomach ecto-apyrase, like the chicken gizzard ecto-ATPase, is likely a homodimer in vivo. Unlike the related gizzard ecto-ATPase, however, the native stomach ecto-apyrase is not stimulated, but rather inhibited by cross-linking, presumably due to different quaternary structural stability of the two enzymes.
Association between added sugar intake and dental caries in Yup’ik children using a novel hair biomarker

Dental caries (tooth decay) is a significant public health problem in Alaska Native children. Dietary added sugars are considered one of the main risk factors. In this cross-sectional pilot study, we used a validated hair-based biomarker to measure added sugar intake in Alaska Native Yup’ik children ages 6–17 years (N = 51). We hypothesized that added sugar intake would be positively associated with tooth decay. A 66-item parent survey was administered, a hair sample was collected from each child, and a dental exam was conducted. Added sugar intake (grams/day) was measured from hair samples using a linear combination of carbon and nitrogen ratios. We used linear and log-linear regression models with robust standard errors to test our hypothesis that children with higher added sugar intake would have a higher proportion of carious tooth surfaces. The mean proportion of carious tooth surfaces was 30.8 % (standard deviation: 23.2 %). Hair biomarker-based added sugar intake was associated with absolute (6.4 %; 95 % CI: 1.2 %, 11.6 %; P = .02) and relative increases in the proportion of carious tooth surfaces (24.2 %; 95 % CI: 10.6 %, 39.4 %; P < .01). There were no associations between self-reported measures of sugar-sweetened food and beverage intake and tooth decay. Added sugar intake as assessed by hair biomarker was significantly and positively associated with tooth decay in our sample of Yup’ik children. Self-reported dietary measures were not associated tooth decay. Most added sugars were from sugar-sweetened fruit drinks consumed at home. Future dietary interventions aimed at improving the oral health of Alaska Native children should consider use of objective biomarkers to assess and measure changes in home-based added sugar intake, particularly sugar-sweetened fruit drinks.
Video Event Classification and Image Segmentation Based on Noncausal Multidimensional Hidden Markov Models

In this paper, we propose a novel solution to an arbitrary noncausal, multidimensional hidden Markov model (HMM) for image and video classification. First, we show that the noncausal model can be solved by splitting it into multiple causal HMMs and simultaneously solving each causal HMM using a fully synchronous distributed computing framework, therefore referred to as distributed HMMs. Next we present an approximate solution to the multiple causal HMMs that is based on an alternating updating scheme and assumes a realistic sequential computing framework. The parameters of the distributed causal HMMs are estimated by extending the classical 1-D training and classification algorithms to multiple dimensions. The proposed extension to arbitrary causal, multidimensional HMMs allows state transitions that are dependent on all causal neighbors. We, thus, extend three fundamental algorithms to multidimensional causal systems, i.e., 1) expectation-maximization (EM), 2) general forward-backward (GFB), and 3) Viterbi algorithms. In the simulations, we choose to limit ourselves to a noncausal 2-D model whose noncausality is along a single dimension, in order to significantly reduce the computational complexity. Simulation results demonstrate the superior performance, higher accuracy rate, and applicability of the proposed noncausal HMM framework to image and video classification.
A novel fine rate control algorithm with adaptive rounding offset

The rate control algorithm is of essential importance to a video encoder. It enables the encoded bitstream to meet the bandwidth and storage requirement while maintaining good video quality. Most existing works adjust the quantization step size to achieve the required bit rate accuracy. This paper introduces a new dimension: the quantization rounding offset into a frame-level fine rate control algorithm. Specifically, we propose a novel fine rate control algorithm based on a linear model between the bit rate and the rounding offset. Unlike the quantization step size that has a limited number of choices, the quantization rounding offset is a continuously adjustable variable which allows the rate control algorithm to reach any precision in principle. Extensive experiment results show that the proposed algorithm greatly improves the bit rate accuracy and provides better visual quality by fine tuning of the rounding offset in addition to the quantization step size.
A common question revisited: can differences in clinical severity explain the volume-outcome relationship?

IN THIS ISSUE OF SURGERY, Friese et al sought to determine whether the differences in outcomes, specifically peri-operative mortality and failure to rescue, based on hospital structural characteristics can be mitigated by consideration of pre-existing patient illness. They conclude that few hospital characteristics, including surgical volume, impact the outcome after risk adjustment. In fact, the only factor that remained significant after adjustment for comorbidities was whether the hospital was a designated National Cancer Institute (NCI) cancer center. However, numerous reports have demonstrated that even after risk adjustment, surgeon volume, hospital volume, and hospital type are associated with postoperative outcomes for numerous procedures. The relative importance of volume has been questioned previously. In 2002, Ko et al examined patients who underwent colectomy for cancer and found that patient characteristics, such as the level of comorbid disease, had a much larger effect than surgeon or hospital volume on mortality, but volume was still a significant predictor of outcomes. Several factors in this study may explain the disparate findings in comparison with past studies. First, the importance of hospital characteristics on outcome, including surgical volume, might not have been mitigated if each operation type was examined separately as is typically done. Hospitals vary with respect to case mix, and certain cancer operations have a stronger volume--outcome