cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Resident Education in Laryngeal Stroboscopy: Part II-Evaluation of a Multimedia Training Module.

Summary Objective To evaluate the efficacy of a web-based training module for teaching interpretation of laryngeal stroboscopy in a cohort of otolaryngology residents. Study Design Randomized controlled trial. Setting Academic tertiary center. Subjects and Methods Residents from three training programs were invited to complete an assessment consisting of a survey and five stroboscopic exams. Subsequently, participants were randomized to receive teaching materials in the form of (1) a handout (HO) or (2) a multimedia module (MM) and asked to complete a post-training assessment. Responses were compared to responses provided by three fellowship-trained laryngologists. Results Thirty-five of 47 invited residents (74.4%) completed both assessments. Overall mean postassessment scores were 64.3% ± 7.0, with the MM group (67.0% ± 7.6, n = 17) scoring higher (P = 0.03) than the HO (61.6% ± 5.4, n = 18) cohort. Postassessment scores did not differ by postgraduate year (P = 0.75) or institution (P = 0.17). Paired analysis demonstrated an overall mean improvement of 7.4% in the handout (HO) cohort (P = 0.03) and 10.3% in the MM cohort (P = 0.0006). Subset analysis demonstrated higher scores for the MM cohort for perceptual voice evaluation (HO = 68.8% ± 11.0; MM = 77.3% ± 10.6, P = 0.03) and stroboscopy-specific items (HO = 55.5% ± 8.2; MM = 61.9% ± 10.8, P = 0.06). On a five-point Likert scale, residents reported improved confidence in stroboscopy interpretation (P Conclusion Use of both the written HO and MM module improved scores and confidence in interpreting laryngeal stroboscopy. The MM was more effective in perceptual voice evaluation and stroboscopy-specific items. The MM was also rated more favorably by residents and may be an ideal adjunct modality for teaching stroboscopy.
Mechanical Unfolding of Spectrin Repeats Induces Water-Molecule Ordering.

Abstract Mechanical processes are involved at many stages of the development of living cells, and often external forces applied to a biomolecule result in its unfolding. Although our knowledge of the unfolding mechanisms and the magnitude of the forces involved has evolved, the role that water molecules play in the mechanical unfolding of biomolecules has not yet been fully elucidated. To this end, we investigated with steered molecular dynamics simulations the mechanical unfolding of dystrophin’s spectrin repeat 1 and related the changes in the protein’s structure to the ordering of the surrounding water molecules. Our results indicate that upon mechanically induced unfolding of the protein, the solvent molecules become more ordered and increase their average number of hydrogen bonds. In addition, the unfolded structures originating from mechanical pulling expose an increasing amount of the hydrophobic residues to the solvent molecules, and the uncoiled regions adapt a convex surface with a small radius of curvature. As a result, the solvent molecules reorganize around the protein’s small protrusions in structurally ordered waters that are characteristic of the so-called “small-molecule regime,” which allows water to maintain a high hydrogen bond count at the expense of an increased structural order. We also determined that the response of water to structural changes in the protein is localized to the specific regions of the protein that undergo unfolding. These results indicate that water plays an important role in the mechanically induced unfolding of biomolecules. Our findings may prove relevant to the ever-growing interest in understanding macromolecular crowding in living cells and their effects on protein folding, and suggest that the hydration layer may be exploited as a means for short-range allosteric communication.
Defect chemistry of disordered solid-state electrolyte Li10GeP2S12

Several classes of materials, including thiophosphates, garnets, argyrodites, and anti-perovskites, have been considered as electrolytes for all-solid-state batteries. Native point defects and dopants play a critical role in impeding or facilitating fast ion conduction in these solid electrolytes. Despite its significance, comprehensive studies of the native defect chemistry of well-known solid electrolytes is currently lacking, in part due their compositional and structural complexity. Most of these solid-state electrolytes exhibit significant structural disorder, which requires careful consideration when modeling the point defect energetics. In this work, we model the native defect chemistry of a disordered solid electrolyte, Li10GeP2S12 (LGPS), by uniquely combining ensemble statistics, accurate electronic structure, and modern first-principles defect calculations. We find that VLi, Lii, and PGe are the dominant defects. From these calculations, we determine the statistics of defect energetics; formation energies of the dominant defects vary over ∼140 meV. Combined with previously reported ab initio molecular dynamics simulations, we find that anti-sites PGe promote Li ion conductivity, suggesting LGPS growth under P-rich/Ge-poor conditions will enhance ion conductivity. To this end, we offer practical experimental guides to enhance ion conductivity.
Proof of concept for through silicon vias in application-specific integrated circuits for hard x-ray imaging detectors

Application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) are commonly used to efficiently process the signals from sensors and detectors in space. Wire bonding is a space-qualified technique of making interconnections between ASICs and their substrate packaging board for power, control, and readout of the ASICs. Wire bonding is nearly ubiquitous in modern space programs, but their exposed wires can be prone to damage during assembly and subject to electric interference during operations. Additional space around the ASICs needed for wire bonding also impedes efficient packaging of large arrays of detectors. Here, we introduce the through silicon vias (TSV) technology that replaces wire bonds and eliminates their shortcomings. We have successfully demonstrated the feasibility of implementing TSVs to existing ASIC wafers (a.k.a. a via-last process) developed for processing the x-ray signals from the x-ray imaging CdZnTe detectors on the Nuclear Spectroscopic Telescope Array small explorer telescope mission that was launched in 2012. While TSVs are common in the semiconductor industry, this is the first (to our knowledge) successful application for astrophysics imaging instrumentation. We expect that the TSV technology will simplify the detector assembly and thus will enable significant cost and schedule savings in assembly of large area CdZnTe detectors.
ROS-Degradable Polythioketal Urethane Foam Dressings to Promote Porcine Skin Wound Repair

Impaired skin healing and progression into chronic wounds is a prevalent and growing medical problem. Porous, resorbable biomaterials can be used as temporary substrates placed into skin defects to support cell infiltration, neo-tissue formation, and remodeling of nonhealing wounds. Naturally-derived biomaterials have promising healing benefits, but their low mechanical properties and exuberant costs limit their performance and use. Synthetic materials can be affordably manufactured and tuned across a broader range of physiochemical properties, but opportunities remain for tailoring them for ideal host immune and regenerative responses. Polyesters are the most clinically-tested class of synthetic biomaterials, but their hydrolysis releases acidic degradation products that can cause autocatalytic degradation processes that are poorly controlled and are not tied to cellular or other biologic activities. Here, we systemically explored a series of ROS-degradable polythioketal (PTK) urethane (UR) foams with varied hydrophilicity as an alternative class of synthetic biomaterials for wound healing. It was found that the most hydrophilic PTK-UR variant, which had 7 ethylene glycol (EG7) repeats flanking each side of each thioketal bond, had the highest ROS reactivity of the PTK-URs tested. In an in vivo porcine excisional skin wound healing model, hydrophilic EG7 PTK-UR foams more effectively promoted tissue integration, ECM deposition, and re-epithelialization of full-thickness skin wound compared to more hydrophobic PTK-UR variants. Resolution of type 1 inflammation and lower foreign body response to scaffold remnants was also observed for EG7 versus more hydrophobic PTK-UR scaffolds. Finally, porcine wound healing studies showed that EG7 PTK-UR foams had similar wound healing response to a collagen-based clinical gold standard product, Integra Bilayer Wound Matrix (BWM), while outperforming polyester UR foam-based NovoSorb Biodegradable Temporizing Matrix (BTM) with respect to increased ECM production, vascularization, and biomaterial-associated immune phenotype. In sum, PTK-UR foams warrant further development toward a new class of synthetic biomaterial foams for skin wound healing applications.
A comparative study on the effect of Zr, Sn, and Ti on the crystallization behavior of nepheline glass

Abstract In alkali aluminosilicate glasses, additions of 4+ cations like Zr and Ti are often added to promote crystallization. In this study, Zr, Ti, or Sn are progressively substituted for Si in nepheline (NaAlSiO4) glass to determine their impact on the crystallization behavior. For glasses homogeneous on quenching, up to NaAlZr0.075Si0.925O4, NaAlSn0.100Si0.900O4, and NaAlTi0.300Si0.700O4, respectively, crystallization temperatures were investigated by thermal analysis. A subset of compositions was subjected to additional thermal analysis, varying heating rate and particle size, to investigate the subtleties of crystallization behavior. Subsequent heat treatment of glass powders was performed to maximize crystallization, and glass-ceramic microstructure was assessed by optical microscopy and electron microprobe, while crystalline phases were determined by X-ray diffraction. In all cases the major crystalline phase was orthorhombic carnegieite, which accommodated Ti in its structure but not Zr or Sn, and excess 4+ cations formed MO2, i.e., brookite, baddeleyite, and cassiterite, respectively.
New Operative Reporting Standards: Where We Stand Now and Opportunities for Innovation.

The American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer’s (CoC) new operative standards for breast cancer, melanoma, and colon cancer surgeries will require that surgeons provide synoptic documentation of essential oncologic elements within operative reports. Prior to designing and implementing an electronic tool to support synoptic reporting, we evaluated current documentation practices at our institution to understand baseline concordance with these standards. Applicable procedures performed between 1 January 2018 and 31 December 2018 were included. Two independent reviewers evaluated sequential operative notes, up to a total of 100 notes, for documentation of required elements. Complete concordance (CC) was defined as explicit documentation of all required CoC elements. Mean percentage CC and surgeon-specific CC were calculated for each procedure. Interrater reliability was assessed via Cohen’s kappa statistic. For sentinel lymph node biopsy, mean CC was 66% (n = 100), with surgeon-specific CC ranging from 6 to 100%, and for axillary dissection, mean CC was 12% (n = 89) and surgeon-specific CC ranged from 0 to 47%. The single surgeon performing melanoma wide local excision had a mean CC of 98% (n = 100). For colon resections, mean CC was 69% (n = 96) and surgeon-specific CC ranged from 39 to 94%. Kappa scores were 0.77, 0.78, −0.15, and 0.78, respectively. We identified heterogeneity in current documentation practices. In our cohort, rates of baseline concordance varied across surgeons and procedures. Currently, documentation elements are interspersed within the operative report, posing challenges to chart abstraction with resulting imperfect interrater reliability. This presents an exciting opportunity to innovate and improve compliance by introducing an electronic synoptic documentation tool.
ENSINO E CULTURA POPULAR: CAMINHOS PARA A CONSTRUÇÃO DE SABERES SOCIOHISTÓRICOS EM AÇAILÂNDIA-MA

Este artigo apresenta reflexoes historico-sociais ao discutir as significacoes de cultura popular e sua relevância na producao de conhecimento popular de alunos dos anos finais do ensino fundamental, em uma escola publica situada na zona rural de Acailândia, municipio do estado do Maranhao. Objetivou-se, portanto, a partir das reflexoes oportunizadas pelo publico participante, compreender a producao de conhecimento social utilizando a cultura popular dos individuos envolvidos no processo. Para tanto, utiliza-se embasamentos teorico-metodologicos da corrente de pensamento construtivista de Jean Piaget (1896-1930) e socioconstrutivista de Lev Vygotsky (1896-1934), bem como conceitos e ideias Paulo Freire (1996); Jose Cruz (2008); Petronio Domingues (2011); Vera Werneck (2006); Roque Laraia (1986), dentre outros. Como resultado final desta pesquisa, obtem-se a contextualizacao discursiva da possibilidade de uso da cultura popular como construtora do saber de mundo e didatico dos individuos, uma vez que o homem e submetido a experiencia coletiva e, enquanto ser social, comunga de costumes de dissidentes grupos de individuos, tais que influenciam no modo de recepcao e construcao do conhecimento humano.
All-Optical Fiber Parametric Wavelength Converter Preserving Signal Spectrum

We demonstrate experimentally a technique to cancel the spectrum broadening in a fiber optical parametric wavelength converter (WC) by using two pumps phase-modulated 180deg out of phase, one of them being obtained by four-wave mixing in an auxiliary fiber. The resulting WC spectrum is comparable to that of the input signal
A Dictionary of English Folklore

Reviewed Medium: book Authors: Jacqueline Simpson and Steve Roud Year: 2000 Pages: vii + 411 Publisher: Oxford University Press Prices: $14.95
Subgridding method for speeding up FD-TLM circuit simulation

This paper describes a new subgridding approach with a view to improving the efficiency of full-wave simulation of electronic circuits. The proposed subgridding method has been incorporated into a full-wave variable-mesh finite-difference transmission line matrix (FD-TLM) simulator. By incorporating the proposed subgridding method, a speed-up of about 2 has been attained. The computational acceleration is measured by comparing the run time of the subgridding method with the run time of the FD-TLM method without any subgridding.
The bibliography of and taxa proposed by Charles D. Michener

In honor of Distinguished Professor and Curator Emeritus Charles D. Michener’s 97th birthday, the Journal of Melittology publishes this special issue tabulating his expansive list of publications, the vast majority of which entail studies on the systematics and biology of bees (Apoidea: Anthophila) and represents some of the most significant contributions to the subject. In total, this treatment covers Michener’s 514 citable items between 1935 and September of the present year (an astonishing eight-decade-long span of publishing!). Many of the works provide descriptions of new taxa and the bibliography is annotated to indicate those novel taxonomic acts included in each publication. To this is added an accounting of all of the species-, genus-, and family-group names established by Michener during this same period, and organized by both taxonomic group and rank. Naturally, given Michener’s lifetime of work devoted to bees, the vast majority of these are of the Anthophila, but it does also include his taxonomic output on Acari, Lepidoptera, and Ichneumonidae (Hymenoptera).
The Great Law and the Longhouse: A Political History of the Iroquois Confederacy

The Great Law and the Longhouse:. Political History of the Iroquois Confederacy. William N. Fenton. Norman: University of Oklahoma Press, 1998.786 pp.
Genes for selenium dependent and independent formate dehydrogenase in the gut microbial communities of three lower, wood-feeding termites and a wood-feeding roach.

The bacterial Wood-Ljungdahl pathway for CO_2-reductive acetogenesis is important for the nutritional mutualism occurring between wood-feeding insects and their hindgut microbiota. A key step in this pathway is the reduction of CO_2 to formate, catalysed by the enzyme formate dehydrogenase (FDH). Putative selenocysteine- (Sec) and cysteine- (Cys) containing paralogues of hydrogenase-linked FDH (FDH_H) have been identified in the termite gut acetogenic spirochete, Treponema primitia, but knowledge of their relevance in the termite gut environment remains limited. In this study, we designed degenerate PCR primers for FDH_H genes (fdhF) and assessed fdhF diversity in insect gut bacterial isolates and the gut microbial communities of termites and cockroaches. The insects examined herein represent three wood-feeding termite families, Termopsidae, Kalotermitidae and Rhinotermitidae (phylogenetically 'lower' termite taxa); the wood-feeding roach family Cryptocercidae (the sister taxon to termites); and the omnivorous roach family Blattidae. Sec and Cys FDH_H variants were identified in every wood-feeding insect but not the omnivorous roach. Of 68 novel alleles obtained from inventories, 66 affiliated phylogenetically with enzymes from T. primitia. These formed two subclades (37 and 29 phylotypes) almost completely comprised of Sec-containing and Cys-containing enzymes respectively. A gut cDNA inventory showed transcription of both variants in the termite Zootermopsis nevadensis (family Termopsidae). The gene patterns suggest that FDH_H enzymes are important for the CO_2-reductive metabolism of uncultured acetogenic treponemes and imply that the availability of selenium, a trace element, shaped microbial gene content in the last common ancestor of dictyopteran, wood-feeding insects, and continues to shape it to this day.
Hybrid programs: Linear and least-distance

We consider a quadratic program equivalent to the general problem of minimizing a convex quadratic function of many variables subject to linear inequality constraints.
Packing My Bag for the Road Ahead

A WISE PERSON once said, “Always have your bags packed. You never know where life’s journey is going to take you.” I couldn’t agree more. In fact, I have my bag with me tonight—I’ve chosen to bring that traditional black bag that physicianshavecarriedoverthegenerations.Mybagispacked and ready to go as I prepare for this year-long journey of my AMA presidency. Of course, having one’s bag packed isn’t really about having a change of clothes ready. It’s about being prepared to take advantage of the opportunities that come your way in life. And I am prepared. As I start this journey, I am taking with me a lifetime of experiences that have shaped the person who stands before you now—that have shaped my thoughts about people and medicine and how this wonderful profession brings the two together. From a South Dakota farm to an academic posting. From a high school counselor who said, “You cannot be a physician and have a family too,” to my best friend and helpmate who said, “Go for it.” From memories of medical school and the challenge of making it in a “man’s field”; to commencement after commencement this spring—where women make up 40% to 50% of our newest physicians. I’m taking other life experiences with me as well. From motherhood and raising three wonderful children, to the work I’ve done on behalf of my medical families: the Texas Medical Association’s Physician-Patient Advocacy Committee; the American Academy of Family Physicians’ Commission on Scope of Practice; and the AMA’s Council on Ethical and Judicial Affairs and its Board of Trustees. But these experiences—and the lessons I’ve learned from them—and my strong commitment to patients, physicians, and this House are not the only things I’ve packed for the journey in front of me.
Kenneth Burke's theory of form: Rhetoric, art, and cultural analysis

In this essay I argue that Kenneth Burke's early persona as a social/cultural critic can be seen as fundamental to understanding his later, more theoretical discussion of language. In defending this position, I demonstrate how Burke's rhetorical theory is enriched by reading it as an extension of his early socialist and cultural concerns. By recognizing the rhetorical qualities of artistic expression, Burke historicizes art, making it easier for rhetorical theorists to engage in cultural analysis.
Improper Solutions in Structural Equation Models Causes, Consequences, and Strategies

In this article, the authors examine the most common type of improper solutions: zero or negative error variances. They address the causes of, consequences of, and strategies to handle these issues. Several hypotheses are evaluated using Monte Carlo simulation models, including two structural equation models with several misspecifications of each model. Results suggested several unique findings. First, increasing numbers of omitted paths in the measurement model were associated with decreasing numbers of improper solutions. Second, bias in the parameter estimates was higher in samples with improper solutions than in samples including only proper solutions. Third, investigations of the consequences of using constrained estimates in the presence of improper solutions indicated that inequality constraints helped some samples achieve convergence. Finally, the use of confidence intervals as well as four other proposed tests yielded similar results when testing whether the error variance was greater than or equ...
Resource extraction and anticipated demand shifts

Abstract Linking together two optimal control theory problems through Bellman's equation we derive closed form solutions for an extractive industry when a shift in the demand curve is perfectly foreseen. Monopoly and competition are compared.
Power-ion battery: Bridging the gap between Li-ion and supercapacitor chemistries

Abstract A 40 Wh/kg Li-ion battery using a Li4Ti5O12 nanostructured anode and a composite activated carbon LiCoO2 cathode was built using plastic Li-ion processing based on PVDF-HFP binder and soft laminate packaging. The specific power of the device is similar to that of an electrochemical double-layer supercapacitor (4000 W/kg). The high power is enabled by a combination of a nanostructured negative electrode, an acetonitrile based electrolyte and an activated carbon/LiCoO2 composite positive electrode. This enables very fast charging (full recharge in 3 min). The effect of electrode formulation and matching ratio on energy, power and cycle-life are described. Optimization of these parameters led to a cycle-life of 20% capacity loss after 9000 cycles at full depth of discharge (DOD).
2060 Chiron: Colorimetry and cometary behavior

Ambiguities concerning the fit of the 2060 Chiron's visible spectrum to its IR spectrum have been resolved by resort to VRIJHK colorimetry obtained in 1988, which also confirms the neutrality of Chiron's taxonomic class C spectrum and indicates that Chiron has anomalously brightened since 1980-1983. This brightening, and one reported in 1978, are consistent with the hypothesis that Chiron sporadically undergoes weak cometary outbursts similar to those of comet P/Schwassmann-Wachmann 1; Chiron is further speculated to be an ice-rich object darkened by C-class carbonaceous soil, and may have been scattered from the Oort cloud in recent solar system history.
Micromechanics of fracture in elastomers

A study of torn surfaces and the tips of propagating tears in elastomers has been carried out using scanning electron microscopy. Vertical steps separating smooth featureless torn regions are characteristic features of the torn surfaces. They are found to be more frequent and larger in stronger elastomers. They are attributed to the intersection of secondary cracks at the tear tip, displaced somewhat from the general tear plane, and nucleated by inherent stress-raisers. The effective diameter of the tear tip is thereby increased. Stress-raising features are inferred to be present in elastomeric materials at a typical spacing of 10 to 100μm. In carbon-black-filled elastomers, the carbon particles themselves are found to nucleate secondary cracks profusely.
Role of aphasia in discharge location after stroke

Abstract Objective To evaluate language deficits after acute stroke and their association with post–acute care at a setting other than home. We hypothesized that deficits in language comprehension would be associated with discharge to a setting other than home after adjustment for physical/occupational therapy (PT/OT) needs. Design Secondary analysis of prospectively collected data. Discharge location, demographic characteristics (age, sex, race), and the presence of PT/OT recommendations were abstracted from the medical record. Setting Acute stroke unit at a tertiary medical center. Participants Left hemispheric stroke patients (N=152) within 24 hours of event. Interventions The following tasks were administered: (a–b) oral and written naming of pictured objects, (c) oral naming with tactile input (tactile naming), (d–f) oral reading, oral spelling, and repetition of words and pseudowords, (g) written spelling to dictation, (h) spoken word-picture verification (ie, auditory comprehension), and (i) written word-picture verification (ie, written word comprehension). Main Outcome Measure Discharge to a setting other than home. Results Of 152 cases, 88 were discharged home and 64 to another setting. Among stroke subjects discharged to a setting other than home, 63.6% had auditory comprehension deficits compared with 42.9% of those discharged home ( P =.03). Deficits in auditory and reading comprehension and oral spelling to dictation were significantly associated with increased odds of discharge to a setting other than home after adjustment for age and PT/OT recommendations. Conclusions Cases with deficits in auditory comprehension, reading comprehension, and oral spelling to dictation had increased odds of being discharged to settings other than home. Early evaluation of these language deficits and prompt treatment may allow patients who would otherwise be discharged to an institution to go home. Further research is needed to design and evaluate individualized treatment protocols and their effect on discharge recommendations.
Angular Distribution of Protons from Vanadium 52

Angular distributions have been obtained for the protons from the ground and first excited states for the reaction ${\mathrm{V}}^{51}(d, p){\mathrm{V}}^{52}$. The results indicate that the captured neutron carries in mainly one unit of orbital angular momentum for both states. The 29th neutron is thus presumed to be a ${p}_{\frac{3}{2}}$ nucleon.
Georg Lukács and Contemporary Film Praxis

Georg Lukacs's name is not usually associated with film. Nor is his work much in demand today. Although it made essential reading for Marxists and non-Marxists alike for much of last century, it ha...
Some Long-Run Implications of Border Tax Adjustments for Factor Taxes

The model, 558.—Product taxes, 563.—Capital taxes, 565.—Imposition of capital taxes, 566.—Application of BTA's to capital taxes, 568.—Adjustments to the earnings of capital, 574.—Conclusions, 577.
Initial treatment of hypertension.

A 50-year-old black man has a blood pressure of 160/110 mm Hg on repeated measurements. He is 9 kg (20 lb) overweight, has a family history of hypertension, and smokes one pack of cigarettes daily. How should this patient be evaluated and treated?
Effect of recondensation on the optical quality of a cleared channel in a water cloud

The interactions of high-energy laser beams with aerosols are studied in the diffusive regime within the framework of a nonlinear transport equation. A numerical algorithm allows us to advance along the distance of propagation by using spatial steps small compared to the scattering optical depth. In this paper, the authors emphasize the effect of laser-assisted imaging, in which due to the cloud clearing the roll-off of the modulation transfer function decreases with the distance of propagation. The authors study the effect of recondensation on the propagation of a low-energy laser beam. The principal findings are the independence of the pulse shape of the turbulence strength and the suppression of the high-energy laser-assisted imaging effect.
The biology of Echinoparyphium (Trematoda, Echinostomatidae)

Echinoparyphium species are common, widely distributed intestinal parasites causing disease in animals worldwide. Intermediate hosts include snails, bivalves, and fish, whereas the definitive hosts are mainly birds and mammals. This review examines the significant literature on Echinoparyphium. Descriptive studies, life cycle, experimental and manipulative studies, and biochemical and molecular studies are presented. The influence of environmental factors, and toxic pollutants, are reviewed as well as studies on the pathology of Echinoparyphium.
Optical spectroscopy of scintillations occurring in unirradiated glycine and triglycine sulfate: L-alanine

Several research groups have reported observations of scintillations in well-known ferroelectric crystals. Previously we reported similar activity occurring in unirradiated glycine (nonferroelectric) but did not report the optical spectrum associated with the scintillations. In this paper we present the optical-spectroscopy results for scintillations occurring in single crystals of glycine and $L$-alanine-doped triglycine sulfate (LATGS). Seven lines were identified in glycine and eight lines in LATGS, all belonging to the second positive system of ${\mathrm{N}}_{2}$. The spectrum results from an electrical discharge from the crystal surface, which has a layer of ${\mathrm{N}}_{2}$ adsorbed onto it, to ground.
Addressing Environmetal Issues for the Automotive Industry

The integration of environmental, social, and economic (ESE) objectives into business decisions and future planning is the path towards sustainable development. The goal of this paper is to address the environmental component of sustainable development within the automotive industry based on the Life Cycle Analysis and Well-to-Wheels approach. Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) is very relevant for making the concept of environmental sustainability operational because environmental impacts have to be examined from a ’cradle-to-grave’ perspective. Life cycle analysis is an analytical tool that quantifies energy consumption and emissions associated with the raw material extraction, processing of materials, manufacturing, use phase, and end-of-life (reuse, recycling, and disposal) of products. The potential impact of current production and consumption patterns, on the future availability of non-renewable resources, can also be evaluated within the LCA framework. Thus, LCA provides an effective way for industry to support better management of natural resources, in order to maximize economic benefits and minimize environmental burdens. Well-to-Wheel (WtW) analysis is a subset of a complete LCA because it quantifies the environmental burdens associated only with the fuel production and its consumption during the driving time of a vehicle. Well-to-Wheel studies mainly provide energy use and air emissions inventories. This paper provides the results obtained from two major studies conducted at General Motors R&D Center. The first is a LCA study that assesses the environmental emissions associated with four alternative automotive paint processes and seven different paint formulations. The second is a WtW study that addresses 18 different combinations of alternative fuels and vehicle engines. Considering that the use phase of the vehicle contributes more than 80% of its life cycle energy consumption, and that the automotive paint process is the most energy intensive component of the manufacturing phase in any given vehicle, the results presented in this paper are noteworthy for environmental sustainability considerations relevant to the automotive industry.
RFID: an enabler of supply chain operations

Purpose – The desire to cut supply chain costs has made RFID technology one of today's most discussed retail technologies. Given the current implementation pace, the objective of this paper is to go beyond the hype and explore basic issues related to RFID technology, including its promises as well as its pitfalls.Design/methodology/approach – The author provides a conceptual discussion of the evolution of RFID, addresses its capabilities and its application in various industries, discusses implementation challenges, identifies adoption phases, and reviews RFID's success factors.Findings – RFID is the most recent prolific technology that provides supply chain collaboration and visibility. An RFID systems solution will increase corporate ROI while at the same time improving retail supply chain communication. Handled properly, RFID technology can result in an evolutionary change incorporating legacy systems with the real‐time supply chain management of tomorrow. Its stumbling point seems only to be a variety...
PHYSICS OF YBINCU4 AND RELATED COMPOUNDS

Abstract YbInCu 4 exhibits an isostructural valence transition qualitatively similar to that observed at the γ – α transition in elemental Ce. We have prepared single crystals of this compound and related materials, and here we discuss the emerging understanding of the physics of these systems. In particular, the thermodynamics of the valence transition will be discussed, and its response to chemical doping, external magnetic fields, and applied physical pressure will be reviewed. The existence of a single underlying energy scale associated with the valence transition can be inferred from these data. Low carrier concentration seems to play a central role in the physics of the valence transition and this will be demonstrated by discussing related YbXCu 4 materials (where X is a semi-metal or late transition metal) that display a wide range of physical properties.
Design and Testing of a Pulsatile Conditioning System for Dynamic Endothelialization of Polyphenol-Stabilized Tissue Engineered Heart Valves

Heart valve tissue engineering requires biocompatible and hemocompatible scaffolds that undergo remodeling and repopulation, but that also withstand harsh mechanical forces immediately following implantation. We hypothesized that reversibly stabilized acellular porcine valves, seeded with endothelial cells and conditioned in pulsatile bioreactors would pave the way for next generations of tissue engineered heart valves (TEHVs). A novel valve conditioning system was first designed, manufactured and tested to adequately assess TEHVs. The bioreactor created proper closing and opening of valves and allowed for multiple mounting methods in sterile conditions. Porcine aortic heart valve roots were decellularized by chemical extractions and treated with penta-galloyl glucose (PGG) for stabilization. Properties of the novel scaffolds were evaluated by testing resistance to collagenase and elastase, biaxial mechanical analysis, and thermal denaturation profiles. Porcine aortic endothelial cells were seeded onto the leaflets and whole aortic roots were mounted within the dynamic pulsatile heart valve bioreactor system under physiologic pulmonary valve pressures and analyzed after 17 days for cell viability, morphology, and metabolic activity. Our tissue preparation methods effectively removed cells, including the potent α-Gal antigen, while leaving a well preserved extracellular matrix scaffold with adequate mechanical properties. PGG enhanced stabilization of extracellular matrix components but also showed the ability to be reversible. Engineered valve scaffolds encouraged attachment and survival of endothelial cells for extended periods and showed signs of widespread cell coverage after conditioning. Our novel approach shows promise toward development of sturdy and durable TEHVs capable of remodeling and cellular repopulation.
Use of High-Speed Microjets for Active Separation Control in Diffusers

Inlets to aircraft propulsion systems must supply flow to the compressor with minimal pressure loss, flow distortion, or unsteadiness. Flow separation in internal flows such as inlets and ducts in aircraft propulsion systems and external flows such as over aircraft wings is undesirable because it reduces the overall system performance. An experimental investigation is described that was carried out to study the feasibility of using high-speed microjets, supersonic for most cases, to control boundary-layer separation in an adverse pressure gradient. The geometry used is a simple diverging Stratford ramp equipped with arrays of 400-μm-diam microjets. Measurements include detailed surface flow visualizations, mean surface pressure distributions, and velocity field measurements using particle image velocimetry. The results clearly indicate that by activating these microjets the separated flow regions were eliminated. This led to a significant increase in the momentum of the flow near the surface where the gain in momentum was at least an order of magnitude higher than the momentum injected by the microjets. Given the simplicity of the system and its low mass flow requirements, combined with the benefits achieved by this approach, microjets appear to be promising actuators for efficient separation control for internal and external flow applications.
A novel fuzzy logic approach to microcalcification detection

Abstract Breast cancer continues to be a significant public health problem in the United States. It was estimated that 182,000 new cases of breast cancer would have been diagnosed and 46,000 women have died of breast cancer each year. One out of 8 women will develop cancer at some point during her lifetime in US. Primary prevention seems impossible since the causes of this disease still remain unknown. Early detection is the key to improving breast cancer prognosis. The earlier stage tumors are more easily and less expensively treated. Mammography has been shown to be one of the most reliable methods for early detection of breast carcinomas. However, it is difficult for radiologists to provide both accurate and uniform evaluation for the enormous number of mammograms generated in widespread screening. Because of their clinical relevance, potential subtlety, and the lack of coexisting normal structures having the same appearance, microcalcification clusters (MCCs) are ideal aims for automated detection using image processing and pattern recognition techniques. In this paper, we propose a simple, effective approach to extract the microcalcifications based on fuzzy logic and maximum fuzzy entropy principle. The preliminary results demonstrate the usefulness of the proposed approach for detecting microcalcifications.
Acute complications of extremity trauma

In addition to the large number of patients with isolated limb injuries, many patients with major blunt or penetrating trauma harbor extremity injuries as a component of their overall clinical picture. Extremity injuries range from gross deformities and amputations to more subtle injuries, potentially difficult to diagnose, or may escape detection in unconscious or intoxicated patients. However, many soft tissue and vascular injuries require time sensitive interventions to ensure salvage of the limb and the best outcome for the patient. This article reviews the acute management of vascular and soft tissue injuries in the emergency department.
Remittances and investment in education: Evidence from Ghana

This paper uses both cross-section and pseudo-panel data to investigate the effects of remittances on investment in education in Ghana. We find that remittances significantly increase the probability that families enroll their children in primary and secondary schools, suggesting that remittances increase education human capital formation. The impact of remittances on the probability of primary and secondary school enrollment is particularly strong for international remittance. In addition, there is evidence that remittances to female-headed households increase education investment more than do remittances to male-headed households. We interpret our results to mean that international remittances improve prospects for economic growth and decrease poverty in the long run through the human capital channel. Our results are robust to sample and estimation method.
Organic matrix taphonomy in some molluscan shell microstructures

Abstract The organic matrix of selected specimens of cephalopods and bivalves was observed by scanning electron microscopy upon shell sections etched and preserved by critical point drying. For specimens ranging in age from Pennsylvanian to Recent, it was noted that physical preservation of the organic matrix was not strongly dependent on age. Matrices were also found to have degraded at different rates in different shell microstructures, even in the same shell. The type of degradation had also varied, even for the same kind of microstructures. The occurrence of preserved organic matrix may be more widespread among molluscan fossils than commonly thought.
Effects of stimulus phase on the normal auditory brainstem response.

The purpose of this investigation was to determine the effects of stimulus phase on the latencies and morphology of the auditory brainstem response (ABR) of normal-hearing subjects. Although click ...
Earmark Pursuit Practices of Metropolitan Planning Organizations and Their Members

This paper explores how earmarking in federal transportation spending alters the decision-making environment for metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs) and their members. Congress may designate earmarks to fund projects without regard to metropolitan (and state) transportation planning decisions. This raises questions about earmarking's impacts on metropolitan transportation planning. This work explores the interface between metropolitan transportation decision making and congressional earmarking through 55 open-ended interviews with transportation stakeholders across the nation. Interviewees—identified by emergent sampling—include metropolitan, state, and local transportation leaders, congressional staff, lobbyists, and national interest group representatives. In particular, the paper explores the earmark pursuit practices of MPOs and their members. These actors employ three different models for influencing earmarks. Some proactively request specific projects; others await opportunities to consult on...
Thank you Felix Geyer

Purpose – To pay tribute to Felix Geyer's contributions to the activities of Research Committee (RC) 36, alienation research and theory, of the International Sociological Association.Design/methodology/approach – The author recollects his involvement with RC36 and his longstanding relationship with Felix Geyer.Findings – The establishment of RC36 and its current viability stand as testimony to the effort of Felix Geyer.Originality/value – Alienation, one of the oldest concepts in social analysis and critique, remains a lively and exciting topic for theory and research, thanks not least to Felix Geyer. It is right that he should receive recognition for his hard work and achievements.
A New Year of Hope

AT THE BEGINNING of a new year, it seems appropriate to talk about hope. I admit that if you watch the news on television or read the newspapers, all seems grim around us. Companies are failing, unethical economic gurus have plunged billionaires into paupers, those who depend on the stock market are in despair, and the war seems unending. The economic climate is more grim than I have seen in my lifetime. You know when Dagwood looks at his stocks on his computer in the comic strip and his hair stands straight up that we have problems! So, how, you wonder could I talk about hope?
Prolonged swimming performance of northern squawfish

Abstract We determined the prolonged swimming performance of two size-classes of northern squawfish Ptychocheilus oregonensis at 12 and 18°C. The percentage of fish fatigued was positively related to water velocity and best described by an exponential model. At 12°C, the velocity at which 50% of the fish fatigued (FV50) was estimated to be 2.91 fork lengths per second (FL/s; 100 cm/s) for medium-sized fish (30–39 cm) and 2.45 FL/s (104 cm/s) for large fish (40–49 cm). At 18°C, estimated FV50 was 3.12 FL/s (107 cm/s) for medium fish and 2.65 FL/s (112 cm/s) for large fish. Rate of change in percent fatigue was affected by fish size and water temperature. Large fish fatigued at a higher rate than medium-sized fish; all fish fatigued faster at 12 than at 18°C. The mean times to fatigue at velocities of 102–115 cm/s ranged from 14 to 28 min and were not affected by fish size or water temperature. Our results indicate that water velocities from 100 to 130 cm/s may exclude or reduce predation by northern squawf...
Strain hardening in nanolayered thin films

Abstract Experimental results indicate that metal–ceramic multilayered thin films have unusual properties such as high strength, measurable plasticity and high strain hardening rate when both layers are nanoscale. Furthermore, the strength and strain hardening rate show a pronounced size effect, depending not only on the layer thickness but also on the layer thickness ratio. We analyze the strain hardening behavior of nanoscale multilayers using a three-dimensional crystal elastic–plastic model (3DCEPM) that describes plastic deformation based on the evolution of dislocation density in metal and ceramic layers according to confined layer slip mechanism. These glide dislocations nucleate at interfaces, glide inside layers and are deposited at interfaces that impede slip transmission. The high strain hardening rate is ascribed to the closely spaced dislocation arrays deposited at interfaces and the load transfer that is related to the layer thickness ratio of metal and ceramic layers. The measurable plasticity implies the plastically deformable ceramic layer in which the dislocation activity is facilitated by the interaction force among the deposited dislocations within interface and in turn is strongly related to the ceramic layer thickness.
Some observations on building corridor fires

Full-scale corridor fire experiments designed to evaluate the potential fire hazard of floor covering materials exposed to a room fire are described. A phenomenological account of events leading to rapid fire propagation along the corridor is presented for one experiment. Mechanisms responsible for the rapid fire propagation, termed flameover, are explored through measurements and analysis of the data. Before flameover the corridor floor is heated by radiation which enables flames to spread into the corridor. On the wood floor considered, flame spread velocity accelerates from ∼10 −2 ft/sec to ∼1 ft/sec following flameover. Causative factors of flameover appear to be the increase in flame height of the floor fire, and a reduction of air supply to the burn room due to a change in flow pattern between the corridor and burn room. Calculations show that air flow to the burn room steadily drops as the corridor fire develops resulting in incomplete combustion for the room fire.
Computational performance of Java and C++ in processing fMRI datasets

Software systems for the analysis of image-based biomedical data, such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), require a flexible data model, fast computational techniques and a graphical user interface. Object-otiented programming languages, such as Java and C++ facilitate software reuse and maintainability, and provide the foundations for the development of complex data analysis applications. This paper explores the advantages and disadvantages of using these two programming environments for scientific computation.