cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Factors related to contraction and mechanical strength of collagen gels seeded with canine endotenon cells.

Fibroblasts can construct a hydrated collagen lattice to a tissue-like structure that is greatly influenced by initial culture conditions. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of cell concentration and collagen concentration on the contraction kinetics and mechanical properties of resultant endotenon-derived fibroblast-seeded collagen lattice. The experiment was designed to evaluate the effect of cell concentration (0, 0.25, 0.5, and 1.0 ××××× 106 cells/mL) and collagen concentration (0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 mg/mL). Collagen lattice contraction was recorded for 42 days, after which time the lattices were mechanically tested. The collagen lattices seeded with higher initial cell concentration had a shorter contraction lag phase (p < 0.01), and exhibited a higher ultimate stress (p < 0.01) and instantaneous and equilibrium modulus (p < 0.01) than those seeded with a lower initial cell concentration. The collagen lattices cultured with a lower initial collagen concentration also had a shorter contraction lag phase, and exhibited greater instantaneous and equilibrium modulus (p < 0.01) than those cultured with higher initial collagen concentration. The collagen lattices of initial 0.5 mg/mL collagen concentration had the highest value of ultimate stress (p < 0.03). © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 2007
First Science with the Keck Interferometer Nuller High Spatial Resolution N-Band Observations of the Recurrent Nova RS Ophiuchi

We report observations of the nova RS Ophiuchi using the Keck Interferometer Nuller (KIN) taken approximately 3.8 days following the most recent outburst that occurred on 2006 February 12. The KIN operates in N-band from 8 to 12.5 μm in a nulling mode. In this mode the stellar light is suppressed by a destructive fringe, effectively enhancing the contrast of the circumstellar material located near the star. In a second, constructive-fringe mode, the instrument detects primarily the light from the central, bright source. These are the outer and inner spatial regimes, respectively. We will describe the capabilities of the KIN, including these unique modes, and outline how they were key in our discovery that dust was created between nova events. We also show how these first results from the KIN are consistent with Spitzer data. The KIN data show evidence of enhanced neutral atomic hydrogen emission and atomic metals including silicon located in the inner spatial regime (< 4 AU from theWD) relative to the outer regime. There are also nebular emission lines and evidence of hot silicate dust in the outer spatial region, centered at approximately ~ 17 AU from the WD, that are not found in the inner regime. The KIN and Spitzer data suggest that these emissions were excited in the outer spatial regime before the blast wave reached these regions. We describe the present results in terms of a new model for dust creation in recurrent novae that includes an increase in density in the plane of the orbit of the two stars created by a spiral shock wave caused by the motion of the stars through the cool wind of the red giant star. These data show the power and potential of the nulling technique which has been developed for the detection of Earth-like planets around nearby stars for the Terrestrial Planet Finder Mission and Darwin missions.
A meta-analysis of the effect of hormone replacement therapy upon depressed mood

Abstract This meta-analysis had two objectives: (a) to aggregate data from studies that used hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and a quantitative measure of depressed mood in order to examine the effectiveness of HRT upon menopausal depressed mood; and (b) to review the methodologies of this literature base. The overall effect size for HRT was 0.68. This indicated that the average treatment patient had lower levels of depressed mood than 76% of the control patients. Analyses of specific hormone treatments suggested that (a) estrogen significantly reduced depressed mood (ES = 0.69); (b) progesterone alone, and in combination with estrogen, was associated with smaller reductions in depressed mood (ES = 0.39, ES = 0.45, respectively); and (c) androgen alone and in combination with estrogen was associated with greater reductions in depressed mood (ES = 1.37; ES =0.90, respectively). In summary, HRT appeared to be effective in reducing depressed mood among menopausal women. The methodological review indicated that most studies used adequate sample sizes, controlled research designs, random assignment, double-blind treatment manipulations, and valid and reliable measures of depression. Limitations in the interpretation of these results are discussed and recommendations for improved methodology are provided.
National Labor Relations Legislation: Possible Impact on American Agriculture

F ARM workers and their employers are specifically excluded from the privileges and duties of the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA). This excludes farm workers from the right to organize and bargain collectively and their employers from protection against illegal strikes and secondary boycotts [8]. Several bills are now (August 1969) pending in Congress that would modify the present exclusions. Observers of farm labor legislation intimate that significant legislative changes are not likely in this congressional session. However, it is generally acknowledged that most of the major provisions of NLRA will be extended to hired agricultural workers within the next year or two. Final legislative form will depend largely on the relative influence and strengths of the opposing parties on the central issues of strikes at harvest time, union recognition, secondary boycotts, voter eligibility, and compulsory bargaining. That agriculture has not been covered by NLRA does not necessarily mean that the agricultural sector has been unaffected by NLRA coverage of other sectors through its effect on off-farm job opportunities of agricultural workers. Space precludes an examination of such secondary effects, as well as an examination of the nature and functioning of the hired farm labor market. However, these two topics have been discussed elsewhere [1, 6,9, 10, 15]. This paper focuses on the probable incidence of the costs and benefits within the agricultural sector of extending NLRA coverage to farm workers and their employers. The costs and benefits of NLRA will not necessarily be equally distributed geographically, sectorally, functionally, or personally. Furthermore, the initial recipients of the costs and benefits may lose or "relinquish" [11, p. 88] them to others as time passes. This is not to say, however, that NLRA legislation is necessarily a zero-sum game where the opponents vie for a bigger slice of a fixed static pie. Indeed, the second section of this paper concentrates on the more dynamic positive sum gains of NLRA.
Response latencies in delayed matching-to-sample as a function of delay interval and social condition

Human Ss were presented delayed matching problems and were free to control the duration of looking at both sample and comparison stimuli. Response latencies were recorded as a function of delay interval and social condition. Latencies to sample stimuli were consistently longer than to comparison stimuli and were an increasing monotonie function of delay interval. Errors were inversely related to the duration of the delay interval. The opportunity to observe another S complete the matching program decreased both sample and match response latencies.
Ensuring Safety, Security, and Sustainability of Mission-Critical Cyber–Physical Systems

Cyber-physical systems (CPSs) couple their cyber and physical parts to provide mission-critical services, including automated pervasive health care, smart electricity grid, green cloud computing, and surveillance with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). CPSs can use the information available from the physical environment to provide such ubiquitous, energy-efficient and low-cost functionalities. Their operation needs to ensure three key properties, collectively referred to as S3: 1) safety: avoidance of hazards; 2) security: assurance of integrity, authenticity, and confidentiality of information; and 3) sustainability: maintenance of long-term operation of CPSs using green sources of energy. Ensuring S3 properties in a CPS is a challenging task given the spatio-temporal dynamics of the underlying physical environment. In this paper, the formal underpinnings of recent CPS S3 solutions are aligned together in a theoretical framework for cyber-physical interactions, empowering CPS researchers to systematically design solutions for ensuring safety, security, or sustainability. The general applicability of this framework is demonstrated with various exemplar solutions for S3 in diverse CPS domains. Further, insights are provided on some of the open research problems for ensuring S3 in CPSs.
Twisted root numbers of elliptic curves semistable at primes above 2 and 3

Let E be an elliptic curve over a number field F, and fix a rational prime p. Put F∞=F(E[p∞]), where E[p∞] is the group of p-power torsion points of E. Let τ be an irreducible self-dual complex representation of Gal(F∞∕F). With certain assumptions on E and p, we give explicit formulas for the root number W(E,τ). We use these root numbers to study the growth of the rank of E in its own division tower and also to count the trivial zeros of the L-function of E. Moreover, our assumptions ensure that the p-division tower of E is nonabelian. In the process of computing the root number, we also study the irreducible self-dual complex representations of GL(2,O), where O is the ring of integers of a finite extension of ℚp, for p an odd prime. Among all such representations, those that factor through PGL(2,O) have been analyzed in detail in existing literature. We give a complete description of those irreducible self-dual complex representations of GL(2,O) that do not factor through PGL(2,O).
Topical Review: Birth-Related Upper Brachial Plexus Injuries in Infants: Operative and Nonoperative Approaches:

Advances in intraoperative neuroelectrodiagnostic testing and microneurosurgical techniques have made it possible to accurately explore the brachial plexus of neonates. Since 1987, we have followed 250 infants with birth-related brachial plexus injuries, and successful operations have been completed on more than 70 infants. Fifty infants who underwent surgery have been followed for more than 18 months. Based on these accumulated data and historical data, this review describes both nonoperative and operative approaches to the treatment of birth-related brachial plexus injuries.
RETHINKING POLITICAL ECONOMY: IMPLICATIONS FOR MEDIA AND DEMOCRACY IN GREATER CHINA

AbstractBased on the evidence from Greater China, this essay suggests two theoretical propositions regarding the media’s democratic potential. First, the liberal-pluralist approach to political economy, with its focus on the critique of the state, may be useful in analysing the authoritarian media in Third World countries and former communist countries; in contrast, the radical-Marxist approach, with its focus on the critique of the capital, may be used to analyse the liberal-capitalist media. Specifically, the liberal approach goes a long way toward explaining the increased degree of “negative freedom” for the marketised authoritarian media in China, the martial-law media in Taiwan, and the Hong Kong media in the shadow of an authoritarian sovereign. Secondly, in all of the three transitional systems, in fact, both of these approaches may intertwine and coexist uneasily and paradoxically. In the PRC, the state still maintains tight reins on news media, but it must negotiate with the market forces. The re...
The Boundaries of Time

Much of the strategy to fix the Y2K Problem followed the standard cycle of quality engineering.
A three-dimensional inverse problem for inhomogeneities in elastic solids

The Newtonian potential is used to solve an inverse problem in which we seek the shape of an inhomogeneity in an infinite elastic matrix under uniform applied stresses at infinity such that certain stress components are uniform on the boundary of the inhomogeneity. It is shown that ellipsoids furnish the solution of this inverse problem. Exact and general expressions for the stress and displacement are given explicitly for points in the elastic matrix outside the inhomogeneity. The solution of the corresponding plane deformation problem is found as a limiting case. Several applications are presented, and results from the literature are confirmed as special cases.
High dose rate intraoperative radiotherapy for recurrent cervical cancer and nodal disease.

Abstract Background Patients with pelvic sidewall recurrences of cervical cancer have a dismal prognosis. Intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT) has demonstrated encouraging results. Patients have traditionally been excluded from IORT if they had distant metastases. Case A patient underwent radical tumor resection and high dose rate (HDR) IORT for a pelvic sidewall recurrence of cervical cancer. She also had metastatic disease in a para-aortic node. The patient has been followed for >20 months with no evidence of disease recurrence. Conclusion HDR-IORT may be offered to select patients with recurrent cervical cancer and isolated metastatic para-aortic lymph nodes.
The role of “translator” in the case transfer process

Abstract Scant attention has been paid to the critical tasks associated with making case transfers in marriage and family therapy training programs successful. We propose that the key to effective case transfer lies in the departing therapist's ability to assume the role of “translator” in a four-phase process of information-sharing which includes: 1) preparing clients for termination and transfer; 2) orienting clients and incoming therapist with one another; 3) bringing clients and incoming therapist together; and 4) facilitating the continuation of the therapeutic process. The responsibilities of the supervisor and pitfalls that potentially interfere in the case transfer process are discussed.
Protein Folding Simulations Combining Self-Guided Langevin Dynamics and Temperature-Based Replica Exchange

Computer simulations are increasingly being used to predict thermodynamic observables for folding small proteins. Key to continued progress in this area is the development of algorithms that accelerate conformational sampling. Temperature-based replica exchange (ReX) is a commonly used protocol whereby simulations at several temperatures are simultaneously performed and temperatures are exchanged between simulations via a Metropolis criterion. Another method, self-guided Langevin dynamics (SGLD), expedites conformational sampling by accelerating low-frequency, large-scale motions through the addition of an ad hoc momentum memory term. In this work, we combined these two complementary techniques and compared the results against conventional ReX formulations of molecular dynamics (MD) and Langevin dynamics (LD) simulations for the prediction of thermodynamic folding observables of the Trp-cage mini-protein. All simulations were performed with CHARMM using the PARAM22+CMAP force field and the generalized Bor...
Helium flow and density measurement of the hydrated tricalcium silicate - water system

Abstract Measurementswere made on samples initially conditioned at 11% R. H. and dried in stages to the d-dry condition. Helium flow measurements, although less quantitatively, are qualitatively similar to those found for hydrated portland cement. It was con concluded that the narrow spaces into which helium flowed are interlayer spaces, not fixed-dimension narrow-necked pores. In the measurement of density it was shown that if aqueous solution is used on d-dried samples, account will have to be made for the fact that re-entrance of interlayer water occurs. However, if the material is dried only to 11% R. H. density can be measured by helium, methanol or aqueous Ca(OH)2 solution. The value varies only from 2.35 to 2.37 gm/cc for the hydrated C3S.
Sex Differences in Graduate School Choice for Black HBCU Bachelor’s Degree Recipients: A National Analysis

Data from the Baccalaureate and Beyond Longitudinal Study were analyzed to identify factors that historically Black colleges and universities graduates considered when choosing a graduate school; follow-up tests examined differences between Black men and women in the national sample. Interestingly, we found that Black men and women consider the same three factors most frequently when making graduate school decisions: reputation of school and faculty, proximity to home or work, and availability of an academic program. There were clear differences between men and women, however, in the extent to which they considered access to financial aid and costs of tuition and fees. Implications for theory, research, and practice are highlighted.
Excited Atoms in Strong Microwaves: Classical Resonances and Localization in Experimental Final-State Distributions

Highly excited hydrogen atoms have been exposed to an intense pulse of microwaves with frequency near the initial classical electron orbit frequency. Measurements were made of the probability distribution for different bound states after the pulse. Structure in such distributions is found to be near classical, and arises from the presence of a classical resonance island in action-angle space. The measured distributions also yield values of electron localization length in action space that are in agreement with quantum localization theory and with numerical values based on quantum mechanics.
Scheduling for information gathering on sensor network

We investigate a unique wireless sensor network scheduling problem in which all nodes in a cluster send exactly one packet to a designated sink node in an effort to minimize transmission time. However, node transmissions must be sufficiently isolated either in time or in space to avoid collisions. The problem is formulated and solved via graph representation. We prove that an optimal transmission schedule can be obtained efficiently through a pipeline-like schedule when the underlying topology is either line or tree. The minimum time required for a line or tree topology with n nodes is 3(n - 2). We further prove that our scheduling problem is NP-hard for general graphs. We propose a heuristic algorithm for general graphs. Our heuristic tries to schedule as many independent segments as possible to increase the degree of parallel transmissions. This algorithm is compared to an RTS/CTS based distributed algorithm. Preliminary simulated results indicate that our heuristic algorithm outperforms the RTS/CTS based distributed algorithm (up to 30%) and exhibits stable behavior.
Chromium phase behavior in a multi-component borosilicate glass melt

Abstract This paper reports the phase behavior of a multi-component borosilicate glass melt with 0–3 mass% Cr 2 O 3 at 800–1500 °C in equilibrium with air. Both upper and lower liquidus temperatures were observed. When the temperature was between the upper and lower liquidus temperatures, eskolaite (Cr 2 O 3 ) formed in melts with >2 mass% Cr 2 O 3 . Below the lower liquidus temperature, a dispersed chromate phase appeared in the melt that eventually became macroscopically segregated. The chemical durability of the glasses was virtually unaffected by chromium concentration. The particular glass studied was prototypic for vitrifying high-Cr high-level radioactive wastes stored in underground tanks at the Hanford site. The results suggest a significant potential cost benefit for Hanford tank waste cleanup through increased waste solubility in glass.
Structural architecture of the sheeted dike complex and extensional tectonics of the Jurassic Mirdita ophiolite, Albania

Abstract The Jurassic Mirdita ophiolite in northern Albania occurs in a ∼ 40 km-wide zone bounded by the passive margins of Apulia (W) and Pelagonia (E). The ∼ 3 km-thick Western Mirdita ophiolite (WMO) contains lherzolitic peridotites and gabbros overlain by basaltic pillow lavas, whereas the ∼ 12 km-thick Eastern Mirdita ophiolite (EMO) represents a Penrose-type oceanic crust with suprasubduction zone affinities. The 1 km-thick sheeted dike complex (SDC) in the EMO shows mutually intrusive relations with the underlying gabbros, is overlain by a 1.1-km-thick extrusive sequence, and records a history of complex seafloor spreading and rift tectonics in a suprasubduction zone environment. Crosscutting relations within the SDC indicate four generations of dike intrusions becoming progressively younger to the east. Early D1 and D2 dikes have basalt and basaltic andesite compositions and NNE and NNW attitudes, respectively, with moderate to gentle dips to the east. They are cut by mineralized, dike-parallel normal faults defining local grabens. Younger D3 dikes display andesitic and boninitic compositions and have WNW strikes with steep dips. These dikes are cut by both dike-parallel and dike-orthogonal faults that form locally well-developed graben structures with extensive epidosite and chalcopyrite mineralization. The youngest D4 dikes with 240°–290°orientations occur as isolated swarms intruding earlier dike generations in the eastern part of the SDC, range in composition from quartz–microdiorite to rhyodacite and rhyolite, and are cut by ∼ NW-oriented faults and shear zones. Changes in dike compositions from basalt and basaltic andesite to andesite, boninite, rhyodacite and rhyolite through time in the SDC are consistent with changes in the lava chemistry stratigraphically upward and eastward in the extrusive sequence, indicating significant chemical variations in melt compositions as the EMO evolved. Development of the SDC and its extensive normal faulting were a result of upper plate extension and rifting in the protoarc–forearc crust caused by rapid slab rollback in the Mirdita basin, reminiscent of the late Cenozoic extensional tectonics of the Izu–Bonin–Mariana system in the Western Pacific. Shifting of dike attitudes to more easterly orientations in later stages of SSZ magmatism signals a gradual change in the spreading direction likely caused by impingement of the clockwise rotating Pelagonia on the arc–trench rollback system in the south. The SSZ Mirdita basin evolved similarly to the last 100 km of recorded spreading in the West Philippine Basin, where the rotation of the seafloor spreading axis was caused by the incipient collision between the northern part of the Philippine arc with rifted fragments of Eurasia.
An empirical study of optimal motion planning

This paper presents a systematic benchmarking comparison between optimal motion planners. Six planners representing the categories of sampling-based, grid-based, and trajectory optimization methods are compared on synthetic problems of varying dimensionality, number of homotopy classes, and width and length of narrow passages. Performance statistics are gathered on success and convergence rates, and performance variations with respect to geometric characteristics are analyzed. Based on this analysis, we recommend planners that are likely to perform well for certain problem classes, and draw recommendations for future planning research.
The development of kindergartners' mental-addition strategies

Abstract According to the distribution-of-associations model, the probability of stating an incorrect or correct answer to a problem is proportional to the associative strength between the answer and the problem. To estimate the associative strength between a problem and its answers. Siegler and Shrager (1984) and Siegler (1986) used an overt-strategies-prohibited task, which encouraged children to respond quickly without counting. A schema-based view suggests that children who have not yet memorized the single-digit addition combinations may respond to such a task by using estimation strategies. Indeed, on a pretest, 14 of 21 kindergartners appeared to use mechanical estimation strategies such as stating an addend, which produced one or two distinct answers per problem. After 8 weeks of computational practice with a different set of problems, some subjects adopted new estimation strategies on the posttest. The results indicated that errors and changes in error patterns on the overt-strategies-prohibited task cannot be explained entirely in terms of practice. They also suggest that Siegler's tables of associative strengths were confounded by compiling data over children using different estimation strategies.
Measurement of the Isotopic Signatures of Water on Mars: Implications for Studying Methane

The recent discovery of methane on Mars has led to much discussion concerning its origin. On Earth, the isotopic signatures of methane vary with the nature of its production. Specifically, the ratios among 12CH4, 13CH4, and 12CH3D differ for biotic and abiotic origins. On Mars, measuring these ratios would provide insights into the origins of methane and measurements of water isotopologues co-released with methane would assist in testing their chemical relationship. Since 1997, we have been measuring HDO and H2O in Mars atmosphere and comparing their ratio to that in Earth s oceans. We recently incorporated a line-by-line radiative transfer model (LBLRTM) into our analysis. Here, we present a map for [HDO]/[H2O] along the central meridian (1541W) for Ls 501. From these results, we constructed models to determine the observational conditions needed to quantify the isotopic ratios of methane in Mars atmosphere. Current ground-based instruments lack the spectral resolution and sensitivity needed to make these measurements. Measurements of the isotopologues of methane will likely require in situ sampling.
Outcomes in Severe Middle Cerebral Artery Ischemic Stroke

Severe middle cerebral artery stroke (MCA) is associated with a high rate of morbidity and mortality. We assessed the hypothesis that patient-specific variables may be associated with outcomes. We also sought to describe under-recognized patient-centered outcomes. A consecutive, multi-institution, retrospective cohort of adult patients (≤70 years) was established from 2009 to 2011. We included patients with NIHSS score ≥15 and infarct volume ≥60 mL measured within 48 h of symptom onset. Malignant edema was defined as the development of midline brain shift of ≥5 mm in the first 5 days. Exclusion criterion was enrollment in any experimental trial. A univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to model and predict the factors related to outcomes. 46 patients (29 female, 17 male; mean age 57.3 ± 1.5 years) met study criteria. The mortality rate was 28 % (n = 13). In a multivariate analysis, only concurrent anterior cerebral artery (ACA) involvement was associated with mortality (OR 9.78, 95 % CI 1.15, 82.8, p = 0.04). In the malignant edema subgroup (n = 23, 58 %), 4 died (17 %), 7 underwent decompressive craniectomy (30 %), 7 underwent tracheostomy (30 %), and 15 underwent gastrostomy (65 %). Adverse outcomes after severe stroke are common. Concurrent ACA involvement predicts mortality in severe MCA stroke. It is useful to understand the incidence of life-sustaining procedures, such as tracheostomy and gastrostomy, as well as factors that contribute to their necessity.
A Stage-Restricted Secretory System in the Submandibular Gland of the Neonatal Rat

Ribonuclease and amylase have been shown to undergo a transient increase in activity in the sub-mandibular gland of the perinatal rat [5]. We report here that brief stimulation with isoproterenol in vitro selectively releases these enzymes. In addition, analysis by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis showed that the 4-day old submandibular gland contains three other major protein species that are not present in the sublingual gland and two of which are not evident in the adult submandibular gland. These are also selectively released by the drug. Examination of the glands by light and electron microscopy showed that concurrent with release of these protein products, extensive degranulation occurs in the immature acini (terminal tubules). Our experiments suggest that the 4-day glands show a marked incorporation of 3H-leucine into the submandibular-specific, secreted protein species. This indicates that these proteins will provide convenient molecular markers of early submandibular differentiation.
Oxidative Cleavage of Carbon−Silicon Bond as a New Method To Characterize Bonded Stationary Phases on Silica Gel

A method to cleave stationary phases from silica gel as a stable and easily characterizable compound under mild conditions was developed. The method is based on the oxidative cleavage of the silicon−carbon bond with hydrogen peroxide and potassium fluoride. It was applied successfully to the chemical characterization of the three common C18 silica gel stationary phases. This method was also applied successfully to the determination of the enantiomeric purity of a chiral stationary phase.
Transport, distribution and toxic effects of polychlorinated biphenyls in ecosystems: Review

Abstract Investigation of various aspects of the ecological problems of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) has grown and continues to grow with remarkable intensity. However, it appears that certain areas of PCBs research are developed further than the others. For example, chemical and physical behavior and synthesis of PCBs are well studied, while the metabolism of PCBs and other routes of degradation, including toxicological significance and environmental impact, continue to challenge the scientists. In this paper, the chemical and physical properties of PCBs as well as the implications of these properties for the behavior of PCBs in ecological systems are discussed. The effect of PCBs on interrelated ecological systems are described. The distribution and fate of PCBs in the atmosphere, hydrosphere and lithosphere, and transport of PCBs through these systems are discussed. The toxic significance, biological accumulation and ecological magnification are described at various trophic levels.
Organosiloxane based bottom antireflective coating for 193nm lithography

A spin-on sacrificial 193 nm UV absorbing organosiloxane film was developed to facilitate ArF photoresist (PR) patterning. To improve lithographic compatibility with acrylate based photoresists, different performance additives were evaluated as photoresist adhesion promoter. The results suggested that the type and loading of the photoresist adhesion promoter had a large impact on the profile and focus latitude of the patterned photoresist features. An efficient photoresist adhesion promoter candidate was identified, which has minimum impact on other solution and film properties. This work has led to the development of DUO 193 organosiloxane based bottom anti-reflective coating. Application of this film as a blanket level bottom anti-reflective coating or as a fill material for via first trench last (VFTL) dual damascene patterning is possible. The SiO structure intrinsic to this film provides a high degree of plasma etch selectivity to the thin ArF photoresists in use today. Furthermore, an equivalent plasma etch rate between DUO 193 and the low dielectric constant SiOCH films used as the dielectric layer in the backend Cu interconnect structure is possible without compromising the photoresist etch selectivity. Equivalent etch rate is necessary for complete elimination of the “fencing” or “shell” defects found at the base of the etched trench feature located at the perimeter of the top of the via. Advanced ArF PR features of 100 nm in width (and smaller) have been routinely patterned on DUO 193 film. Via fill, plasma etch rate, wet etch rate, ArF PR patterning and shelf life data will be discussed in this presentation.
A novel balloon pull-through technique for esophageal dilation in eosinophilic esophagitis (with video)

Background Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic inflammatory condition that can be complicated by esophageal strictures requiring endoscopic dilation. Whereas recent data have advanced the notion that dilation can be done effectively with minimal morbidity, issues concerning safety and tolerability remain. Objective To review our initial experience with a novel esophageal balloon pull-through technique for sizing and dilation in EoE as well as to present a video illustrating the methodology. Design Case series. Setting Tertiary-care referral center. Patients Thirteen patients with EoE. Intervention Balloon pull-through technique for esophageal dilation. Main Outcome Measurements Dilation effect, size, and complications (esophageal perforation, bleeding requiring endoscopic hemostasis, or severe chest pain requiring hospitalization). Results Thirteen patients (7 men, 6 women; mean age 40 years, range 19-66 years) with EoE underwent dilation with the esophageal balloon pull-through technique. Resistance during the pull-through was encountered in 11 patients (85%), even though no discrete areas of narrowing were encountered. A tear was achieved in 9 patients (69%). Nine patients (69%) reported improvement in their dysphagia after dilation. There were no serious complications from the procedure. Limitations Retrospective, single center, small patient numbers in this initial report. Conclusions The esophageal balloon pull-through technique for esophageal dilation in patients with EoE appears to be safe and effective. It is a rational approach to gauging the luminal diameter of the esophagus and treating strictures in patients with EoE and dysphagia, but further prospective study is required to confirm these initial results.
A uniform analysis of the Lyα forest at z = 0-5. IV. The clustering and evolution of clouds at z ≤ 1.7

We present results on the evolution and clustering of Lyα lines at low redshift as part of our series "A Uniform Analysis of the Lyα Forest at z = 0-5." The sample analyzed in this paper contains 1298 Lyα absorption lines from 165 quasar spectra mined from the archives of the Faint Object Spectrograph on the Hubble Space Telescope (HST). Our sample extends to z ≈ 1.7, slightly higher than the sample analyzed by the HST Quasar Absorption Line Key Project. We confirm the result from the Key Project that the number density evolution of Lyα lines at low redshifts can be described by a power law that is significantly flatter than that found at high z. We find that the evolution is somewhat steeper than obtained previously. Specifically, we find γ = 0.54 ± 0.21 for lines with equivalent widths greater than 0.24 A and γ = 0.60 ± 0.14 using a variable equivalent width threshold. We find that the difference between our and Key Project results is likely attributable to different redshift coverage of the two samples. The results concerning the number density evolution are not significantly affected if one includes Lyα lines which are members of metal systems. Object-to-object fluctuations in the number of lines detected are small, indicating a high degree of uniformity in the intergalactic medium on large scales. We find marginal evidence that weak and strong lines undergo different evolution. We find weak clustering for Lyα lines at velocity separations ΔV ≤ 500 km s-1, weaker than the level predicted from an earlier analysis by Ulmer of a small subsample of the Key Project data. We see no correlations for metal system-Lyα forest or extensive metal system-Lyα forest combinations.
Elevated enzyme activities in soils under the invasive nitrogen-fixing tree Falcataria moluccana.

Like other N-fixing invasive species in Hawaii, Falcataria moluccana dramatically alters forest structure, litterfall quality and quantity, and nutrient dynamics. We hypothesized that these biogeochemical changes would also affect the soil microbial community and the extracellular enzymes responsible for carbon and nutrient mineralization. Across three sites differing in substrate texture and age (50–300 years old), we measured soil enzyme activities and microbial community parameters in native-dominated and Falcataria-invaded plots. Falcataria invasion increased acid phosphatase (AP) activities to >90 μmol g−1 soil h−1 compared to 30–60 μmol g−1 soil h−1 in native-dominated stands. Extracellular enzymes that mineralize carbon and nitrogen also increased significantly under Falcataria on the younger substrates. By contrast, total microbial biomass and mycorrhizal abundance changed little with invasion or substrate. However, fungal:bacterial ratios declined dramatically with invasion, from 2.69 and 1.35 to <0.89 on the 50- and 200-year-old substrates, respectively. These results suggest that Falcataria invasion alters the composition and function of belowground soil communities in addition to forest structure and biogeochemistry. The increased activities of AP and other enzymes that we observed are consistent with a shift toward phosphorus limitation and rapid microbial processing of litterfall C and N following Falcataria invasion.
Effects of Coadsorbed Hydrogen (or D) on the Dehydrogenation of Cyclohexane on Pt(111): Observation of the Production of Adsorbed Cyclohexyl (C6H11)

The effects of coadsorbed hydrogen (or deuterium) on the dehydrogenation of cyclohexane on Pt(111) has been studied using laser induced thermal desorption-Fourier transform mass spectrometry (LITD-FTMS), Auger electron spectroscopy (AES), and thermal desorption spectroscopy (TDS). With 0.25 of saturation monolayer coverage of cyclohexane on the crystal surface, the onset for the competing processes of desorption and dehydrogenation occurs at approximately 205 K. Our experiments show that coadsorbed hydrogen causes a shift to lower temperature of the onset of both cyclohexane dehydrogenation and molecular desorption. In the presence of saturation amounts of coadsorbed hydrogen, the onset for the two processes occurs at approximately 165 K. In the presence of coadsorbed hydrogen or deuterium, LITD-FTMS experiments show that adsorbed cyclohexyl (C6H11) is produced in the first step of the dehydrogenation of cylclohexane. These experiments provide the first observation of cyclohexyl as a product of the therma...
The High Cost of Alabama's Habitual Felony Offender Act: A Preliminary Assessment

A partial evaluation of Alabama's Habitual Felony Offender Act is conducted using case studies of inmates serving life without parole sentences. The centrality of the investigation focuses on the effect of the lift without parole sentencing, a practice which is assumed by many to be based on sound political practice, but may also be viewed as a questionable social policy. The authors suggest that Alabama's get-tough policy dealing with habitual criminals has effectively increased the prison population, but the consequences of the Act appears to be very costly in terms of the increasing number of L WOP inmates and the potential life threat to communities.
Evidence for the segregation of a major gene for human plasma GABA levels.

Gamma-aminobutryic acid (GABA) is a major neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, and plasma levels of GABA may reflect brain GABA activity. In 35–40% of patients with mood disorders, plasma GABA levels are low compared to psychiatrically normal controls.1 Low plasma GABA in this subgroup of patients has characteristics of a biological trait marker for mood disorders. Low plasma GABA is also found in a subset of patients with alcohol dependence, but not in schizophrenia, anxiety, or eating disorders, suggesting some diagnostic specificity.2Previous data from a small study of monozygotic twins are consistent with the hypothesis that plasma GABA levels are under genetic control.3 To better understand these mechanisms, we conducted a segregation analysis of plasma GABA levels in a sample of 157 individuals from 50 nuclear families. Analysis using the Class D regressive model indicated that the familial transmission of plasma GABA levels is compatible with the segregation of a recessive major gene. Our results suggest that plasma GABA levels are under single gene control. Future research should address the precise mechanisms which may account for the abnormality in GABA levels seen in a subset of patients with mood disorders.
Glandular trichomes on perennial alfalfa affect host‐selection behavior of Empoasca fabae

Selected behavior of Empoasca fabae (Harris) (Homoptera: Cicadellidae) was examined to elucidate resistance of commercially-available glandular-haired alfalfa to this key forage pest. The overall objective was to assess the effects of the glandular trichomes on the behavior of nymphs and adults. Studies of host-plant acceptance by E. fabae nymphs found first and third instars to show a higher degree of change in settling location on the glandular-haired FGplhl3 alfalfa than on the nonglandular P5373 alfalfa. Nymphs also cleaned their tarsi more frequently when in contact with the glandular trichomes on FGplhl3 alfalfa, and in addition a larger number of nymphs jumped/fell off the surface of FGplh13 alfalfa. The glandular trichomes on FGplh13 3 also impeded nymphal mobility more effectively than the nonglandular trichomes on P5373. No choice, time-course analysis of adult host-plant acceptance behavior found that adults settled less frequently on FGplh13 alfalfa with the glandular trichomes intact, than on either FGplhl3 with the glandular trichomes removed, or P5373 alfalfa with the nonglandular trichomes intact or removed. Free choice, time-course analysis of adult host-preference behavior determined that at each observation, stems of the nonglandular P5373 alfalfa were preferred over FGplh 13 alfalfa. Similarly, at each observation, stems of FGplh13 alfalfa with the glandular trichomes removed were preferred over FGplh 13 with the glandular trichomes intact. These data provide additional evidence for the localization of a resistance factor in the glandular trichomes of FGplhl3 alfalfa. An antixenotic resistance mechanism also appears to be present, which may function, in part, through a tactile avenue.
Adsorption-desorption kinetics of H2 from supported nickel catalysts

Abstract The adsorption-desorption interactions of hydrogen from a nickel-supported silica catalyst were studied by pulsed chemisorption and temperature-programmed desorption (TPD) techniques incorporating on-line mass spectrometric detection in a flow system. Pulsed chemisorption results of the metal surface area agree with results from more conventional static measurements. A combination of pressure pulse analysis and flow rate variation allowed the adsorption kinetics to be determined as (1 − θ ) 2 , where θ is the fractional coverage. The activation energy for adsorption, E a , is nearly zero. TPD spectra showed a general trend of second-order desorption kinetics with a shift in peak temperature to lower temperatures as the coverage was increased. After experimentally eliminating all transport considerations which would have caused shaping of the spectra, a self-consistent analysis of the desorption rate isotherms, characteristic plots, and lineshapes of the spectra led to the conclusion that free readsorption of hydrogen dominated during the desorption. The activation energy, E d , is 89 kJ/mole at low coverage and 55 kJ/mole at higher coverages. The falloff in E d with θ occurs at a critical coverage which is strongly dependent on the sample weight. When the role of readsorption was clarified and provided that the catalyst bed length approached “differential bed” requirements, the variation in the activation energy with coverage agreed quantitatively with results obtained from single-crystal experiments. The compensation effect in the desorption rate constant was also observed.
When goals diverge: Staff consensus and the organizational climate

A sample of correctional officers and prison substance abuse treatment staff collected by the National Criminal Justice Treatment Practices Survey is used to provide an exploratory study of an aspect of organizational culture consisting of consensus (agreement) among prison personnel regarding their beliefs about rehabilitation in the presence of conflicting organizational goals and aspects of the organizational climate important to change. Findings show that among those staff members responding to the survey, the belief in rehabilitation scale mean score was associated with higher levels of organizational commitment, and interdepartmental coordination. However, an hierarchical linear modeling (HLM) analysis that used an index score derived from the standard deviation for staff consensus regarding these same beliefs about rehabilitation produced a different pattern of results, showing that high levels of consensus were associated with job frustration, cynicism towards the ability of the institution to change, and lower levels of organizational commitment. The authors conclude that, although the sample may not express the beliefs of corrections officers or prison-based treatment staff at large, within the sample, consensus appeared to play a unique role in evaluating the effect of divergent goals on organizational climate as it relates to change, and warrants consideration when considering the effects of organizational climate.
Convergent evolution of similar function in two structurally divergent enzymes.

AN example of two related enzymes that catalyse similar reactions but possess different active sites is provided by comparing the structure of Escherichia coli thioredoxin reductase with glutathione reductase1. Both are dimeric enzymes that catalyse the reduction of disulphides by pyridine nucleotides through an enzyme disulphide and a flavin2 . Human glutathione reductase contains four structural domains within each molecule: the flavin–adenine dinucleotide (FAD)- and nicotinamide–adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH)-binding domains, the 'central' domain and the C-terminal domain that provides the dimer interface and part of the active site3,4. Although both enzymes share the same catalytic mechanism and similar tertiary structures, their active sites do not resemble each other5,6. We have determined the crystal structure of E. coli thioredoxin reductase at 2 A resolution, and show that thioredoxin reductase lacks the domain that provides the dimer interface in glutathione reductase, and forms a completely different dimeric structure. The catalytically active disulphides are located in different domains on opposite sides of the flavin ring system. This suggests that these enzymes diverged from an ancestral nucleotide-binding protein and acquired their disulphide reductase activities independently.
Die Wall Effects, Contact Angles and Slippage in the Flow of Polymer Melts and Polymer-Particulate Compounds with Carboxylic Acids in a Slit Die

Abstract An experimental study of the influence of carboxylic acid additive in polyethylene/filler and polystyrene/filler compounds in slit die is described. Slit die extrusion experiments and contact angle measurements are reported. A series of fillers of varying particle size including carbon black, calcium carbonate, zinc oxide, and talc are compared. Aliphatic fatty acids, especially octadecanoic acid were used as additives. The greatest viscosity reduction was found in polyethylene/(carbon black) and polystyrene/(calcium carbonate) compounds. Smaller effects are found with the other polyethylene/filler compounds and none in polystyrene/filler compounds. Contact angle experiments indicated carboxylic acid layers on the die surfaces for the polyethylene and not the polystyrene compounds. Mechanisms for this behavior are discussed.
Computing with Words: Zadeh, Turing, Popper and Occam

In this article, after explaining Zadeh's computing with words (CWW) paradigm, I argue that for this paradigm to be embraced, it must be validated using a Turinglike test, use a scientifically correct fuzzy set model for words, namely interval type-2 fuzzy sets (IT2 FSs), and be simple, meaning that fuzzy set operations should be as simple as possible. These conclusions are drawn using the ideas of Turing, Popper and Occam. Short descriptions are provided for a Perceptual Computer (Per-C), which is an architecture for CWW for making subjective judgments, IT2 FSs, IT2 FS models for words, and why an IT2 FS model captures first-order uncertainties about a word. Short biographies of Zadeh, Turing, Popper and Occam are also provided.