cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Putting Community Back in the Community College: The Case for a Localized and Problem-Based Curriculum

In this article the move toward international education in the community college is questioned. Who benefits when two-year schools are globalized? An alternative to the current international approach is suggested. The case is made that community colleges serve the public interest when curricula are centered on solving problems unique to the communities that host and support them.
Analysis and design of a transistor linear-delay circuit

In this paper an analysis is presented of the emitter-coupled linear-time-delay circuit as well as a systematic design procedure which starts with a practical set of specifications. Some important fundamental limitations on the operation and design of the circuit are also presented. Experimental data are included to give an idea of the range of validity of the theory. A range of the ratio of maximum-to-minimum pulse width as high as several hundred has been obtained as compared with 10 or 20 obtainable from a similar vacuum-tube circuit. A ratio in excess of 30 was obtained with a deviation from linearity of less than 3%. Stages of this circuit have been successfully operated in cascade.
Enforced Segregated Stacking in Metallomacrocyclic “METALS.” New Information on Phthalocyanine Donor-Acceptor Interactions

Abstract The chemical, structural, optical and electrical conductivity characteristics of the cofacially joined metallophthalocyanine polymer [Si(Pc)O]n are probed in response to incremental doping by organic (dichlorodicyanoquinone) and inorganic (NO+BF4 −, NO+PF6 −) oxidants of greatly differing structural and electronic characteristics. The achievable degree of partial oxidation, the homogeneity of the doping process, and the macroscopic mechanism of charge transport appear to be remarkably similar.
Effects of pharmacologic sympathectomy on gut hypertrophy in enterectomized rats

Abstract The effect of pharmacologic sympathectomy on compensatory hypertrophy and rate of growth of rats was studied 2 months after 50% mid-enterectomy. An 80% reduction in tissue catecholamine concentration was achieved on biochemical assay of the jejunum and ileum 1 week and 1 and 2 months following administration of 6-hydroxydopamine. No statistical difference in growth rate of the animals or villus height of the jejunal and ileal remnants was observed in the sympathectomized and control subjects. The evidence contradicts the hypothesis that adrenergic innervation initiates or accelerates hypertrophy in the gut remnant.
North American Free Trade Agreement Trucks on U.S. Highway Corridors

The increasing number of trucks that transport U.S.—Mexico and U.S.— Canada trade on U.S. highways has stimulated a strong interest among state departments of transportation and federal highway officials in the location and truck densities along these highway corridors. In many cases, public advocacy groups seeking corridor-related economic development have been formed to promote one or more highway trade corridors. Most of these groups advocate a north-south route through the United States between Canada and Mexico that follows the alignment of an existing federal highway number. Because of the interest in and promotion of highway trade corridors in the United States, the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century includes authorizations for a discretionary program for the development, study, and construction of highway trade corridors. This places a serious burden on state and federal highway administrators to define, plan, and upgrade these corridors adequately. Earlier work that defined U.S. highw...
50,000 years of vegetation and climate history on the Colorado Plateau, Utah and Arizona, USA

Sixty packrat middens were collected in Canyonlands and Grand Canyon National Parks, and these series include sites north of areas that produced previous detailed series from the Colorado Plateau. The exceptionally long time series obtained from each of three sites (> 48,000 14C yr BP to present) include some of the oldest middens yet discovered. Most middens contain a typical late-Wisconsinan glaciation mixture of mesic and xeric taxa, evidence that plant species responded to climate change by range adjustments of elevational distribution based on individual criteria. Differences in elevational range from today for trees and shrubs ranged from no apparent change to as much as 1200 m difference. The oldest middens from Canyonlands NP, however, differ in containing strictly xeric assemblages, including middens incorporating needles of Arizona single-leaf pinyon, far north of its current distribution. Similar-aged middens from the eastern end of Grand Canyon NP contain plants more typical of glacial climates, but also contain fossils of one-seed juniper near its current northern limit in Arizona. Holocene middens reveal the development of modern vegetation assemblages on the Colorado Plateau, recording departures of mesic taxa from low elevation sites, and the arrival of modern dominant components much later.
Human-mediated foot-and-mouth disease epidemic dispersal: disease and vector clusters.

Summary Disease clusters were retrospectively explored at national level using a geo-referenced dataset from the 2001 Uruguayan Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) epidemic. Disease location and time (first 11 epidemic weeks) were analysed across 250 counties (of which 160 were infected), without and with control for human mobility related factors (human population and road densities). The null hypothesis of random disease distribution over space and/or time was assessed with: (i) purely temporal; (ii) purely spatial; and (iii) space/time tests. At least within epidemic weeks 2 and 6, a principal disease cluster was observed in 33 contiguous counties (P 100 km from each other, were also observed (P 93.9% of the counties included in the principal disease cluster; and (ii) statistically significant correlations (P < 0.05) were observed in the first three epidemic weeks between road density and the number of cases. Clusters where human population density was associated with 47% greater number of cases/sq. km than that of the principal cluster indicated possible roles as disease vectors (vector clusters). Selective control policy in vector clusters is recommended. Periodic (i.e. weekly) cluster and correlation analyses of both disease and other covariates may facilitate disease surveillance and help design space-specific control policy.
Novel illumination apertures for resolution-enhanced technology and through-pitch critical dimension control

As line width shrunk down to 90nm and below, resolution-enhanced technology in combination with thinner resists, higher NA (numerical aperture), OPC (optical proximity correction), and special mask types becomes essential for standard lower k1 lithography. Although DDL (double dipole) is popular for low k1 technology, separated x- and y-direction mask exposures will complex the process and reduce throughput. Quadrupole (Nikon) and QUASARTM (ASML) are well-known technologies for smaller pitch approaches with 45o circuit design ruled out constraints. In this paper, we report novel customized-illumination apertures for resolution-enhanced patterns and through-pitch critical dimensions control using a single exposure without design constraint and alignment problems. Both simulation and real exposure results are compared and the difference between aerial images and real resist profiles are also presented. Through-pitch CD uniformity, MEEF, line-end shortening, linearity, and DOF is improved for different illumination apertures with reduced OPC loading and cost effectively.© (2005) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Dielectrophoresis in microchips containing arrays of insulating posts: theoretical and experimental results.

Dielectrophoresis (DEP), a nonlinear electrokinetic transport mechanism, can be used to concentrate and sort cells, viruses, and particles. To date, microfabricated DEP-based devices have typically used embedded metal electrodes to apply spatially nonuniform, time-varying (AC) electric fields. We have developed an alternative method in which arrays of insulating posts in a channel of a microchip produce the spatially nonuniform fields needed for DEP. Electrodes may be located remotely, allowing operation of the device down to zero frequency (DC) without excessive problems of electrolysis. Applying a sufficiently large electric field across an insulating-post array produces two flow regimes through a competition between electrokinetic flow (combined electrophoresis and electroosmosis) and dielectrophoresis. “Streaming DEP” is observed when DEP dominates diffusion but is overcome by electrokinetic flow. Particles concentrated by DEP forces in areas of electric field extrema travel electrokinetically down th...
Mannosyl transferases of the retina: Mannolipid and complex glycan biosynthesis I. Kinetic properties; Product identification

Abstract The retina was shown to contain enzymes that catalyse the transfer of mannose from GDP-[U 14 C]mannose to endogenous acceptors resulting in the synthesis of a mannose-containing lipid. This product had the properties of the polyprenyl-phosphate monosaccharides. In addition, the transfer to a mannose-containing complex glycan was also observed. The optimal conditions for both of these enzymatic reactions were similar. The optimal pH for these reactions in 0·2 m -TES buffer was 7·0. Enzymatic activity did not require the addition of a metal ion, although both reactions were stimulated optimally by 3·3 m m -MnCl 2 . Both reactions were inhibited by EDTA. A high degree of specificity was observed for GDP-mannose as the substrate. The apparent K m for GDP-mannose in the formation of the mannolipid was 1·4 μ m . Mannose was the only radioactive sugar detected in both products. The complex glycan, present as an acid insoluble, chloroform/methanol (2:1)-extracted residue, was solubilized by pronase, from which a low molecular weight (about 7000), mannose containing product was obtained. The mannolipid had chromatographic and acid-base stability properties which were similar to those of dolichyl-phosphate mannose.
Sedimentation, diffusion, and double refraction of flow studies on cetyl pyridinium hyaluronate

Cetyl pyridinium hyaluronate was prepared, and some of its main physicochemical characteristics were studied in nonaqueous media. The following parameters were obtained: sedimentation constant, D20 = 3.8 S; diffusion constant, D20 = 1.0 × 10−7 cm.2/sec.; partial specific volume, V = 0.86 cc./g. From these data were calculated molecular weight, M = 289,000; frictional ratio, f/fo = 2.4, corresponding to a molecular asymmetry of L/d 30; and finally, a molecular length of 900 A. Using a velocity gradient range of 2,500 to 15,000 see.−1, a molecular length of 2400 to 3100 A. was obtained with the double refraction of flow apparatus. The difference between the molecular length obtained by ultracentrifugal analysis and that obtained by the flow birefringence technique was attributed to an unfolding of the molecule under shearing stress. This view is supported by the calculation of the internal viscosity of cetyl pyridinium hyaluronate according to the method of Cerf. This was found to be ηi = 9.4 × 10−2. The stoichiometric reaction between hyaluronic acid and cetyl pyridinium chloride yields a derivative which, though differing significantly in some respects, still retains certain similarities to the naturally occurring polysaccharide. The electrical properties of hyaluronic acid are altered when sodium ions are replaced by the cetyl pyridinium group, and the material is no longer soluble in aqueous medium. Even with this structural modification, the molecule behaves in the manner characteristic of highly asymmetric particles. The sedimentation and diffusion patterns, like those of sodium hyaluronate, are positively skewed, indicating a polydisperse distribution which favors the higher molecular weight components.
Florida’s Motorcycle Helmet Law Repeal and Fatality Rates

On July 1 2000, the State of Florida exempted adult motorcyclist and moped riders from wearing helmets provided they have medical insurance of $10 000. Monthly time series of motorcycle occupant deaths are examined from 1/1994 to 12/2001. The interrupted time series analysis estimates a 48.6% increase in motorcycle occupant deaths the year after the law change. The impact estimate reduces to 38.2% and 21.3% when trends in travel miles and motorcycle registrations are controlled. Our findings suggest that the law’s age exemption should be revoked.
Work in progress — Teaching networking concepts through Bluetooth software implementation

The objective of this work-in-progress project is to develop complementary computer science networking laboratory exercises to reinforce the theoretical topics by means of active learning based on the ubiquitous Bluetooth wireless communications technology. The main advantages of our approach are: (1) Bluetooth is used everywhere and students would find it a very tangible and relevant learning tool, (2)The full software implementation in C++ is available from Broadcom (major Bluetooth manufacturer) that contains a majority of the main protocol functions with respect to the seven OSI layers, (3) No special equipment other than the low cost Bluetooth adapters are needed. This makes it very easy to sustain, reconfigure and maintain for a rich learning environment. (4) Bluetooth technology will enable to teach theoretical networking concepts as well as fundamental programming concepts. The labs will facilitate the students' learning at comprehension, application, synthesis and evaluation levels of cognition based on the classical taxonomy of cognitive levels by Bloom. The deliverables of this project include student lab exercises as well as instructor manuals for easy deployment at other institutions. We have already used the first set of labs successfully in a networking course at the U of Michigan — Flint.
Measurement of physiological parameters in tumors in vivo using MPLSM

Conventional epifluorescence microscopy coupled with chronic animal window models has provided stunning insight into tumor pathophysiology, including gene expression, angiogenesis, interstitial transport, and drug delivery. However, the findings to date have been limited to the tumor surface (<150 microns). This is an important drawback because the internal architecture of tumors is known to be heterogeneous, with a collagenous tumor/host interface, highly vascularized outer regions, and poorly vascularized inner necrotic regions. Here we present the first application of the multiphoton laser-scanning microscope (MPLSM) to monitoring drug delivery in tumors, phenotypic tumor cell behavior, and tumor-induced gene promoter activity in vivo. Furthermore, we show that the MPLSM can be used in living tumors to quantify physiological parameters such as vascular density, blood flow velocity, leukocyte/endothelial interactions, and single vessel permeability. These measurements are performed with high three-dimensional resolution up to depths of several hundred microns, thus providing novel insights into the internal milieu of tumors. These findings will allow the development of drug therapeutic strategies that not only affect the tumor surface, but also internal regions.
UNLV and beyond

While previous columns have discussed new developments in library architectural design and technology integration, this one turns to the actual process of developing the cybrary. Following in the spirit of the UNLV articles, the author summarizes some of their key points and argues that advanced planning and continual dialogue with individuals both internal and external to the library system is essential. Finally, he provides some discussion about his visit to the new UNLV library. The article is the first in a series of five that will discuss how best to effectuate library planning.
On empirical likelihood inference of a change-point

Abstract Trimming is necessary for the empirical likelihood inference in the change-point problem. This work studies the asymptotic behavior of the trimmed empirical likelihood ratio (ELR) statistic in its full spectrum. Our results show it is comparable with its parametric counterpart.
Poster abstract: Cybermussels: A biological sensor network using freshwater mussels

ABSTRACT In this paper, we describe our ongoing work on designing an underwater sensor network for monitoring the ecosystem of the Mississippi river using freshwater mussels as biological sensors. One of the most extensive manifestations of anthropogenic mismanagement of nitrogen is eutrophication of the Gulf of Mexico. Our vision is to create a biosensor network of native freshwater mussels in the Mississippi river to monitor and model key components of the nitrogen cycle.
Three-Dimensional Finite-Element Acoustic Analysis of Solid Rocket Motor Cavities

This paper briefly discusses the state-of-the-art of combustion stability analysis of solid propellant rocket motors and the fact that an accurate, unperturbed, acoustical frequency-modal analysis is an initial requirement in the stability analysis. The formulation of a general three-dimensional finite-element structural vibration analysis model is presented in condensed fashion and it is shown how this formulation can be simply modified to yield a fluid vibration analysis model. The resulting model is applied to a simple example problem for the purpose of demonstrating the feasibility of utilizing an existing structural analysis code for a direct threedimensional acoustic analysis.
Age as a prognostic factor for disease recurrence after radical prostatectomy.

Abstract Objectives. To assess whether age has an impact on biochemical recurrence after radical prostatectomy for localized adenocarcinoma of the prostate. Methods. Four hundred eighty-nine consecutive patients who underwent radical retropubic prostatectomy and did not have metastases to the lymph nodes were retrospectively analyzed. Disease recurrence was defined as a serum prostate-specific antigen greater than 0.2 ng/mL and rising on at least two postoperative measurements. Biochemical progression was compared in patients 70 years old or younger and older than age 70. The Kaplan-Meier estimator and Cox's proportional hazards model were employed to investigate the impact of age on time to recurrence. Neoadjuvant androgen deprivation was treated as a stratification variable in the Cox models. Results. The mean follow-up was 25.4 ± 20.8 months. The Gleason score and extent of cancer in the pathologic analyses of the prostatectomy specimen was not significantly different between the two groups. Biochemical recurrence was detected in 12% of patients 70 years old or younger and in 25% of those older than 70 ( P = 0.01). In multivariate analyses, after adjusting for all prognostic factors, younger age (70 years or younger) was independently associated with a longer time to recurrence ( P Conclusions. Our results suggest that age per se may be an independent prognostic factor for disease recurrence after radical prostatectomy. This implies that patients 70 years old or younger are more likely to benefit from surgery. This information may be useful when counseling patients with clinically localized carcinoma of the prostate.
The Possibility of Rational Outcomes from Democratic Discourse and Procedures

This article focuses on the amount of rationality we can expect from the outcomes of democratic procedures. I will examine two traditions within democratic theory that posit competing and opposing conceptions of participation. These are: (A) theories of democratic discourse, and (B) disequilibrium theories of social choice. The stated arguments seem to be mutually exclusive and theorists who work within one field tend to ignore the conclusions reached in the other. What has not been noticed in the literature to date is that both theories present almost identical assumptions concerning the requirements for a fair procedure; they both demand equal access to debate, the absence of a powerful agenda setter, unrestrained access to raise and object to amendments and so on. Despite these similarities, one argument suggests that the procedure of democratic discourse will yield morally legitimate outcomes, while the other suggests that it has a tendency to produce chaos and disequilibrium. At heart, the difference...
A 12 GHz 1.9 W Direct Digital Synthesizer MMIC Implemented in 0.18 $\mu$ m SiGe BiCMOS Technology

This paper presents a 12 GHz direct digital synthesizer (DDS) MMIC with 9-bit phase and 8-bit amplitude resolution implemented in a 0.18 mum SiGe BiCMOS technology. Composed of a 9-bit pipeline accumulator and an 8-bit sine-weighted current-steering DAC, the DDS is capable of synthesizing sinusoidal waveforms up to 5.93 GHz. The maximum clock frequency of the DDS MMIC is measured as 11.9 GHz at the Nyquist output and 12.3 GHz at 2.31 GHz output. The spurious-free dynamic range (SFDR) of the DDS, measured at Nyquist output with an 11.9 GHz clock, is 22 dBc. The power consumption of the DDS MMIC measured at a 12 GHz clock input is 1.9 W with dual power supplies of 3.3 V/4 V. The DDS thus achieves a record-high power efficiency figure of merit (FOM) of 6.3 GHz/W. With more than 9600 transistors, the active area of the MMIC is only 2.5 x 0.7 mm2. The chip was measured in packaged prototypes using 48-pin ceramic LCC packages.
Tribological and Mechanical Characterization of Carbon-Coated Sliders and Disks

Tribological and mechanical properties of carbon-coated sliders and disks manufactured by various vendors were evaluated using atomic force microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and nano-indentation testing in the presence of ultrasonic excitation. The Raman spectra of carbon-coated sliders were found to differ significantly from the Raman spectra of carbon-coated disks. The tribological properties of carbon-coated commercially available sliders did not show substantial differences regardless of the manufacturer. The same result was observed for commercially available disks manufactured by different manufacturers. Dynamic nano-indentations in the presence of ultrasonic excitation indicate discontinuities which are correlated to overcoat thickness.
Acute Clostridial Hepatitis in an Ostrich

1. Alderink, FJ, Dietrich, R: 1981, Anaplasmosis in Texas: epidemiologic and economic data from a questionnaire survey. Proc Natl Anaplasmosis Conf 7:27-44. 2. Boynton WH, Hermes WB, Howell DE, et al.: 1936, Anaplasmosis transmission by three species of ticks in California. J Am Vet Med Assoc 88:500-502. 3. Bram RA, Roby TO: 1970, Attempted hereditary transmission of Anaplasma marginale Theiler with Dermacentor albipictus (Packard). J Parasitol 56:620-621. 4. Eriks IS, Stiller D, Palmer GH: 1993, Impact of persistent Anaplasma marginale rickettsemia on tick infection and transmission. J Clin Microbiol 31:2091-2096. 5. Ewing SA: 1981, Transmission of Anaplasma marginale by arthropods. Proc Natl Anaplasmosis Conf 7:395-423. 6. Ge NL, Kocan KM, Ewing SA, et al.: 1996, Use of a nonradioactive DNA probe for detection of Anaplasma marginale infection in field cattle: comparison with complement fixation serology and microscopic examination. J Vet Diagn Invest (in press). 7. Ge NL, Kocan KM, Murphy GL, Blouin EF: 1995, Detection of Anaplasma marginale DNA in bovine erythrocytes by slotblot and in situ hybridization with a PCR-mediated digoxigeninlabeled DNA probe. J Vet Diagn Invest 7:465-472. 8. Goff WL, Stiller D, Roeder RA, et al.: 1990, Comparison of a DNA probe, complement-fixation and indirect immunofluorescence test for diagnosing Anaplasma marginale in suspected carrier cattle. Vet Microbiol 24:381-390. 9. Kocan KM: 1986, Development of Anaplasma marginale in ixodid ticks: coordinated development of a rickettsial organism and its tick host, pp. 472-505. 10. Kocan KM, Goff WL, Stiller D, et al.: 1992, Persistence of Anaplasma marginale (Rickettsiales: Anaplasmataceae) in male Dermacentor andersoni (Atari: Ixodidae) transferred successively from infected to susceptible calves. J Med Entomol 29: 657-668. 11. Kocan KM, Stiller D, Goff WL, et al.: 1992, Development of Anaplasma marginale in male Dermacentor andersoni transferred from parasitemic to susceptible cattle. Am J Vet Res 53: 499-507. 12. Kuttler KL: 1984, Anaplasma infection in wild and domestic ruminants: a review. J Wild Dis 20:12-20. 13. Rodgers SJ, Welsh RD, Stebbins ME: 1994, Seroprevalence of bovine anaplasmosis in Oklahoma from 1977 to 1991. J Vet Diagn Invest 6:200-206. 14. Sanborne CE, Moe LH: 1934, Anaplasmosis investigations. Rep Okla A&M Coll Agric Exp Stn 1932-1934:275-279. 15. Stiller D, Leatch G, Kuttler K: 1981, Experimental transmission of bovine anaplasmosis by the winter tick, Dermacentor albipictus (Packard). Proc Natl Anaplasmosis Conf 7:463-475. 16. Wright JC, Kocan KM, Ewing SA: 1985, Oklahoma anaplasmosis survey. Okla Vet 37:130-132. 17. Zaugg JL: 1986, Experimental anaplasmosis in American bison: persistence of infections of Anaplasma marginale and nonsusceptibility to A. ovis. J Wild Dis 22:169-172. 18. Zaugg JL, Kuttler KL: 1985, Anaplasma marginale infections in American bison: experimental infection and serologic study. Am J Vet Res 46:438-441.
A Syntax-based Statistical Translation Model

We present a syntax-based statistical translation model. Our model transforms a source-language parse tree into a target-language string by applying stochastic operations at each node. These operations capture linguistic differences such as word order and case marking. Model parameters are estimated in polynomial time using an EM algorithm. The model produces word alignments that are better than those produced by IBM Model 5.
Food Webs in the Litter: Effects of Food and Nest Addition on Ant Communities in Coffee Agroecosystems and Forest

Community assembly is driven by multiple factors, including resource availability and habitat requirements. Litter nesting ants respond to food and nest site availability, and adding food and nests may increase ant species richness and abundance. However, litter decomposers share food resources with ants, and increasing food availability may speed decomposition processes, eliminating twigs and seeds in which litter ants nest. We manipulated ant food and nest resources in three habitat types (forest, high-shade coffee, and low-shade coffee) to determine ant community responses after 1 and 2 mo. We examined changes in numbers of ant species, colonies, workers, brood, colony growth rate, and ant species composition. Habitat type strongly affected ant communities, influencing ant species richness, numbers of colonies and workers, and ant species composition. However, food addition and nest addition did not affect these community characteristics. Colony growth rate did not differ with food addition but was greater in forest and low-shade coffee compared with high-shade coffee. Habitat differences in colony growth may be because of presence of an aggressive species (Wasmannia auropunctata Roger) in high-shade coffee plots or naturally low arthropod densities during a time when ant colonization was low. Thus, in coffee landscapes, habitat type impacts litter nesting ant community structure, composition, and colony growth rate; however, food and nest addition had small impacts.
Myocardial bridging is associated with alteration in coronary vasoreactivity.

Background Shear stress alteration has been recognized as a predisposing factor for the impairment of endothelial function. Myocardial bridging is a congenital condition associated with alteration in shear stress, however, its impact upon vasoreactivity remains undetermined. Methods and results This was a case-control designed study with 29 patients with myocardial bridging and 58 patients without myocardial bridging. Endotheliumdependent and endothelium-independent changes in coronary artery diameters, blood flow and wall shear stress were determined after intracoronary infusion of acetylcholine (ACH, 10 6 ‐10 4 mol/L) and nitroglycerine (NTG, 200 lg). Coronary flow velocity reserve (CFVR) was determined after intracoronary injection of adenosine (18‐36 lg). In response to ACH, there was more epicardial vasoconstriction at the myocardial bridging site compared with the proximal and distal segments (29.6 ± 21.7 vs. 9.6 ± 22.5 and 17.4 ± 21.5%, p < 0.05) and compared with the control group (29.6 ± 21.7 vs. 5.9 ± 36.5%, p < 0.001). The response to NTG and CFVR was the same in the case and the control group. Wall shear rate (WSR) was higher in the MB site at baseline and in response to ACH. Conclusions MB is characterised by enhanced WSR and impairment in endotheliumdependent vasorelaxation. These functional alterations may add to the severity of structural lumen compression and thus to the clinical presentation of this congenital abnormality.
DC-DC converter suitable for thermoelectric generator

With recent advancements in thermoelectric material performance, thermoelectric generators have become a viable alternative for power generation using small temperature differentials with benefits that can not be found in other energy conversion methods. The power generated by a thermoelectric generator, using a small /spl Delta/T, is characterized by a relatively high current (-/spl sim/5 A), but a relatively low voltage (<0.3 V), which is often not suited for many practical applications. In order to make use of the thermoelectric generated power in applications requiring a higher voltage, a DC-DC step up converter that can handle low input voltage is needed. Commercial available DC step up converters require an input voltage of at least 0.7 volts, which is the minimal voltage required for operating a bipolar junction switch. Several novel approaches for low input voltage DC-DC converter concepts have been studied and proved to be feasible. Their operations are based on some unconventional methods achieving DC to AC conversion for low input voltage. In one solid state approach, a normally-on transistor and a tunnel diode were utilized to achieve low voltage oscillation. A conversion concept was also developed which is based on an electromagnetic actuated mechanical switch. Operating principles and measured performance of these approaches will be reported.
Observation of near-interface oxide traps with the charge-pumping technique

In studies of MOS devices with the charge pumping technique, the authors have encountered a low-frequency increase in the charge recombined per cycle, which they attribute to the charging and discharging of traps located within a tunneling distance of the Si-SiO/sub 2/ interface, i.e., near-interface oxide traps. MOS devices subjected to ionizing radiation as well as ultrathin tunnel oxide polysilicon-oxide-nitride-oxide-silicon (SONOS) nonvolatile memory devices possess a high density of near-interface oxide traps. When the charge recombined per cycle is examined as a function of frequency, a breakpoint is observed at a particular frequency with an inverse equivalent to a trap-to-trap tunneling time constant. >
Gallbladder Glycoprotein Secretion in Mice with Hemolytic Anemia and Pigment Gallstones

The nb/nb mouse with hereditary hemolytic anemia provides an animal model for the study of pigment gallstone disease. We measured glycoprotein synthesis and secretion in gallbladder neck and fundus of 6-month-old mice without stones, and in 12-month old mice with and without stones in order to determine the effect of age and presence or absence of stones on mucin release. We observed that the gallbladder necks of 12-month-old nb/nb mice with pigment stones secreted more 3H-glucosamine-labeled glycoprotein (68.2 dpm per microgram protein) than did the gallbladder necks of mice without pigment stones (31.1 dpm per microgram protein). When expressed as a percentage of total glycoprotein synthesis in the gallbladder neck, secretion of glycoprotein was 23.4% in 6-month-old hemolytic mice and 28.7% in 12-month-old hemolytic mice without pigment stones. However, in the presence of pigment stones, the percentage of secreted glycoprotein rose to 4.08%, which differed significantly from both 6-month-old (p < 0.02) and 12-month-old mice without stones (p < 0.05). Our results suggest that the presence of gallstones in nb/nb mice was associated with a localized increase in glycoprotein release from gallbladder neck. The mechanism for this increase may be precipitation of pigment-mucin concentrations in the gallbladder neck glands which has been previously described in this animal model.
Effects of binaural electronic hearing protectors on localization and response time to sounds in the horizontal plane.

The effects of electronic hearing protector devices (HPDs) on localization and response time (RT) to stimuli were assessed at six locations in the horizontal plane. The stimuli included a firearm loading, telephone ringing and .5-kHz and 4-kHz tonebursts presented during continuous traffic noise. Eight normally hearing adult listeners were evaluated under two conditions: (a) ears unoccluded; (b) ears occluded with one of three amplitude-sensitive sound transmission HPDs. All HPDs were found to affect localization, and performance was dependent on stimuli and location. Response time (RT) was less in the unoccluded condition than for any of the HPD conditions for the broadband stimuli. In the HPD conditions, RT to incorrect responses was significantly less than RT to correct responses for 120° and 240°, the two locations with the greatest number of errors. The RTs to incorrect responses were significantly greater than to correct responses for 60° and 300°, the two locations with the least number of errors. The HPDs assessed in this study did not preserve localization ability under most stimulus conditions.
Carbon Nanotube Fibers Are Compatible With Mammalian Cells and Neurons

We demonstrate the biocompatibility of carbon nanotube fibers (CNFs) fabricated from single-wall carbon nanotubes. Produced by a particle-coagulation spinning process, CNFs are "hair-like" conductive microwires, which uniquely combine properties of porous nanostructured scaffolds, high-area electrodes, and permeable microfluidic conduits. We report that CNFs are nontoxic and support the attachment, spreading, and growth of mammalian cells and the extension of processes from neurons in vitro. Our findings suggest that CNF may be employed for an electrical interfacing of nerve cells and external devices.
Epilogue: A Tale of Two Copulas.

The five papers in this issue cover a range of perspectives on the acquisition and use of the Spanish copulas ser and estar in a variety of contexts, including language contact, bilingual language acquisition, and classroom second language learning. The fact that these papers cite work in this area as far back as the early part of the 20th century with each subsequent decade being represented suggests the continual importance and complexity of the distinction between the two copular forms and shows how this complexity is played out in acquisition and bilingual use. Over the past century different perspectives have been taken on this multifaceted issue with linguistic explanations and the role of the native language being primary. In this epilogue, we focus on some of these same issues, but expand our commentary to include the new dimensions represented in this collection of papers: (i) context of learning (input), (ii) prior knowledge as represented by other language(s) known, (iii) item-learning and lexical development, and (iv) innovations in methodology.
Structure-function studies of the lustrin A polyelectrolyte domains, RKSY and D4.

The lustrin superfamily represents a unique group of biomineralization proteins localized between layered aragonite mineral plates (i.e., nacre layers) in mollusk shell. These proteins not only exhibit elastomeric behavior within the mineralized matrix, but also adhesion to the aragonite-containing composite layer. One member of the lustrin superfamily, Lustrin A, has been sequenced; the protein is organized into defined, modular sequence domains that are hypothesized to perform separate functions (i.e., force unfolding, mineral adhesion, intermolecular binding) within the Lustrin A protein. Using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and in vitro mineralization assays, we investigated structure-function relationships for two Lustrin A putative mineral binding domains, the 30 AA Arg, Lys, Tyr, Ser-rich (RKSY) and the 24 AA Asp-rich (D4) sequence regions domain of the Lustrin A protein. The results indicate that both sequences adopt open, unfolded structures that represent either extended or random coil states. Using geologic calcite overgrowth assays and scanning electron microscopic analyses, we observe that the RKSY polypeptide does not significantly perturb calcium carbonate growth. However, the D4 domain does influence crystal growth in a concentration-dependent manner. Collectively, our data indicate that D4, and not the RKSY domain, exhibits structure-function activity consistent with a mineral binding region.
Some long-term motor effects of cerebral commissurotomy in man ☆

Abstract The long-term effects of cerebral commissurotomy on motor co-ordination and dyspraxia were investigated in 8 patients who had undergone complete or partial commissurotomy 5–10 yr previously. Performance on a series of standardized motor co-ordination and manual dexterity tests was compared with the established norms. Although qualitative performance appeared essentially unimpaired on most tests the scores for speed were consistently below normal and also inferior to those reported for patients with various unilateral brain lesions. In certain bimanual tasks requiring rapid alternating motion and interdependent control severe qualitative and quantitative impairments were present. In addition, marked dysgraphia and mild ideomotor-type dyspraxia on the left side, and moderate dyscopia on the right were present up to 10 yr after surgery in patients with complete commissurotomy. It would appear from the results that interhemispheric communication becomes particularly important for motor output to the extent that the tasks involve complex intermanual coordination or hemispheric specialization with ipsilateral control.
Centrosomal amplification and spindle multipolarity in cancer cells

Recent developments have highlighted the important role centrosomal defects play in the cellular changes associated with tumorigenesis. This article reviews recent developments addressing the impact of numerical centrosomal amplification on chromosomal segregational defects in the cancer cell. Probably, the most significant is the change to the structure of the spindle that leads to increased numbers of spindle poles and abnormal partitioning of the chromosomes in mitosis. I address how centrosomal changes are initiated and how they may lead to spindle multipolarity.
Multiple Domains of the Jaagsiekte Sheep Retrovirus Envelope Protein Are Required for Transformation of Rodent Fibroblasts

Jaagsiekte sheep retrovirus (JSRV) is an exogenous retrovirus of sheep that induces a contagious lung cancer, ovine pulmonary adenocarcinoma. We previously showed that the gene encoding JSRV envelope protein (Env) appears to function as an oncogene, since it can transform mouse NIH 3T3 cells. The cytoplasmic tail of the Env transmembrane protein (TM) is necessary for the transformation. However, previous experiments did not exclude the involvement of the Env surface protein (SU) in transformation. In this study, we created a series of nested deletion mutants through the SU domain and assessed their ability to transform rodent fibroblasts. All SU deletion mutants downstream of the predicted signal peptide were unable to transform murine NIH 3T3 or rat 208F cells. Transport to the plasma membrane of selected deleted Env proteins was confirmed by confocal immunofluorescence microscopy of hemagglutinin-tagged versions. Additional sequential SU deletion mutants lacking 50-amino-acid (aa) blocks throughout SU also were unable to transform. Furthermore, minimal insertion mutants of two amino acids (Leu/Gln) at various positions in SU also abolished transformation. These data indicate that domains in SU facilitate efficient JSRV transformation. This could reflect a necessity of SU for appropriate configuration of the Env protein or independent activation by SU of a signaling pathway necessary for transformation. Complementation between SU and TM mutants for transformation supported the latter hypothesis. Cotransfection with ΔGP Y590F (mutant in the TM cytoplasmic tail) with ΔGP SUΔ103-352 (lacking most of SU) resulted in efficient transformation. The resulting transformants showed evidence for the presence and expression of both mutant plasmids.
Cold War Origins of the International Federation for Information Processing

The International Federation for Information Processing (IFIP) was born as a nongovernmental federation with the main goal of bringing together computer professionals from countries in the East and West. This article examines the Cold War context of the IFIP's origins and the mechanisms its founders used to reconcile computing and politics and to construct computing as an international discipline.
Progressively adaptive scalar quantization

We consider a progressively adaptive scalar quantization scheme where the quantizer is adjusted as input samples are processed. The quantizer adjustments are based on an estimated probability density function (pdf) consisting of piecewise polynomials. This pdf is calculated from the bin probabilities that are estimated from quantized samples. The effect of the support of the pdf on the performance of Lloyd-Max quantizers is also examined. Experimental results on the progressively adaptive quantizer for non-stationary sources are shown.
On software platforms, their modeling with UML 2, and platform-independent design

This paper defines a precise conceptual model of a software platform and the relationship that exists between platforms and software applications that use them. One of the key features of this model is that it allows formal verification of deployment specifications. The paper also describes how the proposed conceptual model can be represented directly using some of the new modeling features of the industry-standard UML 2.0 language. Finally, we briefly describe how this model can be used to support platform-independent design while still accounting for the potentially fundamental impact that platform characteristics can have on key design decisions.
Mental Illness and the Use of Restraints in Nursing Homes

Using data from 441 newly admitted nursing home residents, we examined whether the diagnoses of mental illnesses, as well as other resident characteristics, were associated with use of physical restraints in both high restraint and low restraint use homes. Predictors of restraint use during both the first month and the first year of admission were inability to transfer and having a combination of severe ADL and cognitive impairment. Other predictors were wandering, inability to dress, symptoms of depression, and severity of cognitive impairment.
High Vitamin C Intake Is Associated with Lower 4-Year Bone Loss in Elderly Men

Vitamin C is essential for collagen formation and normal bone development. We evaluated associations of total, supplemental, and dietary vitamin C intake with bone mineral density (BMD) at the hip [femoral neck, trochanter], spine, and radial shaft and 4-y BMD change in elderly participants from the Framingham Osteoporosis Study. Energy-adjusted vitamin C intakes were estimated from the Willett FFQ in 1988-89. Mean BMD and 4-y BMD change was estimated, for men and women, by tertile/category of vitamin C intake, adjusting for covariates. We tested for interaction with smoking, calcium, and vitamin E intake. Among 334 men and 540 women, the mean age was 75 y and mean vitamin D intake was 8.25 mug/d (women) and 8.05 mug/d (men). We observed negative associations between total and supplemental vitamin C intake and trochanter-BMD among current male smokers (P-trend = 0.01). Among male nonsmokers, total vitamin C intake was positively associated with femoral neck BMD (P-trend = 0.04). Higher total vitamin C intake was associated with less femoral neck and trochanter-BMD loss in men with low calcium (all P-trend </= 0.03) or vitamin E intakes (all P-trend = 0.03). Higher dietary vitamin C intake tended to be associated with lower femoral neck-BMD loss (P-trend = 0.09). These associations were attenuated but retained borderline significance (P-trend < 0.1) after adjusting for potassium intake (a marker of fruit and vegetable intake), suggesting that vitamin C effects may not be separated from other protective factors in fruit and vegetables. Null associations were observed among women. These results suggest a possible protective role of vitamin C for bone health in older men.
Rate of Physical Activity and Community Health: Evidence From U.S. Counties.

Background: Although previous studies supported the health benefits of physical activity, these studies were limited to individual-level research designs. Building upon a social-ecological model, we examined the relationship between physical activity and community health—the health status of a defined group of people—while accounting for the potential endogeneity of physical activity to health. Methods: We obtained U.S. county-level data from the 2012 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System survey and the 2014 County Health Ranking Database. We first conducted an ordinary least squares (OLS) regression analysis to examine the relationship between the rate of physical activity and community health measured by the average perceived health score for each county. We then conducted a 2-stage least squares (2SLS) regression analysis to investigate this relationship after accounting for potential endogeneity. Results: Results from the OLS analysis indicated that the rate of physical activity was positively as...
Meditation has stronger relationships with mindfulness, kundalini, and mystical experiences than yoga or prayer

Contemplative practices can have profound effects on mindfulness and on physical and sensory and mystical experiences. Individuals who self-reported meditation, yoga, contemplative prayer, or a combination of practices and their patterns of practice were compared for mindfulness, kundalini effects, and mystical experiences. The results suggest that the amount of practice but not the pattern and social conditions of practice influences mindfulness and possibly mystical experiences. Meditation, yoga, contemplative prayer, or a combination of practices all were found to be associated with enhancements of mindfulness, kundalini effects, and mystical experiences, but meditation had particularly strong associations and may be the basis of the associations of yoga and prayer with these outcomes. The results further suggest that the primary association of contemplative practices is with the real time awareness and appreciation of sensory and perceptual experiences which may be the intermediary between disparate practices and mindfulness, kundalini effects, and mystical experiences.
Recognition of Undiagnosed Neonatal Heart Disease

Heart defects are the most common congenital malformation. Approximately 8000 infants per year in the United States require diagnosis in the newborn period to avoid severe injury or death. It is incumbent on the neonatologist and pediatrician to expeditiously detect the presence of symptomatic heart disease so that infants can be stabilized before cardiovascular decompensation. Evaluating infants and further categorizing them into the particular pathophysiology are necessary to stabilize them in anticipation of more definitive care by the pediatric cardiac team.