cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Influence of insect abundance and vegetation structure on site-occupancy of bats in managed pine forests

Abstract Site-occupancy of bats in forested landscapes has been linked to vegetation clutter, but clutter alone may not sufficiently explain observed site-occupancy. Abundance of prey likely has a strong influence on habitat use in forest landscapes as well. Therefore, we simultaneously examined influence of insect abundance and vegetation characteristics on bat site-occupancy across 3 pine (Pinus spp.)-dominated landscapes within the southeastern U.S. Coastal Plain. We conducted acoustic surveys and used Akaike’s Information Criterion to evaluate plausibility of occupancy and detection models that incorporated vegetation- and insect-related factors. Results indicate that bat site-occupancy was better explained by a combination of vegetation characteristics and insect abundance than either separately, and vegetation structure has a stronger influence than prey abundance. Additionally, our data generally suggest insect taxon is more influential in predicting occupancy than insect size. Management activities on pine-dominated landscapes that simultaneously reduce vegetation clutter and increase insect abundance are likely to benefit resident bat species.
Proceedings of the North American Society of Head and Neck Pathology, Baltimore, MD, March 17, 2021: The Mistakes I Made When I Stepped Out of My Neck of the Woods

Rapidly growing, symptomatic, non-hematological, malignant neck masses are unusual in young adults. We report a case of a 34-year-old African American male with sickle cell trait who presented with a large left supraclavicular/cervical mass comprising of poorly differentiated malignant epithelial cells consistent with metastatic carcinoma of unknown origin. Upon immunohistochemistry, the tumor showed loss of INI1 (BAF47) and retained PAX-8 expression. After extensive clinical and radiological work-up the primary tumor was found to be a 2.6 cm renal medullary carcinoma. This case highlights the role of multidisciplinary approach to the diagnosis of a neck mass and to understanding that certain genetically-defined tumors can occur at and metastasize to any site.
A phase I study of the anaplastic lymphoma kinase inhibitor ceritinib in combination with gemcitabine-based chemotherapy in patients with advanced solid tumors.

In this phase I, dose-escalation study, we sought to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of the anaplastic lymphoma kinase/c-ROS oncogene 1 receptor (ALK/ROS1) inhibitor ceritinib in combination with gemcitabine-based chemotherapy in patients with advanced solid tumors. Secondary objectives were characterization of the safety profile, pharmacokinetics and preliminary efficacy of these combinations, and identification of potential biomarkers of efficacy. Ceritinib was combined with gemcitabine (Arm 1), gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel (Arm 2) or gemcitabine/cisplatin (Arm 3). Drug concentrations in plasma were measured by tandem mass spectrometric detection (LC-MS/MS). We analyzed archival tumor tissue for ALK, ROS1, hepatocyte growth factor receptor (c-MET) and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) expression by immunohistochemistry. Arm 2 closed early secondary to toxicity. Twenty-one patients were evaluable for dose-limiting toxicity (DLT). There was one DLT in Arm 1 (grade 3 ALT increase) and three DLTs in Arm 3 (grade 3 acute renal failure, grade 3 thrombocytopenia, grade 3 dyspnea). The MTD of ceritinib was determined to be 600 mg (Arm 1) and 450 mg orally daily (Arm 3). Main toxicities were hematologic, constitutional and gastrointestinal as expected by the chemotherapy backbone. The apparent clearance for ceritinib decreased substantially after repeated dosing; cisplatin did not significantly affect the pharmacokinetics of ceritinib. The overall response rate was 20%; the median progression-free survival was 4.8 months. Three out of five response-evaluable cholangiocarcinoma patients had clinical benefit. Increased expression of c-MET was associated with a lack of clinical benefit. Ceritinib in combination with gemcitabine and gemcitabine/cisplatin has a manageable toxicity profile. Further development of this strategy in tumors with ALK or ROS1 fusions is warranted.
Waves in Complex Media

A clear and interdisciplinary introduction to the structural and scattering properties of complex photonic media, focusing on deterministic aperiodic structures and their conceptual roots in geometry and number theory. Integrates important results and recent developments into a coherent and physically consistent story, balanced between mathematical designs, scattering and optical theories, and engineering device applications. Includes discussions of emerging device applications in metamaterials and nano-optics technology. Will be of interest to both academia and industry as it develops the underlying physical and mathematical background in partnership with engineering applications, providing a perspective on both fundamental optical sciences and photonic device technology. Emphasizing the comprehension of physical concepts and their engineering implications over the more formal developments, this is an essential introduction to the stimulating and fast-growing field of aperiodic optics and complex photonics.
Leadership communication, stress, and burnout among frontline emergency department staff amid the COVID-19 pandemic: A mixed methods approach.

BACKGROUND: Organizations have a key role to play in supporting healthcare workers (HCWs) and mitigating stress during COVID-19. We aimed to understand whether perceptions of support and communication by local leadership were associated with reduced reports of stress and burnout among frontline HCWs. METHODS: We conducted cross-sectional surveys embedded within emergency department (ED) workflow during the first wave of COVID-19 from April 9, 2020 to June 15th, 2020 within three EDs of a multisite health system in the Northeast United States. All ED HCWs were administered electronic surveys during shift via text message. We simultaneously conducted 64 qualitative interviews to better characterize and validate survey responses. Primary survey outcomes were levels of work stress and burnout. RESULTS: Over 10 week study, 327 of 431 (76%) frontline HCWs responded to at least one round of the survey. More useful communication mediated through higher perception of support was significantly associated with lower work stress (B = -0.33, p < 0.001) and burnout (B = -7.84, p < 0.001). A one-point increase on the communication Likert scale was associated with a 9% reduction in stress and a 19% reduction in burnout. Three themes related to effective crisis communication during COVID-19 emerged in interviews: (1) information consolidation prior to dissemination, (2) consistency of communication, and (3) bi-directional communication. CONCLUSION: This work suggests that effective local leadership communication, characterized by information consolidation, consistency, and bi-directionality, leads to higher perceptions of support and lower stress and burnout among ED frontline workers. As the pandemic continues, these results present an evidence-based framework for leaders to support frontline HCWs through effective crisis communication.
Higher Education in the Global Age : Policy, Practice and Promise in Emerging Societies

Foreword: The Future of Global Education Parag Khanna Introduction: Higher Education in the Global Age Daniel Araya and Peter Marber Section One: Mapping Higher Education 1. Higher Education and Emerging Markets: Opportunity, Anxiety and Unintended Consequences Amid Globalization Peter Marber 2. Why Should We Care About Global Higher Education? Ben Wildavsky 3. Bologna Trionfante?: The Global Influence of Europe's Higher Education Agenda Paul L. Gaston 4. Higher Education Competition and Regional Networks in Russia and Central Eurasia Mark Johnson 5. Emerging Higher Education in the Post-Confucian Heritage Zone Simon Marginson 6. The China Conundrum Tom Bartlett and Karin Fischer 7. Privatisation and Policy Shifts: The Changing Nature of Private Education Provision in India Judith Guy 8. Inside African Private Higher Education Louise Morley 9. Globalising and Regionalising Higher Education in Latin America: Locating Brazil in Multiscalar Projects and Politics Alfredo M. Gomes, Susan L. Robertson and Roger Dale 10. Will For-Profit Universities Solve the Access Problem in Mexican Higher Education? Normando Bezerra, Claudia Massei, Nils Schulze-Halberg and Tyler Stypinski Section Two: Policy, Practice and Promise 11. Towards Post-Industrial Education: State Capitalism and China Daniel Araya 12. Educating for the Creative Economy in Emerging Countries: Challenges and Strategies Corrine van Beilen and Greg Hearn 13. Can Oil Generate Creativity? A Look at Qatar and the United Arab Emirates Kevin Stolarick and Loulia Kouchaji 14. Striving for "World Class Excellence": Rankings and Emerging Societies Ellen Hazelkorn 15. Anchoring Effects in World University Rankings: Exploring Biases in Reputation Scores Nicholas A. Bowman and Michael N. Bastedo 16. The Role of Tuition Fees in the Spread of Higher Education Around the Globe Jennifer A. Delaney and Patricia Yu 17. A Buyers' Guide to Branch Campuses? Alan Ruby and Adriana Jaramillo
Social dimensions of information technology: issues for the new millennium

Virtual Communities and Social Capital Human Capital Issues and Information Technology the Progress of the Internet the Co-Evolution of Society and Multimedia Technology the World Wide Web and Local Media in the 1996 Presidential Election Electronic Communities - Assessing Equality of Access Ethics, Law and Information Technology - the Transformative Role of Rhetoric Creating a Democratic Public Sphere through Political Discussion Changing Roles in Information Dissemination and Education Technological Change, Virtual Learning and Higher Education - Prospects, Problems, Potentials the Role of Information Technology in Quality Education the Paradox of Paperless Classes Personal Computers, Mass Media and Other Uses of Free Time Manufacturing Knowledge - Technology, Culture and Social Inequality at Work Researching Telework - Past Concerns and Future Directions the Information Age - Apartheid, Cultural Imperialism or Global Village? Networking for Sustainable Development - Innovative Approaches Outside the "Global Village" Information in and on Africa - Past, Present and Future World Information Flows and the Impact of New Technology International Network for Integrated Social Science.
A Heat Transfer Investigation of Liquid and Two-Phase Methane

A heat transfer investigation was conducted for liquid and two-phase methane. The tests were conducted at the NASA Glenn Research Center Heated Tube Facility (HTF) using resistively heated tube sections to simulate conditions encountered in regeneratively cooled rocket engines. This testing is part of NASA s Propulsion and Cryogenics Advanced Development (PCAD) project. Nontoxic propellants, such as liquid oxygen/liquid methane (LO2/LCH4), offer potential benefits in both performance and safety over equivalently sized hypergolic propulsion systems in spacecraft applications. Regeneratively cooled thrust chambers are one solution for high performance, robust LO2/LCH4 engines, but cooling data on methane is limited. Several test runs were conducted using three different diameter Inconel 600 tubes, with nominal inner diameters of 0.0225-, 0.054-, and 0.075-in. The mass flow rate was varied from 0.005 to 0.07 lbm/sec. As the current focus of the PCAD project is on pressure fed engines for LO2/LCH4, the average test section outlet pressures were targeted to be 200 psia or 500 psia. The heat flux was incrementally increased for each test condition while the test section wall temperatures were monitored. A maximum average heat flux of 6.2 Btu/in.2 sec was achieved and, at times, the temperatures of the test sections reached in excess of 1800 R. The primary objective of the tests was to produce heat transfer correlations for methane in the liquid and two-phase regime. For two-phase flow testing, the critical heat flux values were determined where the fluid transitions from nucleate boiling to film boiling. A secondary goal of the testing was to measure system pressure drops in the two-phase regime.
Changes in Fungi with Age I. Chemical Composition of Rhizoctonia solani and Sclerotium bataticola

Gottlieb, David (University of Illinois, Urbana), and James L. Van Etten. Changes in fungi with age. I. Chemical composition of Rhizoctonia solani and Sclerotium bataticola. J. Bacteriol. 91:161–168. 1966.—The chemical composition of the mycelium of Rhizoctonia solani and Sclerotium bataticola was determined in cells of various ages. The percentage, per unit of dry weight, of soluble amino nitrogen, deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), ribonucleic acid (RNA), ergosterol, and protein decreased with age in both fungi. Total lipids and fatty acids increased with age in S. bataticola but remained constant in R. solani. Total carbohydrate increased with age in R. solani and decreased in S. bataticola. Fewer changes with age were observed when the results were calculated in ratio to DNA. There was no change in the ratios of protein, RNA, and soluble amino nitrogen to DNA with age in either fungus, but the ergosterol-DNA ratio decreased. The total lipid-DNA ratio and the total fatty acid-DNA ratio increased with age in both fungi, whereas the total carbohydrate-DNA ratio increased in R. solani but remained constant in S. bataticola. Both fungi contained myristic, palmitic, palmitoleic, stearic, oleic, and linoleic acids. In addition, R. solani contained pentadecanoic acid, and S. bataticola had myristoleic, linolenic, and arachidic acids. No marked change in the fatty acid pattern of S. bataticola was observed with age, whereas in R. solani the percentage of linoleic acid per total fatty acids decreased slightly when oleic acid increased.
Assessing health-related quality of life of Chinese-American breast cancer survivors: a measurement validation study.

Background This study reports on the internal consistency and construct validity of the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy – General (FACT-G v.4) and 12-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-12 v.2) health-related quality of life (HRQOL) instruments with Chinese-American breast cancer survivors (BCS). Methods Participants completed mailed questionnaires at baseline and 12-month follow-up. HRQOL was measured using the FACT-G and the SF-12. The measures were evaluated by construct validity and reliability tests. Factor analyses were performed in a two-wave assessment through exploratory and confirmatory analyses at baseline and follow-up. Results Seventy-four Chinese-American BCS participated. Excellent internal consistency (α > 0.85) and good construct validity for the FACT-G (five factors) and the SF-12 (two factors) were observed. Factor structure of both measures accounted for 70% of the common variance in physical, social/family, emotional, and functional well-being subscales for the FACT-G and in physical and mental components for the SF-12. Conclusions Our data demonstrated good internal consistency and construct validity of the measures. The psychometric findings demonstrate the utility of the FACT-G and the SF-12 to assess HRQOL among Chinese-American BCS. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Catalytic trapping of methylradioiodide by beds of impregnated charcoal

The trapping or retention efficiency of impregnated charcoal beds for the vapor of methylradioiodide tagged with 131I was determined under various flow conditions by radioactive counting of each of...
An Approximation Scheme for Terrain Guarding

We obtain a polynomial time approximation scheme for the terrain guarding problem improving upon several recent constant factor approximations. Our algorithm is a local search algorithm inspired by the recent results of Chan and Har-Peled [2] and Mustafa and Ray [15]. Our key contribution is to show the existence of a planar graph that appropriately relates the local and global optimum.
Expectations and implementations of the flipped classroom model in undergraduate mathematics courses

The flipped classroom model is being used more frequently in undergraduate mathematics courses. As with any new teaching model, in-depth investigations of both various implementation styles and how the new model improves student learning are needed. Currently, many practitioners have been sharing their implementations of this model. However, there has not yet been an investigation of the various implementations of the model to discern general trends in this movement. With this research goal in mind, we conducted a study exploring various implementations of the flipped classroom model by interviewing 19 faculty members who experienced using this model at 14 different institutes. Results indicate that participants had similar motivations for implementation; however, subsequent implementations were different. In addition, we share participants' perspectives on (a) student learning of pre-requisite, procedural and conceptual knowledge, and (b) how this particular model promotes such knowledge developments. Fi...
The critical onset of counterion condensation: A survey of its experimental and theoretical basis

A survey of experimental and theoretical investigations into the condensation of counterions on polyelectrolyte chains above a critical threshold of polymer charge density is presented. Current models contain critical formation of a condensed layer that cannot be diluted off the polymer but differ qualitatively in their description of the structure of the layer. A documented position is taken that the model of a line of discrete charges is more realistic than a uniformly charged cylinder. The question of attractive electrostatic interactions between identically charged polymers is addressed.
Distribution and abundance of the ctenophore, Mnemiopsis leidyi in Narragansett Bay

Abstract Population abundance, distribution and size composition of the ctenophore, Mnemiopsis leidyi were measured at 19 stations over three years in Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island. Continuous estimates of the relative abundance and distribution of the animals were also obtained by towing a specially designed submarine luminescence meter during five nights in the late summer and fall. While Mnemiopsis were present in the bay throughout the year, the overwintering population was extremely low (1–2 animals/104 m3). During summer, the population underwent a dramatic increase of about five orders of magnitude and reached peak densities of over 50 animals/m3. An equally sharp decline took place in the early fall. When present in the bay in large numbers, the population appeared to be relatively evenly distributed on scales of about 500 m, though clear patches of lesser dimension were also evident. The field evidence indicated that the population increases first in the upper bay and then spreads toward the mouth by mid-summer.
CVD of Conformal Alumina Thin Films via Hydrolysis of AlH3(NMe2Et)

Deposition of highly conformal alumina thin films has been carried out by hydrolysis of the liquid alane precursor, AlH3(NMe2Et). Depositions onto Si wafers, quartz and carbon fibres were all carried out utilizing a hot-wall atmospheric pressure chemical vapour deposition (APCVD) system. Optimum growth conditions were found to be at 165°C and with an AlH3(NMe2Et):H2O ratio of less than 1:25. Films were characterized by SEM, microprobe and electrical conductivity measurements. Growth rates were of the order of 40–80 A min−1 at 165°C. The conformality of the films was illustrated using silicon wafers that were etched prior to deposition. Deposition onto ZnS EL-phosphor particles was accomplished in a simple fluidized-bed APCVD reactor. The deposited films were conformal and continuous. No significant reduction in the initial brightness or change in the colour balance of the phosphor was observed from the coating process. Copyright © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Topology of yeast Ndc1p: Predictions for the human NDC1/NET3 homologue

The nuclear pore complex is the predominant structure in the nuclear envelope that spans the double nuclear membranes of all eukaryotes. Yeasts have one additional organelle that is also embedded in the nuclear envelope: the spindle pole body, which functions as the microtubule organizing center. The only protein known to localize to and be important in the assembly of both of these yeast structures is the integral membrane protein, Ndc1p. However, no homologues of Ndc1p had been characterized in metazoa. Here, we identify and analyze NDC1 homologues that are conserved throughout evolution. We show that the overall topology of these homologues is conserved. Each contains six transmembrane segments in its N-terminal half and has a large soluble C-terminal half of ~300 amino acids. Charge distribution analysis infers that the N- and C-termini are exposed to the cytoplasm. Limited proteolysis of yeast Ndc1p in cellular membranes confirms the orientation of its C-terminus. Although it is not known whether vertebrate NDC1 protein localizes to nuclear pores like its yeast counterpart, the human homologue contains three FG repeats in the C-terminus, a feature of many nuclear pore proteins. Moreover, a small region containing mutations which affect assembly of the nuclear pore in yeast is highly conserved throughout evolution. Lastly, we bring together data from another study to demonstrate that the human homologue of NDC1 is the known inner nuclear membrane protein, NET3.
Linear superposition in total maximum daily loads applications : The steady-state response matrix revisited

': The steady-state response matrix has historically proved a valuable tool in computing the water quality response to loadings and in providing insight into the relative impact of individual loading sources. The insight obtained may be is particularly useful in modern applications of increasingly complex water quality models to problems involving multiple point and nonpoint sources, such as in the assessment of total maximum daily loads (TMDLs). Where appropriate and the underlying equations linear, the steady-state response matrix can be used to synthesize the results of more complicated models and present them in a way easily understood by policy makers. A straightforward method is presented for generating the response matrix using complex models, and example applications discussed. Example applications include a simple demonstration; incorporation of the method into the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality's STREAM model used in TMDL development; a TMDL modeling study of the Grand Calumet River and Indiana Harbor Canal, Indiana, using CE-QUAL-ICM; and a TMDL modeling study of the Big Sunflower River, Mississippi, using the Water Analysis Simulation Program model.
Additive independent factors that predict risk for alcoholism.

Pedigree and adoption studies have supported a genetic heterogeneity model for alcoholism. Lifetime alcoholism diagnosis in medical-surgical inpatients was reported to increase additively with the presence of Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASP) diagnosis, male gender and family history of alcoholism (FHA). These three risk factors have been shown to have separate genetic transmission. This study tested the predictive strength of these factors in a prospective sample of untreated, nonhospitalized young male (n = 98, mean = 25.2 years) and female (n = 121, mean = 25.5 years) offspring of alcoholic (n = 131) and nonalcoholic (n = 88) parents. NIMH-Diagnostic Interview Schedule items were used to diagnose blindly DSM-III alcohol or drug abuse or dependence. No alcohol- or drug-related behavioral items were used in ASP diagnosis. Parental alcoholism was rated using proband information and Family History Research Diagnostic Criteria. ASP, then gender and finally FHA but not age were significant predictors of ...
Biochemical analysis of the released products of the mammalian acrosome reaction.

Guinea pig sperm incubated in the presence of CaCl 2 and the ionophore A23187 undergo exocytotic membrane fusion and release membrane vesicles into the medium. A highly purified preparation of the released membrane vesicles has been isolated. Equilibrium sedimentation of the vesicles on continuous sucrose gradients indicates that the membrane vesicles are a homogeneous population of a single density. Analysis of the vesicles by SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis reveals a complex pattern of polypeptide components. A soluble protein fraction containing acrosomal enzymes is also released during the acrosome reaction. This fraction may be useful as a starting material for the purification of acrosomal proteins.
An indirect laser-induced temperature jump study of the influence of redox couple adsorption on heterogeneous electron transfer kinetics

Abstract The indirect laser-induced temperature jump technique is used to study the heterogeneous electron transfer kinetics of Fe(CN)63−/4−, Ru(NH3)63+/2+ (both in aqueous 1 M KF) and dimethylferrocene/dimethylferrocenium (Me2Fc, in 1 M LiClO4 in CH3OH) on Au electrodes. Evidence is obtained demonstrating not only that all three of these redox couples adsorb on Au but also that the behavior of the measured electron transfer kinetics for these couples is significantly perturbed from that expected for simple heterogeneous electron transfer reactions. The interpretation of the results of these measurements is, therefore, made much more complex and uncertain. Such complexity and uncertainty is greatly reduced by irreversibly attaching the redox moiety to the electrode surface as a part of a stable, organized structure (e.g. a self-assembled monolayer).
Issues Concerning the Eradication or Establishment and Biological Control of the Mediterranean Fruit Fly,Ceratitis capitata(Wiedemann) (Diptera: Tephritidae), in California

Abstract Classical biological control is suggested as a tool worth developing now for possible future use in the integrated pest management of the Mediterranean fruit fly (Medfly), Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann), in California. Three factors that impact broadly on developing and implementing such a biological control program are: (1) the question of Medfly establishment, (2) quarantine considerations, and (3) agricultural and urban concerns. Each of these factors and their combined effects must be considered when discussing biological control of Medfly in California as shaped by historical perspectives on Medfly invasions, methods of Medfly eradication, and past biological control efforts against Medfly. We believe that biological control research should play a foundational role in any future Medfly management programs in California. Development of biological control should involve life history studies of Medfly and its natural enemies in their area of endemicity in sub-Saharan, southeast Africa. Medfly has been studied and should continue to be studied in areas it has invaded, because information derived from such studies provides insights into the potential distribution, abundance, and impact of Medfly populations in California. A plan for a biological research program on Medfly and its relatives and a biological control strategy are presented.
A neural-net approach to real time flow-shop sequencing

Abstract This paper considers the classic problem of sequencing a set of jobs that arrive in different combinations over time in a manufacturing flow-shop. We focus on the development of a two-level neural network that incrementally learns sequencing knowledge. Based on the knowledge gained from learning using a set of training exemplars, the neural network makes real time sequencing decisions for a set of jobs that arrive in different job combinations. In addition to explain the details regarding the workings of the neural network, we also evaluate its performance for flow-shop sequencing problems. The practical benefit of the neural-net approach is that the neural network incrementally learns the sequencing knowledge and can apply the knowledge for sequencing a set of jobs on a real time basis. We also show that the neural network can be used to develop hybrid genetic algorithms. The experimental results demonstrate that (1) the neural-net approach produces consistently superior solution quality (i.e., makespan) with significantly less computational time than the traditional heuristic approaches; (2) when compared to genetic algorithms the neural-net approach’s performances are within 3.4% of those of genetic algorithms, but using only less than 0.2% of the computational time needed by genetic algorithms; and (3) the neural-net approach further improves solution quality and computational time by combining it with genetic algorithms. These results support the efficacy of using the neural-net approach for real time flow-shop sequencing.
Quantitative acoustic microscopy for characterization of the interface strength of diamond-like carbon thin films

Abstract Diamond-like carbon (DLC) films are emerging to be ideal materials in a variety of semiconductor, display, and film media applications. As with any deposited film, adhesion of the film to the substrate is of critical importance. The main objective of this paper is to report on the development of a technique based on acoustic microscopy for the quantitative characterization of the interface strength of thin (submicrometer) films. Preliminary results from 0.5 μm DLC films are presented to establish the feasibility of the new technique. Theoretical models of wave propagation indicate the Rayleigh wave velocity (at 600 MHz) is sensitive to the interface condition and could potentially be used to characterize the same. Acoustic material signatures (AMS) of DLC films which had varying levels of adhesion to silicon coated titanium substrates were obtained at 600 MHz using an acoustic microscope. The Rayleigh velocity (extracted from the AMS) had a strong correlation with the adhesion strength measured destructively using a pull tester. A model-based methodology for prediction of the interface strength of thin films through acoustic microscopy is also addressed.
Decadal- to interannual-scale source water variations in the Caribbean Sea recorded by Puerto Rican coral radiocarbon

Water that forms the Florida Current, and eventually the Gulf Stream, coalesces in the Caribbean from both subtropical and equatorial sources. The equatorial sources are made up of, in part, South Atlantic water moving northward and compensating for southward flow at depth related to meridional overturning circulation. Subtropical surface water contains relatively high amounts of radiocarbon (14C), whereas equatorial waters are influenced by the upwelling of low 14C water and have relatively low concentrations of 14C. We use a 250 year record of Δ14C in a coral from southwestern Puerto Rico along with previously published coral Δ14C records as tracers of subtropical and equatorial water mixing in the northern Caribbean. Data generated in this study and from other studies indicate that the influence of either of the two water masses can change considerably on interannual to interdecadal time scales. Variability due to ocean dynamics in this region is large relative to variability caused by atmospheric 14C changes, thus masking the Suess effect at this site. A mixing model produced using coral Δ14C illustrates the time varying proportion of equatorial versus subtropical waters in the northern Caribbean between 1963 and 1983. The results of the model are consistent with linkages between multidecadal thermal variability in the North Atlantic and meridional overturning circulation. Ekman transport changes related to tradewind variability are proposed as a possible mechanism to explain the observed switches between relatively low and high Δ14C values in the coral radiocarbon records.
Subhalf-micrometer buried-channel PFET design considerations

Design considerations for sub-half-micrometer buried-channel PFETs are discussed for 3.3-V technology applications. The device technology uses scaled gat-oxide thickness (14 nm), salicided gate electrode and junctions, and high-temperature glass passivation. Conventional designs using a uniform n-well profile (UNW) require, on scaling, increased doping level to control short-channel effects such as FET threshold and punchthrough voltage reduction. This results in increased junction capacitance, wider FET threshold-voltage tolerance, and decreased low-field hole mobility. Reduction of these effects is accomplished with a nonuniform n-well profile, referred to as a tailored n-well (TNW). Tailored n-well profiles have been achieved with deep phosphorus implants (DPI). Modeled profiles compare well with experimental results from devices fabricated with DPI in the range of 150 to 200 keV. The TNW devices equal of exceed the short-channel characteristics of the UNW devices, with junction capacitance reduced by 40%. Improvements in linear transconductance and threshold-voltage have also been achieved. Additional improvements in PFET performance are possible by reduction of parasitic overlap capacitance and device series resistance. >
Randomized experimental designs.

In the last column, we discussed quasi-experimental designs and some of their weaknesses. Remember that quasi- and randomized experimental designs both have an active or manipulated independent variable, but in randomized designs the participants are randomly assigned to the experimental and control groups. This randomization means that the groups should not be biased on any characteristics before the independent variable is introduced. This elimination of bias is one necessary condition for the results to provide convincing evidence that the independent variable caused differences between the groups on the dependent variable. For cause to be demonstrated, other biases in environmental and experience variables occurring during the study must also be eliminated. Four types of randomized experimental designs will be discussed. For each we will describe and diagram the design, give an example, and present some of the advantages and disadvantages. The diagrams and discussion below will be limited to 2 groups, but remember that more than 2 groups may be used with any of these designs. The experimental group receives the intervention, and the “control” group(s) receives the standard (traditional) treatment, a placebo, andlor another (comparison) treatment. For ethical reasons, it is unusual and not desirable for the control group to receive no treatment at all, but it is tough to decide which type of control group is appropriate. We will label all such options the “control treatment.”
Surgical Management of an L5 Burst Fracture with a Neurologic Deficit

The low lumbar burst fracture occurs in a unique anatomic zone with distinct biomechanical features as compared to the more common thoracic and upper lumbar fracture. Several relative surgical indications for a low lumbar burst fracture exist and include the presence of neurologic deficit including acute radiculopathy with associated weakness or cauda equina syndrome, severe lumbosacral kyphotic deformity, or progression of deformity despite nonoperative treatment. The surgical management of the low lumbar burst fracture must be individualized based upon fracture anatomy, neurologic status of the patient, and sagittal plane alignment. Surgery offers the patient with neurologic compromise the best option for restoration of normal function.
Measurement of Scattering and Absorption Cross Sections of Microspheres for Wavelengths between 240 nm and 800 nm

A commercial spectrometer with a 150 mm integrating sphere (IS) detector was used to estimate the scattering and absorption cross sections of monodisperse polystyrene microspheres suspended in water. Absorbance measurements were performed with the sample placed inside the IS detector. The styrene absorption was non zero for wavelengths less than 300 nm. Correction for fluorescence emission by styrene was carried out and the imaginary part of the index of refraction, ni, was obtained. Absorbance measurements with the sample placed outside the IS detector were sensitive to the loss of photons from the incident beam due to scattering. The absorbance data was fitted with Lorenz-Mie scattering cross section and a correction for the finite acceptance aperture of the spectrometer. The fit parameters were the diameter, the suspension concentration, and the real part of the index of refraction. The real part of the index was parameterized using an expansion in terms of powers of the inverse wavelength. The fits were excellent from 300 nm to 800 nm. By including the imaginary part obtained from the absorbance measurements below 300 nm, it was possible to obtain a good fit to the observed absorbance data over the region 240 nm to 800 nm. The value of ni at 266 nm was about 0.0060±0.0016 for microspheres with diameters of 1.5 μm, 2.0 μm, and 3.0 μm. The scattering cross section, absorption cross section, and the quantum yield at 266 nm of microsphere with a diameter of 2.0 μm was 5.65±0.01 μm(2), 1.54±0.03 μm(2), and 0.027±0.002 respectively. The styrene absorption reduces the scattering cross section by 20 % at 266 nm.
Capacity bounds of three-dimensional wireless ad hoc networks

Network capacity investigation has been intensive in the past few years. A large body of work on wireless network capacity has appeared in the literature. However, so far most of the effort has been made on two-dimensional (2-D) wireless networks only. With the great development of wireless technologies, wireless networks are envisioned to extend from 2-D space to three-dimensional (3-D) space. In this paper, we investigate the throughput capacity of 3-D regular ad hoc networks (RANETs) and of 3-D nonhomogeneous ad hoc networks (NANETs), respectively, by employing a generalized physical model. In 3-D RANETs, we assume that the nodes are regularly placed, while in 3-D NANETs, we consider that the nodes are distributed according to a general Nonhomogeneous Poisson Process (NPP). We find both lower and upper bounds in both types of networks in a broad power propagation regime, i.e., when the path loss exponent is no less than 2.
Directionality of the pressure-difference receiver ears in the northern leopard frog, Rana pipiens pipiens

We studied the directional response of the coupled-eardrum system in the northern leopard frog, Rana pipiens pipiens. Eardrum behavior closely approximates a linear time-invariant system, with a highly correlated input-output relationship between the eardrum pressure difference and the eardrum velocity. Variations in the eardrum transfer function at frequencies below 800 Hz indicate the existence of an extratympanic sound transmission pathway which can interfere with eardrum motions. The eardrum velocity was shown to shift in phase as a function of sound incident angle, which was a direct result of the phase-shift of the eardrum pressure difference. We used two laser-Doppler vibrometers to measure the interaural vibration time difference (IVTD) and the interaural vibration amplitude difference (IVAD) between the motions of the two eardrums. The coupled-eardrum system enhanced the IVTD and IVAD by a factor of 3 and 3 dB, respectively, when compared to an isolated-eardrum system of the same size. Our findings are consistent with the time-delay sensitivity of other coupled-eardrum systems such as those found in crickets and flies.
Persistent vaginal estrus and serum hormones after chlordecone (Kepone) treatment of adult female rats

The effects of chlordecone on vaginal estrus and neuroendocrine responses were examined in adult ovariectomized and intact females. Persistent vaginal estrus was seen in females given 50 mg/kg or more of chlordecone. The development of vaginal estrus was similar to that seen in ovariectomized females after treatment with estrogen. Since chlordecone is known to have estrogen-like effects on the reproductive system, the persistent vaginal estrus probably results from this estrogen-like action and chlordecone's long half-life in the organism. Neuroendocrine effects of chlordecone also resembled, to some degree, estrogen's effects on pituitary secretions. Chlordecone increased serum prolactin and decreased serum luteinizing hormone (LH) in ovariectomized females 30 to 36 hr after a single exposure to 50 mg/kg of the pesticide. Basal LH levels were not altered in intact females, but the proestrous LH surge was suppressed by 36 hr after treatment. Both basal and proestrous levels of prolactin were suppressed. Unlike the effects of estrogen, serum follicle stimulating hormone was not altered by chlordecone. These results indicate an effect on the hypothalamic pituitary axis by chlordecone treatment and offer a possible explanation for the reduced fertility seen in adult females after chlordecone exposure. However, blockage of the proestrous LH surge was not obligatory for the appearance of vaginal estrus. Although chlordecone produced peripheral changes in the vaginal smear pattern as well as neuroendocrine alterations, the peripheral changes were not always indicative of the neuroendocrine events.
Electronic (EK) remediation of a contaminated soil at several Pb concentrations and applied voltages

Abstract The in situ remediation of a lead‐contaminated silt loam by electrokinetic (EK) soil flushing was studied. Two initial soil Pb concentrations (150 and 1000 mg/kg of Pb) and applied voltages (30 and 60 V) were investigated. The EK soil flushing process was less efficient for the 150 mg/kg of Pb soils despite these tests being operated for longer durations, having larger EO flows and energy inputs, and lower soil pHs. The decrease in effectiveness was attributed to a larger average metal‐soil binding energy for the lower contaminated soil. Increasing the voltage increased the EO flow, current, energy input (kW‐hr/kg of soil), and provided a more evolved low pH front, resulting in more soil being remediated. There appeared to be a correlation between the amount of EO flow and the desorption and transport of soil‐bound lead. Because complete soil remediation did not occur in any of the tests, the final energy input per kilogram of soil could not be calculated.
Topical treatment of cutaneous herpes simplex virus infections.

Abstract Topical antiviral chemotherapy has a number of potential advantages over systemic drug delivery for the treatment of cutaneous herpes simplex virus infections, including convenience; higher target tissue drug levels and greater efficacy; and specific targeting of the drug to the site of infection, with reduced cost and reduced exposure of the remainder of the body to drug side effects. Realization of these possibilities has been slow in part because of the paucity of ‘active’ topical drug formulations with effective penetration-enhancing agents and a technical barrier - our failure as yet to measure drug levels in the epidermis, which could guide formulation development. Recent success with a topical treatment for herpes simplex labialis should stimulate continued laboratory and clinical research in this field.
Risk of colorectal adenomas and advanced neoplasia in Hispanic, black and white patients undergoing screening colonoscopy

Summary Background Racial and ethnic differences in the risk of premalignant colorectal neoplasia have not been extensively studied. Aim To measure adenoma prevalence among asymptomatic white, black and Hispanic patients undergoing screening colonoscopy. Methods In this cross sectional cohort study, data from individuals ≥50 years undergoing first-time colonoscopy since 2006 at a single tertiary-care medical centre were obtained from the electronic medical record. Adenoma prevalence among whites, blacks and Hispanics was calculated; multivariate Poisson and logistic regression were used to identify factors independently associated with adenoma rates and the presence of advanced adenomas. Results We identified 5075 eligible subjects: 3542 (70%) whites, 942 (18%) Hispanics and 591 (12%) blacks. The mean age was 62.2 years with 58% women. At least one adenoma was detected in 19%, 22% and 26% of whites, Hispanics and blacks respectively (Hispanics vs. whites P = 0.09; blacks vs. whites P = 0.0001). Isolated proximal adenomas were present in 9% of whites, 11% of Hispanics (P = 0.03) and 11% of blacks (P = 0.03). In multivariate analyses, a higher rate of adenomas was present in Hispanics (RR: 1.37, 95% CI: 1.20–1.57) and blacks (RR: 1.76, 95% CI: 1.52–2.04) than whites. Hispanics and blacks also had an increased risk of advanced adenomas compared to whites (ORHispanics: 2.25, 95% CI: 1.62–3.11; ORblacks: 1.91, 95% CI: 1.27–2.86). Conclusions Adenoma prevalence was higher in blacks and Hispanics than in whites. Both groups were at greater risk of having proximal adenomas in the absence of any distal pathology than whites, where these lesions would have only been detected by colonoscopy. Efforts to promote screening are necessary among diverse, under-represented populations.
Encapsulation of Stimuli-Responsive Fusion Proteins in Silica: Thermally Responsive Metal Ion-Sensitive Hybrid Membranes

In this study, we demonstrate the fabrication of hybrid membranes that exhibit discrete and reversible changes in permeability in response to changes in calcium ion (Ca2+) concentration and temperature. Fusion proteins comprising calmodulin (CAM) and elastin-like polypeptides (ELPs) were used as stimuli-responsive elements due to their ability to undergo a reversible lower critical solution temperature (LCST) phase transition, which is sensitive to Ca2+ binding. The calmodulin elastin-like polypeptides fusions (CAM-ELPs) were incorporated into polymerizing silica networks using a simple sol-gel process and spin coating. Permeation experiments with solutions of crystal violet showed that the membranes are both Ca2+-responsive and thermally responsive. Under suitable pressure drop across the membranes, in the absence of Ca2+ or below the LCST of the ELPs, the hybrid membranes are impermeable to water. After addition of Ca2+ or above the LCSTs, they become permeable to water. The permeability can be toggled back and forth by sequential addition of calcium and ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA). These results demonstrate that CAMELP/silica hybrid membranes can serve as tunable molecular filters whose permeability can be switched on and off in response to Ca2+ and temperature.
Fracture of Pearman penile implant

Abstract A case of fracture of a penile prosthesis is reported. The importance of using the proper shaft length without utilizing a long proximal soft segment is emphasized.
Temporal perspective and completed suicide.

Yufit, et al. (1970) reported that highly suicidal individuals were less futureoriented than comparison groups. The present paper reports an attempt to assess temporal perspective in completed suicides by examining the tenses of the verbs used in the suicide notes. The notes were the 33 pairs of genuine and simulated suicide notes published by Shneidman and Farberow ( 1957) ; the writers of these notes were matched for sex, age, and race. The genuine notes were more likely to have verbs in the imperative mood present (binomial p = 0.05 using a present/absent categorization) and were more likely to have verbs in the conditional mood present (binomial p = 0.02 ) .' The remaining verbs were classified as past, present, or future. The genuine and simulated notes did not differ in the proportions of verbs in these tenses (binomial p = 0.24, 0.50, and 0.28 respectively) .? It may be concluded that the notes of completed suicides do not differ from simulated suicide notes in their temporal perspective as assessed from the tense of the verbs used. However, the genuine notes did contain imperatives more often, reflecting the greater number of instructions contained in them. They also had more verbs in the conditional mood, which perhaps reflects the greater involvement with fantasy.