cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Comparison of TID Response of Micron Technology Single-Level Cell High Density NAND Flash Memories

Total ionizing dose (TID) response for Micron Technology single-level cell (SLC) 1 Gb, 2 Gb, 4 Gb and 8 Gb NAND flash memories are reported. Scaling effects in TID response is discussed. Floating gates bit error scales with feature size. Also, charge pump TID degradation and standby current improves with scaling.
Solid-state chemistry of organic polyvalent iodine compounds. VI. The crystal structure and topotactic hydrolysis of 3-oxo-3H-2,1-benzoxiodol-1-yl o-fluorobenzoate

Abstract 3-Oxo-3H-2,1-benzoxiodol-1-yl o-fluorobenzoate (IIIc) is formed as a topotactically aligned crystal structure when single crystals of its dibenzoyl peroxide isomer thermally decompose at room temperature. Independently, it has been found that single crystals of IIIc grown from solvents are hydrolyzed to o-iodosobenzoic acid, II, and o-fluorobenzoic acid after ∼4 weeks in a moist atmosphere at ∼45°C. II is formed topotactically in a conservatively twinned arrangement in which the (100) planes of the equally present twin members are parallel to (001) of IIIc. In addition, the 4 Ab axes of the twin members align with the 4 A a axis of IIIc. Other examples of topotactic hydrolyses resulting in twinned arrangements of II are cited in reference to the novel possibility that the favored mode of alignment (the specific topotaxy between the reactant and one twin member) is one which, when augmented by conservative twinning, results in a favorable interphase between the conservatively twinned members. The transformation IIIc → II and more than 20 other corroborating examples of topotaxy in our studies lead us to expect the alignment of 4 A axes whenever they are present in both the reactant and product of topotactic transformations involving comparable aromatic molecules. The crystal structure of IIIc (C14H8IFO4), a = 4.08, b = 12.00, c = 26.25 A, β = 90.5°, Z = 4, P2 1 c (refined to R = 0.10 for 453 photographically recorded intensities) consists of chains of transoid “dimers” similar to those previously observed in structures of closely related derivatives.
An Analysis of Undergraduate Students' Search Behaviors in an Information Literacy Class

The purpose of this project was to investigate how students' search strategies changed over the course of a semester-long information literacy class. Data collection included four different paper questionnaires corresponding to course content in the spring 2008 semester. Seventy-seven participants completed the questionnaires and course work in the class. Results showed that participants' demographics did not have any impact on their selection of search keywords. While participants reported better search experiences with more search keywords, they were not able to develop more sophisticated search keywords after receiving more instruction and search experience. The participants who did develop more sophisticated search keywords had better search experiences and a higher rate of satisfaction with their research results. Future studies should examine what enabled these participants to develop more sophisticated search keywords.
Effect of a Clinic-Wide Social Marketing Campaign to Improve Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy for HIV Infection

This demonstration study tested the impact of a 5-month clinic-wide social marketing campaign at improving adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART). The intervention included a video, posters, pens, mugs, and lapel buttons with the campaign slogan “Live the Solution: Take Your Pills Every Day.” Participants self-reported adherence over a 4-week interval, the primary outcome, with a visual analogue scale. Pre- and post-intervention surveys were completed by 141 participants. Adherence did not change over time (absolute mean change −2.02 %, paired t test P = 0.39). Among the 39.7 % of participants who correctly identified the campaign slogan on the post-intervention survey, adherence increased by 3.3 %, while it decreased in the other participants by 5.5 % (paired t test P = 0.07). The well-received campaign did not increase short-term adherence to ART, but adherence tended to increase in participants who were more engaged with the intervention. Future interventions should engage patients more completely and have a more potent effect on adherence.
Thermally induced flow in a confined fluid 1. Theoretical concepts

Abstract Heat transfer to a radially confined, compressible fluid is shown to induce large axial velocities. When expressed as a local, instantaneous Reynolds number, the velocity reaches 10 5 in one numerical example, seriously perturbing the radial velocity profile and the heat transfer process itself. This paper emphasizes sonic velocity effects in the analysis of the problem.
Influence of abstinence and conditions of cocaine access on the reinforcing strength of cocaine in nonhuman primates

The development of addiction is marked by a transition from recreational to uncontrolled drug use. Investigators modeling this phenomenon in rodents observed increases in cocaine self-administration when conditions of drug access were altered as well as after abstinence. The present studies were designed to extend this research to nonhuman primates by examining whether the reinforcing strength of cocaine could be altered by changing conditions of cocaine availability or by introducing abstinence periods. Rhesus monkeys self-administered cocaine (0.03-0.3 mg/kg per injection) under a progressive-ratio (PR) schedule of reinforcement in evening sessions, with the number of injections earned serving as a measure of reinforcing strength. Alterations in the reinforcing strength of cocaine were assessed after additional access to cocaine under a fixed-ratio (FR) schedule was provided in morning sessions and following various periods of abstinence (3, 7 and 14 days) from regimens of self-administration that resulted in a range of cocaine intakes. Under baseline PR conditions, the maximum number of cocaine injections increased dose-dependently, peaking when 0.3 mg/kg per injection cocaine was available. No increases in the reinforcing strength of cocaine were observed under any condition. In contrast, a statistically significant decrease in the reinforcing strength of cocaine was observed following 14 days of abstinence under one condition. These results fail to support the views that increasing access to cocaine or abstinence enhances the reinforcing strength of cocaine.
Epidemiologic Trend in Elderly Domestic Injury

Background The elderly constitute about 12% of the American population, with a projected increase of up to 25% in 2050. Elderly domestic injuries have been recognized as a major cause of morbidity and mortality. The objective of this study is to determine the 4-y national trend in elderly domestic injury, and we hypothesize that the home remains a significant source of injury. Methods Data on elderly patients ≥65 y was extracted from the National Trauma Data Bank’s National Sample Project (NSP). Elderly patients with home injuries were compared with non-home injuries. Subsets of hospitalized patients were analyzed for trends in injury site over a 4 y period. Multivariate analysis was performed to determine the predictors of hospitalization and in-hospital mortality. Results A total of 98,288 patients, representing a weighed estimate of 472,456 elderly patients were analyzed. Forty-two percent of all injuries in the study population occurred at home, followed by motor vehicle crashes (MVC) at 25%. Home injuries as a proportion of annual injuries increased from 37% in 2003 to 40% in 2006. Majority (57%) were admitted to the floor and 14% to the intensive care unit (ICU). On multivariate analysis, African-Americans and Asians were less likely to be hospitalized (odds ratio (OR) 0.57 and 0.50, respectively, with females 47% less likely than males to die after hospitalization ( P Conclusions Home injuries remain the most significant source of elderly hospitalizations after trauma. With a rapidly growing elderly population, there is a need to recognize this specific location of injury and create directed preventive measures to avert elderly domestic injuries.
Functional Reconstitution and Structural Flexibility of the CRAC Channel Orai

Calcium (Ca2+) release-activated Ca2+ (CRAC) channels mediate Ca2+ influx across the plasma membrane in response to Ca2+ store depletion in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). CRAC channel function requires two components: the plasma membrane Ca2+ channel Orai and its regulator located in the ER membrane, the Ca2+ store sensor STIM. Using liposomes reconstituted with a purified fusion protein of human Orai1 and cytosolic fragments of human STIM1 (hO1-SS), we show that Orai1 and STIM1 are sufficient to form active CRAC channels in vitro. Reconstituted hO1-SS recapitulates CRAC channel properties as shown by detection of sodium (Na+) flux in the absence of Ca2+ and by direct detection of Ca2+ flux. 2-APB, a known CRAC channel inhibitor, blocks both fluxes. Our findings confirm that human STIM1 gates the pore of Orai1 and demonstrates that the two proteins are sufficient to form functional channels in the absence of other cellular factors. Previously, we published the crystal structure of drosophila Orai in a closed state. Here we present low-resolution X-ray diffraction data of human Orai1, which indicate an overall structure that is indistinguishable from drosophila Orai. In addition, a new 4.25 A resolution X-ray structure of drosophila Orai reveals an extended conformation of the fourth transmembrane helix (M4) at the periphery of the channel that extends into the cytosol and is strikingly different from the arrangement of these helices in the previous structure. The comparison of structures reveals conformational flexibility that starts from the M4 helices and continues into the cytosolic M4 extension helices. In all of the structures, the pore adopts the same conformation and remains closed. The conformational flexibility observed for the M4 and M4 extension helices may have a role in the binding of STIM and in signal transduction from the ER.
Studies on central projections of the pineal nerve tract in rainbow trout, Salmo gairdneri Richardson, using cobalt chloride iontophoresis.

The central projections and terminations of the pineal nerve tract in rainbow trout, Salmo gairdneri, were studied using the cobalt chloride method developed for selectively staining nerve fibres by Pitman et al. (1972). A modification of the method is described for the first time making its use possible in the study of central pathways of the pineal nerve tract.
An equilibrium model of organic chemical accumulation in aquatic food webs with sediment interaction

A five-compartment steady-state food-web model is constructed that includes a benthic invertebrate compartment Four exposure routes are considered in the description of accumulation by benthic animals ingestion of particulate contaminants associated with (a) sediment organic carbon and (b) overlying phytoplankton and ventilation of free dissolved contaminant in (c) interstitial and (d) overlying water Normalization of organism lipid-based chemical concentration to sediment organic carbon (the biota sediment factor, BSF) or to overlying water concentration (the bioaccumulation factor, BAF) indicates the significance of the sediment/overlying water partition coefficient for systems that have a benthic component The impact of the benthic component on a forage fish is related directly to this partitioning Application of the model to an amphipod-scul pin web for Lake Ontario indicates (a) amphipod water exposure is a combination of interstitial and overlying water concentrations, (b) amphipod feeding appears to be a combination of overlying phy toplankton and sediment organic carbon, (c) amphipod and sculpin chemical assimilation efficiency appears to be a complicated function of octanol-water partition coefficient, (d) observed BAF for amphipod and sculpin is about one order of magnitude higher than log Kow in the range 5 5 to 7 0 and is calculated to be due almost entirely to food-web transfer from the sediment, as opposed to uptake from the water route
Some approximate solutions of radial flow problems

Abstract A large number of exact solutions to various boundary value problems in ground water flow have been solved in recent years using Laplace transformation. For most of the radial flow problems, the transform does not have a simple inverse and various methods such as the Mellin's inversion formula must be employed. The resulting exact solution is frequently in a form of a complex integral or an infinite series which is difficult to evaluate. It is shown that an approximate inversion formula for Laplace transforms, developed for the solution of visco-elastic problems, is applicable to most radial flow problems. Three cases are considered: (1) that of a well pumping a constant discharge from an infinite aquifer; (2) that of a well pumping a constant discharge from an infinite leaky aquifer; and (3) that of a well drawing an infinite leaky aquifer subject to a constant drawdown. The method leads to simple analytical solutions for each of the above cases and agreement between this method and the exact solution for each case is excellent.
The gastrointestinal microbiome: A malleable, third genome of mammals

The nonpathogenic, mutualistic bacteria of the mammalian gastrointestinal tract provide a number of benefits to the host. Recent reports have shown how the aggregate genomes of gastrointestinal bacteria provide novel benefits by functioning as the third major genome in mammals along with the nuclear and mitochondrial genomes. Consequently, efforts are underway to elucidate the complexity of the organisms comprising the unique ecosystem of the gastrointestinal tract, as well as those associated with other epidermal surfaces. The current knowledge of the gastrointestinal microbiome, its relationship to human health and disease with a particular focus on mammalian physiology, and efforts to alter its composition as a novel therapeutic approach are reviewed.
Comparison of cefotaxime, cefoxitin and clindamycin plus gentamicin in the treatment of uncomplicated and complicated pelvic inflammatory disease

Patients with uncomplicated pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) (acute salpingitis and no pelvic masses) were randomly assigned for treatment with either cefotaxime or cefoxitin. A clinical cure was achieved in 17 of 20 cases (82%) and 19 of 22 cases (84%), respectively. Within the complicated PID group, patients were assigned to two subgroups: those with a tubo-ovarian complex (26 patients), and those with a tubo-ovarian abscess (32 patients), as confirmed by ultrasonography or surgery. Patients within each of these two subgroups were then randomly assigned for treatment with either cefotaxime or clindamycin plus gentamicin. Within the tubo-ovarian complex subgroup, a clinical cure was achieved in 11 of 13 cases (85%) treated with cefotaxime and 10 of 13 cases (77%) treated with clindamycin plus gentamicin. Within the tubo-ovarian abscess subgroup, a clinical cure was achieved in 12 of 16 cases (75%) treated with cefotaxime and 11 of 16 cases (69%) treated with clindamycin plus gentamicin. No differences in any category were statistically significant. Specimens for culture were obtained from the endocervix, endometrium, and when possible, the cul-de-sac, fallopian tubes, and abscess. Neisseria gonorrhoeae (33%) was isolated more frequently than Chlamydia trachomatis (12%) in patients with PID, and neither of these organisms was isolated with any increased frequency in patients with complicated PID. The majority of the patients were considered to have polymicrobial infection. Cefotaxime was as efficacious as cefoxitin and clindamycin plus gentamicin for the treatment of acute salpingitis, tubo-ovarian complex and tubo-ovarian abscess.
Chemical Reactivity within Carbon Nanotubes: A Quantum Mechanical Study of the D + H2 → HD + H Reaction

Chemical reactivity may be significantly altered when reagents are confined to move within a nanoscale environment. Chemical reactions inside carbon nanotubes (CNTs), in particular, have been the focus of some attention. To help lay theoretical foundations for understanding such nanoscale-confined chemistry, we study the quantum dynamics of the D + H2 → HD + H exchange reaction, one of the most fundamental reactions in gas-phase chemistry, within a CNT. A five-dimensional Hamiltonian model for the system is developed, and numerous wavepacket calculations are carried out. Quantum reaction probabilities are compared with gas-phase reaction probabilities. Several different sized CNTs are considered. The smaller CNT diameter reaction probabilities are considerably higher than the gas-phase ones.
Treatment of a Delayed Zipper Injury

Penile zipper injuries have been reported occurring usually in the pediatric population, and occasionally in adults. Usually, the zipper can be dislodged with mineral oil or by breaking the median bar. When these attempts fail, a small elliptical incision may be used to remove the zipper and any devitalized tissue.
Photooxidation and subsequent biodegradability of recalcitrant tri-alkyl phosphates TCEP and TBP in water

Biodegradable organic carbon (BDOC) from OH radical oxidation (UV-H2O2) of the recalcitrant industrial anti-foaming agents and flame retardants, tri-n-butyl phosphate (TBP) and tris(2-chloroethyl) phosphate (TCEP), was quantified with respect to the fraction of the TBP or TCEP photooxidized. For 50-96% contaminant oxidation via OH, BDOC was similar in solutions of either compound, and ranged from 0.25 to 0.5 mg L(-1) (TBP0 and TCEP0 = 5 mg L(-1)). In addition, for this contaminant oxidation range, complete dehalogenation of TCEP was observed, along with a significant change in pH. Oxidation of TCEP results in both H+ and Cl(-) release, while the TBP mineralization pathway results in CO2, H2O, H+, and PO4(3-). For low microg/L levels of TCEP contamination in treated surface waters, UV-H2O2 oxidation of TCEP or TBP would not be expected to impact pH or chloride concentrations, however, a portion of the TCEP or TBP oxidation products, likely in non-halogenated aldehyde form, would become an available carbon source for bacterial growth in storage, distribution, or during further physical treatment.
WITHDRAWN: Reprint of: Tagging for Protein Expression

Tags are frequently used in the expression of recombinant proteins to improve solubility and for affinity purification. A large number of tags have been developed for protein production and researchers face a profusion of choices when designing expression constructs. Here, we survey common affinity and solubility tags, and offer some guidance on their selection and use.
The Cost of Institutional Care in Alzheimer's Disease: Nursing Home and Hospital Use in a Prospective Cohort

Objective To assess the nursing home and hospital use of patients with Alzheimer's Type Dementia. Design A prospective cohort study of 126 patients entered into an Alzheimer's disease registry after diagnosis at a university hospital clinic between 1980 and 1982. Only four patients were in nursing homes at enrollment. Measurements and Main Results Data regarding nursing home use came from the registry and the individual nursing homes themselves. Hospital-use data were obtained using Medicare claims files. Follow-up was obtained on 123 patients (98%). Eighty-five (69%) had died by July 1, 1989. Three-quarters of the cohort (92) eventually resided in nursing homes. The median nursing home length of stay was 2.75 years (mean 2.95, 95% CI = 2.5, 3.4), over 10 times the national median length of stay for all diagnoses. Based on prevailing rates in the region, nursing home charges for the cohort were estimated to be between $4.3 and $6.4 million ($35,000–$52,000 per patient). During the 5-year period 1983–1988, 69 patients filed Part A (hospital) claims to Medicare for 76 admissions and 616 inpatient days. Part A Medicare reimbursement for the cohort totaled $460,000 over 5 years ($3,700 per patient), an expenditure comparable to what a random Medicare cohort might incur. Conclusions The combination of a high rate of nursing home entry and lengthy stays makes long-term care the largest determinant of the cost of care in Alzheimer's disease. While Alzheimer's Type Dementia undoubtedly has profound indirect costs, this study demonstrates that the direct institutional costs alone are considerable.
Effect of polyethylene glycol‐400 at low concentrations on long‐term growth of muscle phosphoglucomutase crystals from concentrated salt solutions

Although rabbit muscle phosphoglucomutase occasionally deposits tetragonal crystals from solutions of ammonium sulfate at about 47% of saturation, low concentrations of polyethylene glycol-400 (PEG), 1 to 4.5% w/v, must be included to sustain crystal growth. A comparison of long-term growth rates for macroscopic crystals in the presence and absence of added PEG suggests that at high salt concentration this cosolute exerts its primary effect on disordered protein aggregates, either in the external medium or at the surface of the crystal, and thereby allows the growth of much larger crystals. Since the observed effects may arise from a PEG-induced increase in the “solubility” of the aggregate that exceeds the induced increase in solubility of the crystalline phase under these conditions, the physical basis for a cosolute-induced increase in solubility in the presence of a precipitant is considered. The applicability of such a rationale to the present system is supported by an assessment of the relative effects of polyeth-yiene glycol and β-octylglucoside on amorphous, salt-induced precipitates of phosphoglucomutase. PEG also produces what appears to be a differential effect on nucleation efficiency and crystal growth rate. Thus, seed crystals cannot be enlarged at a significant rate at high salt concentration without producing showers of extraneous nucleation centers when the concentration of added PEG is 3% or less. But PEG concentrations of 4.5% essentially eliminate the showering problem, ostensibly by increasing the supersaturation required for nucleation to a greater extent than that required for crystal growth. The same type of effect is observed during de novo growth. Again a solubility-based mechanism is posed. Hysteretic effects related to properties of amorphous aggregates of the protein also are described. © 1992 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Recent developments in non-traditional employment testing: An introduction

The purpose of this special issue of theJournal of Business and Psychology is to provide a review and update of several key types of non-traditional employment tests. Non-traditional employment tests can be divided into two categories. One category consists ofbiological/physiological tests. The second category consists ofnarrow-based personality tests. A framework for thinking about non-traditional employment tests is provided.
FAULT TOLERANT FLIGHT CONTROL VIA ADAPTIVE NEURAL NETWORK AUGMENTATION

Anthony J. Calise Fellow AIAA Professor Georgia Institute of Technology Atlanta, GA This work is an extension of previous research at Georgia Tech. It demonstrates the fault-tolerance capabilities of a non-linear adaptive controller architecture. The XV-15 tiltrotor in landing configuration is used for demonstration. The failures considered affect longitudinal and lateral channels. Augmentation is provided successfully in all channels.
Parameter identification for inflight detection and characterization of aircraft icing

Abstract Increasing interest in aircraft icing has motivated the proposal of a new ice management system that would provide inflight monitoring of ice accretion effects. Since these effects are manifested in the flight dynamics, parameter identification is a critical element of ice detection. In particular, identification must provide timely and accurate parameter estimates under normal operational input in the presence of disturbances and measurement noise. This paper evaluates a batch least-squares algorithm, an extended Kalman filter, and an H∞ algorithm in the context of icing detection. Simulation results show that only the H∞ method provides a timely and accurate icing indication.
Harmful algal blooms in Sodus Bay, Lake Ontario: A comparison of nutrients, marina presence, and cyanobacterial toxins

Abstract Cyanobacteria, or blue-green algae, are prominent in freshwater systems around the world. Blooms of these organisms can be problematic as they can produce powerful toxins, lead to taste and odor events, and may contribute to hypoxia upon senescence. Sodus Bay, Lake Ontario, has experienced multiple blooms of cyanobacteria since 2010. These blooms were dominated by members of the toxin-producing genera Microcystis and Dolichospermum ( Anabaena ). Water samples were collected in 2011 and 2012 at eight locations around Sodus Bay and analyzed for cyanobacterial abundance and the presence of cyanobacterial toxins. Both hepatotoxic microcystin(s) and neurotoxic anatoxin-a were present in Sodus Bay over the course of the two-year study. Maximum microcystin concentrations of 24.9 μg/L in 2011 and 17.6 μg/L in 2012 were seen in the marina of Katlynn Harbor. To determine if marina location affected bloom events, total nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations were measured on a weekly basis at several marina and non-marina sites on the bay. While the bay-wide summer means of total phosphorus exceeded New York State guidelines of 22 μg P/L each year, no differences were observed in nutrient concentrations among the different sites. This suggests the bay is well mixed relative to the sampling period and that the bloom events were likely responsive to the general elevated nutrient concentrations of the bay.
Berta Bojetu-Boeta, messages still not heard

Synopsis Beyond power seeking individuals, beyond meanness, cruelty, intolerance, smothering, violence, irreverence for material and spiritual matters, beyond killing, torturing, harming in a manner we can hardly imagine, all human interactions stem from the relationships between men and women, of how men have treated women, throughout history. This is exhaustively described by one of the major contemporary Slovenian writers, Berta Bojetu-Boeta (1946–1997). Her two novels (1990; 1995), set in the past, may be read as announcements of some major traumatic events in the Balkans, in the last years of the past millennium. Her imaginary dystopias tackle some of the major patterns of how people have lived together along the Adriatic coast, or generally in the area between East and West. With fear at the core of many situations, the beauty of this prose comes from the inner strength of female characters, preparing fertile ground for the emergence of improved human relationships.
NONRECIPROCAL SYNERGISTIC LETHAL INTERACTION BETWEEN 365-nm and 405-nm RADIATION IN WILD TYPE and uvrA STRAINS OF ESCHERICHIA COLI*

— Lethality by 405-nm radiation in three repair-proficient and two uvrA strains of Escherichia coli that belong to two isogenic series was greatly enhanced by prior exposures to 365-nm radiation at fluences greater than 1 times 106Jm-2. Fluences at 365 nm that yielded a surviving fraction of 0.10 (>1 times 106 Jm-2) in the 5 strains tested resulted in the following 405-nm fluence enhancement factors (FEF, ratio of the 405-nm F37 in the absence of a prior 365-nm irradiation to that in the presence): strain K.12 AB1157 (wild type), 8.7; strain B/r (wild type), 52; strain WP2 (wild type), 25; strain WP2s (uvrA), 13; strain K.12 AB1886 (uvrA), 15. The maximal 405-nm FEF value obtained after a prior 365-nm irradiation at greater fluences was 83 in the wild-type strain B/r. Enhancement of anoxic 405-nm radiation after a prior aerobic 365-nm exposure was not detectable, suggesting that prior aerobic irradiation at 365-nm increased the effects of damage produced at 405 nm by means of an oxygen-dependent process. Single-strand breaks (or alkali-labile bonds) were produced by 405-nm radiation at 3.0 times 10-5 breaks per 2.5 times 109 daltons per Jm-2 in the polA strain P3478; pyrimidine dimers were not detected by biological assay (photoreactivation) at 405 nm. Although the introduction of different DNA lesions produced by 365- and 405-nm radiations cannot be ruled out, we propose that the strong synergistic effect of 365-nm irradiation on 405-nm lethality is the consequence of pronounced inhibition by 365-nm radiation of components of the DNA-repair systems that can mend or bypass damage produced by 405-nm radiation.
Collaborative Witnessing of Survival During the Holocaust: An Exemplar of Relational Autoethnography

In this article, a researcher and collaborator present stories about the second author's survival during the Holocaust. They propose that their approach of collaborative witnessing is a form of "relational autoethnography" that allows researchers to focus on and evocatively tell the lives of others in shared storytelling and conversation. The authors address the benefits and complications of collaborative witnessing and how it extends an autoethnographic perspective in its emphasis on writing for and with the other, listening and working together with care and compassion, and bearing witness to others as well as to oneself. Language: en
The influence of laser pulse duration and energy on ICP-MS signal intensity, elemental fractionation, and particle size distribution in NIR fs-LA-ICP-MS

Laser parameters, typically wavelength, pulse width, irradiance, repetition rate, and pulse energy, are critical parameters which influence the laser ablation process and thereby influence the LA-ICP-MS signal. In recent times, femtosecond laser ablation has gained popularity owing to the reduction in fractionation related issues and improved analytical performance which can provide matrix-independent sampling. The advantage offered by fs-LA is due to shorter pulse duration of the laser as compared to the phonon relaxation time and heat diffusion time. Hence the thermal effects are minimized in fs-LA. Recently, fs-LA-ICP-MS demonstrated improved analytical performance as compared to ns-LA-ICP-MS, but detailed mechanisms and processes are still not clearly understood. Improvement of fs-LA-ICP-MS over ns-LA-ICP-MS elucidates the importance of laser pulse duration and related effects on the ablation process. In this study, we have investigated the influence of laser pulse width (40 fs to 0.3 ns) and energy on LA-ICP-MS signal intensity and repeatability using a brass sample. Experiments were performed in single spot ablation mode as well as rastering ablation mode to monitor the Cu/Zn ratio. The recorded ICP-MS signal was correlated with total particle counts generated during laser ablation as well as particle size distribution. Our results show the importance of pulse width effects in the fs regime that becomes more pronounced when moving from femtosecond to picosecond and nanosecond regimes.
A new hybrid long-term and short-term prediction algorithm for packet loss erasure over IP-networks

Packet loss is a common problem in Internet protocol (IP) networks. Delayed, misrouted or corrupted packets all introduce a gap in the information stream being transmitted. This gap is even more critical in the case of real time voice transmission that does not tolerate delay. The receiver in this case is obliged to generate a signal to play instead of the missing speech segment. This paper introduces a high performance speech concealment algorithm for PCM coded speech. The proposed algorithm implements a combination of linear prediction model and reverse order replicated pitch period (RORPP) implemented as in the ITU-T G.711. The new algorithm produced better objective MOS scores when compared to both the commercial tool of packet repetition and to the above mentioned ITU-T long term prediction standard.
An Approach to Poverty Alleviation for Large International Development Agencies

Abstract This essay explores the nature of the poverty alleviation problem from the perspective of international development funding agencies. These agencies have been poorly structured to promote the interests of the poor. Agencies such as the World Bank and the US Agency for International Development (USAID) can achieve better results by creating independent units devoted exclusively to poverty alleviation. These units should immerse their staff more completely in local societies, with lower pay scales and longer tours of duty. A revised form of cost-benefit analysis around which these units should orient their work is presented. Previous analyses of poverty alleviation opportunities and failures have neglected funding agency influences.
Chemical Study of the Variation in the Bleaching and Pulping Response of Predominantly Juvenile and Mature Northern Black Spruce Fractions

A difference in the absolute brightening response was observed between predominantly juvenile and mature kraft fibers of a Northern black spruce following oxygen and peroxide bleaching. Although the initial brightness from the digester for the two wood fiber types is approximately the same (36.8 vs 36.5 for juvenile and mature, respectively), it is interesting to note that the juvenile wood has a lower brightening response than the mature wood. A potential source for the brightness difference may be the increased amount of compression wood found in the juvenile wood. Another potential source for the brightness difference may be the chemical characteristics of the lignins. The juvenile and mature pulp lignins display substantial differences in methoxyl content; the mature lignin sample possessed a greater number of methoxyl units. The methoxyl group would be expected to increase the activation energy of the aromatic rings to addition reactions in both peroxide and oxygen bleaching reactions. Further lignin differences included a higher amount of aliphatic hydroxyl groups in the juvenile lignin, while mature lignin contained a greater amount of carboxylic acid groups. Metal data from inductively coupled plasma measurements indicated that the juvenile wood is richer in manganese and iron, perhaps related to lignin functional differences that may account for inefficient consumption of peroxide.
Phosphorus Mobility in Calcareous Soils under Heavy Manuring

Confined animal production systems produce large amounts of manure that are usually disposed on limited land areas in proximity to the source. There is concern that continuous heavy manuring may saturate the soil's capacity to retain manure-P and result in groundwater contamination with excessive P. The objectives of this research were to determine the fate of waste-P in heavily manured soils and assess the risk of soil and water quality degradation in turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) and beef (Bos taurus) feed lot production areas. All soils were calcareous throughout the profile. Samples were collected by 30-cm depth increments to a depth of 210 cm or a limiting layer and were analyzed for NaHCO 3 -extractable P (including inorganic and organic), and total soil P. Large amounts of extractable organic P in the surface soil layers decreased to background levels within 2 to 3 yr after manuring ceased. In heavily manured fields extractable inorganic P was well above background concentrations to as deep as 210 cm, apparently because of movement and subsequent mineralization of organic P. Organic matter in these soils was about twofold higher than background levels. There appeared to be no practical limit to the P-retention ability of these calcareous soils. Under these conditions the risk of groundwater contamination by organic or inorganic P from waste P disposal to land is negligible.
Achieving High Precision with a Thermal Beam Atom Interferometer

We report on the progress of a thermal calcium-beam Ramsey-Borde atom interferometer. Our efforts have led to the development of precision electronic and laser systems whose design allows them to be implemented as lab standards.
Prosthodontic problems and limitations associated with osseointegration

Abstract When compared with any other surgical or prosthodontic procedure, osseointegration has offered the greatest improvement in quality of life for patients who suffer with the effects of an edentulous condition. Results have been dramatic both functionally and from the aspect of patient satisfaction. However, a level of complication and compromise remains that limits overall patient and practitioner satisfaction. This article critically analyzes the existing literature relative to prosthodontic problems and complications of osseointegration for the edentulous patient. An attempt is made to compare the documented frequency of complication versus the perceived potential for complications, including implant failure, prosthesis misfit, component fracture, and screw loosening. (J Prosthet Dent 1998;79:74-8.)
Elucidating the structure of some clinical data

Abstract The data structure of 22 blood constituents in three categories of liver disease (viral or toxic hepatitis, alcoholic liver diseases, and obstructive processes) is studied using various statistical and pattern recognition techniques. Comparison of classification results on the original data, in combination with principal component analysis, suggests a possible underlying structure for the data. This model structure is tested by the application of two simple data transformations.
Factoring polynomials in finite fields: an application of Lang-Weil to a problem in graph theory

Recently Chung has constructed some interesting directed graphs using finite fields, and proven non-trivial upper bounds for their diameters. We study Chung's graphs by a direct algebraic geometric method, interpreting a given bound for diameter as the statement that each of a certain collection of algebraic varieties has a rational point, and then using Lang-Weil to prove the existence of the required rational points. We are naturally led to showing that certain explicit two-parameter families of polynomials in one indeterminate have Galois group the full symmetric group
Gender differences in quality of life among cardiac patients

OBJECTIVE Prior studies of quality of life among cardiac patients have examined mostly men. This study evaluated gender differences in quality of life and examined the degree to which social support was associated with quality of life. METHODS A sample of 536 patients (35% women) was recruited during a 14-month period from the inpatient cardiology service of a University-based hospital. Participants completed assessments at baseline and at 3-month intervals over the subsequent 12 months, for a total of 5 assessments. Measures at each assessment included quality of life [Mental Component Score (MCS) and Physical Component Score (PCS) from the Medical Outcomes Study--Short Form 36] and social support [Interpersonal Support Evaluation List--Short Form]. RESULTS A total of 410 patients completed the baseline assessment and at least one follow-up, and were included in the data analyses. Linear mixed effects modeling of the MCS score revealed a significant effect of gender (p =.028) and time (p <.001), as well as a significant interaction of gender by social support (p =.009). Modeling of the PCS revealed a significant effect of gender (p =.010) and time (p <.001). CONCLUSIONS Women with cardiac disease indicated significantly lower quality of life than men with cardiac disease over the course of a 12-month longitudinal follow-up. Social support, especially a sense of belonging or companionship, was significantly associated with emotional quality of life (MCS) among women. Strategies to increase social support may be important for health and well-being of women with cardiac disease.
Skull thickness and halo-pin placement in children: the effects of race, gender, and laterality.

To study the effects of gender, race, and laterality on skull thickness, we reviewed 41 pairs of head computed tomography (CT) scans, matched for age and sex by race. Thickness was measured at the standard locations for halo pins (anterolateral [AL] and posterolateral [PL]) using bone windows. The average measurements (± 1 SD) were right AL = 2.9 ± 1.0, left AL = 2.8 ± 1.0, right PL = 3.2 ± 1.2, and left PL = 3.6 ± 1.2 mm (range, 1.2-7.2). There were no statistically significant differences by race or gender. The average thickness increased with age. There was a difference between the right and left PL sites (3.2 ± 1.1 vs. 3.6 ± 1.2 mm) but not between the AL sites. Caution in halo application must be applied equally to all children.
Modified Langmuir Equation for S-Shaped and Multisite Isotherm Plots

Standard isotherm equations do not estimate capacity (Qmax) and distribution coefficient (Kd) for complex or non-Langmuir-shaped isotherm plots. In this study, two mycotoxins, that is, aflatoxin B1 (AfB1) and cyclopiazonic acid (CPA), were mixed with kaolinite and a naturally acidic montmorillonite clay (LPHM) at 25 °C, respectively. Isotherm data gave S-type plots. The data were fitted to the models of Langmuir (LM) and multi-Langmuir (MLM); however, these models did not provide a good fit for data that displayed multisite adsorption or multiple plateaus. While a published modification of the Langmuir equation (QKLM), which defines an effective partition coefficient as a function of the surface coverage, was able to fit simple isotherm plots from all categories (H, L, S, C), it did not fit complex or multisite isotherm plots. Importantly, an equation that enables the estimation of Qmax and Kd for both S-shaped and multisite isotherm plots has not yet been reported. Since the LM, MLM, and QKLM did not pro...
The magnetopause at 5.2 R/E/ in August 1972 - Magnetopause motion

The paper analyzes magnetic field records from ATS 5 and Explorer 45 satellites, provided with triaxial flux gate magnetometer, during the close approach of the magnetopause to the earth. Attention is directed to a discussion of the observing arrangements, a detailed comparison of the two sets of observations, and an interpretation of the magnetopause motion and of magnetic pulsations. The pulsations appear not to be due to surface waves propagating in the magnetopause.
Wide temperature spectrum self-lubricating coatings prepared by plasma spraying

Self-lubricating, multicomponent coatings, which lubricate over a wide range of operating conditions, are described. The coatings were successfully applied by plasma-spraying mixed powders onto superalloy substrates. They were evaluated in friction and wear experiments, and in sliding contact bearing tests. These coatings are wear resistant by virtue of their self lubricating characteristics rather than because of extreme hardness; a further benefit is low friction. Experiments with simple pin on disk sliding specimens and oscillating plain cylindrical bearing tests were performed to evaluate the tribological properties of the coatings. It was shown that coatings of nichrome, glass and calcium fluoride are self-lubricating from about 500 to 900 C, but give high friction at the lower temperatures. The addition of silver to the coating composition improved the low temperature bearing properties and resulted in coatings which are self-lubricating from cryogenic temperatures to at least 870 C; they are therefore, wide temperature spectrum, self-lubricating compositions.
Wavelet-based hyperspectral image coding using robust fixed-rate trellis-coded quantization

A system is presented for compression of hyperspectral imagery. Specifically, DPCM is used for spectral decorrelation, while a robust 2-D discrete wavelet coding scheme is used for spatial decorrelation. Trellis-coded quantization is used to encode the wavelet coefficients. Side information and rate allocation strategies are discussed. Fixed-rate codebooks are designed using a modified version of the generalized Lloyd algorithm. This system achieves a compression ratio of greater than 70:1, with an average PSNR of the coded hyperspectral sequence exceeding 40 dB.
Links between chemosynthetic production and mobile predators on the Louisiana continental slope: stable carbon isotopes of specific fatty acids

Abstract The Gulf of Mexico supports chemoautotrophic communities associated with hydrocarbon seeps. The chemoautotrophic symbiont-containing metazoans are dominated by mussels and tube worms that harbor bacteria which utilize reduced carbon (CH 4 ) and sulfur (H 2 S) compounds as an energy source. In the deep sea, nutritional input from photosynthetic production is scarce, and chemoautotrophic production may be a significant source of nutrients to mobile, benthic predators. Large and significant differences exist between the stable carbon isotope signatures of chemosynthetic and photosynthetic primary production. This isotopic difference makes it possible to determine the importance of each type of primary production to heterotrophs because heterotrophs incorporate the isotope signature of their food. Here, we examine the carbon isotope signatures of specific fatty acids in heterotrophic predators caught both within and approximately 2 km from known chemosynthetic communities. Heterotroph fatty acid signatures were compared to those observed in chemoautotrophic symbiont-containing fauna in order to evaluate degree of usage. Most organisms had at least a 6‰ range in their fatty acids. This reflected patterns of de novo synthesis, with essential and precursor fatty acids being 13 C enriched (in heterotrophs) and highly unsaturated fatty acids being 13 C depleted. The fatty acid δ 13 C values show that heterotrophs had a wide range in their utilization of chemosynthetic production. Bathynomus giganteus (giant isopod), captured off-site, did not utilize chemosynthetic production. Its nonessential fatty acids ranged from −26.3‰ to −18.8‰ (δ 13 C), reflecting kinetic isotope effects during de novo synthesis. Essential omega-3 fatty acids, which are directly incorporated from diet, originated from photosynthetic production (δ 13 C=−16.2‰). Sclerasterias cf. tanneri (starfish), captured on-site, relied predominantly on chemosynthetic production. Its fatty acid δ 13 C values ranged from −30.5‰ to −42.2‰, reflecting chemosynthetic production. Other predators such as Eptatretus sp. (hagfish) and Rochina crassa (spider crab) derived variable percentages of their fatty acid pool from chemosynthetic production, estimated to be 38% and 5%, respectively. Bulk analysis of δ 15 N and δ 34 S show chemosynthetic production usage patterns generally consistent with the specific fatty acid δ 13 C data.
Toxicity of Poly I.Poly C for Rabbit Eyes

A SYNTHETIC polyriboinosinic acid.polyribocytidylic acid complex (poly I.poly C) is known to be a potent inducer of interferon1 and to mediate resistance to various viral and nonviral infections in vivo and in vitro. Recently poly I.poly C was reported to be effective in herpetic keratitis in rabbits without producing any evidence of local or systemic toxicity2. While studying the effects of intravenous poly I.poly C on herpetic kerato-uveitis in rabbits, however, we noticed ocular changes in many animals and here describe the ocular toxicity in rabbits which received only intravenous poly I.poly C.
Spectral analysis of Doppler velocity patterns in normals and patients with carotid artery stenosis.

Summary. A computerized pattern recognition program was utilized to assess the predictive ability of various parameters obtained from the spectra of ultrasonic pulsed Doppler signals from the carotid arteries. The most accurate features selected by linear regression analysis were the natural log (In) of the ratio of the mean velocity in the internal carotid artery compared to that in the common carotid artery, and the In of the maximum velocity, the In of the maximum frequency, and the square of the fractional broadening term, all of which were measured at peak systole in the internal carotid artery. Using the combination of the velocity ratio and the fractional broadening term, the average difference in the estimated percentage stenosis, as compared to that obtained by arteriography, was 12-8%.