cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Column Chromatography To Obtain Organic Cation Sorption Isotherms

Column chromatography was evaluated as a method to obtain organic cation sorption isotherms for environmental solids while using the peak skewness to identify the linear range of the sorption isotherm. Custom packed HPLC columns and standard batch sorption techniques were used to intercompare sorption isotherms and solid–water sorption coefficients (Kd) for four organic cations (benzylamine, 2,4-dichlorobenzylamine, phenyltrimethylammonium, oxytetracycline) with two aluminosilicate clay minerals and one soil. A comparison of Freundlich isotherm parameters revealed isotherm linearity or nonlinearity was not significantly different between column chromatography and traditional batch experiments. Importantly, skewness (a metric of eluting peak symmetry) analysis of eluting peaks can establish isotherm linearity, thereby enabling a less labor intensive means to generate the extensive data sets of linear Kd values required for the development of predictive sorption models. Our findings clearly show that column...
Exercise and Physical Activity in the Prevention of Diabetes and Metabolic Syndrome

The literature strongly supports the benefits of exercise and physical activity in the prevention of metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. Exercise and physical activity enhance insulin sensitivity and glycemic control, reduce blood pressure, improve dyslipidemia, and produce beneficial changes in body mass and composition. Based on the literature, structured aerobic and resistive exercise programs as well as leisure time physical activity of moderate or vigorous intensity are effective in preventing the onset of type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. The challenge in combating diabetes and metabolic syndrome appears to lie in developing effective public health approaches that support individuals in their attempt to incorporate the necessary lifestyle changes into their daily routine and maintain these changes for life.
Global Climate Models

Global Climate Models that are used to simulate past, current and future climates are described, along with their strengths and weaknesses. The various component parts of a climate model that model the atmosphere, hydrosphere, cryosphere, and land surface are briefly described. Climate models provide state-of-the-art assessments of feedback processes that can be compared with observations. The simulations by climate models of the basic feedbacks that control the response to climate forcing are described. The expected responses of the atmospheric and ocean circulation to warming and their effects on surface climate are introduced.
Can newborn infants imitate

For several decades, scientists have held that newborn human infants can imitate adult behaviors like mouth opening, tongue protruding, and finger movements. This has been difficult to explain. In particular, it is not clear how newborn infants could know enough about their own bodies and movements, and how these map onto the bodies and movements of others, to be able to match their own felt movements to the seen movements of others. Prominent theories posit the existence of inborn mechanisms that automatically link visual input from the movements of others to the infant's already existing motor programs to produce the same movements. Such mechanisms would be instances of the inheritance of specific knowledge. In this review, we explain how current data argue against the existence of an inborn mechanism for linking seen actions with programs for performing those actions. We then sketch an alternative, multicausal explanation for the gradual development of imitation across infancy and beyond. WIREs Cogn Sci 2017, 8:e1410. doi: 10.1002/wcs.1410 For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website.
Effects of Drift Gas Selection on the Ambient-Temperature, Ion Mobility Mass Spectrometry Analysis of Amino Acids

Ion mobility (IM) separates ions based on their response to an electric field in the presence of a drift gas. Because of its speed and sensitivity, the integration of IM and mass spectrometry (MS) offers many potential advantages for the analysis of small molecules. To determine the effects that drift gas selection has on the information content of IM separations, absolute collision cross sections (Ω) with He, N2, Ar, CO2, and N2O were measured for the 20 common amino acids using low-pressure, ambient-temperature ion mobility experiments performed in a radio frequency-confining drift cell. The drift gases were selected to span a range of masses, geometries, and polarizabilities. The information content of each separation was quantified using its peak capacity, which depended on factors contributing to widths of peaks as well as the range of Ω relative to the average Ω for the analytes. The selectivity of each separation was quantified by calculating the peak-to-peak resolution for each pairwise combinatio...
Depositional Architecture of Mio-Pliocene Sequences in Offshore Bengal Basin

Bengal Basin located along the northeast coast of India has a thick pile of MIO-Pliocene sediments fed by a number of large rivers like Ganga, Brahmaputra, Mahanadi and smaller rivers like Subarnarekha, Baitaram and Brahmani. The basin covers an area of 40,000 sq km in the Bay of Bengal. The sediments in the present day shelf area exhibit a complex deposition history with unique juxtaposition of shallow and deep water sediments in the form of deltas, distributary channels, Pro-Delta sediments and incised canyons, filled up with channel-levee complex deposits. A detailed study was carried out on the morphology and architecture of the different depositional elements and units utilizing different vintages of 2D/3D seismic and data from drilled wells Geo-Body mapping and attribute studies reveal finer details of the complex system Special seismic attributes such as spectrally decomposed amplitude, waveform classifier and 'sweetness' (amplitude by square root of frequency) were quiet helpful in understanding the morphological details of the system. The following depositional elements have been brought out •Delta-Distributary channel complex associated with incised valley and tidal inlets. •Shelfal Canyon cut and fill sequences. o Simple canyon fills Simple "V" shaped cuts with fills in the form of low to moderate sinuous. channels. o Complex Canyon cut and fills Numerous, repeated canyon cuts caused by Mass-Wasting with intervening fills in the form of deep water to Sub-Aerial channels and deltaic progradational deposits. •Deep-Water Channel Complex Fed by large canyon up-dip. These depositional elements do not form part of the canyon fill, but occur down-dip. The sand and si1t lithological distribution in the above depositional complexes form the predominant hydrocarbon reservoir units. The numerous reservoir bodies within the above units of varying lateral and vertical extents, are expected to hold the future exploration potential in this frontier basin.
Cleaning Up: How Hospital Outsourcing is Hurting Workers and Endangering Patients, D. Zuberi. ILR Press (an imprint of Cornell University Press), Ithaca, New York (2013), 182 pp., ISBN: 978-0-8014-7896-3

The challenges and stresses faced by workers in the medical industry have been well documented. Scholarship has also explored how various factors shape patient well-being and outcomes. Given the si...
Association of change in 5-year N-terminal fragment of the prohormone brain-type natriuretic peptide with left ventricular structure and function in stable coronary disease.

AIMS We sought to characterize the association between long-term changes in the N-terminal fragment of the prohormone brain-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and changes in left ventricular (LV) structure and function in patients with stable coronary artery disease. METHODS We included 593 participants without significant valvular disease enrolled in the Heart and Soul Study. We evaluated the association of 5-year change in NT-proBNP (ΔNT-proBNP) with changes in echocardiography-determined LV ejection fraction (LVEF), LV systolic dysfunction (LVSD; LVEF 102 g/m for men and >88 g/m for women), and LV diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) using linear and logistic regression. RESULTS Over 5 years, the prevalence of LVH declined from 36 to 32% (P 218 ng/l increase) had significantly more incident LVH and LVSD (P < 0.001 for both), with a trend toward increased incidence of LVDD. In logistic regression models adjusted for demographics, cardiac comorbidities, baseline LV structure and function, medication use, kidney function, and baseline NT-proBNP, log-transformed ΔNT-proBNP was associated only with incident LVSD (odds ratio 2.48 × 10, 95% confidence interval 224.53-2.73 × 10, P = 0.002). CONCLUSION A ΔNT-proBNP is independently associated with incident LVSD in patients with stable coronary artery disease. This suggests that a long-term rise in NT-proBNP levels may warrant evaluation for incident LVEF less than 50%.
Total Synthesis of the Caged Indole Alkaloid Arboridinine Enabled by aza-Prins and Metal-Mediated Cyclizations

Although alkaloid natural products possess incredible diversity when considered broadly, certain domains are sometimes shared by several members, even from different sub-collections. Such homology can point to potential synthetic strategies. Herein, we highlight how such an analysis of the natural product arboridinine pinpointed two key elements of structural similarity that suggested the value of a metal-mediated 6-endo-dig cyclization to fashion its tetracyclic indolenine core, as well as the need to develop what could be considered a reversed polarity aza-Prins cyclization to deliver its tertiary allylic alcohol and final cage structure. The power of the latter design element is highlighted by several failures in achieving similar functional group patterning through more traditional aza-Prins and Mannich cyclization strategies. Overall, these operations fueled an inaugural 13-step racemic synthesis of the target; exploration of varied solutions for the enantioselective preparation of a key 7-membered i...
Use of HINTS in the acute vestibular syndrome. An Overview

Following the initial description of HINTS to diagnose acute vestibular syndrome (AVS) in 2009, there has been significant interest in the systematic evaluation of HINTs to diagnose stroke and other less common central causes of AVS. This trend increased with availability of the video head impulse test (video-HIT). This article reviews the original papers and discusses the main publications from 2009 to 2017. Many authors use video-HIT in the diagnosis of patients with AVS; this paper focuses on the major publications on the topic featuring nystagmus, manual and video-HIT, and skew deviation. Twenty-five papers provide a summary of the last 8 years’ application of HINTS, the video-HIT added quantitative information to the early clinical observations. Further research will undoubtedly provide specific combination of abnormalities with high degree of lesion localisation and aetiology. In a short time following the original description, neurotologist and neurologists in the evaluation of AVS use the HINTS triad. The introduction of the video-HIT added greater understanding of the complex interaction between the primary vestibular afferents, brainstem and cerebellum. In addition, it permits evaluation of the angular vestibulo-ocular reflex in the plane of all six semicircular canals, with accurate peripheral versus central lesion localisation often corroborated by brain imaging.
GreenDroid: A mobile application processor for a future of dark silicon

This article consists of a collection of slides from the author's conference presentation on the GreenDroid, a mobile application processor. Also assesses the future of dark silicon. Some of the specific topics discussed include: the special features, system specifications, and system design for the GreenDroid; system architectures; applications for use; platforms supported; processing capabilities; memory capabilities; and targeted markets for application processors.
Midtreatment Problems Implementing Evidence-based Interventions in Community Settings

Multisystemic Therapy® (MST) and Functional Family Therapy (FFT) are two widely disseminated evidence-based family-based treatments for substance abusing and delinquent adolescents. This mixed-method study examined common implementation problems in midtreatment in MST and FFT. A convenience sample of experienced therapists (20 MST, 20 FFT) and supervisors (10 MST, 10 FFT) from dissemination sites across the United States participated in semistructured telephone interviews. Participants identified retrospectively serious midtreatment process problems they perceived as threats to treatment success. Coders extracted descriptions of problems from interview transcripts and coded them into 12 categories that fell into five major themes: engaging families in treatment; difficulties implementing strategies; family relational and communication problems; complications external to therapy; and youth problem behavior. Analyses examined caregiver, therapist, and youth variables as predictors of these common midtreatment problems and whether treatment outcomes varied depending on the type of problem, therapy model, and race/ethnic match of therapist and family. MST and FFT therapists and supervisors identified many similar problems. There were, however, model-specific differences consistent with differing features of the models (e.g., FFT participants identified more family relational problems and fewer follow-through problems than their MST counterparts). Results underscore the need to consider both common and specific factors in treatment process.
Is adjuvant chemotherapy better than neoadjuvant chemotherapy for those with node positive disease

The authors present a retrospective analysis of patients who have undergone radical cystectomy and been found to have pathologic lymph node metastases. Patients were stratified by their receipt of either neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC), or adjuvant chemotherapy (AC) with the goal of comparing outcomes between these two groups.
Controlled Molecular Assembly via Dynamic Confinement of Solvent

Assembly from ultrasmall solution droplets follows a different dynamic from that of larger scales. Using an independently controlled microfluidic probe in an atomic force microscope, subfemtoliter aqueous droplets containing polymers produce well-defined features with dimensions as small as tens of nanometers. The initial shape of the droplet and the concentration of solute within the droplet play significant roles in the final assembly of polymers due to the ultrafast evaporation rate and spatial confinement by the small droplets. These effects are used to control the final molecular assembly in terms of feature geometry and distribution and packing of individual molecules within the features. This work introduces new means of control over molecular assembly, bringing us closer to programmable synthesis for chemistry and materials science. The outcomes pave the way for three-dimensional (3D) nanoprinting in additive manufacturing.
PtdIns4P on dispersed trans -Golgi network mediates NLRP3 inflammasome activation

The NLRP3 inflammasome, which has been linked to human inflammatory diseases, is activated by diverse stimuli. How these stimuli activate NLRP3 is unknown. Here we show that different NLRP3 stimuli lead to disassembly of the trans-Golgi network (TGN). NLRP3 is recruited to the dispersed TGN (dTGN) through ionic bonding between its conserved polybasic region and negatively charged phosphatidylinositol-4-phosphate (PtdIns4P) on the dTGN. The dTGN then serves as a scaffold for NLRP3 aggregation into multiple puncta, leading to polymerization of the adaptor protein ASC, thereby activating the downstream signalling cascade. Disruption of the interaction between NLRP3 and PtdIns4P on the dTGN blocked NLRP3 aggregation and downstream signalling. These results indicate that recruitment of NLRP3 to dTGN is an early and common cellular event that leads to NLRP3 aggregation and activation in response to diverse stimuli.
Modeling of Halogen–Protein Interactions in Co-Solvent Molecular Dynamics Simulations

Co-solvent molecular dynamics (MD) simulations have recently become successful approaches in structure-based drug design but neglect important interactions such as halogen bonding. To be able to successfully model compound libraries containing halogenated ligands using co-solvent simulations, we investigate the use of halogenated benzene probes in co-solvent simulations on the two test systems human cathepsin L (hCatL) and the Y220C mutant of the tumor suppressor p53 (p53-Y220C). Our studies demonstrate that halogenated benzene probes indeed can unambiguously identify halogen-bonding interaction sites in the binding pocket and show superior correlation and ranking performance compared to standard co-solvent approaches.
Aldolases of the lactic acid bacteria. Demonstration of immunological relationships among eight genera of Gram positive bacteria using an anti-pediococcal aldolase serum.

Reciprocal qualitative and quantitative immunological experiments employing an anti-Pediococcus cerevisiae aldolase serum confirmed many of the interspecific relationships demonstrated previously among lactic acid bacteria with antisera prepared against the Streptococcus faecalis fructose diphosphate aldolase. The extent of immunological relatedness observed between the Lactobacillus and Pediococcus aldolases was markedly greater than that noted between Pediococcus and Streptococcus aldolases indicating that the pediococci share closer phylogenetic ties with the rod-shaped lactobacilli than with their spherical counterparts in the streptococci. In addition to confirming the existence of definitive, but distant, relationships between the lactic acid bacteria and certain gram positive nonsporeforming anaerobes, immunological cross-reactivity was also demonstrated between the pediococcal aldolases and those of Aerococcus viridans.
Dynamic Cancellation of Perceived Rotation from the Venetian Blind Effect

Geometric differences between the images seen by each eye enable the perception of depth. Additionally, depth is produced in the absence of geometric disparities with binocular disparities in either the average luminance or contrast, which is known as the Venetian blind effect. The temporal dynamics of the Venetian blind effect are much slower (1.3 Hz) than those for geometric binocular disparities (4-5 Hz). Sine-wave modulations of luminance and contrast disparity, however, can be discriminated from square-wave modulations at 1 Hz, which suggests a non-linearity. To measure this non-linearity, a luminance or contrast disparity modulation was presented at a particular frequency and paired with a geometric disparity modulation that cancelled the perceived rotation induced by the luminance or contrast modulation. Phases between the luminance or contrast and the geometric modulation varied in 50 ms increments from -200 and 200 ms. When phases were aligned, observers perceived little or no rotation. When not aligned, a perceived rotation was induced by a contrast or luminance disparity that was then cancelled by the geometric disparity. This causes the perception of a slight jump. The Generalized Difference Model, which is linear in time, predicted a minimal probability in cases when luminance or contrast disparities occurred before the geometric disparities due to the slower dynamics of the Venetian blind effect. The Gated Generalized Difference Model, which is non-linear in time, predicted a minimal probability for offsets of 0 ms. Results followed the Gated model, which further suggests a non-linearity in time for the Venetian blind effect.
Modelling the effect of curves on distance running performance

Background Although straight ahead running appears to be faster, distance running races are predominately contested on tracks or roads that involve curves. How much faster could world records be run on straight courses? Methods Here,we propose a model to explain the slower times observed for races involving curves compared to straight running. For a given running velocity, on a curve, the average axial leg force ( F ¯ a ) of a runner is increased due to the need to exert centripetal force. The increased F ¯ a presumably requires a greater rate of metabolic energy expenditure than straight running at the same velocity. We assumed that distance runners maintain a constant metabolic rate and thus slow down on curves accordingly. We combined published equations to estimate the change in the rate of gross metabolic energy expenditure as a function of F ¯ a , where F ¯ a depends on curve radius and velocity, with an equation for the gross rate of oxygen uptake as a function of velocity. We compared performances between straight courses and courses with different curve radii and geometries. Results The differences between our model predictions and the actual indoor world records, are between 0.45% in 3,000 m and 1.78% in the 1,500 m for males, and 0.59% in the 5,000 m and 1.76% in the 3,000 m for females. We estimate that a 2:01:39 marathon on a 400 m track, corresponds to 2:01:32 on a straight path and to 2:02:00 on a 200 m track. Conclusion Our model predicts that compared to straight racecourses, the increased time due to curves, is notable for smaller curve radii and for faster velocities. But, for larger radii and slower speeds, the time increase is negligible and the general perception of the magnitude of the effects of curves on road racing performance is not supported by our calculations.
Atomic force microscopy - Scanning electrochemical microscopy (AFM-SECM) for nanoscale topographical and electrochemical characterization: Principles, applications and perspectives

Abstract Atomic Force Microscopy-Scanning Electrochemical Microscopy (AFM-SECM) has evolved to be a powerful tool for simultaneous topographical-electrochemical measurements at local material surfaces with high spatial resolution. Such measurements are crucial for understanding structure-activity relationships relevant to a wide range of applications in material science, life science and chemical processes. AFM-SECM integrates classic SECM and AFM to achieve on-step acquisition of unparalleled high-spatial-resolution surface topology and nanoscale electrochemical images and holds promising potential to unveil fundamental interfacial properties or activity at nanoscale. Despite the rapid development of AFM-SECM, its unique principles, capabilities, and applications have not been sufficiently understood and utilized. The present review provides a short critical overview of the evolution of AFM-SECM, the major principles and operation modes as well as the AFM-SECM probe designs. The current applications of AFM-SECM in materials, biological and chemical sciences are critically discussed to highlight the remaining challenges of the AFM-SECM and perspectives on its further development.
Heart speaks to Heart: Newman and Friendship

This paper discusses, with illustrations from throughout Newman’s life, the very great importance that friendship held for him, both personally and spiritually. It suggests that Newman’s appreciati...
Calculated Ageism: Generational Sacrifice as a Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Objectives Popular responses to the pandemic illustrate ageism's pervasiveness and the extent of collective acquiescence to its newest expressions. We explore these themes by analyzing Twitter reactions to "calculated ageism" - a term we use to refer to a political figure's edict that older adults should sacrifice their lives if it will mitigate the pandemic's economic damage to younger people. Methods Using thematic analysis, we examine tweets (n=188) responding to Texas Lt. Governor Dan Patrick's March 23, 2020, statement that encouraged generational self-sacrifice. Themes that emerged included positions of support or opposition and tweeters' critiques. Results The large majority of tweets - 90 percent - opposed calculated ageism, while only 5 percent supported it and 5 percent conveyed no position. Opposition centered on moral critiques, political-economic critiques, assertions of older adults' worth, and public health arguments. Support centered on individual responsibility and patriotism. Discussion While prior research reveals ageism to be solidly entrenched in popular culture, our study finds that limits prevail and identifies the reasons underlying them. The most common reasons for opposing calculated ageism center on its immorality and on its privileging of the economic interests of the powerful few over the many, patterns suggesting that the boundaries of ageism are influenced by core beliefs about fairness. They also are shaped by a bedrock conviction that older lives have value. This intergenerational solidarity could be leveraged to reduce ageism during the pandemic and beyond.
Modified Head and Neck Swallow Scale: Using EORTC-QLQ-H&N35 to Predict Overall Survival.

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS Dysphagia is a treatment-related complication of head and neck cancer (HNCA). We demonstrate the predictive value of a modified head and neck swallow scale (m-HNSW) adapted from the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire-Head and Neck 35 (EORTC-QLQ-H&N35). STUDY DESIGN Retrospective Cohort Study. METHODS Retrospective, single-center cohort study utilizing a prospectively collected database of HNCA patients in a high-volume tertiary referral center. 736 HNCA patients more than 2 years from completion of treatment were identified. EORTC-QLQ-H&N35 data collected from at least one of three defined episodes of care were used. The m-HNSW uses three questions to form a 9-point dysphagia scale. A Cox proportional hazards model was used to determine the effect of the m-HNSW while controlling for demographics, tumor staging, site, and treatment. RESULTS Using data from 3, 6, 12 months from treatment, we analyzed a subset that included 328 patients. Three months after the completion of therapy, the m-HNSW score had a significant association with 1 (HR = 1.24, P = .0005) and 5 year survival (HR = 1.19, P = .0002) after accounting for body mass index. Six (HR = 1.14, P = .014) and 12 month (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.33, P < .0001) scores post completion of therapy predict 5-year survival. An increase of the m-HNSW score by 1 point was associated with an increase in death by 24%, and 19% at 1 and 5 years following therapy. CONCLUSIONS The m-HNSW is a simple assessment of dysphagia using previously validated EORTC-QLC-H&N35 data that when taken at 3, 6, and 12 months after completion of therapy is predictive of overall survival. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 4 Laryngoscope, 131:2478-2482, 2021.
Dynamic fracture and dealloying induced stress-corrosion cracking

Abstract Electrochemical dealloying is a corrosion process in which one elemental component of an alloy is selectively dissolved often resulting in the evolution of a bicontinuous nanoporous morphology composed of ligaments and pores. When such structures form on the surface of ductile face-centered cubic metals such as brass, stainless steels and gold-containing alloys, it has been proposed that they trigger stress-corrosion cracking as a result of their ability to support high-speed cracks that can be injected into the undealloyed parent phase alloy. Here we examine how the applied stress or stored strain energy control the dynamics of high-speed crack propagation and the relationship between the fracture plane orientation of cracks that have been injected into the undealloyed parent phase and that which forms during stress corrosion cracking of a single-crystal silver-gold alloy. In both cases, we observe exceptionally flat cleavage-like fracture surfaces, whose crystallographic orientation is determined by that of the tensile axis. We present a continuum formulation of the injection distance based upon a crack tip equation of motion that incorporates inertial effects in which the work of fracture is a decreasing function of crack speed.
An Accurate Online Parameter Estimation Technique for Inductive Electric Vehicle Charging Systems

An accurate online parameter estimation method for inductive power transfer (IPT) systems is introduced. Using the proposed parameter estimation method both magnetic coupling factor and battery charging current can be estimated simultaneously. This method is specifically suitable for inductive electric vehicle (EV) charging systems in which the battery charging load dynamically varies during the charging process. The proposed method only requires measurements from the primary side and thereby eliminates the need for data communication between the transmitter and receiver. The technique is based on the use of resonance frequency tracking controllers that continuously match the switching frequency the resonance frequency of the IPT system. Detailed analytical formulations for the derivation of magnetic coupling factor and battery charging current and voltage are presented. Theoretical analysis, simulation models and experimental validations of the proposed parameter estimation method are presented. The results show that the proposed method can accurately estimate the magnetic coupling factor and battery charging current in real-time. The experimental results confirm that the proposed method can be easily implemented in any IPT system.
Sleep Endoscopy Patterns in Six Adults With Trisomy 21 and Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is prevalent amongst individuals with Trisomy 21 (T21). This case series describes the results of drug-induced sleep endoscopy of six adult patients with OSA and T21 and compares the patterns of collapse to those observed in adults without T21. Predominantly hypopharyngeal airway collapse was found in four of the six (66.7%) subjects with T21, a much higher proportion than in the general population. This finding may implicate anatomic differences underlying the increased prevalence of OSA in individuals with T21 and may have treatment implications. Laryngoscope, 2021.
Study of the variation of the specific gravity of the electrolyte during charge/discharge cycling of a lead acid battery

The present work aims to contributing to the perspective of using lead acid batteries for the storage of energy produced by photovoltaic plants. After a review of different models tackling the performance of lead acid batteries, we opted for the electrochemical approach and based our study on the evolution of the electrolyte specific gravity during charge/discharge cycling tests of a 12 V lead acid battery. The test results revealed a drop of the specific gravity of the electrolyte during successive C/D cycling. This is reflected by the maxima (1.2463 g/cm3–1.1697 g/cm3) and the minima (1.1273 g/cm3–1.106 g/cm3) of the specific gravity values after uninterrupted tests, revealing underlying irreversible reactions. Further data collection and analysis will serve as building blocks for an operational model.
Diffusion Barriers in Semiconductor Devices/Circuits

When two different materials are brought in contact with each other, there is a tendency for them to mix. This mixing, a naturally driven process that leads to a lowering of the free energy of the system comprising these materi- als, occurs by a transfer of matter from one part of the system to another as a result of the random atomic or molecular motion. This is diffusion, which is measured in terms of a quantity called diffusivity or diffusion coefficient D. D is defined, by Fick’s first law of diffusion in one dimension, as: $$ J = - D\left[ {\partial c\left( {x,t} \right)/\partial x} \right]. $$ (1) Here c is the concentration of the diffusing species; it is a function of the position x in the sample and the diffusion time t. D is the proportionality constant relatinG the flux (J) of the diffusing species to the concentration gradient (∂c/∂x). The magnitude of D determines the extent of mixing and is dependent on the materials type (its melting point, structure, and the defect type and content), the temperature, and the surroundings of the materials in contact with each other. Such diffusion and mixing lead to changes in the properties of the materials, sometimes to a better material and other times to an undesirable material behavior.
One Culture, Two Cinematic Nations: Hyangjin Lee Contemporary Korean Cinema: Identity, Culture, Politics

Hyangjin Lee _Contemporary Korean Cinema: Identity, Culture, Politics_ Manchester and New York: Manchester University Press, 2000 ISBN: 0719060087 viii + 244 pp
Systemunterstützt individualisierte Kundenansprache in der Mehrkanalwelt der Finanzdienstleistungsbranche — Repräsentation der Einstellungen von Kunden in einem Kundenmodell

Die vorliegende Arbeit schlagt ein Konzept zur Abbildung relevanter Aspekte eines Kunden der Finanzdienstleistungsbranche in einem zentralen Repository, bezeichnet als Kundenmodell, vor. Eine zentrale Rolle spielen dabei die Einstellungen von Kunden, deren reale Eigenschaften Widerspruchlichkeit, Unscharfe und Mehrwertigkeit auch in der Abbildung enthalten sein mussen. Aus den Anforderungen an die Wissensreprasentation und -Verarbeitung werden zwei alternative Formalismen, wovon einer auf Evidenzmasen, der andere auf der Fuz-zy-Theorie basiert, abgeleitet und vergleichend bewertet.
The theoretical sensitivity of the Dicke radiometer

Following a brief review of the theory of operation, characteristics, and applications of the modern microwave radiometer, the Dicke radiometer circuit is analyzed by the autocorrelation function-power spectrum method. The treatment achieves a greater generality than prior investigations although the method is, in general, similar to that used by Goldstein. The major improvement of this treatment is a result of replacing the detector characteristic assumed by Dicke and Goldstein, V_{o} = kV_{i}^{2} , with a general representation. The final result shows that the sensitivity of the radiometer is independent of the detector characteristic. In addition, the results of Dicke and Goldstein were corrected and found to be the same as the sensitivity obtained in the present work. This paper illustrates the method and describes the results, but omits the main body of routine calculation. The theoretical results were experimentally tested.
Antidepressant Adherence among Latinos: The Role of the Family

Familismo (familism) has been introduced in various ways in Latino mental health. For people with mental illnesses such as depression, familism can create pressures that are treatment discouraging. This article presents the results of a multiphase study aimed to increase antidepressant adherence among Latinos. The data presented came from Phase 1 and describe an analysis of familism broadly defined from the transcripts across six focus groups with 30 participants. Data were analyzed using a grounded theory approach. Familismo was defined as the general tendency to value family unity, which can take precedence over individual needs. Family influence presented a broader category to include any reference to family and generally included instrumental support. Familismo was brought up by 73% of participants; family influence was brought up by 80% of participants. Familismo can lead to patients covering up their symptoms or their illness severity to protect their family and not burden them. We concluded that fa...
57.2: Enhancing LCD Optical Efficiency with a Linearly Polarized Backlight and Polarization‐preserving Light Guide Plate

We propose a new polarization-preserving edge-lit light guide plate (LGP) based on total internal reflection. Our simulation results show that such a LGP exhibits several attractive features: 1.54X higher polarization efficiency, 2.4X higher on-axis luminance, and no need for a brightness enhancement film. When integrated with a linearly polarized LED array, the LCD optical efficiency can be enhanced dramatically and its power consumption can meet the challenging goal set by Energy Star 6.
Vaccines, abortion, and moral coherence.

The health benefits associated with relatively recent advances in vaccine therapy are well documented. To mention just a few: in 1921 there were nearly 207,000 reported cases of diphtheria in the United States. In 1991, there were two. In the same year, apart from a small number (five to ten) of vaccine-associated cases, there were no reported cases of poliomyelitis, as compared with more than twentyone thousand in 1952; “The CDC projects that the world will be polio-free by
Autodissociating Rydberg states of positronium hydride

Consequences of the nonrelativistic Coulomb Hamiltonian with a fixed proton are considered for positronium hydride (PsH). An optical-potential method and certain simplifying assumptions are used to compute the lowest s-wave resonance parameters on the basis of the /e(+)H(-)/ configuration. Resonance parameters corresponding to a Ps scattering energy of 4.0190 eV and a width of 0.0303 eV are obtained. These results are shown to be in very close agreement with those of previous studies.
Effects of Branched Ligands on the Structure and Stability of Monolayers on Gold Nanoparticles

The ability to control the structure of monolayers on radial and faceted surfaces is an important goal for the successful application of nanoparticles in devices and materials. To investigate the effect of steric bulk in the monolayer periphery on monolayer protected gold cluster (MPC) properties, we have synthesized a series of gold nanoparticles having amide functionality within the monolayer chains and altering the peripheral end groups of the monolayer. Investigation of these MPCs using IR spectroscopy and cyanide-mediated decomposition of the gold core reveals a strong correlation between the strength of the intramonolayer hydrogen bonding and the maximal decomposition rate. Additionally, comparison with corresponding ester-functionalized derivatives indicates that the hydrogen bonding amide unit in the monolayer emphasizes the effects of the peripheral groups on monolayer surface packing and MPC properties.
Lifetime and capture cross-section studies of deep impurities in silicon

Abstract Many impurities in silicon have multiple energy levels lying deep in the energy gap. Such impurities may determine electron and hole trapping and recombination under non-equilibrium carrier conditions. Models for the deep energy levels and for the capture processes are described. Experimental techniques for the measurement of electron and hole capture cross-sections are compared and their relative merits considered. The present knowledge of capture cross-sections of deep impurities in silicon is essentially confined to gold, indium and zinc. Recent studies of these are reviewed, and compared with cross-sections for (a) shallow impurities in silicon and (b) deep impurities in germanium.
A Low-Complexity LDPC Decoding Algorithm for Hierarchical Broadcasting: Design and Implementation

In this paper, we present a structure-based decoding algorithm for the hierarchical broadcasting systems. Unlike the traditional hierarchical demodulation approaches that suffer from serious interlayer interference (ILI), the proposed method exploits the structure information on the secondary layer to mitigate the ILI impairment, thereby offering significant gains in reception performance. The algorithm can be applied to different channel coding and mapping schemes under various channel profiles. In addition, the new algorithm has been implemented on a broad-band in-band–on-channel digital radio broadcasting system. Numerical results from both simulations and laboratory experiments are provided to quantify the performance advantages of the new algorithm.
A cytokine cocktail directly modulates the phenotype of DC-enriched anti-tumor T cells to convey potent anti-tumor activities in a murine model

Adoptive cell transfer (ACT) using ex vivo-expanded anti-tumor T cells such as tumor-infiltrated lymphocytes or genetically engineered T cells potently eradicates established tumors. However, these two approaches possess obvious limitations. Therefore, we established a novel methodology using total tumor RNA (ttRNA) to prime dendritic cells (DC) as a platform for the ex vivo generation of anti-tumor T cells. We evaluated the antigen-specific expansion and recognition of T cells generated by the ttRNA–DC–T platform, and directly modulated the differentiation status of these ex vivo-expanded T cells with a cytokine cocktail. Furthermore, we evaluated the persistence and in vivo anti-tumor efficacy of these T cells through murine xenograft and syngeneic tumor models. During ex vivo culture, IL-2 preferentially expanded CD4 subset, while IL-7 enabled homeostatic proliferation from the original precursors. T cells tended to lose CD62L during ex vivo culture using IL-2; however, IL-12 could maintain high levels of CD62L by increasing expression on effector T cells (Tem). In addition, we validated that OVA RNA–DC only selectively expanded T cells in an antigen-specific manner. A cytokine cocktail excluding the use of IL-2 greatly increased CD62Lhigh T cells which specifically recognized tumor cells, engrafted better in a xenograft model and exhibited superior anti-tumor activities in a syngeneic intracranial model. ACT using the ex vivo ttRNA–DC–T platform in conjunction with a cytokine cocktail generated potent CD62Lhigh anti-tumor T cells and imposes a novel T cell-based therapeutic with the potential to treat brain tumors and other cancers.
One hundred years of Spartina altemiflora (Poaceae) in Willapa Bay, Washington: random amplified polymorphic DNA analysis of an invasive population

Spartina altemiflora (smooth cordgrass) has invaded Willapa Bay, Washington, covering bare mud flats and seagrass beds. At current expansion rates it threatens to occupy most of the intertidal habitat in the bay within 40 years. Although a major mitigation effort is underway, nothing is known about the genetic structure of the Willapa Bay S. altemiflora population or the underlying causes for the dramatic increase in seed set that has occurred in the last 15 years. Random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis was assessed as a method of DNA fingerprinting to analyse the genetic history and current structure of the Willapa population. The results suggest that all S. alterniflora clones in Willapa Bay are descended from a single genet. Given the limited genetic variability expected in a clonally founded population, we discuss the utility of RAPDs as genetic markers to explore the large morphological and reproductive differences reported among Willapa clones. Cluster analysis of RAPD fragments was used to show relatedness among S. alteniflora genets and may be helpful in locating the most prolific clones for mitigation efforts. Overall, RAPDs show great potential in genetic analysis of S. altemiflora, particularly in invasive populations where isozyme variability is low or nonexistent.
Nesiritide in cardiovascular anesthesia.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW Acute heart failure has become a major medical issue in the western population. Because mortality is still as high as 50%, the treatment of these patients has been the focus of many studies. A new approach has recently been proposed, including B-type natriuretic peptide as a medication. The purpose of this review is to discuss these new developments. RECENT FINDINGS Recent studies have shown that plasma levels of B-type natriuretic peptide may serve as a marker for the severity of acute decompensated heart failure. Nesiritide, which is the recombinant equivalent of B-type natriuretic peptide, is a vasodilator, acting by increasing cyclic guanosine 3', 5'-monophosphate in the vascular smooth muscle cells. It is mainly considered to be an alternative for nitroglycerin, because it has fewer side-effects, and its activity is more prolonged. Treatment with nesiritide has shown fewer arrhythmias and a lower mortality rate compared with dobutamine and milrinone. In cardiac surgery, nesiritide is mainly administered to patients awaiting heart transplantation, but intraoperatively the doses of nesiritide and anesthetics must be adjusted because of a potential interaction. A few anecdotal reports have shown the advantageous effects of nesiritide in the early post-bypass period. SUMMARY Anesthesiologists will be confronted with increasing numbers of patients with heart failure, who require new forms of medication. Nesiritide is a promising new tool, and its application, which is still mainly restricted to the preoperative period, will probably soon be extended to the early post-bypass period.
Extremely Variable Conservation of γ-Type Small, Acid-Soluble Proteins from Spores of Some Species in the Bacterial Order Bacillales

γ-Type small, acid-soluble spore proteins (SASP) are the most abundant proteins in spores of at least some members of the bacterial order Bacillales, yet they remain an enigma from both functional and phylogenetic perspectives. Current work has shown that the γ-type SASP or their coding genes (sspE genes) are present in most spore-forming members of Bacillales, including at least some members of the Paenibacillus genus, although they are apparently absent from Clostridiales species. We have applied a new method of searching for sspE genes, which now appear to also be absent from a clade of Bacillales species that includes Alicyclobacillus acidocaldarius and Bacillus tusciae. In addition, no γ-type SASP were found in A. acidocaldarius spores, although several of the DNA-binding α/β-type SASP were present. These findings have elucidated the phylogenetic origin of the sspE gene, and this may help in determining the precise function of γ-type SASP.
Changes in overall and firearm veteran suicide rates by gender, 2001-2010

Introduction To date, the majority of information on veteran suicide rates has been based on the population of veterans utilizing Veterans Health Administration (VHA) services. From 2001 to 2010, both male and female VHA veterans had higher age-adjusted suicide rates than men and women in the U.S. general population. Importantly, however, only 25% of veterans use VHA services, and there is a relative paucity of information on suicide rates overall and by specific mechanisms for the broader population of all veterans. Firearms are a particularly important mechanism for suicide among the veteran population, given their military history and extensive knowledge of and familiarity with firearms. Indeed, firearms have been shown to account for a disproportionate number of veteran suicides when compared to firearm use among suicide decedents in the U.S. general population. Among veterans using VHA services, defined as those who received inpatient or outpatient care during the study period, 69% of suicides among men involved firearms in fiscal years 2007–2008, while 38% of suicides among women involved firearms. By contrast, the proportion of suicides involving firearms in the U.S. general population was lower: 56% among male and 30% among female decedents in 2008. Although information exists on the prevalence of firearms used in veteran suicides, information on mechanism-specific suicide rates and trends in these rates over time is currently lacking. Accordingly, this study aimed to provide novel information on overall and firearm-specific suicide rates among the broad veteran population, which includes both veterans who do and do not utilize VHA services. Suicide rates were computed and compared over time from 2001 to 2010. Furthermore, given documented