cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Novel Use of Columnar Porous Silicon Carbide Structures as Nanoimprint Lithography Stamps

Columnar porous Si-face 6H-SiC substrates were prepared by a photo-electrochemical etching method and applied as nanoimprint lithography (NIL) stamps. The diameter of the pores in the porous region was about 20 nm and the center-to-center separation between pores was about 60 nm. The columnar porous SiC substrates were subjected to a vapor phase silanization treatment whereby a monolayer of perfluorooctyltrichlorosilane (FOTS) was deposited in order to keep the stamps from sticking to the substrates during the imprint step. Subsequently, the porous SiC stamps were used to imprint polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) at elevated temperatures and pressures. The imprinted PMMA could then be used to transfer the nanopattern on the columnar porous SiC to other substrates for various purposes; e.g. templates for GaN regrowth, catalysts for nanowire growth by vapor-liquid-solid type methods (VLS), etc. SiC is not typically used for NIL stamps since etch processing of SiC is less mature than that of Si. However, as demonstrated here, there is no reason why SiC cannot be used as a material for NIL stamps. The superior mechanical properties to Si make the use of SiC alluring as a master template for NIL processing.
Direct numerical simulation of turbulence using GPU accelerated supercomputers

Direct numerical simulations of turbulence are optimized for up to 192 graphics processors. The results from two large GPU clusters are compared to the performance of corresponding CPU clusters. A number of important algorithm changes are necessary to access the full computational power of graphics processors and these adaptations are discussed. It is shown that the handling of subdomain communication becomes even more critical when using GPU based supercomputers. The potential for overlap of MPI communication with GPU computation is analyzed and then optimized. Detailed timings reveal that the internal calculations are now so efficient that the operations related to MPI communication are the primary scaling bottleneck at all but the very largest problem sizes that can fit on the hardware. This work gives a glimpse of the CFD performance issues will dominate many hardware platform in the near future.
In vitro effects of retinoids on murine thymus-dependent and thymus-independent mitogenesis.

Abstract The effects of three retinoids: all- trans -retinoic acid (RA), 13- cis -retinoic acid (13- cis -RA), and N -(4-hydroxyphenyl)retinamide (4-HPR) on murine splenic lymphocyte proliferative responses to mitogens were evaluated. The responses to T-cell mitogens, PHA and Con A, and a T-cell-dependent B-cell mitogen, PWM were significantly potentiated by these retinoids. However, proliferative responses to a B-cell mitogen, Escherichia coli LPS were unaffected or inhibited. All three retinoids at concentrations ranging from 10 −6 to 10 −15 M significantly potentiated Con A-induced proliferative responses. In response to PWM, 10 −13 M RA, 10 −12 M 13- cis RA, and 10 −11 M 4-HPR were the lowest concentrations producing significant potentiation. Endpoint concentrations of retinoids significantly potentiating responses to PHA were; 10 −9 M RA, 10 −8 M 13- cis RA, and 10 −6 M 4-HPR. These responses were independent of retinol contained in fetal calf serum supplemented medium since responses were reproduced in serum-free medium devoid of retinol. Optimal potentiation by retinoids of responses to these T-cell-dependent mitogens were found at superoptimal concentrations of mitogen suggesting a selective inhibition of T-suppressor cells. Thus, potentiation of T-cell-dependent mitogen responses provides the most sensitive biological assay yet described for detection of retinoid activity and is a reproducible system to explore the cellular and molecular mechanisms of retinoid-mediated immunopotentiation.
Two-dimensional correlation analysis of nuclear magnetic resonance metabonomics data.

Two-dimensional (2D) correlation analysis has been used in this study to identify changes in complex nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) metabonomics spectra of rat urine samples obtained during a study in which vasculitis (vascular injury), an important safety element in preclinical trials, was induced. Two types of correlation analysis were performed, along the variables and along the samples, and both 2D covariance and correlation coefficient maps were calculated. The binned and 'raw' NMR spectra were analyzed (0.04 and 0.001 ppm resolution, respectively). Good correlation was found among the major peaks of the binned spectra, and two groups of samples were identified using sample–sample 2D correlation maps. Much more complex correlation features were obtained from the 'raw' spectra, in which the specific, butterfly-like patterns were obtained in the covariance map but with only a few significant correlation coefficients in the corresponding 2D correlation maps. In terms of classification, the same group of the last nine spectra that indicated the end of the process and clustered in the 2D sample–sample covariance map of the binned data was also found in the 2D sample–sample covariance map of the raw NMR spectra but, again, not in the 2D correlation coefficient map. A discussion is given on the details of the application of the correlation analysis with regard to spectral data resolution, alignment, the effect of actual intensities of the NMR signal, and reference to various results from 2D correlation analysis of vibrational spectra.
Wetlands and coal surface mining in Western Kentucky — A regional impact assessment

A wetland atlas (Mitschet al. 1983) was developed for a 3960 km2 region of the Western Coalfield in Kentucky to inventory the wetlands there and to present a regional assessment of coal surface mining. Both the methodology and the results of the atlas are presented as they relate to wetland management. The atlas was designed to present the location, type, and extent of wetlands as well as useful environmental and ecological information for both wetland managers and coal mine operators. The study identified 460 km2 of wetlands with about 84 percent as broad-leaved deciduous forested wetlands. There were also 5.6 km2 of needle-leaved deciduous wetlands (bald cypress swamps) and 24.3 km2 of persistent emergent wetlands, scrub-shrub wetlands, and dead forested wetlands. Surface mines were also identified from aerial photography for the atlas and were often shown to be contiguous with existing wetlands. Data on hydrology, water chemistry, and fish and wildlife resources were gathered from several sources to supplement the mapping and inventory results. The complete inventory showed that surface mining had several impacts on wetlands, including 1) direct removal, 2) acid drainage, 3) sedimentation, and 4) altered hydroperiod.
Effects of Acidosis on Fetal and Maternal Blood Coagulation: A Fetal Lamb Model

The effects of fetal acidosis (mean pH 6.93) on fetal and maternal blood coagulation were measured. Test results from 10 fetal lambs and mother ewes (127 +/- 2 days mean gestation) before and after fetal lactic acid infusions were compared to test results from eight control fetal lambs and mother ewes (127 +/- 3 days mean gestation) before and after control glucose infusion. Significant changes found in acidotic fetal lambs not seen in control fetuses included an increase in the white blood cell count (mean 2800/mm3 before to 3600/mm3 after acidosis; p = 0.0009), a shortening of the thrombin time (mean 17.8 s before to 11.2 s after acidosis; p = 0.0001), and decreases in the activities of factor V (mean 57% before to 37% after acidosis; p = 0.0014) and factor IX (mean 35% before to 29% after acidosis; p = 0.0128). There was also a reduction in the concentration of fibrinogen (mean 147 mg/100 ml before to 125 mg/100 ml after acidosis; p = 0.0492) but no significant changes in the levels of fibrin monomer, fibrinogen/fibrin degradation products, or antithrombin III. In vitro exposure of five different fetal whole blood samples to a pH of 6.9 for 2 h at 37 degrees C did not result in significant changes in any of the coagulation factor activities. A significant decrease in the level of factor V was also found in the mother ewes of the acidotic fetuses (mean 141% before to 113% after acidosis; p = 0.006) and a decrease in the level of maternal factor IX approached significance (mean 119% before to 102% after acidosis; p = 0.0564).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Radial Distribution Function and Structural Relaxation in Amorphous Solids

A method of interpreting radial distribution functions (RDF) of amorphous metals is proposed in which the role of the local atomic structure is emphasized. It is found that the width and height of the peaks of the RDF are related to the second moment of the atomic-level hydrostatic stress distribution $〈{p}^{2}〉$. The results of this analysis are then used to explain the details of the changes that occur in the RDF when structural relaxation takes place. The theoretical ▵RDF is found to be in excellent agreement with the results of a computer study and previous experimental results. It is further proposed that changes in $〈{p}^{2}〉$ may be most easily accounted for in terms of changes in the density of the structural defects defined in terms of the local fluctuations in the hydrostatic stress. In this way the changes that occur in the structure of amorphous metal during structural relaxation, as represented by the RDF, may be explained in terms of the motion and annihilation of these structural defects. It is concluded that the number density of defects which could account for the observed changes in the experimental RDF is 10%. It is also found that while the hydrostatic stress distribution may be significantly changed during structural relaxation, the distribution of the atomic-level shear stresses remains unaltered.
The Contributions of Anthony B. Bleecker to Ethylene Signaling and Beyond

How infinitesimal concentrations of a simple two-carbon gas could bring about dramatic changes in plant growth and development may have seemed to a previous generation of plant biologists like one of nature's unknowables. Now, however, ethylene signaling is understood with such clarity that it can
DNA–divalent metal cation interactions measured by electrophoretic light scattering

We have used the laser Doppler technique of electrophoretic light scattering to study the electrokinetic and gross conformational manifestations of the binding of divalent cations to DNA in low‐salt solutions. By electrokinetic assay, divalent ion affinities to DNA in the 5–500 μM range increase in the order Mn+2<Co+2<Mg+2<Cu+2. The ELS spectra show that Cu+2 denatures double‐stranded DNA in the 50–200 μM concentration range, thereby augmenting the reduction in electrophoretic mobility. Counterion condensation theory correctly predicts the form of the electrophoretic mobility reduction for territorially bound ions such as Mg+2, but the absolute magnitudes of electrophoretic mobility predicted by an equation deduced from condensation theory overestimate our experimental values.
Constraints on masticatory system evolution in anthropoid primates.

It is well established that some observed patterns of force production in the primate masticatory system match those predicted by a simplified lever model. This model is also commonly invoked in adaptive explanations of craniodental diversity. However, systematic studies of the predictive power of this model are missing, leaving open the possibility that factors not traditionally included in the model alter the function and evolution of the masticatory system. One such factor was proposed for mammals generally by Greaves ([1978] J. Zool. (Lond.) 184:271–285), who argued that the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) was poorly suited to being pulled apart. In this constrained lever model, the avoidance of joint distraction leads to limitations on masticatory system form and function. The goal of the present study was to quantify masticatory system diversity in anthropoid primates for comparison with these predictions. Results indicate that all sampled taxa exhibit a form that is consistent with selection against regular distraction of the TMJ. Also apparent from observed patterns of scaling is a regular interaction among a limited set of cranial and dental dimensions, in accordance with the constrained model. However, the data indicate that specific positional relationships among the muscles, joints, and teeth differ from those predicted by Greaves (1978). The pattern of deviation suggests that selection has favored a conservative masticatory system configuration that safeguards the TMJ from distraction during the dynamic processing of irregular foods. The resulting buffered model leads to alternative hypotheses regarding the response of the masticatory system to dietary selection pressures. It may, therefore, improve our understanding of the adaptive significance of primate craniofacial form. Am J Phys Anthropol 108:483–506, 1999. © 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Asynchronous full-duplex wireless

The feasibility of a full-duplex physical layer, where a node can transmit and receive at the same time in the same frequency, has been established in recent work. Implicitly, most schemes to-date have assumed synchronous operation which allows clean training of all relevant channels. In this paper, we establish the feasibility of asynchronous full-duplex communication. We show that both modes of asynchronous full-duplex can be enabled: (i) where the start of transmission of a packet at a node precedes start of the reception from the same node, and (ii) where the start of reception precedes the start of transmission. We show that the former mode has a better performance, which is in fact comparable to the performance of synchronous full-duplex. Finally, we also show that the active suppression can be complemented by passive suppression with the use of optimal antenna placment on actual devices. An overall suppression of 80dB is shown possible in actual experiments making full-duplex feasible for realistic deployments.
METHOD TO DETERMINE REASONABLENESS AND FEASIBILITY OF NOISE ABATEMENT AT SPECIAL USE LOCATIONS

Most states have policies in place that determine whether noise abatement is necessary and reasonable/feasible for Type I projects. These policies mirror federal guidance and apply to various land uses near the proposed project. Special land use facilities such as parks, churches, and schools are included in the policy as far as when abatement may be necessary (i.e., FHWA noise abatement criteria), but the determination of whether the abatement is reasonable or feasible may not be adequately addressed. A survey of state Departments of Transportation (DOTs) indicated that states are dealing with this need for reasonable/feasible determination for special land uses but do not have formal policies in place to address the issue. A systematic procedure would eliminate arbitrary decisions. A methodology developed for the Florida DOT to aid in the development of a procedure for special land use cases is presented. This methodology includes a feasibility flowchart that leads an individual through the process of d...
Computer model for photodynamic therapy of the prostate

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an emerging minimally invasive treatment that can be employed in many human diseases including prostate cancer. This treatment of human prostate cancer depends on the localization of a drug (photosensitizer) into the prostate. The photosensitizer is activated by high- energy laser light and the active drug destroys cancerous tissue. The success of PDT depends on precise placement of light diffusers in the prostate. Since the prostate is irregular in shape, with different dimensions, a transurethral light delivery that is circular in distribution cannot be used in most cases of carcinoma of the prostate. Sources of light and their spatial distribution must be tailored to each individual patient. More uniform, therapeutic light distribution can be achieved by interstitial light irradiation. In this case, the light is delivered by diffusers placed within the substance of the prostate parallel to the urethra at a distance optimized to deliver adequate levels of light and to create the desired photodynamic effect. For this reason, we are developing a computer program that can calculate the distribution of energy depending on the number of light sources placed in the prostate, their position in the gland, the dimension of the prostate, and the attenuation coefficient. A patient's three-dimensional prostate model is built based on ultrasound images. Then the program is being designated to predict the best set of parameters and position of light diffusers in space, displays them in graphical form or in numerical form. The program is amenable for interfacing with robotic treatment systems.
Primary constipation: Treatment

The foregoing is an overall program which will produce satisfactory results in the most obstinate cases of Primary Constipation. In mild cases, good results are frequently obtained when the patient is instructed to take only the water and vegetables, or it may be necessary to add the salt or even the mineral oil. In extreme cases, in order to gain the confidence of his patient, the physician may outline the entire anticonstipation program in the beginning, and when he finds the patient having too many movements, he can cut down first on the oil, then on the salt, and later on fluid or diet, but one at a time, until only one defecation daily is achieved. Very frequently, in long-standing and obstinate cases, the defecation reflex has been so increased (19) that the individual is not aware that a bowel movement is imminent until great pressure is exerted. Therefore, when the regimen is first started, he should be told to be on the alert for vague symptoms of fullness in the rectum. He may wonder if he should try to have a movement. In case this occurs, and it frequently does soon after the water has been taken, he should at least go to the toilet to see what will happen. No straining is needed. If he delays, the effect of the water may be lost, and movement will not take place until later in the day, or not at all. As his habit becomes established, the threshold of the defecation reflex is lowered, and an unmistakable urge will be present. The busy family physician mav feel that this program is too involved. We do not find it so, although, it is sometimes necessary to question the patient at length in order to find in just what respect instructions arenot beine: followed. Many persons, who have taken laxatives and enemas all their lives, seem to take a fiendish delight in proving their doctor wrong, but we have found that a little persistence and patience give brilliant results in a high percentage of cases. During the past five years, prescriptions for laxatives have been almost eliminated in this clinic and in our private practice.
Long-lifetime All-polymer Artificial Muscle Transducers

The dielectric elastomer, a particularly attractive type of electroactive polymer, uses commercial polymers such as acrylic and silicone elastomers. The technology has been limited in application by perceived lifetime issues. By addressing several lifetime issues, lifetimes of more than one million cycles, and in some cases beyond ten million cycles, were achieved with a variety of transducer configurations (including operation in generator mode) under a variety of operating conditions (including high humidity). Dielectric elastomers can produce maximum actuation strains of more than 100% and specific energy density exceeding that of known electric-field induced technology. Performance testing for dielectric elastomer actuators has typically been for peak-performance or “over-driven” conditions with short operational lifetimes (typically 100s or 1000s of cycles), particularly under conditions such as high humidity. By minimizing electric field and mechanical strain concentration factors, long lifetimes (>1 million cycles) with acrylic transducers were achieved with actuation strains as great as 40% areal strain (and up to 100% areal strain in generator mode). Actuators in a dry environment had an almost 20x increase in lifetime over actuators at ambient humidity (about 50% RH) at the same driving field conditions. Long actuation lifetimes were also achieved in a 100% RH environment and when fully submerged in salt water at reduced operating strain and field. In 100% RH, lifetimes of several million cycles were achieved at 4% strain. In underwater operation, 6 out of 11 actuators survived for >10 million cycles with an electric field limited to 32 MV/m and approximately 2% strain. The demonstrated lifecycle improvements are applicable to a variety of uses of dielectric elastomers, including haptic interface devices, pumps (implantable and external), optical positioners, and “artificial muscles” to replace small damaged muscles. Continued improvements in materials, actuator design, and packaging, combined with management of operational conditions as described here, should support new practical application of this promising technology.
Novel miniature electrostatic generator.

A new and unusual design for an electrostatic high voltage generator is introduced. The prototype device built by the author can generate a voltage up to approximately 180kV; yet, its physical size is only a fraction of the size of a comparable Van de Graaff generator. In recent years there has been increasing demand for high voltage generators that are also very compact and lightweight. The new design introduced here fulfills that requirement.
Renal Vascular Responses to Angiotensin and Norepinephrine in Normal Man: EFFECT OF SODIUM INTAKE

The effect of sodium intake on renal vascular responses to angiotensin and norepinephrine infused intra-arterially was assessed in normal man by xenon washout. In subjects on an unrestricted diet, the dose of angiotensin inducing a 50% reduction in mean blood flow (ED50) was 38.2 ± 12.6 ng/min, a hundredfold lower dose than that for norepinephrine. Sodium restriction reduced the sensitivity to angiotensin tenfold: the ED50 rose to 378 ± 12 ng/min. This diet, conversely, potentiated responses to norepinephrine: the threshold dose fell from 37 ± 10 to 3.6 ± 1.9 ng/min. Thus, the reduction in sensitivity to angiotensin induced by sodium restriction was not a nonspecific effect on the vascular smooth muscle. Sodium restriction also reduced the variability in the vascular response to angiotensin, and a close correlation was found between urine sodium content and angiotensin responsiveness. The blood vessels of the normal human kidney are remarkably sensitive to angiotensin: the threshold dose is approximately ...
Improving Model Performance Using Season-Based Evaluation

Computer models have become vital decision-making tools in many areas of science and engineering including water resources. However, models should be properly evaluated before use to improve the likelihood of making sound decisions based on their results. The model evaluation technique practiced today in hydrology assumes that model parameters are season insensitive and attempts to identify “optimal” values that would describe watershed behavior during dry and wet seasons. This assumption could compromise accuracy of model predictions. This study demonstrates performance improvement that would be achieved when a season-based model evaluation approach is pursued. A global sensitivity analysis (SA) model has been used to investigate seasonal sensitivity of streamflow parameters of a watershed simulation model on the headwaters of the Little River Watershed, one of the United States Department of Agriculture’s experimental watersheds. Two separate analyses have been performed: the conventional approach in wh...
An Industry Perspective on the Utility of Short-Term Carcinogenicity Testing in Transgenic Mice in Pharmaceutical Development

International guidelines allow for use of a short-term cancer bioassay (twenty-six weeks) in transgenic mice as a substitute for one of the two required long-term rodent bioassays in the preclinical safety evaluation of pharmaceuticals. The two models that have gained the widest acceptance by sponsors and regulatory authorities are the CB6F1-RasH2 mouse hemizygous for a human H-ras transgene and the B6.129N5-Trp53 mouse heterozygous for a p53 null allele. The p53(+/-) model is of particular value for compounds with residual concern that genotoxic activity may contribute to tumorigenesis. The rasH2 model is an appropriate alternative without regard to evidence of genotoxic potential. Since results from a short-term bioassay can be obtained relatively early in drug development, there is the potential for more timely assessment of cancer risk for individuals in long-term clinical trials. Use of these models in preclinical safety evaluation also significantly reduces animal use, time, and manpower. Preliminary findings indicate that prediction of two-year rat bioassay outcomes based on data from chronic rat toxicity studies, together with early assessment of carcinogenic potential in short-term transgenic models, may have the potential to increase the timeliness and efficiency of strategies for the identification of human carcinogenic hazards.
Multilayer buffer system for fabrication of high-Tc edge-geometry superconductor/normal-metal superconductor (SNS) weak links on silicon-on-sapphire substrates

High frequency detector and circuit applications often require device fabrication on medium-to-low dielectric constant substrates ((epsilon) < 12). Silicon-on-sapphire (SOS) substrates have acceptably low dielectric constants and provide other important advantages, including the possibility of monolithic integration of silicon and superconducting circuitry. Our initial results with YBa2Cu3O7-x(YBCO) edge- geometry superconductor/normal-metal/superconductor (SNS) weak links fabricated on r-plane SOS substrates using cubic zirconia (YSZ) buffer layers revealed problems with grain boundary nucleation in the YBCO counterelectrode. These results motivated development of a new multilayer buffer system consisting of an epitaxial YSZ film grown on an SOS substrate, overlaid by a thin YBCO 'seed' layer, and an epitaxial SrTiO3 (STO) layer. STO - YBCO bilayers grown over the YBCO seed layer show a remarkable improvement in epitaxial quality and in YBCO electrical properties relative to similar bilayers grown directly on the YSZ buffer. In addition, SNS weak links fabricated on SOS substrates using the multilayer buffer system exhibit dramatically improved electrical characteristics compared to devices produced on YSZ buffer layers. These are the first epitaxial edge-geometry SNS weak links produced on SOS substrates.© (1994) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Computer-Assisted Language Learning Authoring Issues

Computer-assisted language learning (CALL) authoring refers to a wide variety of creative development activities using software tools that run the gamut from simple templates (easy-to-use predefined forms into which content is typed) to complex authoring environments (flexible but harder-to-use systems, requiring advanced skills and a great deal of time and resources). Authoring choices range from generic tools (productivity software, course management systems, general-purpose authoring systems) to authoring templates and courseware authoring/management systems specifically for foreign languages. Good CALL authoring tools enable teachers to produce software specific to the needs of language teaching and learning, meeting high standards of suitability, interactivity, use of media, record keeping, ease of use, and accessibility. Teachers face significant barriers to CALL development: brief life span of software and lack of time, resources, training, and professional recognition. A shift in CALL authoring away from traditional tutorial CALL programs has taken place with the evolution of the Web, which has given rise to many services and applications that facilitate online communication, collaboration, information sharing, social networking, and virtual simulations. In a future when most instructional activities involve some form of computer/digital technology, we may well abandon the terms CALL and authoring for other more nuanced designations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Continuum Robotic Tail Loading Analysis for Mobile Robot Stabilization and Maneuvering

This paper presents the analysis of a continuum robot for use as a robotic tail. The tail is envisioned for use on-board a mobile robot to provide a means separate from the locomotion mechanism (e.g., legs or wheels) to generate external forces and moments to stabilize and/or maneuver the robot. A Cosserat rod model is used to simulate the mechanics of the tail. In these analyses, a prescribed tail configuration (for static analysis) or trajectory (for dynamic analysis) is applied, and the governing equations are used to calculate the loading at the base of the tail, which will be transmitted to the mobile robot. This analysis studies the impact of both trajectory and design factors on the resulting loading profiles. Trajectory factors considered include the mode shape, speed, bending magnitude and bending plane angle. Design factors considered for a fixed mass tail include segment length(s) and mass distribution. This research will ultimately assist future continuum robotic tail designs.Copyright © 2014 by ASME
How conductance distributions are shaped by activity-dependent regulation rules

Neurons co-express a multitude of different ion channels that determine the electrophysiological behaviour of the cell. Recent experimental observations have revealed that the expression of different ion channels varies dramatically within neurons of a defined type, even when these neurons exhibit stereotyped electrical properties [1-5]. This variability has a structure visible in the correlations between different ion channel expression levels. Nonetheless,, the underlying mechanism that determines these correlations is unknown, nor is understood how these correlations can coexist with activity-dependent regulation mechanisms that are also known to exist in neurons [6]. We show that these observations are logical consequences of relatively simple control mechanisms that couple the expression levels of individual conductances to a cell-intrinsic readout of activity [7]. Crucially, these correlations are not visible when conductance space is searched to find combinations of conductances that give target behaviour. Therefore, activity-dependent regulation mechanisms constrain the solution space of potential combinations of membrane conductances to a characteristic subset. Furthermore, we show how the shape of the conductance distribution of a population of neurons is determined by the relative rates of expression of different conductances. Finally, degeneracy in the function of multiple ion channels means that regulation mechanisms can have widely-variable parameters yet remain stable; this is exemplified by tolerance to 'anti-homeostatic' regulation of a subset of conductances.
Land Use Impacts on Groundwater Quality

The manner in which humans use land has important consequences for groundwater quality. Using land for waste disposal, recreation, agriculture, residential development, and industry releases different types and quantities of chemicals to the environment. These chemicals often end up in shallow groundwater, where they may impair water quality. Groundwater impacts from point sources, such as landfills and hazardous waste sites, are well understood. Impacts from “routine” land use, such as residential, commercial, industrial, or agricultural use, are not fully understood or readily apparent. Sources of chemicals from these land uses are called nonpoint or areawide sources. Examples include fertilized urban lawns or all feedlots in an area. This discussion focuses on water quality impacts in shallow groundwater resulting from routine land use. Keywords: agriculture; land use; nitrate; pesticides; urban; VOCs; water quality
Selectivity in Addition Polymerization

The development of methods to control selectivity in polymerization processes has been a major accomplishment of polymer chemists during the past quarter of a century. Despite the immense amount of industrial and academic effort expended, and despite much broad understanding of the factors involved, a full understanding of much of the detail of many aspects of selectivity in polymerization remains as a challenge to chemists.
Characteristics of adults with serious mental illness in the United States household population in 2007.

ObjectiveThis study described the epidemiology of serious mental illness in the adult household population.MethodsData from the 2007 National Health Interview Survey of 23,393 adult respondents were used. Serious mental illness was defined when respondents reported that a health professional had told them that they had schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, mania, or psychosis. Sociodemographic and health characteristics, health care utilization, and participation in government assistance programs among adults with and without serious mental illness were compared.ResultsOver 2% of adults reported having received a diagnosis of serious mental illness. Thirty-five percent of adults with serious mental illness had a history of homelessness or of having been in jail. Fewer than two-thirds of adults with serious mental illness had seen a mental health professional in the past year.ConclusionsAdults with serious mental illness were socially disadvantaged and had worse health compared with adults without serious menta...
Ursodiol in Patients with Parenteral Nutrition–Associated Cholestasis

Objective:To review the role of ursodeoxycholic acid (ursodiol) in treating parenteral nutrition–associated cholestasis (PNAC).Data Sources:A MEDLINE (1950–May 2007) search was performed using the key terms parenteral nutrition, cholestasis, ursodeoxycholic acid, and ursodiol.Study Selection and Data Extraction:All English-language articles that evaluated the safety and efficacy of ursodiol for PNAC were included in this review.Data Synthesis:The benefits of exogenous ursodiol administration in the treatment of cholestasis can be explained by its alteration of effects on bile composition and flow and provision of cytoprotective, membrane stabilizing, and immunomodulatory effects. Two animal studies, 2 case reports, and 6 human studies (2 prospective and 3 retrospective pediatric studies, 1 adult prospective study) evaluated the efficacy of ursodiol in patients with PNAC. Ursodiol 10–30 mg/kg/day in children and 10–15 mg/kg/day in adults administered in 2–3 doses improved the biochemical and clinical signs...
Multisector dosimetry in the immediate post-implant period: Significant under dosage of the prostate base

Purpose: While there are several reports of prostate multisector dosimetry data obtained from CT or MRI scans performed at intervals ranging from 14-70 days after prostate brachytherapy (PB), there are no reports on multisector dosimetry performed in the immediate post-implant period. This study was undertaken to determine the results of prostate multisector dosimetry performed in the immediate post-implant period on day 1 post-implant dosimetry after 125 I PB. Material and methods: The day 1 post-implant CT-based V 100 and D 90 were determined for the prostate base (PGB) and compared to doses to the entire gland (PG), mid-gland (PMG), and apex (PA) in 75 patients who underwent 125 I PB to a dose of 144 Gy. Similar multisector dosimetry was also performed on the pre-implant ultrasound volume study scans of these patients. Results: All patients had good quality implants. On day 1 post-implant multisector dosimetry there was significant under dosage of the PGB for both V 100 and D 90 . The average magnitude of under dosage of PGB compared to PMG and PA was 17.2% and 22.7% for V 100 and 44.6 Gy and 31.7 Gy for D 90 , respectively. On pre-implant multisector dosimetry there was no statistically significant under dosage of the PGB for V 100 , but the PGB D 90 was significantly lower compared to PMG and PA, however, the average magnitude of under dosage was small at 12.6 Gy and 4.2 Gy, respectively. Conclusions: This report demonstrates that similar to other reports on more delayed post-implant multisector dosimetry data, there is significant under dosage of the prostate base in the immediate post-implant period based on day 1 post-implant dosimetry. The clinical significance of this under dosage remains to be defined and further studies are warranted. J Contemp Brachytherapy 2014; 6, 1: 33–39 DOI: 10.5114/jcb.2014.42023
The Contextual Determinants of Whites? Racial Attitudes in England

How do majority group members in emerging multicultural and multiracial societies respond to the experience of living amidst ethnic diversity? Recent public opinion surveys are analysed to assess the contextual determinants of English whites’ opinions towards ethnic minorities and immigrants. Multilevel analyses reveal that whites’ racial hostility is affected by local ethnic context; however, the direction of this effect depends on which ethnic minority groups reside in the area. Consistent with the contact hypothesis, whites who live in neighbourhoods with relatively large black populations display lower levels of racial hostility than respondents with few black neighbours. However, in line with racial threat theory, residential proximity to Pakistanis and Bangladeshis is associated with more negative attitudes towards ethnic minorities.
Measurement of Cross-Magnetic-Field Heat Transport in a Pure Ion Plasma

Cross-magnetic-field heat transport in a quiescent pure ion plasma is found to be diffusive and to be dominated by long-range collisions with impact parameters up to a Debye length. The measured thermal diffusivity $\ensuremath{\chi}$ agrees within a factor of 2 with the long-range prediction ${\ensuremath{\chi}}_{L}\phantom{\rule{0ex}{0ex}}=\phantom{\rule{0ex}{0ex}}0.49n\overline{v}{b}^{2}{\ensuremath{\lambda}}_{D}^{2}$ over a range of ${10}^{3}$ in temperature, $50$ in density, and 4 in magnetic field. This thermal diffusivity is independent of magnetic field strength, and is observed to be up to 100 times larger than the classical diffusivity. These long-range collisions are typically dominant in unneutralized plasmas, and may also contribute to electron heat transport in neutral plasmas.
Epoetin alfa therapy for anaemia in HIV-infected patients: impact on quality of life

To evaluate the effect of epoetin alfa on the quality of life (QOL) of HIV-infected patients in the community setting, 221 anaemic (haemoglobin < or = 11 g/dl) HIV-positive patients from community-based treatment centres and physicians' offices were treated with epoetin alfa (100-300 units/kg subcutaneously 3 times a week) in a 4-month, open-label, non-randomized, phase IV trial. Epoetin alfa therapy significantly (P<0.01) increased and maintained haemoglobin levels (mean increase=2.5 g/dl; n=207); the improvement in haemoglobin levels was independent of changes in CD4+ cell counts. Transfusion requirements were also significantly reduced from 20% to 5% of patients (P<0.01). Mean total QOL score measured by the Functional Assessment of HIV Infection (FAHI) scale and Physical Well-Being subscale score improved significantly (P<0.05). QOL improvements associated with increases in haemoglobin were independent of changes in CD4+ counts and baseline anaemia severity. Adverse events observed during epoetin alfa therapy were consistent with HIV disease and not likely due to the drug. Epoetin alfa therapy should be considered a treatment option for HIV-infected patients with mild-to-moderate anaemia.
The effects of aggregated land cover data on estimating NPP in northern Wisconsin

Ecosystem models are routinely used to estimate net primary production (NPP) from the stand to global scales. Complex ecosystem models, implemented at small scales (<10 km 2 ), are impractical at global scales and, therefore, require simplifying logic based on key ecological first principles and model drivers derived from remotely sensed data. There is a need for an improved understanding of the factors that influence the variability of NPP model estimates at different scales so we can improve the accuracy of NPP estimates at the global scale. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of using leaf area index (LAI) and three different aggregated land cover classification products–two factors derived from remotely sensed data and strongly affect NPP estimates–in a light use efficiency (LUE) model to estimate NPP in a heterogeneous temperate forest landscape in northern Wisconsin, USA. Three separate land cover classifications were derived from three different remote sensors with spatial resolutions of 15, 30, and 1000 m. Average modeled net primary production (NPP) ranged from 402 gC m � 2 year � 1 (15 m data) to 431 gC m � 2 year � 1 (1000 m data), for a maximum difference of 7%. Almost 50% of the difference was attributed each to LAI estimates and land cover classifications between the fine and coarse scale NPP estimate. Results from this study suggest that ecosystem models that use biome-level land cover classifications with associated LUE coefficients may be used to model NPP in heterogeneous land cover areas dominated by cover types with similar NPP. However, more research is needed to examine scaling errors in other heterogeneous areas and NPP errors associated with deriving LAI estimates.
Effect of Inventor Status on Intra-Organizational Innovation Evolution

Innovation is one of the primary characteristics that separates successful from unsuccessful organizations. Organizations have a choice in selecting knowledge that is recombined to produce new innovations. The selection of knowledge is influenced by the status of inventors in an organization’s internal knowledge network. In this study, we model knowledge flow within an organization and contend that it exhibits unique characteristics not incorporated in most social network measures. Using the model, we also propose a new measure based on random walks and team identification and use it to examine innovation selection in a large organization. Using empirical methods, we find that inventor status determined by the new measure had a significant positive relationship with the likelihood that his/her knowledge would be selected for recombination. We believe that the new measure in addition to modeling knowledge flow in a scientific collaboration network helps better understand how innovation evolves within organizations.
Validation of a Headspace GC Method for the Analysis of a Pyrolytic Product of Methamphetamine in Urine

A method has been developed and validated using headspace GC-FID for the identification of 1-phenylpropene in urine. This compound is a pyrolytic product of methamphetamine that has been previously proposed as a marker for smoked methamphetamine. The instrumentation used is the same as employed for blood alcohol determination. The extraction-free procedure is rapid, simple, and quantitative using 2-phenylpropene as the internal standard. The method was validated for linearity over a range of 0.1-20 microg/mL with a limit of detection of 0.05 microg/mL, limit of quantification of 0.1 microg/mL, interday accuracy within 3.2 to -5.3%, intraday accuracy better than 7.5%, interday precision of 7.5 to 10.7%, intraday precision of 2 to 8.6%, and recovery above 80%. For the robustness determination in urine, the accuracy of four different sources of urine at the mid control level (1 microg/mL) ranged from 1.6 to 19% error. The % relative standard deviation of the different urine sources ranged from 3.1 to 11%. Urine samples from nine methamphetamine-positive cases investigated by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner of West Virginia were included in the study. 1-Phenylpropene was found in two methamphetamine-positive cases (0.25 and 0.44 microg/mL).
Can Philosophy Be Justified in a Time of Crisis

In this paper, I take the position that a large portion of contemporary academic work is an appalling waste of human intelligence that cannot be justified under any mainstream normative ethics. Part I builds a four-step argument for why this is the case, while Part II responds to arguments for the contrary position offered in Cass Sunstein’s “In Defense of Law Reviews.” First, in Part I(A), I make the case that there is a large crisis of suffering in the world today. (Part I does not take me very long.). In Part I(B), I assess various theories of “the role of the intellectual,” concluding that the only role for the intellectual is for the intellectual to cease to exist. In Part I(C), I assess the contemporary state of the academy, showing that, contrary to the theory advanced in Part I(B), many intellectuals insist on continuing to exist. In Part I(D), I propose a new path forward, whereby present-day intellectuals take on a useful social function by spreading truths that help to alleviate the crisis of suffering outlined in Part I(A).
Coproviding Continuing Education Through Faculty Practice: A Win-Win Opportunity

Practice incorporated as an integral component of the faculty role benefits faculty, their clients, students, the school of nursing, and the community. When practice includes education, particular benefits result for those who have limited access to continuing nursing education (CNE). This article describes one school's way of responding to these learning needs. Three essential elements to a successful venture are described: a) a need for CNE is identified, b) faculty with diverse expertise are available, and c) a working relationship exists between an accredited CNE provider and the faculty. Other schools of nursing are encouraged to develop similar programs.
A method for histopathological study of the multifocal nature of spinal cord lesions in murine experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis

Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is a well-established mouse model for multiple sclerosis and is characterized by infiltration of mononuclear cells and demyelination within the central nervous system along with the clinical symptoms of paralysis. EAE is a multifocal and random disease, which sometimes makes histopathologic analysis of lesions difficult as it may not be possible to predict where lesions will occur, especially when evaluating cross sections of spinal cord. Consequently, lesions may be easily missed due to limited sampling in traditional approaches. To evaluate the entire length of the spinal cord while maintaining anatomic integrity, we have developed a method to section the cord within the decalcified spinal column, which allows for the study of the multifocal nature of this disease and also minimizes handling artifact. HE and Luxol fast blue staining of these spinal cord sections revealed a paucity of lesions in some areas, while others showed marked inflammation and demyelination. The percentage of spinal cord affected by EAE was evaluated at four separate areas of longitudinally sectioned cord and it varied greatly within each animal. Immunohistochemical staining of in situ spinal cords which had undergone decalcification was successful for key immuno-markers used in EAE research including CD3 for T cells, B220 for B cells and F4/80 for murine macrophages. This method will allow investigators to look at the entire spinal cord on a single slide and evaluate the spinal cord with and without classic EAE lesions.