cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
CRSS of disordered and ordered Cu3Au single crystals containing SiO2 particles Correlation with the Orowan stress

Abstract Single crystals of Ou3Au containing SiO2 particles, oriented for single slip on (111)[101], and suitably heat-treated to have either an ordered or a disordered matrix, have been tested in compression in the range of temperatures 77–373 K. The quenching stresses generated at the particles, owing to the differences in the thermal expansion coefficients of Cu3Au and SiO2, were shown to have a significant effect on the CRSS of the disordered crystals, leading to an apparent temperature dependence of the Orowan stress. The effect was much less pronounced for the ordered crystals. After calculating the magnitude of this effect for the disordered samples, good agreement was obtained between the experimentally observed increment in the CRSS and the theoretically predicted Orowan stress. The agreement between theory and experiment for the ordered crystals was also satisfactory, assuming that the superlattice dislocations bypass the particles as a unit. TEM examination of (111) sections showed Orowan-type ...
Vocal communication in the domestic chicken: I. Does a sender communicate information about the quality of a food referent to a receiver?

Abstract Male domestic chickens produce ‘food calls’, when they are presented with food. Experiments, conducted under controlled conditions, on the responses of cockerels to the presentation of various foods in the presence of a hen indicate that the rates and numbers of food calls vary with the preference ranking of the food. A hen is more likely to approach a male when he is calling than when he is silent. The probability of a hen approaching is greater when the male is calling to a highly preferred food than to a low-preference food. We conclude that male food calling communicates information about food quality to a female chicken, the signal receiver.
Differential reduction of magnetic anomalies to the pole on a massively parallel computer

A finite‐impulse‐response filter was implemented on a computer with massively parallel processors to reduce a magnetic anomaly map to the magnetic pole, allowing each grid node to have a different inclination and declination (differential reduction to the pole, DRTP). The dramatic speed improvement of such an implementation for the filter design and application via space‐domain convolution makes DRTP a practical tool for hydrocarbon and mineral exploration.Application of this tool to magnetic anomalies in east China reveals that the northward shift in position of the anomaly maximum generated by DRTP is 6 km for anomalies with dominant wavelengths of approximately 25 km in the northernmost part of the study area. The shift increases as the anomaly wavelength increases. Shifts for all anomaly wavelengths are even larger in the southern part of the study area, where the magnetic inclination is lower. The shift in position of the anomaly maximum for anomalies of wavelengths 25 km in the northernmost area pro...
Interrelationships among life-history traits in three California oaks

Life-history traits interact in important ways. Relatively few studies, however, have explored the relationships between life-history traits in long-lived taxa such as trees. We examined patterns of energy allocation to components of reproduction and growth in three species of California oaks (Quercus spp.) using a combination of annual acorn censuses, dendrometer bands to measure radial increment, and litterfall traps. Our results are generally consistent with the hypothesis that energy invested in reproduction detracts from the amount of energy available for growth in these long-lived taxa; i.e., there are trade-offs between these traits. The relationships between reproduction and growth varied substantially among specific trait combinations and tree species, however, and in some cases were in the direction opposite that expected based on the assumption of trade-offs between them. This latter finding appears to be a consequence of the pattern of resource use across years in these long-lived trees contrasting with the expected partitioning of resource use within years in short-lived taxa. Thus, the existence and magnitude of putative trade-offs varied depending on whether the time scale considered was within or across years. Collectively, our results indicate that negative relationships between fundamental life-history traits can be important at multiple levels of modular organization and that energy invested in reproduction can have measurable consequences in terms of the amount of energy available for future reproduction and both current and future growth.
A Two-Dimensional hot electron electro-optic effect in GaAs/(Al,Ga)As multiple quantum wells

Abstract The optical absorption characteristics of an n-type GaAs/Al0.22Ga0.78As modulation-doped multiple quantum well structure are investigated. Results for the variation of absorption for intra- and inter-subband transitions for the hot two-dimensional electron gas are presented. Under the action of a strong electric field applied parallel to the epitaxial layers, it is found that optical radiation from a CO2 laser emitting at 9.6 μm and 10.6 μm is absorbed differently for light polarized parallel and perpendicular to the epitaxial growth axis. This difference in hot electron absorption--which is a manifestation of an optical birefringence--can be quantified with help of the Kramers-Kronig relation which relates the variation of the index of refraction with the absorption coefficient for the two polarizations. A mechanism for this hot electron electro-optic effect is suggested.
New Treatments for Rhabdomyosarcoma: The Importance of Target Practice

To address the poor outcomes in rhabdomyosarcoma, particularly the alveolar subtype, new therapies are needed. Potential cancer-specific alterations that may be molecular targets include gene fusions or copy number changes. Following the latter strategy, an attractive antigene approach was developed to inhibit MYCN oncogene expression in rhabdomyosarcoma.
Fluid flow and transport processes in a large area atmospheric pressure stagnation flow CVD reactor for deposition of thin films

This paper investigates a new CVD reactor geometry to deposit uniform films on large area substrates at atmospheric pressure. Calculations have been performed for a wide range of parameters to investigate the effects of inlet flow rates, substrate rotation, and height of the reactor chamber. It is seen that for some combinations of the parameters the flow above the wafer is unsteady. Effect of rounded corners on damping instabilities of the shear layers is explored. By employing the rounded corners, we have been able to reduce the RMS non-uniformity to about 1% at atmospheric pressure on a 30 cm wafer. The impinging jet geometry can be used for the deposition of thin solid films without the penalty of a vacuum system and associated equipment costs.
Understanding Arms Race Onset: Rivalry, Threat, and Territorial Competition

What causes arms races between rival states? Traditional international relations theories view arms build-ups as deterrence motivated reactions to real or perceived threat. Research on the consequences of arms races, however, suggests that military build-ups can have unintended negative consequences. I offer an alternative explanation for arms race onset built on the assumption that leaders understand the potential costs of military build-ups and, consequently, wish to avoid arms races if possible. According to the model, states only engage in arms competitions when there are particularly salient stakes at risk. I posit and test a model arguing that territorial stakes, because of their inherent salience, represent the stakes most likely to produce arms races. Tests of the model on a population of rival states confirm the hypothesis.
Pulse Asymptotics of the Charney Baroclinic Instability Problem

The asymptotic response of the Charney baroclinic instability problem to a localized perturbation is determined using the formalism of Briggs (1964) and exploiting a recently obtained highly accurate WKB approximate dispersion relation (Lindzen and Rosenthal, 1981). Comparison is made with previous results for two-level and Eady models. Small scales and rapid growth characteristic of the initial stages of cyclogenesis are found and the linear dispersion relation, which can be obtained from observation of zonal wind and stability, emerges as a forecast tool for prediction of geographically local cyclogenesis.
In situ volatile collection, analysis, and comparison of three Centaurea species and their relationship to biocontrol with herbivorous insects.

Centaurea solstitialis, commonly known as yellow starthistle, is an invasive plant listed as a noxious weed in the western areas of North America and is the target of classical biological control, which involves release of herbivores known to be specific to this plant. These insects often choose their host plant on the basis of the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted. Accordingly, volatile analysis of host plants can provide insight into VOCs that may attract and/or repel the insect. To this end, solid-phase microextraction (SPME) and a customized collection bag were utilized to perform in situ volatile collection on intact and mechanically damaged leaves of Centaurea solstitialis, Centaurea cyanus, and Centaurea cineraria. Volatile identification was performed by GC-MS, and the VOC differences were determined. The plants C. solstitialis and C. cyanus have been reported to attract the weevil, Ceratapion basicorne, a candidate for biological control, whereas C. cineraria does not attract the weevil. ...
Variability in encoding precision accounts for visual short-term memory limitations

It is commonly believed that visual short-term memory (VSTM) consists of a fixed number of "slots" in which items can be stored. An alternative theory in which memory resource is a continuous quantity distributed over all items seems to be refuted by the appearance of guessing in human responses. Here, we introduce a model in which resource is not only continuous but also variable across items and trials, causing random fluctuations in encoding precision. We tested this model against previous models using two VSTM paradigms and two feature dimensions. Our model accurately accounts for all aspects of the data, including apparent guessing, and outperforms slot models in formal model comparison. At the neural level, variability in precision might correspond to variability in neural population gain and doubly stochastic stimulus representation. Our results suggest that VSTM resource is continuous and variable rather than discrete and fixed and might explain why subjective experience of VSTM is not all or none.
Investigation of low-lying electronic states in nitromethane by electron-impact spectroscopy

Abstract Low energy, variable angle, electron-impact energy-loss spectra of nitromethane have been obtained. A previously unreported singlet → triplet excitation with maximum intensity at 3.8 eV energy loss is observed and its relevance to the gas phase photochemistry of nitromethane is discussed. An additional weak transition with maximum intensity at 4.45 eV energy loss is tentatively assigned to a symmetry-forbidden transition.
General treatment of heteroatoms with the randic molecular connectivity index

Excellent structure-molar refraction relationships of alkylphosphines, dialkyl sulfides, alkylthiols, alkylamines, dialkyl ethers, and aliphatic alcohols were obtained using the Randic molecular connectivity index. Excellent structure-molar refraction relations were also obtained using two empirically-modified connectivity indices which reflect either the difference in bond length between the heteroatom-carbon bond and a carbon-carbon bond or the difference in covalent radius between the heteroatom and a carbon atom. Use of the empirically-modified indices improves the prediction of molar refraction for a mixed set of alkylphosphines, dialkyl sulfides, alkylthiols, alkylamines, dialkyl ethers, aliphatic alcohols, alkanes, alkylsilanes, alkylgermanes, and alkyl halides.
Nanoscience at the advanced photon source

The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) Advanced Photon Source (APS), located at Argonne National Laboratory, is a 3rd-generation synchrotron radiation source of hard X-rays. Also sited at Argonne is the Center for Nanoscale Materials (CNM), one of the five Nanoscience Research Centers that have been created by the DOE’s Office of Basic Energy Sciences. The APS and CNM are closely connected, both physically and intellectually, as the CNM building is attached to the APS experiment hall, and the APS and CNM jointly operate the nanoprobe beamline at APS Sector 26 that was constructed as part of the CNM project. Both the APS and CNM are user facilities and their synergy provides the research community with a unique suite of tools for the fabrication and characterization of nanomaterials. This talk will summarize the capabilities of the nanoprobe beamline and some of the recent nanoscience results from data collected at the APS.
Forefoot plantar pressure reduction of off-the-shelf rocker bottom provisional footwear.

Abstract Background Increased plantar pressures have been shown to be a risk factor in ulceration of the neuropathic foot. Prescriptive footwear is a common medical treatment, yet evidence regarding the efficacy of these prescriptions is underdeveloped. The purpose of this study is to determine the off-loading properties of four provisional shoes; a rocker sole compared to a flat sole shoe with and without the addition of a 1.25 cm plastizote insert. Methods Fifteen subjects with peripheral neuropathy and a normal longitudinal arch were recruited to compare four types of provisional (post-operative) footwear. Plantar surface foot pressures were measured while wearing a rocker sole shoe or a flat stiff sole shoe. Both shoes were worn with and without a 1.25 cm plastizote insert. Peak plantar pressures were recorded for the hallux, metatarsal heads (1–5), midfoot, and heel. Findings The rocker sole shoe with plastizote had the best off-loading properties. While wearing this footwear, mean peak plantar pressure was 2.8 kg/cm 2 (range: 1.7 to 4.5 kg/cm 2 , 50% mean reduction from flat sole shoe without plastizote) and 1.9 kg/cm 2 (range: 0.7 to 3.6 kg/cm 2 , 35% mean reduction) at the five metatarsal heads and hallux, respectively. Interpretation For patients with a normal longitudinal arch and forefeet, either at risk of developing an ulcer or are healing a forefoot ulcer, a provisional shoe with a rocker sole and plastizote insole provides plantar pressure reduction of the forefoot. However, when results were analyzed for the subjects individually the amount of off-loading varied.
Changes of central haemodynamic parameters during mental stress and acute bouts of static and dynamic exercise

Chronic dynamic (aerobic) exercise decreases central arterial stiffness, whereas chronic resistance exercise evokes the opposite effect. Nevertheless, there is little information available on the effects of acute bouts of exercise. Also, there is limited data showing an increase of central arterial stiffness during acute mental stress. This study aimed to determine the effect of acute mental and physical (static and dynamic exercise) stress on indices of central arterial stiffness. Fifteen young healthy volunteers were studied. The following paradigms were performed: (1) 2 min of mental arithmetic, (2) short bouts (20 s) of static handgrip at 20 and 70% of maximal voluntary contraction (MVC), (3) fatiguing handgrip at 40% MVC and (4) incremental dynamic knee extensor exercise. Central aortic waveforms were assessed using SphygmoCor software. As compared to baseline, pulse wave transit time decreased significantly for all four interventions indicating that central arterial stiffness increased. During fatiguing handgrip there was a fall in the ratio of peripheral to central pulse pressure from 1.69+/-0.02 at baseline to 1.56+/-0.05 (P<0.05). In the knee extensor protocol a non-significant trend for the opposite effect was noted. The augmentation index increased significantly during the arithmetic, short static and fatiguing handgrip protocols, whereas there was no change in the knee extensor protocol. We conclude that (1) during all types of acute stress tested in this study (including dynamic exercise) estimated central stiffness increased, (2) during static exercise the workload posed on the left ventricle (expressed as change in central pulse pressure) is relatively higher than that posed during dynamic exercise (given the same pulse pressure change in the periphery).
Transatlantic moves to the market: the United States and the European Union

The theory of academic capitalism is used to explore US and EU marketization trajectories. Comparisons are made along the following dimensions: creation and expansion of intermediating organizations external to universities that promote closer relations between universities and markets; interstitial organizations that emerge from within universities that intersect various market oriented projects; narratives, discourses and social technologies that promote marketization and competition; expanded managerial capacity; new funding streams for research and programs close to the market; and new circuits of knowledge that move away from peer review and professional judgment as arbiters of excellence. We also consider the status of fields not closely integrated with external markets, and see fragmentation of the humanities, fine arts and (some) social sciences to be a sign of research universities marketization. We conclude that the US and EU are following very different paths to bring higher education closer to the market. The US move to the market was incremental and frequently led by a wide variety of non-governmental organizations, often with strong ties to the for-profit sector and participation by segments of universities prior to federal legislation or mandates. The European Commission is reverse engineering Anglo-American higher education models to reconstruct technologies of governance in uniquely European contexts that embed competition in nation-state initiatives. Although the discourse surrounding university marketization promises growth of high paying jobs prosperity, evidence to date suggests very uneven results for both the US and EU.
Interferon-α after autologous stem cell transplantation in pediatric patients with advanced Hodgkin's lymphoma

Interferon- α after autologous stem cell transplantation in pediatric patients with advanced Hodgkin's lymphoma
Lipid composition and lipogenic activities in the livers of normo- and hereditary hyperlipidemic chickens.

Abstract 1. 1. Lipid content of the liver and its lipogenic activities were compared among year-old laying hens and hereditary non-layers and roosters fed a low-fat and cholesterol-free grain diet. 2. 2. In contents of free cholesterol, cholesteryl ester and phospholipid, the differences between groups were relatively minor, but striking differences were noted in triglyceride with a marked accumulation in non-layers. 3. 3. Incorporation studies of [ 14 C]acetate and [ 14 C]mevalonate by liver slices revealed that in layers, acetate was preferentially incorporated into saponifiable lipids (SF), whereas mevalonate incorporated actively into both saponifiable and non-saponifiable (NSF) lipids. 4. 4. Lipid synthesis with acetate and mevalonate was extremely low in non-layers; in roosters, utilization of acetate was very poor but mevalonate was actively incorporated into SF and NSF lipids. 5. 5. During incubation of tissue slices, acetate was extensively oxidized to CO 2 , whereas mevalonate was poorly oxidized in all chickens. The level of substrate oxidation was similar between layers and roosters, but their level of oxidation was much greater than that of non-layers.
Methionine increases BDNF DNA methylation and improves memory in epilepsy

Objective Temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) patients exhibit signs of memory impairments even when seizures are pharmacologically controlled. Surprisingly, the underlying molecular mechanisms involved in TLE-associated memory impairments remain elusive. Memory consolidation requires epigenetic transcriptional regulation of genes in the hippocampus; therefore, we aimed to determine how epigenetic DNA methylation mechanisms affect learning-induced transcription of memory-permissive genes in the epileptic hippocampus. Methods Using the kainate rodent model of TLE and focusing on the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (Bdnf) gene as a candidate of DNA methylation-mediated transcription, we analyzed DNA methylation levels in epileptic rats following learning. After detection of aberrant DNA methylation at the Bdnf gene, we investigated functional effects of altered DNA methylation on hippocampus-dependent memory formation in our TLE rodent model. Results We found that behaviorally driven Bdnf DNA methylation was associated with hippocampus-dependent memory deficits. Bisulfite sequencing revealed that decreased Bdnf DNA methylation levels strongly correlated with abnormally high levels of Bdnf mRNA in the epileptic hippocampus during memory consolidation. Methyl supplementation via methionine (Met) increased Bdnf DNA methylation and reduced Bdnf mRNA levels in the epileptic hippocampus during memory consolidation. Met administration reduced interictal spike activity, increased theta rhythm power, and reversed memory deficits in epileptic animals. The rescue effect of Met treatment on learning-induced Bdnf DNA methylation, Bdnf gene expression, and hippocampus-dependent memory, were attenuated by DNA methyltransferase blockade. Interpretation Our findings suggest that manipulation of DNA methylation in the epileptic hippocampus should be considered as a viable treatment option to ameliorate memory impairments associated with TLE.
Dissolution Kinetics of Nickel Surface Precipitates on Clay Mineral and Oxide Surfaces

The formation of Ni surface precipitates on natural soil materials may occur during sorption under ambient environmental conditions. In this study, we examined proton- and ligand-promoted dissolution of Ni surface precipitates on pyrophyllite, talc, gibbsite, amorphous silica, and a mixture of gibbsite and amorphous silica aged from 1 h to 2 yr, by employing an array of dissolution agents (ethylenediaminetetraacetic add [EDTA], oxalate, acetylacetone, and HNO 3 ). Ligand-promoted dissolution was more effective in removing Ni than the protolysis by HNO 3 , In all cases, as residence time increased from 1 h to 2 yr, the amount of Ni released from the precipitates decreased from 98 to 0%, indicating an increase in stability with aging time regardless of sorbent and dissolution agent. For example, as residence time increased from 1 h to 2 yr, Ni release from pyrophyllite, as a percentage of total Ni sorption, decreased from 96 to 30% and 23 to 0%, respectively, when EDTA (pH 4.0) and HNO 3 (pH 6.0) were employed as dissolution agents for 14 d. Dissolution via oxalate of 1-yr-aged Ni-Al layered double hydroxide (LDH) on pyrophyllite saw 19% Ni removal, in comparison with 52% Ni release from α-Ni(OH) 2 precipitates on talc, suggesting that α-Ni(OH) 2 is less stable than Ni-Al LDH. The increase in stability of the Ni surface precipitates in this study with residence time was attributed to three aging mechanisms: (i) Al-for-Ni substitution in the octahedral sheets of the brucite-like hydroxide layers, (ii) Si-for-NO 3 exchange in the interlayers of the precipitates, and (iii) Ostwald ripening of the precipitate phases. It appeared that the second factor, Si-for-NO 3 exchange in the interlayers, was a major mechanism for the increase in stability of the precipitates.
Morphological analysis of the development of the primary organizer in avian embryos

Scanning electron microscopic (SEM) analysis of the primary organizer region of the mesoblast of avian embryos, stages 3–5, showed that mesodermal cells gastrulated through the primitive streak are organized into distinct domains as early as stage 3. These domains initiate a metameric pattern consisting of prechordal plate and the first pair of somitomeres. The prechordal plate first appears immediately anterior to the primitive streak, along the embryonic midline, whereas the somitomeres are located on either side of the prechordal plate in the paraxial mesoblast region. The appearance of a metameric pattern during mesoblast expansion preceeds the formation of Hensen's node and full elongation of the primitive streak. By stage 4 of development the primitive streak is fully elongated, and Hensen's node is established as a raised hillock of epiblast at the cranialmost end of the axis. Also at this stage, avian embryos show the first indication of notochord formation. The notochord initially appears as a highly condensed, elliptical domain of concentrically organized chordamesoblast cells (100μm in length), deposited along the midline between the prechordal plate and Hensen's node (the source of chorda cells). This initial group of notochord cells has been termed a notochord segment. Continued regression of Hensen's node along the primitive streak results in the sequential generation of paraxial somitomeres and axial notochord segments, each segment measuring approximately 100 μm in length. By stage 5, the avian embryonic axis contains four pairs of somitomeres and four axial notochordal segments.
Urban Residents' Views of Rurality and Contacts with Rural Places}

AnSTRAGr Little is known about how rural people and places are viewed by the urban majority or the extent to which these images are related to first-hand contact with rurality. Data from a recent mail survey of a sam­ ple of people living in Pennsylvania cities suggest that urban people view rural places in positive terms and feel that rural areas and rural lifestyles should be preserved. When asked to consider the desirability of various development strategies, most urban residents indicated that priority should be given to promoting traditional extractive economic activities (farming, forestry, mining); there was little support for other types of business or industrial development. Urban residents who visited rural locales for recreation and/or environmental contact were most likely to want to preserve those areas; visiting for social reasons was related to support for development activities. Policy implications of these findings are suggested.
Oögenesis of the freshwater turbellarian Hydrolimax grisea (Platyhelminthes; Plagiostomidae) with special reference to the history of the supernumerary asters and central bodies.

The oocyte of H. grisea is surrounded early in its growth by the accessory cell. A yolk halo, secreted by accessory parenchymal cells, subsequently envelops the oocyte and its accessory cell. Of particular interest are the supernumerary asters, and their central bodies, which surround the oocyte nucleus. The asters are exceptional because they appear in unfertilized oocytes with (apparently) intact germinal vesicle membranes. Coincident with sperm penetration the supernumerary asters grow. Their rays elongate and thicken. The nuclear membrane disappears. The supernumerary asters aggregate and disappear prior to the maturation (meiotic) divisions. The maturation asters from with distinct centrioles and centropheres while the egg is still within the parenchyma of the worm. Their formation is independent of sperm penetration. The polar bodies are given off within the cocoon.
Lower stratospheric chlorine partitioning during the decay of the Mt. Pinatubo aerosol cloud

We present measurements of lower stratospheric HCl between July 1992 and August 1996 made by instruments onboard the Upper Atmosphere Research Satellite (UARS). We find that at 46 hPa the fraction of total inorganic chlorine (Cl y ) in the form of HCl increased from 0.68 averaged between July 1992 and June 1993 to 0.78 averaged between July 1995 and June 1996. This increase of (16±9)% over three years is much smaller than the trend calculated from in situ measurements made by instruments onboard NASA's ER-2 high-altitude aircraft that has been used to suggest problems with our understanding of lower stratospheric chlorine partitioning. The trend determined from the UARS data is slightly larger than the trend predicted by a two-dimensional model simulation of the atmospheric effects of the Mt. Pinatubo eruption.
Blockade of excitatory amino acid receptors protects anoxic hippocampal slices

Abstract Experiments in a variety of preparations have indicated that excessive activation of receptors for the excitatory amino acids glutamate and aspartate may mediate irreversible anoxic neuronal injury. We investigated this hypothesis in the in vitro hippocampal slice. Rat hippocampal slices perfused for 40 min with buffer equilibrated with 95% nitrogen/5% carbon dioxide lost their extracellur CA1 population spikes and failed to recover after prolonged reoxygeneration. It was impossible to locate cells with normal physiological properties in these anoxic slices with standard intracellular recording techniques. However, when excitatory transmission was blocked during anoxia with either high concentrations of magnesium or antagonists of excitatory amino acids (kynurenate or aminophosphonovalerate), the population spike returned to preanoxia levels. Intracellular recording showed that neurons in these protected slices had normal resting potentials, action potentials, and input resistances. These experiments provide additional support for the involvement of excitatory amino acids and their receptors in anoxic neuronal injury.
Neurotransmitters, Receptors, and Second Messengers Galore in 40 Years

The past four decades have witnessed extraordinary advances in the molecular understanding of neurotransmitters, their receptors, and second messengers. This essay highlights a selected group of particular notable discoveries, emphasizing seminal findings that have transformed thinking in the field.
Cloud-Based Virtual Computing Laboratories

Virtual computing laboratories are widely implemented in universities, especially to support teaching and research in areas such as engineering, computer science, and information assurance. Most existing labs that support teaching or a combination of teaching and research are internally implemented and managed. Some universities are considering migrating their in-house labs into the cloud using solutions provided by multiple vendors. This paper explores the practical aspects of such a migration and describes costs, benefits, and challenges.
Identification of peptides for the surface functionalization of perovskite ferroelectrics

Combinatorial phage display methods have been used to identify a heptapeptide sequence, ISLLHST, that strongly associates with a perovskite ferroelectric, Pb(ZrxTi1−x)O3 (PZT). The selectively of peptide binding to polycrystalline metalorganic chemical vapor deposition deposited PZT thin films were determined by titering and immunofluorescence microscopy. Ferroelectric properties were determined by measurement of the P-E hysteresis loop on unmodified and phage bound PZT thin films. No change in the coercive field, Ec, or the saturation polarization, Ps was observed. The remnant polarization, PR, however, showed a minor reduction after exposure to aqueous buffer and/or phage binding, possibly due to association of compensating surface charges on the PZT.
Central Retinal Artery Occlusion and Retinal Tolerance Time

Transient central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) was produced in 63 eyes of rhesus monkeys by lateral orbitotomy and temporary clamping of the central retinal artery (CRA) for between 15 and 270 minutes. Thirty-three eyes were examined at regular intervals for 12 to 22 weeks. Color fundus photography, fluorescein fundus angiography, electroretinography (ERG) and visual evoked response (VER) were performed before and during clamping of the CRA as well as periodically after unclamping. All the eyes were examined by light and/or electron microscopy. This study revealed that the retina suffered irreparable damage after ischemia of 105 minutes, but recovered well after ischemia of 97 minutes. As a general rule, the monkey retina can tolerate up to 100 minutes of ischemia but not more.
Design Parameters for High-Efficiency Hybrid PV/Thermal Solar Energy Systems

With recently increasing focus on solar energy, there has been increased interest in hybrid PV/thermal (PV/T) solar energy systems. In the PV/T system, a thermal energy recovery system is implemented to remove waste heat from the PV cells, thereby decreasing their operating temperature, leading to enhanced overall energy performance of the PV cells. The possibility of the utilization of waste heat recovered for hot water or space heating makes the PV/T system highly attractive for building integration. The main objective of this study is to conduct a state-of-the-art review and compare existing PV/T systems in terms of the factors limiting their electrical and thermal performance. Critical design parameters for maximum efficiency of PVT systems are identified and practical recommendations for improved design of PVT systems are provided.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Accurate step-FMCW ultrasound ranging and comparison with pulse-echo signaling methods

This paper presents a method setup for high-frequency ultrasound ranging based on stepped frequency-modulated continuous waves (FMCW), potentially capable of producing a higher signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) compared to traditional pulse-echo signaling. In current ultrasound systems, the use of higher frequencies (10-20 MHz) to enhance resolution lowers signal quality due to frequency-dependent attenuation. The proposed ultrasound signaling format, step-FMCW, is well-known in the radar community, and features lower peak power, wider dynamic range, lower noise figure and simpler electronics in comparison to pulse-echo systems. In pulse-echo ultrasound ranging, distances are calculated using the transmit times between a pulse and its subsequent echoes. In step-FMCW ultrasonic ranging, the phase and magnitude differences at stepped frequencies are used to sample the frequency domain. Thus, by taking the inverse Fourier transform, a comprehensive range profile is recovered that has increased immunity to noise over conventional ranging methods. Step-FMCW and pulse-echo waveforms were created using custom-built hardware consisting of an arbitrary waveform generator and dual-channel super heterodyne receiver, providing high SNR and in turn, accuracy in detection.
Simultaneous stabilization using genetic algorithms

This paper considers the problem of simultaneously stabilizing a set of plants using full state feedback. The problem is converted to a simple optimization problem which is solved by a genetic algorithm. Several examples demonstrate the utility of this method. 14 refs., 8 figs.
Verb-Argument Structure Processing in Complex Sentences in Broca′s and Wernicke′s Aphasia

We describe three experiments that explore the real-time access of verb-argument structures in a group of normal control subjects, a group of Broca's aphasic patients, and a group of Wernicke's aphasic patients. Specifically, we examine whether our subjects exhaustively access the thematic representations of verbs in active, passive, cleft-subject, and cleft-object sentences. We find that our normal control subjects and Broca's aphasic patients are sensitive to the thematic properties of verbs, regardless of sentence type. Our Wernicke's aphasic patients do not show on-line sensitivity to this lexical property. We discuss these results in terms of multiple resources dedicated to specific sentence processing devices, a possible semantic deficit in Wernicke's aphasia, and a double-dissociation between the operation of accessing a verb's thematic properties and the operation of computing the trace-antecedent relation.
SIGCSE chair's annual report

At the end of each year (July 1- June 30) ACM asks each SIG for information about awards given, significant papers published, significant programs, and key issues the SIG expects to face over the next three years. Here are highlights from the report.
Recent Advances in Molecular Biology of Thyroid Cancer and Their Clinical Implications

Thyroid cancer is the most common endocrine malignancy. With a rapidly rising incidence in recent years, novel efficient management strategies are increasingly needed for this cancer. Remarkable advances have occurred in understanding several major biologic areas of thyroid cancer, including the molecular alterations for the loss of radioiodine avidity of thyroid cancer, the pathogenic role of the MAP kinase and PI3K/Akt pathways and their related genetic alterations, and the aberrant methylation of functionally important genes in thyroid tumorigenesis and pathogenesis. These exciting advances provide unprecedented opportunities for the development of molecular-based novel diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic strategies for thyroid cancer.
Tectonic and petrologic evolution of the Kodiak batholith and the trenchward belt, Kodiak Island, AK: Contact fault juxtaposition?

[1] Two fore-arc magmatic belts exist in Kodiak Island, the granitic Kodiak batholith and the basaltic trenchward belt. Both are part of the 2100 km long Sanak-Baranof belt, interpreted to result from trench-ridge-trench (T-R-T) triple-junction migration. In this hypothesis, trenchward belt basaltic rocks formed as the spreading ridge first entered the accretionary prism, and the larger Kodiak batholith resulted from a slab window at depth. However, radiometric dates between the two belts differ in age by up to 1–3 Ma. Kodiak batholith U/Pb zircon ages range from 59.2 to 58.4 ± 0.2 Ma (SW-NE), whereas trenchward belt ages range from 62.6 ± 0.6 (K-Ar) to 60.15 ± 0.86 (Ar/Ar whole rock) SW-NE. This suggests that both fore-arc magmatic belts did not form from a single triple-junction passage, because at 60–62 Ma the triple junction was several hundred kilometers west of Kodiak Island. Multiple explanations exist for the age disparity between the two belts, including oblique ridge subduction, Contact fault tectonic juxtaposition, slab window thermal lag, multiple triple-junction passages, or off-axis ridge magmatism. Geochemical data such as rare earth metal (REE) curves and Zr/Nb of >30 indicate the trenchward belt rocks have a mid-ocean ridge basalt (MORB)–like character. Major and trace element modeling indicate that trenchward belt rocks resulted from assimilation-fractional-crystallization of MORB with Ghost Rocks Formation argillite, whereas the Kodiak batholith formed via partial melting and en masse mobilization of Kodiak Formation metasedimentary rocks with a small basaltic component and subsequent equilibrium-crystallization and restite separation. The petrologic origin of both belts is compatible with spreading ridge subduction. Fault zone structural data suggest the Kodiak batholith/trenchward belt age differential resulted from oblique ridge subduction and Contact fault displacement.
The Struggle for Egypt: From Nasser to Tahrir Square

Many Americans woke up in January 2011 to discover that Hosni Mubarak, steadfast friend and intractable opponent of forces that threatened American-Israeli interests, had suddenly been recast by me...
Interaction between c-Rel and the Mitogen-activated Protein Kinase Kinase Kinase 1 Signaling Cascade in Mediating B Enhancer Activation (∗)

The Rel family of transcription factors are important mediators of various cytokine stimuli such as interleukin (IL)-1, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, and CD28 costimulation in T cell effector responses. These stimuli induce Rel family DNA-binding activity to the kappaB enhancer and CD28 response elements of many cytokine gene promoters leading to cytokine production. Consistent with the importance of Rel family induction during immune responses, c-Rel knockout mice exhibit profound defects in T cell functions including IL-2 secretion and T cell proliferative responses to CD28 plus T cell receptor costimulation. The novel protein kinases, c-Jun NH2-terminal kinases (JNKs)/stress-activated protein kinases, are also activated by TNF-alpha, IL-1, and CD28 costimulation. Because of the common regulation of c-Rel and JNK1 by these agents in T cells, we investigated the role of JNK1 in c-Rel activation. We found that MAP kinase kinase kinase (MEKK) 1, a JNK1 activator, induced transcription from the human immunodeficiency virus-1 long terminal repeat and IL-2R alpha promoters in a kappaB-dependent manner. Coexpression of IkappaBalpha, a c-Rel inhibitor, inhibited the MEKK1-induced transcriptional activity. JNK1 synergized with MEKK1 in activating transcription from a kappaB-driven heterologous promoter. Furthermore, JNK1 associated with c-Rel in vivo in Jurkat T cells by coimmunoprecipitation assays and bound directly to c-Rel in a yeast two-hybrid assay. c-Rel also competed with c-Jun in in vitro kinase assays. However, JNK1 did not phosphorylate c-Rel, NF-kappaB, and IkappaB alpha in vitro, indicating that c-Rel may serve as a docking molecule to allow JNK1 phosphorylation of certain Rel-associated proteins. Transactivation of the IL-2Ralpha and HIV-kappaB-driven promoters by c-Rel was augmented by coexpression of MEKK1. These results demonstrate the first significant role for the MEKK1 kinase cascade module in c-Rel-mediated transcription.
The Glycosaminoglycan Binding Site Governs Ligand Binding to the Somatomedin B Domain of Vitronectin

The ligand binding functions of vitronectin (Vn) are regulated by its conformational state/degree of multimerization. In the native plasma form of Vn, the C-terminal glycosaminoglycan (GAG) binding domain is believed to be cryptic. Here, evidence is provided that the addition of fucoidan or dextran sulfate to unfractionated plasma results in the formation of covalently and non-covalently stabilized Vn multimers. These multimers express conformationally sensitive antibody epitopes and ligand binding sites located in the N terminus of the Vn molecule. While heparin forms complexes with monomeric plasma Vn and induces conformational changes, a reduction in ionic strength is required for induction of multimerization. In addition, heparin serves as a template for the assembly of type 1 plasminogen activator inhibitor-induced disulfide-linked Vn multimers. These results support a new model for the structure of native Vn. The C-terminal GAG binding domain is predicted to be exposed in the native conformation, whereas the N terminus is cryptic. Ligand binding to the GAG binding site unfolds the N terminus, thereby exposing cryptic ligand binding sites.
Prevalence and change in psychiatric disorders among perinatally HIV-infected and HIV-exposed youth

As the pediatric HIV epidemic in resource-rich countries evolves into an adolescent epidemic, there is a substantive need for studies elucidating mental health needs of perinatally HIV-infected (PHIV +) youth as they transition through adolescence. This article examines the role of perinatal HIV infection in influencing mental health by comparing the changes in psychiatric disorders and substance use disorders (SUD) in PHIV + and perinatally HIV-exposed, but uninfected (PHIV -) youth over time. Participants were recruited from four medical centers in New York City. Individual interviews were administered at baseline and 18-month follow-up to 166 PHIV + and 114 PHIV- youth (49% male, age 9-16 years at baseline). Youth psychiatric disorder was assessed using the caregiver and youth versions of the Diagnostic Interview Schedule for Children (DISC-IV). Over two-thirds of participants met criteria for at least one psychiatric disorder at either baseline or follow-up, with few group differences. Among PHIV + youth, there was a significant decrease in the prevalence of any psychiatric disorder, as well as anxiety disorders specifically over time, whereas the prevalence of any psychiatric disorder among PHIV- youth remained the same and mood disorders increased. Rates of SUD were low in both groups, increasing slightly by follow-up. PHIV + youth reported more use of mental health services at follow-up. CD4 count and HIV RNA viral load were not associated with the presence or absence of disorder at either time point. In conclusion, among PHIV + and PHIV- youth, the rates of psychiatric disorder were high, even compared to other vulnerable populations, suggesting that factors other than perinatal HIV infection may be important determinants of mental health. PHIV + youth were more likely to improve over the observation period. The data underscore the critical need for mental health interventions for both PHIV + and PHIV- youth.
Advances and Failures in Preventing Perinatal Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection

Summary: An estimated 2.5 million children are currently living with HIV, the vast majority as a result of mother-to-child transmission. Prevention of perinatal HIV infection has been immensely successful in developed countries. A comprehensive package of services, including maternal and infant antiretroviral therapy, elective cesarean section, and avoidance of breast-feeding, has resulted in transmission rates of less than 2%. However, in developing countries, access to such services is often not available, as demonstrated by the fact that the vast majority of children with HIV live in Africa. Over the past few years, many developing nations have made great strides in improving access to much-needed services. Notably, in eastern and southern Africa, the regions most affected by HIV, mother-to-child-transmission coverage rates for HIV-positive women increased from 11% in 2004 to 31% in 2006. These successes are deserving of recognition, while not losing sight of the fact that much remains to be done; currently, an estimated 75% of pregnant women worldwide have an unmet need for antiretroviral therapy. Further work is needed to determine the optimal strategy for reducing perinatal transmission among women in resource-poor settings, with a particular need for reduction of transmission via breast-feeding.
Children as Guinea Pigs: Historical Perspectives

Experimentation involving children is not a new phenomenon. Children have been used as research subjects in a diverse set of experiments, including the trials of new vaccines and sera, in efforts to understand normal pediatric anatomy and physiology and in the development of new drugs and procedures. Concern about child participants in research is also not a new development. For more than a century, critics of medical research have called attention to the fact that children and other vulnerable populations--pregnant women, prisoners, the mentally ill--have too often served as the unwitting and unwilling subjects of medical experiments. This paper looks at several early cases in which children participated, including the first trial of cowpox vaccine, the first human trial of rabies vaccine, and the first treatment of Listerian wound antisepsis. The history of concern for children, especially institutionalized children, in medical research is considered along with the development of regulations or guidelines, including the Declaration of Helsinki (1964).