cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The effect of duration of macular detachment on results after the scleral buckle repair of primary, macula-off retinal detachments

Abstract Purpose To present a current series that determined the effect of duration of macular detachment (DMD) and patient age on postscleral buckle (SB) visual acuity (VA) and anatomic results. Design Retrospective, noncomparative, observational case series. Participants Ninety-four consecutive patients (94 eyes) with primary, uncomplicated, macula-off retinal detachments, a preoperative VA of 20/200 or worse, and a precise history of when macular function was lost. Intervention Standard explant scleral buckle technique performed by multiple surgeons. Main outcome measures Visual acuity, anatomic reattachment, and proliferative vitreoretinopathy. Results Visual acuity after SB of 20/40 or better was seen in 71% of eyes with a DMD of 10 days or fewer, 27% of eyes with a DMD of 11 days to 6 weeks, and 14% of eyes with a DMD of more than 6 weeks. Eyes achieved a mean VA after SB of 20/41 after a DMD of 10 days or fewer, 20/121 after a DMD of 11 days to 6 weeks, and 20/178 after a DMD of more than 6 weeks. No decrease in VA was seen within the 1- to 10-day period or the 11 days to 6 week period of DMD. Patients 60 years of age or less achieved a mean VA after SB of 20/47 compared with 20/81 for patients between 61 to 75 years of age and 20 of 96 in patients more than 76 years of age. Duration of macular detachment and patient age had no statistically significant effect on final anatomic reattachment after SB, reoperation rate, or proliferative vitreoretinopathy. Conclusions Eyes with primary, uncomplicated, macula-off retinal detachment repaired with SB achieve excellent postoperative VA if repaired within the first 10 days of macular detachment. These results are better than the VA in eyes repaired after 11 days to 6 weeks and more than 6 weeks of macular detachment. Patients 60 years of age and younger obtained better postoperative VA than older patients. Duration of macular detachment and patient age did not significantly effect anatomic outcomes.
A parallel algorithm for simple roots for polynomials

Abstract A method for finding simple roots of arbitrary polynomials based on divided differences is discussed. Theoretical background is presented for the case of simple roots. Numerical results are presented which show the algorithm finds simple and multiple zeros to an accuracy (usually) limited by the accuracy of polynomial evaluation. The method is designed for a SIMD parallel computer. The algorithm is compared to two other frequently used polynomial root finders, the Jenkins-Traub algorithm and Laguerre's method.
Laws of the thermodiffusion saturation of titanium alloys from amorphous boron in nitrogen

We have established the laws of formation of the structural-phase state, surface topography, and level of the near-surface strengthening of VT1-0, OT4, and VT6s titanium alloys at their thermodiffusion saturation from amorphous boron in nitrogen atmosphere. We have shown that high-gradient strengthened layers, formed due to contact saturation, especially in the temperature range from 900 to 950°C, exert a negative influence on the mechanical properties (plasticity, fatigue life) of alloys with such coatings.
Trapping Rydberg atoms in optical lattices

We study Rydberg atoms in ponderomotive optical lattices. Unlike for ground-state atoms, for Rydberg atoms in an optical lattice the extent of the electronic wave-function can approach the lattice period. This leads to state-dependent adiabatic trapping potentials that are unique to Rydberg atoms. We first discuss a theoretical model of adiabatic lattice potentials of Rydberg atoms. Then, we use microwave spectroscopy to experimentally demonstrate and investigate the state-dependence of the adiabatic potentials of S1/2 Rydberg states of rubidium. The observed microwave spectra depend strongly on both the principal quantum number and the depth of the lattice. A semi-classical simulation is used to explain the features seen in the spectra. Based on the results, we estimate the trapping efficiency of the ponderomotive optical lattice.
A Roadmap to functional genomics

In August 2006, the Center for Human Genomics of the Wake Forest University School of Medicine in Winston-Salem, NC, hosted the National Institutes of Health-sponsored Roadmap Course entitled Models and Technologies for Defining Phenotype. Twenty-four biomedical and genomic researchers from throughout the world and with varying degrees of experience in the genomics, biological, and biomedical engineering sciences were invited to participate as students in a comprehensive course dedicated to presenting and evaluating current and future approaches that can overcome the problems experienced to date in characterizing the functional consequences of gene variation. A total of 34 senior researchers from four different academic institutions served as course faculty and employed a pedagogical approach that emphasized hands-on workshops, demonstrations, and small group discussions and tasks. Through this report we convey the complex and formidable problems unique to genomics research as we attempt to link the field...
Mechanical Behavior of Complex 3D Calcium Phosphate Cement Scaffolds Fabricated by Indirect Solid Freeform Fabrication In Vivo

Calcium phosphate cement is a bioceramic with potential applications for bone-tissue engineering. In this work, controlled porous calcium phosphate scaffolds with interconnected pores were computationally designed by an image-based approach and fabricated by indirect solid freeform fabrication (ISFF) or ‘lost mold’ technique. Voxel finite-element analysis (FEA) showed that mechanical properties of design and fabricated scaffold can be predicted computationally. Scaffolds were then implanted subcutaneously to demonstrate tissue in-growth. Previously, we showed the ability of porous calcium phosphate cement scaffolds to have sufficiently strong mechanical properties for bone tissue engineering applications. This work shows the image-based FEAs from micro-CT scans in vivo (four- and eight weeks). Extensive new bone apposition was noted with micro-CT technique after four- and eight weeks. FEA models of the original design and scaffolds with newly bone formed were compared.
K- ras modulates the cell cycle via both positive and negative regulatory pathways

The effect of activated human K-ras on cell cycle proteins was studied by use of a stable MCF-7 transfectant expressing inducible activated K-ras under the control of a tetracycline (Tet)-responsive promoter. Induction of activated K-ras by Tet withdrawal accelerated cell growth and entry into S-phase. To understand the mechanism(s) by which activated K-ras exerts its effect on the cell cycle, expression of both cell cycle stimulatory proteins as well as cell cycle inhibitors was examined. Upon induction of activated K-ras, several cell cycle stimulators were up-regulated, including cyclins A, D3, and E, and the E2F family of transcription factors, which was accompanied by increased cyclin A-associated kinase activity and E2F transcriptional activity, respectively. Up-regulation of cyclin A occurred at the transcriptional level and in a serum-dependent manner. Furthermore, induction of activated K-ras down-regulated p27Kip1 and up-regulated p53. Up-regulation of p53 was correlated with enhanced p53 transactivation and accompanied by up-regulation of p21Waf1 and Gadd 45, two p53 effectors and negative cell cycle regulators. In addition, activated K-ras up-regulates bcl-2 but has no effect on bax or bcl-x expression. Taken together, these data indicate that activated K-ras affects the cell cycle by modulating both positive and negative cell cycle regulatory pathways.
The Impact of Customer Sacrifice and Attachment Styles on Perceived Hospitality

As is the case in service settings where relationships span long periods of time, customers’ attachment styles for brief hotel stays affect their perception of hospitality. Using a newly developed ...
CD4+ helper T cell depression in autism

CD4+ (helper) T cells are a heterogenous population of lymphocytes including at least two distinct subpopulations. To investigate the possibility that immune abnormalities in some subjects with autism may involve abnormal distributions of CD4+ and/or CD8+ cells, (suppressor) T cells, peripheral blood lymphocytes of 25 autistic subjects were characterized with monoclonal antibodies and flow cytometry. The autistic subjects had a significantly lower percentage and number of CD4+ cells, a lower number of T cells (CD2+ cells) and B cells (CD20+ cells), and a lower percentage and number of total lymphocytes than siblings and normal subjects. The level of blood values for female subjects appeared lower than those for males as compared to normal subjects of the same sex. These results suggest that a decrease in CD4+ cells is associated with autism.
The World Conservation Strategy: Environmental Education and Local Initiative.

In the spring of 1981, Tufts University and the International Union for the Conservation of Nature began teaching the World Conservation Strategy to environmentalists working at the local level. The fourteen-week course that they offered was the first of a series of initiatives to increase public awareness of the need for local action toward the solution of global environmental problems. The success of the first course has encouraged other groups to adapt it to their own social and ecological settings, but there is a pressing need for even more public education. While several aids to teaching the World Conservation Strategy are now being developed to give local conservation educators access to the Strategy, the initiative for bringing the World Conservation Strategy to the public should continue to come from these local leaders.
Microstructural Evolution of γ-Alumina-Supported Rh upon Aging in Air

Abstract Microstructural changes in alumina-supported rhodium catalystsduring aging in air at high temperatures were investigated usinga combination of high-resolution transmission electronmicroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and X-raydiffraction. Both constituents, particles and support, undergostructural changes during thermal aging. With increasing agingtemperature and time, the support transforms from γ- toα-alumina, and the phase change is accelerated by thepresence of rhodium. The rhodium, present initially as10-A-diameter metal particles, undergoes oxidation with theformation of a variety of oxide phases, depending on thetemperature at which aging has occurred. At 500°C, highlydispersed, raft-like structures are observed. Continued aging atthis temperature results in a coarsening of these structures toform three-dimensional particles of high-temperature,high-pressure (HT, HP) orthorhombic Rh 2 O 3 . At 850°C, aging causes severe coalescence of the HT, HP orthorhombic Rh 2 O 3 particles, while at 1000°C, RhO 2 particles are observed together with large particles of HT, HP orthorhombic Rh 2 O 3 . Ahigh Rh binding energy (near 309 eV) is observed using XPSfollowing all aging treatments and may be attributed to eitherthe HT, HP orthorhombic phase or to Rh 4+ .
Viscous Flow over an Unsteady Shrinking Sheet with Mass Transfer

The unsteady viscous flow over a continuously shrinking surface with mass suction is studied. The solution is fortunately an exact solution of the unsteady Navier–Stokes equations. Similarity equations are obtained through the application of similarity transformation techniques. Numerical techniques are used to solve the similarity equations for different values of the mass suction parameters and the unsteadiness parameters. Results show that multiple solutions exist for a certain range of mass suction and unsteadiness parameters. Quite different flow behaviour is observed for an unsteady shrinking sheet from an unsteady stretching sheet.
Gas‐liquid mass transfer and pressure drop in pulp bed with flexible fibers as solid supports

The volumetric mass transfer coefficients between oxygen and water in a pulp bed have been determined by the gas-liquid reaction method with an enhancement factor approximately equal to one. The coefficients ranged from 0.08 s−1 at 13% to 0.34 s−1 at 19% solids content in the pulp bed, values that are close to those for comparable trickle beds. No liquid flow over the pulp bed (13–19% solids content) occurred under the operating conditions. The results showed that gas-liquid mass transfer was affected only by the solids content of the pulp bed rather than by the oxygen superficial velocity (0.4 to 1.2 cm/s). The gas pressure drop across the pulp bed was also predicted by Ergun's equation using an estimated effective diameter for the fiber flocs.
CI. Thermoluminescence. Part II: Instrumentation

Instrumental considerations, choice of light-measuring system, lock-in amplifier, photon counting, thermoluminescent emission spectra, and recent developments in instrumentation for thermoluminescence.
Characterization of liquid flows in microfluidic systems

The microfluidic devices have recently attracted tremendous interest due to their potential of bringing novel applications into reality in many areas including biomedical industry. However, the challenges in the design of microfluidic devices still remain since all aspects of fluid flow in microchannels have not been yet fully understood. This paper presents major findings in the literature on fundamentals of flow physics in microchannels. The review is intended to provide an extensive overview on the available knowledge base as well as the areas that require intensive investigation. It includes studies on both pressure-driven and electro-osmotic flows in microchannels.
Seasonal variation in the occurrence of planktonic larvae of sympatric hermit crabs

Abstract Patterns of seasonal change in the abundances of the planktonic larvae of four sympatric hermit crabs were examined at five fixed stations over 18 months in Christmas Bay, Texas. Clibanarius vittatus (Bosc) was present in the plankton from April through October, Pagurus longicarpus Say from September through May and P. pollicaris Say from December through February. Pagurus annulipes (Stimpson) zoeae were the most frequently encountered zoeae and were found throughout the year, but were most abundant in late spring and summer. Zoea I of P. annulipes and P. pollicaris were found to be reliably distinguishable on the basis of their carapace lengths. Clibanarius zoea I were very abundant (3149) and 42 megalopa but no zoea II–V were found. Inadequate sampling and the short durations of these missing stages do not seem sufficient to explain their absence.
Facile synthesis of bimetallic nanoparticles by femtosecond laser irradiation method

Abstract Bimetallic Pt–Au and Fe–Pt nanoparticles are successfully fabricated by high-intensity laser irradiation of aqueous solution without any chemical reducing agent. The mechanism of the formation of bimetallic nanoalloys by laser irradiation of the solution without using any reducing agent was mainly attributed to the optically induced decomposition of water molecule. When an intense femtosecond laser field is focused in an aqueous solution containing metal ions, the free electrons will be produced by the dissociation of water molecules, these free electrons and hydrogen radicals contained in the plasma might be caught by H+ or OH− ions to form the bubbles of H2 and O2 gases or they can be trapped by metal ions, resulting in the formation of metal atoms during the femtosecond laser irradiation process. The average size of the bimetallic nanoparticles increases with irradiation time. This technique is simple and ‘green’ process without using any chemicals except for metal salt and dispersing agent.
Self-consistent modelling of tunnelling spectroscopy on III–V semiconductors

Abstract A simulation methodology to model tunnelling spectroscopy measurements based on the Price-Radcliffe formalism has been developed within a finite element device simulator. The tip-sample system is modelled self-consistently including tip-induced bending and realistic tip shapes. The resulting spectra of III–V semiconductors are compared against experimental results and a model based on the Bardeen tunnelling approach with very good agreement. We have found that the image force induced barrier lowering increases the tunnelling current by three orders of magnitude when tunnelling to the sample valence band, and by six orders of magnitude when tunnelling to the sample conduction band. The work shows that other models which use a single weighting factor to account for image force in the conduction and valence band are likely to be underestimating the valence band current by three orders of magnitude.
Coming Home: Health Status and Homelessness Risk of Older Pre-release Prisoners

BACKGROUND Older adults comprise an increasing proportion of the prison and homeless populations. While older age is associated with adverse post-release health events and incarceration is a risk factor for homelessness, the health status and homelessness risk of older pre-release prisoners are unknown. Moreover, most post-release services are geared towards veterans; it is unknown whether the needs of non-veterans differ from those of veterans.
Color-dependent banding characterization and simulation on natural document images

Print defects like banding from a digital press involve not only luminance variation, but also chrominance variation. As digital presses place one color separation at a time, the contrast and spatial pattern of the print defects are color-space dependent. Characterizing the color-dependent features of the banding signal enables us to simulate the banding on natural document images in a more accurate way that matches the characteristics of the banding generation mechanism within the digital press. A framework is described for color-dependent banding characterization including the following steps: printing and scanning uniform patches that sample colorant combinations throughout the input document sRGB color space, extracting banding signals in the CMYK color space of the target device, and modeling the banding features in a perceptually uniform color space. We obtain a full banding features LUT for every color point in the input sRGB space by interpolating banding features extracted from measured color points. The color-dependent banding simulation framework is developed based on the banding features LUT. Using the information contained in this LUT, a single banding prototype signal is modulated in a color-space-dependent fashion that varies spatially across the natural document image. Proper execution of the framework of banding characterization and simulation requires careful calibration of each system component, as well as implementation of a complete color management pipeline.
Hormonal and nutritional stimuli modulate apolipoprotein B mRNA editing in mouse liver.

Abstract Human livers produce apoB-100, a major protein of VLDL, while intestines produce apoB-48, the major protein of chylomicrons. ApoB-48 is translated from apoB-100 mRNAs that are post-transcriptionally edited at codon 2153, converting C AA (glutamine) to T AA, a stop codon. In contrast to humans, mouse and rat livers contain the apoB-100 mRNA editing mechanism. Because hormones and nutrients affect the metabolism of apoB containing lipoproteins, we studied the effects of sex hormones and diets on apoB mRNA editing. Groups of male and female C3H/HeJ mice were castrated and treated with 17 β-estradiol at 0.16 (E2L) or at 5 E.cg (E2H), or with testosterone propionate at 1 μg/g body weight/day for 14 days. Plasma apoB levels and ratios of apoB-100/apoB-48 both increased 2-fold, but only in the E2H group. To determine if the increased apoB-100/apoB-48 ratios were associated with altered levels of apoB-100 and apoB-48 mRNA, both forms of apoB mRNA were quantified. We found that indeed ApoB-100 mRNA increased 1.8-fold (p increased apoB-48 mRNA relative to apoB-100 mRNA_ Total plasma apoB as well as apoB-48 synthesis in liver also increased. Our studies demonstrate that estrogens and high fat diet both modulate apoB editing in mouse liver, but that estrogens and fat diet affected apoB mRNA editing in opposite directions.
Radioimmunoassay of apolipoprotein A-I of rat serum.

A double antibody radioimmunoassay technique was developed for quantification of apolipoprotein A-I, the major apoprotein of rat high density lipoprotein. Apo A-I was labeled with 125I by the chloramine-T method. 125I-labeled apo A-I had the same electrophoretic mobility as unlabeled apo A-I and more than 80% of the 125I was precipitated by rabbit anti apo A-I antibodies. The assay is sensitive at the level of 0.5–5 ng, and has intraassay and interassay coefficients of variation of 4.5 and 6.5% respectively. The specify of the assay was established by competitive displacement of 125I-labeled apo A-I from its antibody by apo A-I and lipoproteins containing apo A-I, but not by rat albumin and other apoproteins. Immunoreactivity of high density lipoprotein and serum was only about 35% of that of their delipidated forms when Veronal buffer was used as a diluent. Inclusion of 5 mM sodium decyl sulfate in the incubation mixture brought out reactivity equivalent to that found after delipidation. Completeness of the reaction was verified by comparison with the amount of apo A-I in chromatographic fractions of the total apoprotein of high density lipoprotein. Content (weight % mean values ± S.D.) of immunoassayable apo A-I was: 62.3 ± 5.9 in high density lipoprotein; 1.7 ± 0.3 in low density lipoprotein; 0.09 ± 0.03 in very low density lipoprotein and 25.0 ± 5.0 in lymph chylomicrons. Concentration in whole serum was 51.4 ± 8.9 mg/dl and 33.6 ± 4.1 mg/dl for female and male rats, respectively (p 1.21 g/ml and <1% in lipoproteins of d < 1.063 g/ml.
Soliton solutions for two (3+1) -dimensional non-integrable KdV-type equations

Abstract Two (3+1)-dimensional non-integrable KdV-type equations are investigated. The simplified form of Hirota’s direct method established by Hereman and Nuseir is used for an efficient study. One and two soliton solutions are formally established for each model. The study shows that a slight difference between the two models causes a change in the dispersion relations and in the phase shifts.
De novo large fusiform posterior circulation intracranial aneurysm presenting with subarachnoid hemorrhage 7 years after therapeutic internal carotid artery occlusion: case report and review of the literature.

BACKGROUND AND IMPORTANCE:Although the use of proximal artery occlusion, or hunterian ligation, for the treatment of intracranial aneurysms has decreased greatly over the past decades, this approach still finds use for certain giant and complex aneurysms. The main risks of artery sacrifice are ische
Distinguishing the dimensions of valence and belief consistency in depressive and nondepressive information processing.

The biasing effects of valence congruence and belief congruence were examined in depressed and nondepressed subjects. We hypothesized that congruence between the valence of material and subjects' psychological status, when disentangled from congruence with subjects' beliefs, would enhance recall and recognition of self-descriptions and would lead to more confirmation of feedback. Depressed and nondepressed women rated the selfdescriptiveness of personal adjectives. Two weeks later they were given bogus personality test feedback based on their prior self-descriptions. Each subject received all four combinations of two crossed dimensions: Information was either consistent or inconsistent with previously specified beliefs about the self and was either flattering or unflattering. During Session II, subjects were more likely to recall and recognize flattering self-descriptions than unflattering self-descriptions after statistically controlling for consistency with earlier beliefs. These differences were significantly more pronounced for nondepressed than for depressed subjects. Subjects rated flattering feedback as more accurate than unflattering feedback, supplied more confirmatory evidence to verify it, and assigned lower priorities to gaining additional related information. The same effect was observed for belief-congruent as compared with incongruent feedback. Depressed and nondepressed subjects did not differ significantly in response to feedback. Although feedback valence influened response to feedback, the effect was not different for depressed and nondepressed subjects.
Effects of congruence-incongruence between locus of control and field dependence on interpersonal behavior

Lefcourt and Telegdi's concepts of congruence and incongruence between perceptual skills and expectancies were examined with respect to interpersonal behavior. Four groups of subjects were formed using a portable rod-and-frame device and Rotter's locus of control scale. As predicted the two congruent groups used significantly less interpersonal distance with each of four different social stimuli as measured by Duke and Nowicki's comfortable interpersonal distance scale. There was no difference between congruent and incongruent groups on a self-report measure of interpersonal needs.
Scattering amplitude for Witten's open superstring field theory

Abstract From Witten's open-superstring theory, four-point scattering amplitudes are derived. The results coincide with those of Green and Schwarz in the light-cone approach.
Fluoride-selective optical sensor based on aluminum(III)-octaethylporphyrin in thin polymeric film: further characterization and practical application

More detailed analytical studies of a new fluoride-selective optical sensor based on the use of aluminum(III)−octaethylporphyrin and a lipophilic pH indicator (4‘,5‘-dibromofluorescein octadecyl ester; ETH-7075) within a thin plasticized poly(vinyl chloride) film are reported. The sensor exhibits extraordinary optical selectivity for fluoride over a wide range of other anions, including anions with far more positive free energies of hydration (e.g., perchlorate, thiocyanate, nitrate, etc.). UV−visible spectrophotometric studies of the sensing films indicate that fluoride interacts with the Al(III) center of the porphyrin structure, yielding both a change in the Soret band λmax of the porphyrin and a change in the protonation state of the pH indicator within the film. The same change in spectral properties of the metalloporphyrin occurs in the absence of added pH indicator or with added tetraphenylborate derivative anionic sites, but optical responses to fluoride in these cases are shown to be irreversible...
Generation and reactivity of the chiral rhenium chlorobenzene complex [(η5-C5H5)Re(NO)(PPh3)(ClC6H5)]+BF−4: an improved functional equivalent of the chiral Lewis acid [(η5-C5H5)Re(NO)(PPh3)]+BF−4

Abstract Reaction of (η 5 -C 5 H 5 )Re(NO)(PPh 3 )(CH 3 ) ( 1 ) and HBF 4 · OEt 2 in C 6 H 5 Cl at −45°C gives the chlorobenzene complex [(η 5 -C 5 H 5 )Re(NO)(PPh 3 )(ClC 6 H 5 )] + BF − 4 ( 5 ). The rhenium is bound chiefly to chlorine in 5 , but other species, possibly η 2 -arene isomers, are apparent by 31 P NMR. The relative amounts change upon warming, and new species appear. Complex 5 reacts with neutral donor ligands L (CH 3 CN, C 6 H 5 CH 2 CH=CH 2 , THF) to give the corresponding adducts [(η 5 -C 5 H 5 )Re(NO)(PPh 3 )(L)] + BF − 4 , halide ions X − to give halide complexes (η 5 -C 5 H 5 )Re(NO)(PPh 3 )(X), and HSi(OEt) 3 to give hydride complex (η 5 -C 5 H 5 )Re(NO)(PPh 3 )(H) (74–91%). When 5 is generated from optically active 1 , analogous reactions with L ((−)-( S )-2-phenylbutyronitrile, benzaldehyde) give adducts in high optical yields and with overall retention of configuration at rhenium. For example, carboxylate complex (+)-( RR )-(η 5 -C 5 H 5 )Re(NO)(PPh 3 )(O(C=O)-CH(OAc)C 6 H 5 ) forms in > 99% d.e. upon treatment of 5 derived from (+)-( S )- 1 with (−)-( R )-C 6 H 5 CH(OAc)COOH and then base. Thus, 5 serves as a functional equivalent of the chiral Lewis acid [(η 5 -C 5 H 5 )Re(NO)(PPh 3 )] + —superior in many aspects to the analogous dichloromethane complex reported earlier.
Soliton propagation and interaction on a two-dimensional nonlinear transmission line

Abstract Solitons that propagate on a one-dimensional nonlinear dispersive transmission line can be described with the Korteweg–deVries (KdV) equation. In two dimensions, the solitons are described with the Kadomtsev–Petviashvilli (KP) equation. Both equations are derived for the two transmission lines.
An alternative method for removing low molecular weight proteins from urea and guanidine HCl solutions

Abstract Differential solubility in organic solvent mixtures provides the basis of an alternative method for removing guanidine HCl and urea from protein solutions. Solubilization and removal of these denaturing agents are accomplished by the use of specific combinations of organic solvents of varying dielectric constant, added to dehydrated mixtures of protein and crystalline guanidine HCl and urea. For the proteins tested, recovery varied directly with molecular weight.
Perception of Mandarin Tones: The Effect of L1 Background and Training

This study investigates whether native Hmong speakers' first language (L1) lexical tone experience facilitates or interferes with their perception of Mandarin tones and whether training is effective for perceptual learning of second (L2) tones. In Experiment 1, 3 groups of beginning level learners of Mandarin with different L1 prosodic background (Hmong, Japanese, and English) took a perception test on Mandarin tones. Both the English and Japanese groups outperformed the Hmong group in perceptual accuracy of Mandarin tones. In Experiment 2, 18 learners with different L1 background received either perception training only or perception with production training on Mandarin tones for 6 hours within 3-4 weeks. Both training paradigms were effective for perceptual learning of Mandarin tone contrasts as the two training groups' perceptual accuracy improved significantly at posttest compared with a control group. Although Hmong speakers initially had more difficulties in perception of Mandarin tones than the other 2 groups, they are by no means disadvantaged by their L1 prosodic background as they gain L2 experience after intensive training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Organic compatible polyacrylamide hydrogel fibers

Abstract Ultra-fine fibrous PAAm hydrogel membranes were fabricated by electrospinning of aqueous solutions, followed by reaction with glutaraldehyde. A wide range of fiber diameters (267 nm to 2.8 μm) and morphologies (beaded, round, branched and ribbon) could be achieved by PAAm molecular weight and solution properties. The optimally glutaraldehyde-crosslinked membranes were highly stable in water as well as in organic solvents (methanol, ethanol, acetone, chloroform, DMF and cyclohexane). Glutaraldehyde formed imine with PAAm amide side groups in the form of crosslinking bridges as well as grafts with hydrolyzed carboxylic end groups. The fibrous membrane showed excellent thermal stability, hydrophilicity, super water absorbency and exceptional tensile strength. The fibrous membrane exhibited excellent ability to entrap β-galactosidase enzyme while allowing efficient diffusion of the substrate from and released products into surrounding media. The dual organic solvent and aqueous media compatible fibrous membranes have the promise for solid supported catalysis and diagnostic as well as a wide range of biomedical and industrial applications.
The effects of the degree of internationalization on firm performance

Abstract This study developed and tested a model that attempts to describe the influence of internationalization on firm performance. Degree of internationalization was measured by foreign revenues/total revenues. Results based on data from a cross-sectional set of U.S. multinational firms find evidence of a nonmonotonic relationship between degree of internationalization and firm performance. The rate of return on assets declines, then increases, and finally decreases slightly as the degree of internationalization increases.
SnapViz: visualizing programming assignment snapshots

Many systems collect snapshots of student work, typically after each compile, save, or submission. Visualizing these work histories can yield valuable insights into patterns of student work, common error patterns, and so on. Currently each system must provide its own data visualization system, or must rely on external tools, such as R or Excel. However, the actual values stored in snapshot-based data sets are similar between systems, and, given agreement upon conventions, could be visualized with a common system. We have built a prototype web service called Snapviz. Snapviz displays snapshot data from tab-delimited data files uploaded by users.
China-United States joint ventures: a typological model of goal congruence and cultural understanding and their importance for effective human resource management

Little has been written about enhancing human resource management effectiveness in joint ventures with China. This study presented a typology of potential relationships between Chinese and American partners in a joint venture based on goal congruence and cultural understanding. Each relationship is described, and implications for the management of human resources are discussed.
A non‐linear numerical model for soil mechanics

A new computer program (CONBAL-2) is developed for 2D numerical simulations of granular soil by random arrays of spheres. CONBAL-2 uses the discrete-element method and is based on 3D program TRUBAL, previously presented by Cundall. As in TRUBAL, the new program models a random array of elastic spheres in a periodic space. The main modification of TRUBAL is the implementation by the authors of a rigorous solution for the force–displacement relation at the interparticle contacts. This force-displacement relation is a function of the elastic constants, friction coefficient and sizes of the spheres, with the properties of quartz used to simulate sand. Other specific features of CONBAL-2 include its 2D character, the lack of particle rotation and its capability to simulate shear loading on any plane. Simulated laboratory test results are presented using CONBAL-2 and several random arrays of 531 spheres having two particle sizes. These simulations include monotonic loading drained and undrained (constant volume) ‘triaxial’ experiments, as well as a cyclic-loading, constant-volume ‘torsional shear’ test. The stress–strain curves, effective stress paths, volume changes, as well as the ‘pore water pressure’ build-up behaviour obtained in the simulations compare favourably—qualitatively and in some aspects quantitatively—with similar laboratory results on sands. However, the simulated soil is somewhat stiffer and stronger due to the perfectly rounded particles, limited range of grain sizes, lack of particle rotation and 2D character of the model.
Feed Your Head: Neurodevelopmental Control of Feeding and Metabolism

During critical periods of development early in life, excessive or scarce nutritional environments can disrupt the development of central feeding and metabolic neural circuitry, leading to obesity and metabolic disorders in adulthood. A better understanding of the genetic networks that control the development of feeding and metabolic neural circuits, along with knowledge of how and where dietary signals disrupt this process, can serve as the basis for future therapies aimed at reversing the public health crisis that is now building as a result of the global obesity epidemic. This review of animal and human studies highlights recent insights into the molecular mechanisms that regulate the development of central feeding circuitries, the mechanisms by which gestational and early postnatal nutritional status affects this process, and approaches aimed at counteracting the deleterious effects of early over- and underfeeding.
TuneLogic: Post-silicon tuning of dual-Vdd designs

Modern CMOS manufacturing processes have significant variability, which necessitates guard banding to achieve reasonable yield. It is our thesis that variability should be addressed post-manufacturing. The fundamental contribution we make is a dual-Vdd design style, and associated CAD algorithms, wherein we assign supply voltages to logic based on post-manufacturing analysis rather than designing with nominal values and guard banding. We perform a detailed case study of a custom designed pipelined multiplier using realistic process data. Our results show that for comparable yield and target delay, we can achieve significantly less power than a single-Vdd supply. For example, to achieve 100% yield at same target delay, Tune-Logic uses 23.6 pJ/multiply while a single-Vdd design uses 34.6 pJ/multiply.
Breaking adaptive multicast deadlock by virtual channel address/data FIFO decoupling

As computing goes to system-on-chip era, on-chip network becomes an essential infrastructure for on-chip modules (cores) communication. 2D-Mesh is the most common on-chip network topology providing high throughput point-to-point communication due to its simplicity and regularity. A well-designed 2D-Mesh wormhole router should be deadlock free while supporting multicast and adaptive routing. Unfortunately, there exists no router design providing all these characteristics concurrently. In this paper, we propose an on-chip address-data decoupled FIFO wormhole router which supports adaptive routing, native multicast and deadlock free network guarantee. For a network using a 30-flit packet, our wormhole router increases the area efficiency by 49.5% compared with a virtual cut-through router.
A phase II trial of irinotecan (CPT-11) for unresectable biliary tree carcinoma

Summary Background Unresectable adenocarcinomas of the biliary tree have a very poor prognosis No good chemotherapeutic regimen is available Irinotecan has not yet been fully tested in this disease. We evaluated its activity in unresectable bile duct cancers Patients and methods Twenty-five consecutive eligible patients at our two institutions were treated with irinotecan at a starting dose of 125 mg/m2 A cycle consisted of once-a-week treatments for four consecutive weeks, followed by two weeks of rest. All patients were required to have histologically confirmed diagnosis, clinically documented metastatic or unresectable carcinoma and measurable disease Patients were evaluated for response, toxicity, and survival Results A total of 83 cycles of therapy were delivered Two patients had a partial response (8%, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0%–18%) and ten additional patients had stable disease for at least two months (40%, 95% CI 20.8%–59 2%) The therapy was well tolerated, with moderate myelosuppression and diarrhea as the main toxicities The overall median survival was 10 months Conclusions Irinotecan has minimal activity in biliary tree carcinomas, but is well tolerated with appropriate supportive care, and produces occasional objective responses.
Risk stratification for in-hospital mortality in spontaneous intracerebral haemorrhage: a Classification and Regression Tree analysis.

Background: Risk stratification for mortality in intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH) helps guide care, but existing clinical prediction rules are too cumbersome for clinical practice because of their complexity. Aim: To develop a simple decision tree model of in-hospital mortality risk stratification for ICH patients. Methods: We collected information on spontaneous ICH patients hospitalized in a teaching hospital in Japan from August, 1998 to December, 2001 ( n = 374). All variables were abstracted from data available at the time of initial evaluation. A prediction rule for in-hospital mortality was developed by the Classification and Regression Tree (CART) methodology. The accuracy of the model was evaluated using the area under receiver-operator characteristic curve. Results: Overall in-hospital mortality rate was 20.2%. The CART methodology identified four groups for mortality risk, varying from low (2.1%) to high (58.9%). Level of consciousness (coma) was the best single predictor for mortality, followed by high ICH volume (cut-off 10.4 ml), and then age (cut-off 75 years). The accuracy of our CART model (0.86) exceeded that of a multivariate logistic regression model (0.81). Discussion: ICH patients can easily be stratified for mortality risk, based on three predictors available on admission. This simple decision tree model provides clinicians with a reliable and practical tool.
Dacryodiomyces, a new genus of Harpellales in Chironomidae larvae

A new genus of gut fungus in the Harpellales (Trichomycetes) with the type species Dacryodiomyces oklahomensis, found in Chironomidae larvae, is described from northeastern Oklahoma, USA. The most distinguishing characters are the elongate-ovoid zygospores attached to their zygosporophore at one end (Type IV), together with trichospores bearing a collar and a single appendage.
Great Books in Psychology: Three Studies in Search of a Consensus

Three studies were conducted to determine a consensual list of psychology's great books. In the first study, 39 colleges described the composition of their undergraduate Great Books (GBs) curricula. Fifty-six percent of the 39 colleges assigned some psychology-related materials, but these materials accounted for only 4% of all readings. In the second study, 186 psychologists nominated 463 books as psychology's GBs. In the third study, 83 APA division presidents and 117 Division Two fellows rated the books and authors most frequently nominated in the second study in terms of those that undergraduate psychology majors should read. Books achieving the highest ratings were James's Principles of Psychology, Hall and Lindzey's Theories of Personality, Skinner's Beyond Freedom and Dignity, Darwin's On the Origin of Species, and Boring's History of Experimental Psychology. Top rated authors were Skinner, Freud, James, Piaget, Rogers, Darwin, Bandura, G. Allport, and Erikson.
A momentum limit for electromagnetic railguns

It is postulated that there is a required velocity of magnetic flux into a plasma-armature railgun to keep the armature from expanding toward the breech and thereby changing the nature of the forward-going force. Data from several guns confirmed this hypothesis, provided the required flux velocity increases with the square of the linear current density. This leads to the conclusion that these guns have a momentum limit while they are operating as true electromagnetic launchers. That limit is derived. High-performance railguns reach this limit during current rise, and most of their momentum comes from a hybrid phase. The hybrid phase has a pressure limitation at high velocity similar to electrothermal, light-gas, and powder guns. The 6 km/s velocity limit is explained by this pressure limitation. >
Hypertension in the elderly patient

Several trials have demonstrated a significant reduction in morbidity from cardiovascular disease with the treatment of diastolic hypertension in elderly persons. The pilot trial of the Systolic Hypertension in the Elderly Patient study showed a reduction in morbidity and mortality from stroke with less of a reduction in death from cardiac conditions in elderly patients who were treated. Isolated systolic hypertension in elderly persons has a particularly hazardous connection with morbidity and mortality from stroke and cardiovascular disease. The mechanisms of hypertension are different, if not greatly so, in the elderly population. Peripheral vascular resistance plays a major role. However, reduction in peripheral vascular resistance can still be demonstrated with exercise in older patients. Two major studies are ongoing--the Systolic Hypertension European trial and the Systolic Hypertension in the Elderly Patient trial. We await the outcome of these trials to learn more about the treatment of isolated systolic hypertension in elderly patients.
Towards the implementation of a 3D heat transfer analysis in dynamic-BIM (dynamic building information modeling) workbench

Energy efficient building design demands a complete understanding of building envelope heat transfer along with airflow behavior. Although existing building energy modeling tools provide 2D heat transfer analysis, they fail to execute full-scale 3D heat transfer analysis and lack proper integration with Building Information Modeling BIM tools. This paper addresses these issues first by developing a BIM-integrated plugin tool to extract building geometry and material information from a 3D building model and then demonstrating a complete 3D heat transfer analysis along with grid generation. This paper discusses the preliminary research work in data extraction from Building Information Modeling (BIM) for performing 3D heat transfer in a seamless manner. This approach will help towards the implementation of a 3D heat transfer in Dynamic-BIM Workbench, an integrative, collaborative, and extensible environment. This Workbench enables integration of domain modeling, simulation, and visualization.
Motor Cortex Output in Primates

Maps of primary motor cortex (MI) based on the muscles excited by cortical electrical stimulation show large areas for the face and the hand and provide one of several sources of evidence that MI is especially important for movements of these body parts. This chapter will review the characteristics of outputs from the hand and face areas of MI in the monkey and will (1) contrast MI neurons and spinal cord α motoneurons, (2) examine the characteristics of MI output signals during hand and jaw movements, and (3) discuss MI reflexes.
Flux-tube rearrangement and meson-meson scattering.

The strong-coupling Hamiltonian of lattice QCD is applied to meson-meson scattering. We find that flux-tube rearrangement leads to an attractive, nonlocal, insignificant potential between mesons.
A QUASI-GEOSTROPHIC MODEL OF THE WINTER STRATOSPHERIC CIRCULATION

A six-level quasi-geostrophic model including radiative and photochemical processes in the manner suggested by Lindaen and Goody is run from a state of joint radiative-photochemical equilibrium for midwinter conditions. The spectral method is used to integrate the equations where all dependent variables are represented by a set of spherical harmonics with east-west wave numbers 0, 1, 2, 3, and 6 included. The winter storage of ozone in the polar lower stratosphere is simulated, and the importance of horlzontal planetary scale transports and the vertical eddy diffusion of ozone is demonstrated. The rapid dissipation of upper stratospheric temperature disturbances by joint radiative-photochemical relaxation is discussed, and the importance of tropospheric forcing and nonlinear exchanges of kinetic energy between the planetary scale waves is demonstrated. The energetics of downward-propagating spontaneous warmings is discussed. A full-scale warming is triggered by strengthening the north-south lower tropospheric temperature gradient. Its main energy source is found to be a greatly increased forcing of the stratosphere from below.