cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Capacitive energy storage in micro-scale devices: recent advances in design and fabrication of micro-supercapacitors

Miniaturized energy storage is essential for the continuous development and further miniaturization of electronic devices. Electrochemical capacitors (ECs), also called supercapacitors, are energy storage devices with a high power density, fast charge and discharge rates, and long service life. Small-scale supercapacitors, or micro-supercapacitors, can be integrated with microelectronic devices to work as stand-alone power sources or as efficient energy storage units complementing batteries and energy harvesters, leading to wider use of these devices in many industries. In recent years, the research in this field has rapidly advanced and micro-supercapacitors with improved storage capacity and power density have been developed. The important factors affecting the performance of micro-supercapacitors are the intrinsic properties of electrode materials and electrolyte, architectural design of the device and the fabrication methods. This paper reviews the recent advances in fabrication of materials and devices and provides a critical analysis of reported performances of micro-supercapacitors.
Localization of electronic wave functions due to local topology.

We present a simple two-dimensional hopping model for independent electrons which has strictly localized states in addition to the extended states. These localized states can exist either in a band gap or within the continuum. The localized states persist if the lattice periodicity is destroyed. Finally, the effect is shown to hold for a much more general class of systems.
Incomplete bilateral bundle branch block and A-V block complicating acute anterior wall myocardial infarction.

Abstract Thirty patients with incomplete bilateral bundle branch block (IBBBB) or atrioventricular (A-V) block complicating acute anterior wall myocardial infarction are discussed. The hospital mortality rate of this group was 63 per cent. Of patients who developed IBBBB, 76 per cent progressed to either complete heart block, ventricular standstill, or ventricular fibrillation. Findings that are stressed are the high incidence of Mobitz type II A-V block and recurrence of life-threatening arrhythmias. It is concluded that a temporary electrode catheter is warranted in this group of patients.
New method for low transection of the rectum.

A method for low transection of the rectum within a narrow pelvis is described using the new GIA 90 autosuture instrument.
Magnetic resonance imaging of mediastinal vessels.

Advances in technology have led to a changing role for MRI in the evaluation of the thoracic vasculature in children. MRI, especially with 3D gadolinium-enhanced MR angiography, can clearly demonstrate the morphology of the aortic and pulmonary vascular supply. In patients with nonvalvar obstructive lesions of the aorta (i.e., coarctation, interruption of the aortic arch, and supravalvar stenosis), MRI can reliably assess the site and extent of the obstruction. Similarly, MRI can depict the morphology of the central pulmonary arteries and aortopulmonary collateral vessels in patients with obstructive lesions of the pulmonary artery. MRI is also useful in assessing the course of the aorta and pulmonary arteries in patients with suspected vascular rings. The result is that MRI can supplement information obtained from echocardiography and angiography and reduce the need for angiography.
Geometrical factors in enhanced photoyield from small metal particles.

A model in which photoexcited electrons in small metal particles are scattered elastically from the boundaries and travel inelastically within is included in a free-electron theory which successfully explains the enhanced photoelectric quantum yield of these systems relative to macroscopic metal surfaces. Application of the theory to the Ag-O-Cs photoemitter where elastic scattering dominates, and to Ag aerosols, where optical-thickness and energy-threshold differences between particles of different diameters dominate, gives good results with experiment.
A measure of palliative care in nursing homes.

Context Efforts to improve care for nursing home residents stand to be enhanced by measures to assess the degree to which staff provide palliative care. As the incidence of death in nursing homes increases with the aging population, the gap in measurement must be addressed. To that end, we report the development and psychometric testing of a nursing home palliative care survey.
Evaluation of a Prototype Surface Flow Bypass for Juvenile Salmon and Steelhead at the Powerhouse of Lower Granite Dam, Snake River, Washington, 1996-2000

Abstract A surface flow bypass takes advantage of the natural surface orientation of most juvenile salmon Oncorhynchus spp. and steelhead O. mykiss by providing a route in the upper water column that downstream migrant fishes can use to pass a hydroelectric dam safely. A prototype structure, called the surface bypass and collector (SBC), was retrofitted on the powerhouse of Lower Granite Dam and was evaluated annually with biotelemetry and hydroacoustic techniques during the 5-year life span of the structure (1996–2000) to determine the entrance configuration that maximized passage efficiency and minimized forebay residence time. The best tested entrance configuration had maximum inflow (99 m3/s) concentrated in a single surface entrance (5 m wide, 8.5 m deep). We identified five important considerations for future surface flow bypass development in the lower Snake River and elsewhere: (1) an extensive flow net should be formed in the forebay by use of relatively high surface flow bypass discharge (>7% of...
The crystal structure of the alternating copolymer of hexafluoroisobutylene and vinylidene fluoride

The crystal structure of the alternating copolymer of hexafluoroisobutylene and vinylidene fluoride, P(HFIB/VF2), was determined using x-ray diffraction techniques. Oriented specimens of the copolymer were produced by drawing melt-pressed film at 300°C. The unit cell of P(HFIB/VF2) is orthorhombic with dimensions at a = 1.064, b = 1.837, and c = 0.783 nm. The chain conformation is a 21 helix with an approximate trans-trans-gauche-gauche backbone dihedral-angle sequence. Severe intrachain steric crowding exists; as a consequence, the chain is quite rigid and some of the backbone bond angles are highly extended. The unit cell contains four such chains packed according to the symmetry of space group Iba2. Neighboring chains in a crystal are mechanically interlocked; in combination with the rigidity of the chains, this is the basis for the superior mechanical properties of the copolymer compared to PTFE. A structure containing up to 20-30% of head-to-head residues was found to be statistically indistinguishable from a completely head-to-tail structure.
Theory-guided nano-engineering of organic electro-optic materials for hybrid silicon photonic, plasmonic, and metamaterial devices

Coarse-grained Monte Carlo/molecular dynamic calculations are employed to explore the effect of various of intermolecular electrostatic interactions upon chromophore order, lattice dimensionality, and viscoelasticity in electrically-poled organic second order nonlinear optical materials. The following classes of organic macromolecular materials are considered: (1) Chromophore-polymer composites, (2) chromophores covalently incorporated into polymers and dendrimers, (3) chromophores incorporating additional dipolar or quadrupolar interactions that enhance poling efficiency, and (4) binary chromophore materials. For chromophore-polymer composites, the competition of chromophore-chromophore dipolar interactions and nuclear repulsive (steric) interactions define poling-induced acentric order. For covalently incorporated chromophores, covalent bond potentials also influence poling-induced order. These first two classes of materials basically behave as Langevin (3-D) lattice materials. Dipolar (e.g., coumarin) and quadrupolar (arene-perfluoroarene) interactions act to influence lattice dimensionality and thus enhance poling efficiency (the ratio of electro-optic activity to electric poling field strength). The long-range molecular cooperativity associated with these interactions influences viscoelastic properties critical to material processing and integration into silicon photonic, plasmonic, and metamaterial devices. The interaction between different chromophore species in binary chromophore materials also enhances poling efficiency. Polarized laser radiation applied to certain binary chromophore materials can also be used to enhance poling efficiency through control of lattice dimensionality. Poling efficiency approaching 5 (nm/V) 2 has been achieved for these latter two classes of materials. Improvement in poling efficiency and control of material viscosity is particular important for integration of organic materials into complex device structures.
The unfolding of an auditory illusion.

The illusion as first reported is this: a tonal stimulus of high pitch when presented straight ahead appears to originate above a tonal stimulus lower in pitch. Its actual elevation matters not; your judgment is based on the frequency of the auditory stimulus. The illusion is compelling even when you know that the sound source is fixed in space. The unequivocal conclu- sion is that stimulus frequency has a spatial referent. The first formal study ofwhat has been termed the "spatial characteristics ofauditoryfrequency" was conducted by Pratt (I). He concealed a telephone receiver behind a screen divided into 14 equal parts and numbered accordingly. Five differ- ent tones, ranging in octave steps from 256 to 4096 Hertz (Hz) (Hz being equivalent to cycles per second) , were delivered by the receiver from five different vertical locations in the median sagittal plane—the plane that bisects the head longitudinally. Pratt asked listeners to report the vertical position of each tone, and they reported that the higher pitched sound seemed to come from above, and the lower pitched sound seemed to come from below. Some kind ofstrong associative process must be operating here (2) . We regularly use the words high and low to describe the pitch ofa tone: in musical passages high-pitched tones are light and airy, whereas low- pitched tones are voluminous and massive. Perhaps Pratt's subjects, without consciousness awareness, thought that the 4096 Hz tone originated from near the upper sector of the vertical screen because it had a higher pitch than the other tones. Suzanne Roffler, a graduate student in psychology, and I agreed that this auditory illusion was an interesting problem and decided to devote time to it. We essentially replicated Pratt's study and extended the frequency
Call for studies in implementation science: improving reading comprehension in school-age children.

Purpose In this article, the Editor of Language, Speech, and Hearing Services in Schools makes the case for more studies in implementation science in order to improve the reading comprehension of school-age children, particularly those with specific language impairment and nonspecific language impairment.
Effects of cations on the adenosine diphosphate-adenosine triphosphate exchange reaction catalyzed by rat brain microsomes.

Abstract Some properties of a (Na+ + Mg2+)-dependent ADP-ATP exchange reaction catalyzed by Nal-treated rat brain microsomes have been investigaged. The (Na+ + Mg2+)-activated exchange exhibited an absolute requirement for Na+, was inhibited by ouabain and stimulated 2–3-fold by oligomycin. The optimum MgCl2 concentration for the (Na+ + Mg2+)-activated exchange was 1.0 mM, but in the presence of oligomycin 3.0 mM MgCl2 was required for optimum activity. The exchange reaction exhibited a complex multiphasic response to increasing concentration of Na+, with activity increasing up to 200 mM NaCl.
Quantitation of airborne chemical contamination of chemically amplified resists using radiochemical analysis

Many chemically amplified resists based on acid catalysis exhibit extreme sensitivity to trace quantities of airborne organic contaminants. This sensitivity is manifested as a rapid degradation in lithographic properties upon standing in clean room air. In this work we have studied the absorption of one such airborne contaminant, N-methylpyrollidone (NMP), by thin polymer films. NMP labeled with radioactive 14C was introduced at a concentration of 10 ppb into a stream of purified air, and the film of interest was immersed in that airstream for a predetermined time under controlled conditions. This method provides an ideal means for determining rates of NMP uptake, correlating resist lithographic performance with absorbed NMP content, and for examining the effects of film thickness and composition on rates of absorption.
Antibody-directed targeting of the vasculature of solid tumors.

An attractive strategy for the therapy of carcinomas and other solid tumors would be to target cytotoxic agents or host immune effectors to the endothelial cells of the tumor vasculature rather than to the tumor cells themselves. The key advantage of this approach is that the endothelial cells are freely accessible through the blood whereas the tumor cells are, for the most part, inaccessible. Also, endothelial cells are similar in different tumors, making it feasible to develop a single reagent for treating numerous types of cancer. In this chapter, we review progress in this “vascular targeting” approach, from the validation of the concept in a mouse model to the characterization of the TEC-11 antibody against endoglin, an endothelial cell proliferation marker that is upregulated on endothelial cells in miscellaneous human solid tumors. In addition, we review other tumor endothelial cell markers that are candidates for vascular targeting in man.
ON THE NATURALNESS OF INTERLANGUAGE PHONOLOGICAL RULES1

Two interesting questions which are raised by the interlanguage (IL) hypothesis are (1) to what extent are ILs independent of the native language (NL) and the target language (TL), and (2) d o the grammars of 1Ls contain the same type of rules a s the grammars of other languages. To address these questions, data were gathered from two native speakers of Spanish and two native speakers of Mandarin, all of whom were learning English as a second language. A partial phonological analysis of the 1L data revealed that (1) at least some of the 1L rules were independent in that they were motivated for neither the NL nor the TL, and (2) one of the IL rules, Terminal Devoicing, is motivated for the grammars of numerous languages whereas another rule, Schwa Paragoge, is apparently not part of the grammar of any other language. This conclusion raises the question of the extent to which ILs can be considered to be “natural languages.”
K- DECAY, HYDRIDE BONDS, AND Z-DEPENDENCE IN KAONIC ATOMS

Abstract The observed low values and striking variations in kaonic X-ray intensities were found to be not due to K− decay. Measurements on H2O and CH show greatly reduced X-ray intensities apparently due to the presence of the hydride bonds. A simple cascade calculation with an initial distribution in n = 30 that is statistical out to various lmax gave agreement with our absolute X-ray intensities. A correlation between lmax and atomic spacing is suggested.
Movement-based mobility management and trade off analysis for wireless mobile networks

Mobility management plays a central role in providing ubiquitous communications services in future wireless mobile networks. In mobility management, there are two key operations, location update and paging, commonly used in tracking mobile users on the move. Location update is to inform the network about a mobile user's current location, while paging is used for the network to locate a mobile user. Both operations will incur signaling traffic in the resource limited wireless networks. The more frequent the location updates, the less paging in locating a mobile user; thus, there is a trade off in terms of signaling cost. Most trade off analysis in the literature is carried out under the assumption that some time variables are exponentially distributed. However, such assumptions will not be valid, particularly for the wireless Internet. In this paper, we present some general analytical results without these assumptions, which are essential for the general trade off analysis. Specifically, we analytically derive the average number of location updates during the interservice time for a movement-based location update scheme under fairly realistic assumptions, which are crucial for all trade off analysis. Our general analytical results make thorough numerical analysis for finding the optimal mobility management under various network operation scenarios possible.
Integration of Computers and Related Technologies into Deaf Education Teacher Preparation Programs

The study examined how computer technology is used, modeled, and taught in programs that prepare future teachers of students who are deaf or hard of hearing. Data were collected through two self-reported survey instruments sent to participants from two different groups: (a) deaf education faculty (n = 233) and (b) administrators of programs serving students who are deaf or hard of hearing (n = 100). Among the faculty who responded to the survey, 99% said they used computers and printers for instruction during class, 84% said they used VCRs for instruction during class, and 56% said they used video cameras for instruction during class. The information that was reported on how technology was being used for instruction and how its use was being taught to students in deaf education teacher preparation programs indicates that the need persists for integration of technology into these programs. A need likewise continues for improved instructional strategies relative to computers and technology.
Tau Is Enriched on Dynamic Microtubules in the Distal Region of Growing Axons

It is widely held that tau determines the stability of microtubules in growing axons, although direct evidence supporting this hypothesis is lacking. Previous studies have shown that the microtubule polymer in the distal axon and growth cone is the most dynamic of growing axons; it turns over more rapidly and is more sensitive to microtubule depolymerizing drugs than the polymer situated proximally. We reasoned that if the stability of axonal microtubules is directly related to their content of tau, then the polymer in the distal axon should have less tau than the polymer in the proximal axon. We tested this proposition by measuring the relative tau content of microtubules along growing axons of cultured sympathetic neurons immunostained for tau and tubulin. Our results show that the tau content of microtubules varies along the axon, but in the opposite way predicted. Specifically, the relative tau content of microtubules increases progressively along the axon to reach a peak near the growth cone that is severalfold greater than that observed proximally. Thus, tau is most enriched on the most dynamic polymer of the axon. We also show that the gradient in tau content of microtubules does not generate corresponding gradients in the extent of tubulin assembly or in the sensitivity of axonal microtubules to nocodazole. On the basis of these findings, we propose that tau in growing axons has functions other than promoting microtubule assembly and stability and that key sites for these functions are the distal axon and growth cone.
Plasma Retinol Is a Major Determinant of Vitamin A Utilization in Rats

We studied relationships among vitamin A intake, liver levels of vitamin A, plasma retinol concentrations and the irreversible utilization of vitamin A. To supplement existing data, we first used model-based compartmental analysis to determine vitamin A utilization and other kinetic parameters in male Sprague-Dawley rats that had adequate liver vitamin A stores ( approximately 9000 nmol) and were fed a diet containing low levels of vitamin A. Plasma retinol kinetics were monitored for 43 d after administration of [3H]retinol-labeled plasma to rats consuming approximately 23 (Group 1, n = 6) or approximately 4.2 (Group 2, n = 6) nmol vitamin A/d. Data for plasma tracer vs. time and for tracer lost irreversibly by the end of the experiment, were fit to a three-compartment model in which plasma retinol exchanges with vitamin A in two kinetically distinct extravascular compartments. Irreversible utilization rates ( approximately 41 nmol/d) were similar to those for rats that are in vitamin A balance, suggesting that, when liver vitamin A stores are adequate, utilization rate is not decreased to compensate for a low vitamin A intake. Multiple linear regression analysis was then used to relate these and previously collected data (total, 62 rats) on vitamin A intake (4. 2-49 nmol/d), plasma retinol concentration (1.4-2.5 micromol/L) and liver vitamin A level (1.2-11,000 nmol) to vitamin A utilization (disposal rate, 4.2-68 nmol/d). A significant relationship (R2(adj) = 0.93) was found for the equation [disposal rate (nmol/d) = -0.720 (nmol/d) + 0.844 (d-1).(plasma retinol; nmol) + 0.00139 (d-1).(liver vitamin A; nmol) + 0.220.(vitamin A intake; nmol/d)]. Plasma retinol accounted for 92% of the variability in disposal rate (vs. 5% for liver vitamin A and 3% for vitamin A intake). We conclude that plasma retinol is a main determinant of the irreversible utilization of vitamin A in rats with low to moderate vitamin A intake.
Restoration of CREB function is linked to completion and stabilization of adaptive cardiac hypertrophy in response to exercise

Potential regulation of two factors linked to physiological outcomes with left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy, resistance to apoptosis, and matching of metabolic capacity, by the transcription factor...
Stable isotope fractionation during ultraviolet photolysis of N2O

The biogeochemical cycling of nitrous oxide plays an important role in greenhouse forcing and ozone regulation. Laboratory studies of N_2O:N_2 mixtures irradiated between 193–207 nm reveal a significant enrichment of the residual heavy nitrous oxide isotopomers. The isotopic signatures resulting from photolysis are well modeled by an irreversible Rayleigh distillation process, with large enrichment factors of e_(15,18)(193 nm) = −18.4,‐14.5 per mil and e_(15,18)(207 nm) = −48.7,‐46.0 per mil. These results, when combined with diffusive mixing processes, have the potential to explain the stratospheric enrichments previously observed.
Optimistically Engaging in the Present

This study explores the experiences of aging among gay men to further explain the phenomenon of gay male aging in contemporary terms, to put those experiences into a historically relevant context, and to expand upon previous findings on aging within the gay male population. Nineteen self-identifying gay men from a metropolitan area in South Florida were interviewed. The data collected were analyzed using grounded theory method. Findings from the study indicated that a great deal of optimism was revealed by the participants of the study in spite of their past adversarial experiences related to their sexuality and current challenges related to gay male sexuality and aging. Based on these findings, professionals working with an older population should consider the supportive environments that can most benefit this population in the community and even consider partnering with lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) oriented organizations to better serve the needs of their clients.
Molecular structures of host-guest complexes with Rebek's Diacid

Abstract The crystal and molecular structures of 1:1 complexes of Rebek's diacid (1) with pyrazine (2) and quinoxaline (3) have been determined by single crystal X-ray diffraction. The unit cells of the crystalline 1:2 and 1:3 each contain two crystallographically independent molecules of their respective complexes; all four complexes exhibit nearly symmetric, syn, two-point binding of the diamine guests by the convergent carboxyl groups of 1. These data confirm the original structural proposal of Rebek et al. (J. Am. Chem. Soc. 1987, 109, 2426–2431), and stand in contrast to the central conclusion (one-point binding) of Jorgensen et al.'s computational study of the complex of Rebek's diacid and pyrazine (J. Am. Chem. Soc. 1989, 111, 755–757). In addition, the X-ray structure of Rebek's diacid hydrochloride (1:HCl) has been determined. In this complex, compound 1 is protonated on the acridine nitrogen, and the chloride counterion participates in a “three-point binding”, T-shaped, hydrogen-bonded network within the diacid cleft.
Three-dimensional controlled-source electromagnetic and magnetotelluric joint inversion

The growing use of the controlled-source electromagnetic method (CSEM) and magnetotellurics (MT) for exploration applications has been driving the development of data acquisition technologies, and three-dimensional (3-D) modeling and imaging techniques. However, targeting increasingly complex geological environments also further enhances the problems inherent in large-scale inversion, such as non-uniqueness and resolution issues. In this paper, we report on two techniques to mitigate these problems. We use 3-D joint CSEM and MT inversion to improve the model resolution. To avoid the suppression of the resolution capacities of one data type, and thus to balance the use of inherent, and ideally complementary information content, different data reweighting schemes are proposed. Further, a hybrid model parameterization approach is presented, where traditional cell-based model parameters are used simultaneously within a parametric inversion. The idea is to limit the non-uniqueness problem, typical for 3-D imaging problems, in order to allow for a more focusing inversion. The methods are demonstrated using synthetic data generated from models with a strong practical relevance.
Developing Mating Disruption of Obliquebanded Leafroller (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) in Washington State

Field studies were conducted from 1992 to 1996 to select the most effective sex pheromone blend for mating disruption of the obliquebanded leafroller, Choristoneura rosaceana (Harris), in tree fruit orchards in Washington. Dispensers loaded with a 2-component pheromone blend, ( Z )-11-tetradecen-1-yl (Z11-14:OAc) and ( E )-11-tetradecen-1-yl (E11-14:OAc), a 3-component blend that included the addition of ( Z )-11-tetradecenal (Z11-14:Ald), and a 4-component blend also including ( Z )-11-tetradecen-1-ol (Z11-14:OH) were compared within 0.1-ha orchard plots and 100-m2 field cages. The addition of Z11-14:Ald to the 2 acetate components with or without Z11-14:OH did not improve mating or disruption of communication. No disruption occurred in field cages treated with E11-14:OAc alone or an 88:12 (%) E:Z 11-14:OAc blend. Management of C. rosaceana with mating disruption was evaluated for 2 yr in three 16-ha apple orchards by using a 94:6% Z:E11-14:OAc blend. Orchards were treated with 1,000 polyethylene tube dispensers per hectare emitting ≈0.9 mg of pheromone per day. Populations were also monitored in 3 similar 8-ha orchards treated only with insecticides. Catches of male moths in traps baited with synthetic lures and virgin females were significantly lower (92–99%) in pheromone-treated than in untreated orchards. Larval population densities and fruit injury did not differ between treatments. No significant differences were found in larval population densities, trap catch, or fruit injury between the 2-ha center and the outer 14-ha areas of the pheromone-treated orchards. Significant increases in catch by lure-baited traps and fruit injury occurred in the pheromone-treated orchards from the 1st to 2nd yr of the study. The pheromone treatment saved ≈$250/ha in insecticide costs over 2 yr.
Semi-Automated Collection of Pitch Location and Intent in Baseball

An analysis of the pitcher's intent in baseball should ideally depend upon information given by the catcher before the pitch is thrown. Expert judgment has already identified the importance of this factor (e.g. the pitcher is "missing his spots" when unsuccessful in hitting the target). We describe the underpinnings of a automated video analysis system that uses semi-supervised learning methods to identify the catcher position - specifically, the catcher's glove position. The analysis begins with video of a single pitch, supervised by a human controller; this information is then incorporated into one of a selection of learning algorithms and applied to subsequent pitches with minimal involvement from the controller. This is designed to be the first step in creating a public database of pitch intent, to be coupled with existing sources of pitch physics, so that analysts may better evaluate pitcher performance.
Quantifying neutral base recombination and the effects of collector-base junction traps in UHV/CVD SiGe HBTs

This work quantifies neutral base recombination in UHV/CVD SiGe heterojunction bipolar transistors (HBTs) using calibrated two-dimensional (2-D) simulation. The simulated collector-base conductance through neutral base recombination (NBR) modulation is far below the experimentally observed values, and hence does not explain the measured output resistance degradation under forced-I/sub B/ operation. In spite of the output resistance degradation, these UHV/CVD SiGe HBTs have approximately the same base current as the silicon control, and hence higher current gain. Based on the observation of the majority carrier concentration limited recombination in the CB junction depletion layer, as opposed to the minority carrier concentration limited recombination in the neutral base, local presence of traps in the CB junction depletion layer is suggested. This explains the measured CB conductance modulation and the related output resistance degradation without compromising the current gain. Numerical simulations using traps locally introduced into the CB junctions successfully reproduced the measured collector-base conductance from simulation without appreciable degradation in current gain.
Anticholinergic Drugs and Physical Function Among Frail Elderly Population

Increasing evidence from experimental studies and human observations suggests that drugs with anticholinergic properties can cause physical and mental impairment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between the use of drugs with anticholinergic activity and measures of physical performance, muscle strength, and functional status in persons aged 80 years or older. Data are from baseline evaluation of 364 subjects enrolled in the ilSIRENTE study. The ilSIRENTE study is a prospective cohort study performed in the mountain community living in the Sirente geographic area (L'Aquila, Abruzzo) in Central Italy. Physical performance was assessed using the physical performance battery score (Short Physical Performance Battery), which is based on three timed tests: 4-meter walking speed, balance, and chair stand tests. Muscle strength was measured by hand grip strength. We defined as anticholinergic drugs all medications for which serum anticholinergic activity was previously demonstrated. Analyses of covariance were performed to evaluate the relationship of anticholinergic drugs with physical function. In the unadjusted model, all the physical performance, muscle strength, and functional measures showed significant associations with the anticholinergic drug use. After adjustment for potential confounders (age, gender, smoking, physical activity level, cognitive performance score, living alone, body mass index, congestive heart failure, lung diseases, diabetes), these associations were weaker but still statistically significant (physical performance battery score: non-users anticholinergic drugs 6.9, SE 0.1, users anticholinergic drugs 6.1, SE 0.2, P=0.05; hand grip strength: non-users anticholinergic drugs 31.3 kg, SE 0.8, users anticholinergic drugs 28.8 kg, SE 1.0, P=0.05; Activities of Daily Living scale score: non-users anticholinergic drugs 1.2, SE 0.1, users anticholinergic drugs 1.6, SE 0.1, P=0.03; Instrumental Activities of Daily Living scale score: non-users anticholinergic drugs 2.7, SE 0.1, users anticholinergic drugs 3.4, SE 0.1, P<0.001). The use of medication with anticholinergic properties is common among community older subjects in Italy. Our results suggest that among old-old subjects the use of anticholinergic drugs is associated with impaired physical performance and functional status.
Continuous Measurement of Autoregulation by Spontaneous Fluctuations in Cerebral Perfusion Pressure: Comparison of 3 Methods

Background and Purpose— Clinical application of continuous autoregulation monitoring would benefit from a comparison of curves generated by online monitoring with standard autoregulation curves in animal models. We characterized the accuracy of 3 continuous monitors of autoregulation in a piglet model of hypotension. Methods— Piglets 5 to10 days old with intracranial pressure (ICP) at naive or elevated (20 mm Hg) levels had gradual arterial hypotension induced by a balloon catheter in the inferior vena cava. Elevated ICP was maintained by a continuous infusion of artificial cerebrospinal fluid. Three indices of autoregulation were simultaneously and continuously calculated. A moving, linear Pearson’s coefficient between spontaneous slow waves of cerebral perfusion pressure and slow waves of laser-Doppler flux or cortical oxygenation rendered the laser-Doppler index and cerebral-oximetry index, respectively. Similar correlation between slow waves of arterial blood pressure and ICP rendered the pressure-re...
The effects of an adolescent asthma education intervention on knowledge, intention, behavior, self-efficacy and self-consciousness.

In this study, we evaluated the effects of an asthma education intervention, guided by social cognitive theory, on knowledge, intention, behavior, self-efficacy, and self-consciousness. The sample consisted of 87 asthmatic adolescents in six middle and/or high schools in California. A non-equivalent comparison group design, with delayed intervention in the comparison group, was utilized. We implemented a modified version of the American Lung Association’s Kickin Asthma curriculum. Self-report questionnaires assessing the key study variables were administered at baseline, at immediate postintervention, and five weeks after the intervention. There were no statistically significant differences at post-test, controlling for pre-test values, for any of the study variables between the intervention (n = 51) and comparison groups (n = 35). After collapsing across groups, however, there were statistically significant improvements following the intervention for knowledge, intention, selected behavior variables, and self-efficacy. The evaluation of this theory-based asthma education intervention demonstrates the positive impact this curriculum can have on a sample of asthmatic adolescents.
Developing national security strategies in the African context

Perception is strong and sight weak. In strategy it is important to see distant things as if they were close and to take a distanced view of close things. —Miyamoto Musashi
Nucleotide Variation and Conservation at the dpp Locus, a Gene Controlling Early Development in Drosophila

A study of polymorphism and species divergence of the dpp gene of Drosophila has been made. Eighteen lines from a population of D. melanogaster were sequenced for 5200 bp of the Hin region of the gene, coding for the dpp polypeptide. A comparison was made with sequence from D. simulans. Ninety-six silent polymorphisms and three amino acid replacement polymorphisms were found. The overall silent polymorphism (0.0247) is low, but haplotype diversity (0.0066 for effectively silent sites and 0.0054 for all sites) is in the range found for enzyme loci. Amino acid variation is absent in the N-terminal signal peptide, the C-terminal TGF-β peptide and in the N-terminal half of the pro-protein region. At the nucleotide level there is strong conservation in the middle half of the large intron and in the 3′ untranslated sequence of the last exon. The 3′ untranslated conservation, which is perfect for 110 bp among all the divergent species, is unexplained. There is strong positive linkage disequilibrium among polymorphic sites, with stretches of apparent gene conversion among originally divergent sequences. The population apparently is a migration mixture of divergent clades.
Summary of ISO/TC 201 standard: XVIII, ISO 19318:2004—surface chemical analysis—X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy—Reporting of methods used for charge control and charge correction

X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) is widely used for characterization of surfaces of materials. Elements in the sample (with the exception of hydrogen and helium) are identified from comparisons of the binding energies of their core levels, determined from measured photoelectron spectra, with tabulated values of these binding energies for the various elements. Information on the chemical state of the detected elements can frequently be obtained from small variations (typically between 0.1 eV and 10 eV) of the core-level binding energies from the corresponding values for the pure elements. Reliable determination of chemical shifts often requires that the binding-energy scale of the XPS instrument be calibrated with an uncertainty that could be as small as 0.1 eV. The surface potential of an insulating specimen will generally change during an XPS measurement due to surface charging, and it is then difficult to determine binding energies with the accuracy needed for elemental identification or chemical-state determination. There are two steps in dealing with this problem. First, experimental steps can be taken to minimize the amount of surface charging (charge-control methods). Second, corrections for the effects of surface charging can be made after acquisition of the XPS data (charge-correction methods). Although the buildup ofmore » surface charge can complicate analysis in some circumstances, it can be creatively used as a tool to gain information about a specimen.« less
A place for node.js in the computer science curriculum

While there are many server-side frameworks available, node.js is unique in its ability to help solve well-recognized challenges in teaching web development. Using node.js allows for the consolidation of language throughout the application stack. The platform supports a smooth learning curve by allowing students to build knowledge gradually through the use of modular, open source components. This paper details the advantages of using node.js in an undergraduate web development course and examines its value to the CS curriculum as a whole.
Lot Sizing and Work-in-Process Inventories in Single Stage Production Systems

This work modifies the classical deterministic production lot size model for single stage manufacturing systems, by incorporating the effects of work-in-process inventories. The results obtained from the relatively simple single input case are used to develop a heuristic solution algorithm, involving an efficient search technique, for obtaining a solution for the model under the more general and complex multiple inputs scenario. This solution procedure is illustrated through a numerical example.
On the reanastomosis of fallopian tubes after surgical sterilization.

A macrosurgical technique for tubal reanastomosis is described in detail. It has been used successfully on 12 patients in the last year 10 of whom have already become pregnant. The technique is suitable for different methods of sterilization sites of anastomosis and lengths of segments. The procedures are characterized as isthmic-isthmic isthmic-ampullary and ampullary-ampullary. 2 patients had isthmic-isthmic operations; both had had Pomeroy sterilizations. Both became pregnant and delivered at term. 7 patients had isthmic-ampullary operations; 2 had had Pomeroy sterilization and 5 had had laparoscopic diathermy. 5 have normal pregnancies at the time of report; the 2 nonpregnant women have at least 1 patent tube. 3 patients had ampullary-ampullary operations; all had had Pomeroy sterilizations involving only the ampulla. All have become pregnant but 1 had a tubal pregnancy distal to the site of the anastomosis which was somewhat constricted while the other tube was patent. Intervals from operation to pregnancy were 6 and 9 months for isthmic-isthmic; 2 3 7 9 and 10 months for isthmic-ampullary; and 2 3 and 7 months for ampullary-ampullary. The procedure should be carried out in the proliferative phase of the menstrual cycle.
Primer on Social Identity: Understanding Group Membership

This technical note explains how group membership affects who a person thinks she or he is and how that person behaves in organizations. Hofstede's model of levels of identity is introduced and a simple description of Social Identity Theory is laid out. The note is a helpful tool for discussions about group differences because it argues that identification as a group member is not inconsistent with also being a unique individual. It was written for use in a course on interpersonal behavior and can be useful in a range of courses on organizational behavior.
Abstract CN05-03: Modulating ER stress-induced autophagy to cancer control

CN05-03 Two major protein degradation systems are present in the cell, the ubiquitin proteasome system and the autophagy machinery. Inhibition of proteasome can activates autophagy, suggesting that the two systems are functionally coupled. Autophagy plays a compensatory role as suppression of autophagy promotes the accumulation of polyubiquitinated protein aggregates. Autophagy is likely activated in response to endoplasmic reticulum stress caused by misfolded proteins during proteasome inhibition. Indeed, direct disturbing ER environment with chemicals such as A23187, tunicamycin, thapsigargin and brefeldin A, can induce autophagy. Suppression of a major unfolded protein response pathway mediated by IRE1 by either gene deletion or RNAi dramatically suppresses the activation of autophagy by proteasome inhibitors or ER stress inducers. Interestingly, JNK but not XBP-1, both of which are the known downstream targets of IRE1, seems to participate in autophagy induction by proteasome inhibitors. Autophagy induced under these conditions is important for controlling endoplasmic reticulum stress and for reducing cell death in cancer cells. Thus a combined use of proteasome inhibitors and autophagy inhibitors enhances tumor cell death both in vitro and in vivo. Notably, this enhanced toxicity was not observed in non-transformed normal cells, suggesting that the impact of autophagy on cell survival during endoplasmic reticulum stress is likely contingent on the oncogenic status of cells. These findings indicate that blocking both autophagic and proteasomal degradation systems could be a novel and selective strategy for cancer control via the regulation of ER stress. Citation Information: Cancer Prev Res 2008;1(7 Suppl):CN05-03.
DSMC modeling of NO formation for simulation of radiation in hypersonic flows

The current work has implemented in DSMC discrete vibrational levels of N2 and the transitions between them as well as the dissociation of nitrogen molecules and formation of NO molecules. The vibration-translation transition models assessed include LarsonBorgnakke, Schwartz-Slawsky-Herzfeld (SSH), and Forced Harmonic Oscillator (FHO) models. Total Collision Energy (TCE) and QCT models for the NO formation reaction are considered. The effect of the models on the flowfield is explored and comparisons are made. Improved NO radiation modeling is proposed by employing quenching rates from most-recent experiments. Comparisons of electronic state populations and the corresponding radiative spectra among the neutral-impact excitation models are made. It is validated that vibrational band spectral structure of NO radiation is strongly influenced by vibrational temperature profiles along a line of sight.
Surface-ligand effect on radiosensitization of ultrasmall luminescent gold nanoparticles

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) could serve as potential radiotherapy sensitizers because of their exceptional biocompatibility and high-Z material nature; however, since in vitro and in vivo behaviors of AuNPs are determined not only by their particle size but also by their surface chemistries, whether surface ligands can affect their radiosensitization has seldom been investigated in the radiosensitization of AuNPs. By conducting head-to-head comparison on radiosensitization of two kinds of ultrasmall (∼2nm) near-infrared (NIR) emitting AuNPs that are coated with zwitterionic glutathione and neutral polyethylene glycol (PEG) ligands, respectively, we found that zwitterionic glutathione coated AuNPs (GS-AuNPs) can reduce survival rates of MCF-7 cells under irradiation of clinically used megavoltage photon beam at low dosage of ∼2.25Gy. On the other hand, PEG-AuNPs can serve as a radiation-protecting agent and enabled MCF-7 cells more resistant to the irradiation, clearly indicating the key role of surface chemistry in radiosensitization of AuNPs. More detailed studies suggested that such difference was independent of cellular uptake and its efficiency, but might be related to the ligand-induced difference in photoelectron generation and/or interactions between AuNPs and X-ray triggered reactive oxygen species (ROS).
Origins of ultralow velocity zones through slab-derived metallic melt

Abstract Understanding the ultralow velocity zones (ULVZs) places constraints on the chemical composition and thermal structure of deep Earth and provides critical information on the dynamics of large-scale mantle convection, but their origin has remained enigmatic for decades. Recent studies suggest that metallic iron and carbon are produced in subducted slabs when they sink beyond a depth of 250 km. Here we show that the eutectic melting curve of the iron−carbon system crosses the current geotherm near Earth’s core−mantle boundary, suggesting that dense metallic melt may form in the lowermost mantle. If concentrated into isolated patches, such melt could produce the seismically observed density and velocity features of ULVZs. Depending on the wetting behavior of the metallic melt, the resultant ULVZs may be short-lived domains that are replenished or regenerated through subduction, or long-lasting regions containing both metallic and silicate melts. Slab-derived metallic melt may produce another type of ULVZ that escapes core sequestration by reacting with the mantle to form iron-rich postbridgmanite or ferropericlase. The hypotheses connect peculiar features near Earth's core−mantle boundary to subduction of the oceanic lithosphere through the deep carbon cycle.
Enabling breakthroughs in Parkinson’s disease with wearable technologies and big data analytics

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive, degenerative disorder of the central nervous system that is diagnosed and measured clinically by the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS). Tools for continuous and objective monitoring of PD motor symptoms are needed to complement clinical assessments of symptom severity to further inform PD therapeutic development across several arenas, from developing more robust clinical trial outcome measures to establishing biomarkers of disease progression. The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Disease Research and Intel Corporation have joined forces to develop a mobile application and an Internet of Things (IoT) platform to support large-scale studies of objective, continuously sampled sensory data from people with PD. This platform provides both population and per-patient analyses, measuring gait, activity level, nighttime activity, tremor, as well as other structured assessments and tasks. All data collected will be available to researchers on an open-source platform. Development of the IoT platform raised a number of engineering considerations, including wearable sensor choice, data management and curation, and algorithm validation. This project has successfully demonstrated proof of concept that IoT platforms, wearable technologies and the data they generate offer exciting possibilities for more robust, reliable, and low-cost research methodologies and patient care strategies.