cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Modeling search processes using hidden states in collaborative exploratory web search

Investigations of search processes that involve complex interactions, such as collaborative search processes, are important research topics. Previous approaches of directly applying individual search process models into collaborative settings have proven to be problematic. In this paper, we proposed an innovative approach to model collaborative search processes using Hidden Markov Model (HMM), which is an automatic technique for analyzing temporal sequential data. Obtained through a user study, the data used in this paper consist of two different tasks in both collaborative exploratory Web search and individual exploratory Web search conditions. Our results showed that the identified hidden patterns of search process through HMM are compatible with previous well-known models. In addition, HMM generates detailed information on the transitions of hidden patterns in search processes, which demonstrated to be useful for analyzing task differences, and for determining the correlation of search process with search performance. The findings can be used for evaluating collaborative search systems as well as providing guidance for the system design.
A little known benefit of FinFET over Planar MOSFET in highperformance circuits at advanced technology nodes

Power dissipation and power density are limiting the maximum operating frequency of highperformance circuits. This has forced a change in the micro-architecture of processors. High frequency, complex single-core architectures are replaced by simpler multi-core architectures that operate at a lower frequency (Fig.1) [1–4]. At sub-22nm nodes, cooling even the multi-core processors using economical cooling options will be challenging due to increasing power density. Hence, there is an imminent need to identify sources with potential to address this issue at the device level so that the benefits can propagate to the circuit level. In this work, we discuss the difference in the difference in the nature of parasitic capacitance in FinFETs and Planar MOSFETs, and its significant impact on circuit performance. Ultra-Thin Body SOI (UTBSOI) MOSFETs [5] is used as an example for Planar MOSFETs.
O prefácio de João Cabral de Melo Neto a Em Va Fer Joan Brossa: Teoria e prática do realismo em dois poetas do pós-guerra.

Em 1951 foi publicado em Barcelona o livro Em va fer Joan Brossa [ Fez-me Joan Brossa ], do poeta catalao Joan Brossa, com prefacio de Joao Cabral de Melo Neto. Trata-se de um texto interessante para entender a trajetoria de Brossa e a do proprio Cabral e e um texto significativo na medida que ajuda a melhor compreender a resposta individual de ambos poetas problema da volta ao realismo na geracao do imediato pos-guerra. Apresenta-se uma traducao do prefacio de Joao Cabral de Melo Neto, inedito em portugues.
Dissolution-Resistant Core−Shell Materials for Acid Medium Oxygen Reduction Electrocatalysts

One of the most important hindrances for the use of platinum alloyed with other transition metals as oxygen reduction electrocatalysts in polymer exchange membrane fuel cells is the rapid dissolution of the transition metals in an acid medium. We introduce a core−shell material that, based on density functional theory calculations, is predicted to have improved durability and better activity than pure platinum and platinum alloys. The improvement is based on the addition of a small-radius species that locates in the interstitial sites of the top subsurface layers locking the core transition-metal atoms in their positions, thus avoiding their segregation to the surface and posterior dissolution, which is driven by the oxidative acid environment. Here, we demonstrate the durability and activity enhancement for the platinum/iron−carbon/iridium system.
Temporal relation between temperature change and FDG uptake in brown adipose tissue.

Objectives It has been reported that the prevalence of 18F fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) uptake in brown adipose tissue (BAT) is related to outdoor temperature, i.e., more frequent during the colder periods of the year. The purpose of this study was to assess the temporal relationship between BAT FDG uptake and temperature. We correlated the prevalence of BAT with average temperatures (divided into five temperature ranges) of seven different durations.
Testicular cancer metastatic exclusively to the brain and spleen

We report an unusual case of testicular cancer metastasized solely in the brain and spleen without retroperitoneal disease or other widespread metastasis. The patient initially presented with seizures and underwent craniotomy for presumed primary brain tumor, with a delayed diagnosis of testicular cancer as the true primary. This pattern of spread is highly unusual, and, to our knowledge, we report the first case of splenectomy performed for involvement by testicular cancer. At last follow-up, the patient was doing well, with no evidence of disease after 2 years.
The vasopressin 1b receptor and the neural regulation of social behavior

Abstract To date, much of the work in rodents implicating vasopressin (Avp) in the regulation of social behavior has focused on its action via the Avp 1a receptor (Avpr1a). However, there is mounting evidence that the Avp 1b receptor (Avpr1b) also plays a significant role in Avp's modulation of social behavior. The Avpr1b is heavily expressed on the anterior pituitary cortiocotrophs where it acts as an important modulator of the endocrine stress response. In the brain, the Avpr1b is prominent in the CA2 region of the hippocampus, but can also be found in areas such as the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus and the olfactory bulb. Studies that have employed genetic knockouts or pharmacological manipulation of the Avpr1b point to the importance of central Avpr1b in the modulation of social behavior. However, there continues to be a knowledge gap in our understanding of where in the brain this is occurring, as well as how and if the central actions of Avp acting via the Avpr1b interact with the stress axis. In this review we focus on the genetic and pharmacological studies that have implicated the Avpr1b in the neural regulation of social behaviors, including social forms of aggressive behavior, social memory, and social motivation. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled Oxytocin, Vasopressin, and Social Behavior.
Effect of Acids on Crystallization of Lithium Borate Films

Lithium borate films in amorphous and crystalline(Li2B4O7)states were prepared from alkoxide solutions hydrolyzed in thepresence or absence of hydrochloric acid or acetic acid. The acidssuppressed crystallization of the amorphous films intoLi2B4O7, with acetic acid being the stronger suppressor. Inorder to determine the suppressing mechanism, we investigated thedistribution of boron-containing species in the solutions by 11B-NMR. Boron in the non-acidified solution existed as bothB(OH) $$_4^ - $$ and polyborate species, includingB4O5(OH) $$_4^{2 - } $$ , which is easilytransformed into the crystalnucleous of Li2B4O7. In the solutionscontaininghydrochloric acid or acetic acid, however, boron was present mainlyas B(OH)3 and the formation of the polyborate species wassuppressed, leading in turn to the suppression of crystallizationinto Li2B4O7. X-ray fluorescence analysis showed thatacetic acid produced a larger amount of residual carbon in the filmsthan did hydrochloric acid. We concluded that the residual carbonalso inhibited crystallization of the films intoLi2B4O7.
A reusable framework for data-mining mask shop tools

Implementations of the Semiconductor Equipment Communications Standard (SECS) are uneven across mask shop tool sets, which often implement only tool control functionality and ignore data collection. Furthermore, data collection, if implemented at all, typically exposes only a fraction of the information available within log files created by the tool. This leaves a veritable wealth of information languishing unused in tool log files – data that could provide key insights toward improvements in tool performance, processes and utilization. This paper discusses a reusable, lightweight framework for mining data from mask shop tool log files. It details the categories of data that can be mined using this framework, as well as different actions that can be triggered based on the data. The paper also proposes a generic log file format that mask shop tool vendors can implement on any tool to facilitate tool troubleshooting and simplify automated data collection.
Relationship of endurance to microstructure of IBAD MoS2 coatings

The endurance of ion-beam-assist-deposited (IBAD) MoS2 is correlated with coating structure and orientation. Structure and orientation are determined by X-ray diffraction, while endurance is measured with a ball-on-disk tribometer operating in dry air. The IBAD MoS2 coatings contain both crystalline and non-crystalline components. Only two orientations of the crystalline component are observed: the (001) planes parallel (basal orientation) and perpendicular (edge orientation) to the surface. Endurance of the coating is not related to coating thickness or substrate chemistry, but is related to the relative amount of the two MoS2 crystal orientations. Coating endurance decreases with increasing edge (100) intensity. Furthermore, MoS2 coatings with poor crystallinity exhibit good endurance. These results are discussed in terms of a possible oxidative wear mechanism and stress-induced basal re-orientation of the non-crystalline IBAD MoS2.
Tobacco Exposure, Weight Status, and Elevated Blood Pressure in Adolescents

The pathogenesis of hypertension begins in youth. An estimated 4% of US adolescents have diagnosed hypertension and 17% have elevated blood pressures, predisposing them to hypertension and cardiovascular disease (CVD) later in life. There is limited research on the clustering of CVD risk factors such as tobacco exposure and weight status that may be associated with high blood pressure in adolescents. The aim of this exploratory study was to determine the relationships between total smoke exposure (TSE; cigarette smoking and secondhand smoke), waist circumference, and blood pressure in a sample of rural adolescents, ages 15-18. A convenience sample of 148 adolescents ages 15-18 was recruited from two rural high schools (88 female and 60 male, all Caucasian). Adolescents were assessed for tobacco exposure (self-report, salivary cotinine), weight status (body mass index, waist circumference), and blood pressure. Self-report measures of tobacco exposure included the Uptake Continuum and Peer and Family Smoking measure. Age, gender, waist circumference and salivary cotinine contributed to 35% of the variance in systolic blood pressure and 18% in diastolic blood pressure. One-fourth (25%) of adolescent males and 11% of adolescent females had elevated systolic blood pressures. Approximately one-fifth of the sample (22%) had elevated salivary cotinine levels indicative of tobacco use and secondhand smoke exposure. TSE and waist circumference were predictors of elevated blood pressure in adolescents. Public health measures need to address clusters of risk factors including blood pressure, tobacco exposure, and weight status among adolescents in order to reduce CVD.
On the abrupt change of velocity of bubbles rising in non-newtonian liquids

Abstract The transition from the Stokes to the Hadamard—Rybczynski regime for bubbles rising in non-Newtonian liquids is analyzed in this work, first by using three earlier published analyses of flows of shear-thinning liquids past Newtonian fluid particles and then by considering the possible influence of viscoelasticity. A new approach is then offered which rests on the interaction between the variable viscosity and the surface tension gradient. It is shown that this model predicts accurately the magnitude of the transition, as well as the trend of this transition with respect to the flow index, bubble size, and density difference. It does not, however, offer any insight into why this transition is, in some cases, so abrupt or even discontinuous. It is conjectured that this phenomenon might be due to the elasticity of the ambient liquid.
Decisional balance for health and weight is associated with whole-fruit intake in low-income young adults.

Abstract Bone health, decreased risk of certain cancers, heart disease, and stroke has been associated with the consumption of fruits. These and other health benefits, such as feeling better and weight loss, have been identified as intrinsic motivators for consumers to increase their consumption of fruits. Thus, if individuals believe more could be gained than lost (decisional balance) by increasing their fruit intake, it is likely that they will consume more. However, despite fruits' positive effect on health, young adults and individuals with low incomes, limited education, or low self-efficacy consume insufficient amounts. To determine variables associated with increased fruit consumption, we hypothesized that decisional balance pros for health and weight would be associated with increased fruit consumption in young adults with low incomes. We surveyed 235 respondents between the ages of 18 and 24 years, with an annual income less than $25,000. Multiple regression analysis measured the impact of the independent variables' (i.e., age, weight satisfaction, income, education, self-efficacy, and pros and cons decisional balance) association with fruit consumption. The decisional balance pros was significantly ( F = 2.189, P = .036) associated with overall fruit consumption. Respondents consumed 1.94 ± 1.64 cups of fruit daily, with fruit juices consumed in greater amounts than any other form of fruit. Decisional balance questions relating to health ( P P
Practical Application of Fractal Pressure Transient Analysis of Naturally Fractured Reservoirs

Pressure-transient tests in naturally fractured reservoirs often exhibit nonuniform responses. Various models explain such nonuniformity; however, their relevance is often not justified on a geologic basis. Fractal geometry provides a method to account for a great variety of such transients under the assumption that the network of fractures is fractal. This paper presents an application to real well test in various fractured reservoirs. The physical meaning of the fractal parameters is presented in the context of well testing. Examples showing a behavior similar to the finite-conductivity fracture model or the spherical flow are presented and explained by the alternative of fractal networks. A behavior that can be mistakenly interpreted as a double-porosity case is also analyzed.
Color receptor identities of goldfish cones

Goldfish retinas were exposed to spectral lights, then incubated with nitroblue tetrazolium chloride. Diformazan deposits revealed that five morphologically distinct cone types were segregated into three color classes: red long double and long single cones, green short double and long single cones, and blue short single and miniature short single cones.
Hierarchical Functional Specificity of Cytosolic Heat Shock Protein 70 (Hsp70) Nucleotide Exchange Factors in Yeast

Heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) molecular chaperones play critical roles in protein homeostasis. In the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, cytosolic Hsp70 interacts with up to three types of nucleotide exchange factors (NEFs) homologous to human counterparts: Sse1/Sse2 (Heat shock protein 110 (Hsp110)), Fes1 (HspBP1), and Snl1 (Bag-1). All three NEFs stimulate ADP release; however, it is unclear why multiple distinct families have been maintained throughout eukaryotic evolution. In this study we investigate NEF roles in Hsp70 cell biology using an isogenic combinatorial collection of NEF deletion mutants. Utilizing well characterized model substrates, we find that Sse1 participates in most Hsp70-mediated processes and is of particular importance in protein biogenesis and degradation, whereas Fes1 contributes to a minimal extent. Surprisingly, disaggregation and resolubilization of thermally denatured firefly luciferase occurred independently of NEF activity. Simultaneous deletion of SSE1 and FES1 resulted in constitutive activation of heat shock protein expression mediated by the transcription factor Hsf1, suggesting that these two factors are important for modulating stress response. Fes1 was found to interact in vivo preferentially with the Ssa family of cytosolic Hsp70 and not the co-translational Ssb homolog, consistent with the lack of cold sensitivity and protein biogenesis phenotypes for fes1Δ cells. No significant consequence could be attributed to deletion of the minor Hsp110 SSE2 or the Bag homolog SNL1. Together, these lines of investigation provide a comparative analysis of NEF function in yeast that implies Hsp110 is the principal NEF for cytosolic Hsp70, making it an ideal candidate for therapeutic intervention in human protein folding disorders.
F-region electron density and T e / T i measurements using incoherent scatter power data collected at ALTAIR

Abstract. The ALTAIR UHF radar was used in an incoherent scatter experiment to observe the low-latitude ionosphere during the Equis 2 rocket campaign. The measurements provided the first high-resolution electron density maps of the low-latitude D- and E-region in the Pacific sector and also extended into the F-region and topside ionosphere. Although the sampling frequency was well below the Nyquist frequency of F-region returns, we were able to estimate Te / Ti ratio and infer unbiased electron density estimates using a regularized inversion technique described here. The technique exploits magnetic aspect angle dependence of ISR cross-section for Te>Ti.
Carnosine levels in blood.

Carnosine levels were determined in chick erythrocytes (2510 nmoles/g cells) and plasma from chick (27 nmoles/ml), rat and rabbit. Carnosine was also measured in rabbit reticulocyte-rich blood (105 nmoles/g cells), normal blood (18 nmoles/g cells) and in bone marrow.
Array technique for electromagnetic positional determination of a buried receiving point

We describe a scheme to locate personnel in a coal mine following a disaster. The method, while not yet tested, would require only that the trapped miner be equipped with a loop receiving device. Operating frequencies in the low audio range are called for.
Comparison of tracheal aspirates and protected brush catheter specimens for identifying pathogenic bacteria in mechanically ventilated patients

Bacterial respiratory infections are common in patients undergoing prolonged mechanical ventilation, and antibiotic selection often is based upon the results of smears and cultures of tracheal aspirates (TA). This study was designed to determine the reliability of gram stains, cultures and antibody-coating of bacteria in TA by comparing them with the results of quantitative cultures of specimens obtained by protected brush catheters (PBC) inserted into involved areas of lung parenchyma. Twenty-two patients on mechanical ventilation for at least 72 hours, with new radiographic infiltrates and fever, were studied. Tracheal aspiration was performed in the usual manner using sterile disposable kits. Immediately thereafter, patients underwent fiberoptic bronchoscopy, and PBC-specimens were obtained from the areas of new radiographic infiltrates. Tracheal aspirates were gram stained and cultured aerobically, and antibody coating of bacteria was determined by fluorescence microscopy. Quantitative culture of PBC specimens contained greater than or equal to 10(3) colony forming units per brush in 16 of the 22 patients; a smaller number of organisms was present in two additional patients. In TA from all 22 patients, gram stains revealed polymorphonuclear neutrophils and bacteria. Cultures of TA revealed potential pathogens in 20 patients, and in 15, multiple pathogens were present. The bacteria isolated from PBC also were present in 14 of the 16 patients with greater than or equal to 10(3) CFU in PBC cultures (88%). Antibody coating was present in TA from 12 patients, and antibody coating correlated poorly with cultures of PBC specimens.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Energy-saving adaptive robust motion control of single-rod hydraulic cylinders with programmable valves

This paper studies the energy-saving adaptive robust motion control of a single-rod hydraulic cylinder through the use of programmable valves. The programmable valve used in this study is a unique combination of five proportional cartridge valves connected in such a way that the meter-in and meter-out flows can be independently controlled by four of the valves as well as a true cross port flow controlled by the fifth valve. The programmable valve decouples the meter-in and meter-out flows which in turn allows tremendous control flexibility. Although at the expense of controller complexity, if well utilized, the added control flexibility can be used to significantly reduce the fluid power energy usage in a number of motion and loading conditions to meet society's need for energy conservation without sacrificing achievable motion control accuracy. Such a coordinated control solution is provided and is shown to be effective through both simulation and experimental results in the likely operating conditions of a typical industrial backhoe loader arm.
Kinetics and Catalysis of Urethane Foam Reactions

Since the rates of chemical reactions in volved in cellular urethane formation are decisive for product quality, model reactions were kinetically investigated and the mech anism of catalysis was studied. A simple rela tionship found between the specific rate con stant and the molar ratio of alcohol/catalyst for an alcohol/isocyanate reaction catalyzed by stannous octoate suggests the formation of an activated intermediate complex.The balance between the alcohol/isocyan ate and water/isocyanate reaction rates is important. Organotin compounds promote the former rate more than the latter whereas the reverse holds for amine catalysts. The rates of both reactions, catalyzed by amines with and without stannous octoate as co catal yst, demonstrate a synergistic effect ex plained by the extra stability imparted to the activated intermediate complex by attach ment of the amine.
Capacity for stochastic self-renewal and differentiation in mammalian spermatogonial stem cells

Mammalian spermatogenesis is initiated and sustained by spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) through self-renewal and differentiation. The basic question of whether SSCs have the potential to specify self-renewal and differentiation in a cell-autonomous manner has yet to be addressed. Here, we show that rat SSCs in ex vivo culture conditions consistently give rise to two distinct types of progeny: new SSCs and differentiating germ cells, even when they have been exposed to virtually identical microenvironments. Quantitative experimental measurements and mathematical modeling indicates that fate decision is stochastic, with constant probability. These results reveal an unexpected ability in a mammalian SSC to specify both self-renewal and differentiation through a self-directed mechanism, and further suggest that this mechanism operates according to stochastic principles. These findings provide an experimental basis for autonomous and stochastic fate choice as an alternative strategy for SSC fate bifurcation, which may also be relevant to other stem cell types.
Amifostine Protects Against Cisplatin-Induced Ototoxicity in Children With Average-Risk Medulloblastoma

Purpose To determine the role of amifostine as a protectant against cisplatin-induced ototoxicity in patients with average-risk (AR) medulloblastoma treated with craniospinal radiotherapy and four cycles of cisplatin-based, dose-intense chemotherapy and stem-cell rescue. Patients and Methods The primary objective was to determine whether, in patients with AR medulloblastoma (n = 62), amifostine would decrease the need for hearing aids (defined as ≥ grade 3 ototoxicity in one ear) compared with a control group (n = 35), 1 year from initiating treatment. Ninety-seven patients received craniospinal irradiation (23.4 Gy) followed by 55.8 Gy to the primary tumor bed using three-dimensional conformal technique, and four cycles of high-dose cyclophosphamide (4,000 mg/m2/cycle), cisplatin (75 mg/m2/cycle), and vincristine (two 1.5 mg/m2 doses/cycle) and stem-cell rescue. When used, amifostine (600 mg/m2/dose) was administered as a bolus immediately before and 3 hours into the cisplatin infusion. Results The media...
Response inhibition moderates the association between drug use and risky sexual behavior.

Background: HIV infection is problematic among all drug users, not only injection drug users. Drug users are at risk for contracting HIV by engaging in risky sexual behaviors. Objective: The present study sought to determine whether inhibitory processes moderate the relationship between problematic drug use and HIV-risk behaviors (unprotected sex and multiple sex partners). Methods: One hundred ninety-six drug offenders enrolled in drug education programs were administered a battery of computer-based assessments. Measures included a cued go/no-go assessment of inhibitory processes, the Drug Abuse Screening Test (DAST) assessment of problematic drug use, and self-report assessment of condom use and multiple sex partners. Results: Findings revealed that response inhibition assessed by the proportion of false alarms on the cued go/no-go moderated the relationship between problematic drug use and an important measure of HIV risk (condom nonuse) among drug offenders. However, response inhibition did not moderate the relationship between problematic drug use and another measure of HIV risk: multiple sex partners. Conclusions: Among this sample of drug offenders, we have found a relationship between problematic drug use and condom nonuse, which is exacerbated by poor control of inhibition. These findings have implications for the development of HIV intervention components among high-risk populations.
A pilot study of sleep, cognition, and respiration under 4 weeks of intermittent nocturnal hypoxia in adult humans

Abstract Study objectives A pilot study to examine the effects of intermittent nocturnal hypoxia on sleep, respiration and cognition in healthy adult humans. Methods Participants were eight healthy, non-smoking subjects (four male, four female), mean age of 26.4±5.2 years, and BMI 22.3±2.6kg/m 2 , exposed to 9h of intermittent hypoxia between the hours of 10 P.M. and 7 A.M. for 28 consecutive nights. At a simulated altitude of 13,000feet (FIO 2 0.13), intermittent hypoxia was achieved by administering nasal nitrogen, alternating with brief (approximately 5s) boluses of nasal oxygen. Pre- and post-exposure assessments included polysomnography, attention (20-min Psychomotor Vigilance Test), working memory (10-min verbal 2 and 3-back), Multiple Sleep Latency Test, and the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test. Obstructive and non-obstructive respiratory events were scored. Results Overall sleep quality showed worsening trends but no statistically significant change following exposure. There was no difference after hypoxia in sleepiness, encoding, attention or working memory. Hyperoxic central apneas and post-hyperoxic respiratory instability were noted as special features of disturbed respiratory control induced by intermittent nocturnal hypoxia. Conclusions In this model, exposure to nocturnal intermittent hypoxia for 4 weeks caused no significant deficits in subjective or objective alertness, vigilance, or working memory.
Cosmological Consequences of a First Order Phase Transition in the SU(5) Grand Unified Model

The S${\mathrm{U}}_{5}$ grand unified model is considered in the context of big-bang cosmology. If the Higgs potential contains a cubic term there is a first-order transition to the S${\mathrm{U}}_{3}$\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}S${\mathrm{U}}_{2}$\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${\mathrm{U}}_{1}$-symmetric phase. The bubble nucleation rate for this transition is calculated. For typical choices of parameters, the transition proceeds according to one of two scenarios depending on whether or not its rate is ever large relative to the expansion rate of the universe. Both possibilities lead to difficulties: In the former case the transition is rapidly completed, but leads to the production of too many superheavy magnetic monopoles. In the latter case monopole production is suppressed, but there is an extreme supercooling from which the universe never recovers.
Culture and Mental Disorder: A Study of Attempted Suicide

In a recent series of papers(1-3) reporting a study of attempted suicide, a number of observations were made which suggested the advisability of reexamining certain of the relationships between social factors and mental illness. In this paper1 such reexamination will be undertaken. It will also be pointed out that attempted suicide and successful suicide are excellent focal points for the study of the relations between culture and mental disorder.
A robust fuzzy PI controller for a flexible-joint robot arm with uncertainties

The improved fuzzy controller designed is based on an existing fuzzy PI controller, which can control an uncertain flexible-joint robot arm to produce satisfactory tracking results. The improved fuzzy PI controller not only can control (stable and unstable) conventional linear systems, performing as well as the conventional PI controller, but also is capable of controlling many nonlinear systems such as the flexible-joint robot arm under investigation which contains uncertainties within ten percent tolerance of all the nominal system-parameter values. In this improved fuzzy PI controller, we used only three simple membership functions plus six simple fuzzy logic control rules. In this paper, we briefly describe the design principle of this improved fuzzy PI controller and its tracking performance in handling the nonlinearity, flexibilities and uncertainties of the flexible-joint robot arm system. >
Local structural and compositional determination via electron scattering: Heterogeneous Cu(001)-Pd surface alloy

We have measured the structure and chemical composition of ultrathin Pd films on Cu(001) using low-energy electron microscopy. We determine their local stoichiometry and structure, with 8.5 nm lateral spatial resolution, by quantitatively analyzing the scattered electron intensity and comparing it to dynamical scattering calculations, as in a conventional low-energy electron diffraction (LEED)-IV analysis. The average t-matrix approximation is used to calculate the total atomic scattering matrices for this random substitutional alloy. As in the traditional LEED analysis, the structural and compositional parameters are determined by comparing the computed diffraction intensity of a trial structure to that measured in experiment. Monte Carlo simulations show how the spatial and compositional inhomogeneity can be used to understand the energetics of Cu-Pd bonding.
Log-based recovery for middleware servers

We have developed new methods for log-based recovery for middleware servers which involve thread pooling, private in-memory states for clients, shared in-memory state and message interactions among middleware servers. Due to the observed rareness of crashes, relatively small size of shared state and infrequency of shared state read/write accesses, we are able to reduce the overhead of message logging and shared state logging while maintaining recovery independence. Checkpointing has a very small impact on ongoing activities while still reducing recovery time. Our recovery mechanism enables client private states to be recovered in parallel after a crash. On a commercial middleware server platform, we have implemented a recovery infrastructure prototype, which demonstrates the manageability of system complexity and shows promising performance results.
On the origin of the long period sawtooth shape of the Late Pleistocene paleoclimate Records: The first derivative of the Earth's orbital eccentricity

The first time derivative of the earth's orbital eccentricity function is sawtooth shaped, and closely mimics the ∼100,000 yr cycles of the oxygen isotope δ18O time series (the proxy for global ice volume change) of the last ∼800,000 yr. Conversely, numerical integration of the data's variance closely reproduces the orbital eccentricity function for the same interval. Such long-lived, strong correlation does not appear to be coincidental, is consistent with the physics of ice sheets and with the time history of their advance and retreat.
Microencapsulation of Bitolterol for Controlled Release and Its Effect on Bronchodilator and Heart Rate Activities in Dogs

Spheronized cores produced by extrusion and marumerization were microencapsulated with ethylcellulose by organic phase separation to produce beads exhibiting controlled-release characteristics. In vitro dissolution studies indicated that the drug was released as a first-order model and that the release rates were proportional to the amount of film on the bead. The bronchodilator activity in the anesthetized dog and the heart rate effect in the unanesthetized trained dog were evaluated. Microencapsulated beads were prepared which produced controlled release as assayed by bronchodilation. The heart rate increases induced by the controlled-release formulations were gradual in onset, and the total increase in heart rate over a 6-hr period was less than that associated with the plain drug powder.
The Institution of Property

The typical method of acquiring a property right involves transfer from a previous owner. But sooner or later, that chain of transfers traces back to the beginning. That is why we have a philosophical problem. How does a thing legitimately become a piece of property for the first time?In this essay, I follow the custom of distinguishing between mere liberties and full-blooded rights. If I have the liberty of doing X, then it is permissible for me to do X. But the mere fact that I am at liberty to do X leaves open the possibility that you might be at liberty to interfere with my doing X. Accordingly, liberties are not full-blooded rights, since my having a right to do X has the additional implication that others are not at liberty to interfere with my doing X. When it comes to mere liberties, interference is not a violation. You can violate rights, but you cannot violate liberties.
Stabilized retinal mapping of known retinal loci

Stabilization of a test spot of light on specific portions of the retina can improve visual perimetry data that disclose the presence and extent of visual loss due to eye disease. In conventional visual perimetry, small test spots of light are displayed at various spatial locations in the visual field to determine the local sensitivity of the retina. These methods are subject to errors from eye movements which can shift the spatial relationships between the test display and known retina loci. A method of stabilizing test displays on the human retina and of relating this stabilized test display to known retinal loci is described. The stabilized retinal mapping has higher resolution than conventional maps, minimizes eye movement errors, reduces fatigue, and shortens testing time. The current method for stabilizing the test points on the retina uses a dual Purkinje tracker, which limits the application if there is yellowing of the eye lens with age, corneal abnormalities, or a small pupil. >
Impacts of sampling location within a faeces on DNA quality in two carnivore species.

We investigated the influence of sampling location within a faeces on DNA quality by sampling from both the outside and inside of 25 brown bear (Ursus arctos) scats and the side and the tip of 30 grey wolf (Canis lupus) scats. The outside of the bear scat and side of the wolf scat had significantly lower nuclear DNA microsatellite allelic dropout error rates (U. arctos: P = 0.017; C. lupus: P = 0.025) and significantly higher finalized genotyping success rates (U. arctos: P = 0.017; C. lupus: P = 0.012) than the tip and inside of the scat. A review of the faecal DNA literature indicated that <45% of studies report the sampling location within a faeces indicating that this methodological consideration is currently underappreciated. Based on our results, we recommend sampling from the side of canid scats and the outside portion of ursid scats to obtain higher quality DNA samples. The sampling location within a faeces should be carefully considered and reported as it can directly influence laboratory costs and efficiency, as well as the ability to obtain reliable genotypes.
STAGNATION−POINT REVERSE−FLOW COMBUSTOR PERFORMANCE WITH LIQUID FUEL INJECTION

This paper describes an investigation of the performance of the recently developed ultra low emissions, Stagnation-Point Reverse-Flow (SPRF ) Combustor when burning liquid fuels (Jet-A and heptane). This study has been undertaken because of the need to burn liquid fuels with low emissions in gas turbines that are used, for example, in aircraft engines, land-based power generation, and marine applications. In contrast with state of the art combustors, in which the reactants and products enter and leave the combustor through opposite ends of the combustor, the reactants and products enter and leave the SPRF combustor through the same plane opposite a closed end. The design of the SPRF combustor allows mixing of reactants with hot combustion products and radicals within the combustor, prior to combustion. Thus, no external premixing of fuel and air is required. Additionally, since the air and fuel enter opposite the closed end of the combustor, they must stagnate near the closed end, thus establishing a region of low velocity just upstream of the closed end that helps stabilize the combustion process. This apparently produces a low temperature, stable, distributed reaction zone. Previous studies with the SPRF combustor investigated its performance while burning natural gas. This paper presents the results of SPRF combustor studies using liquid fuels, both heptane and Jet-A. The performance of the combustor was investigated using an airblast fuel injector, which is suitable for the low fuel flow rates used in laboratory experiments. To reduce pressure losses across the injector, a diffuser was incorporated into the airblast injector. It was found that stable combustor operation was achieved burning Jet-A with emissions of less than 1 ppm NOx and 5 ppm CO, pressure losses less than 5 percent, and a power density on the order of 10 MW/m3 in atmospheric pressure. This power density would linearly scale to 300 MW/m3 in a combustor at a pressure of 30 atmospheres.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
A role for cingulate pioneering axons in the development of the corpus callosum

In many vertebrate and invertebrate systems, pioneering axons play a crucial role in establishing large axon tracts. Previous studies have addressed whether the first axons to cross the midline to from the corpus callosum arise from neurons in either the cingulate cortex (Koester and O'Leary [1994] J. Neurosci. 11:6608-6620) or the rostrolateral neocortex (Ozaki and Wahlsten [1998] J. Comp. Neurol. 400:197-206). However, these studies have not provided a consensus on which populations pioneer the corpus callosum. We have found that neurons within the cingulate cortex project axons that cross the midline and enter the contralateral hemisphere at E15.5. By using different carbocyanine dyes injected into either the cingulate cortex or the neocortex of the same brain, we found that cingulate axons crossed the midline before neocortical axons and projected into the contralateral cortex. Furthermore, the first neocortical axons to reach the midline crossed within the tract formed by these cingulate callosal axons, and appeared to fasciculate with them as they crossed the midline. These data indicate that axons from the cingulate cortex might pioneer a pathway for later arriving neocortical axons that form the corpus callosum. We also found that a small number of cingulate axons project to the septum as well as to the ipsilateral hippocampus via the fornix. In addition, we found that neurons in the cingulate cortex projected laterally to the rostrolateral neocortex at least 1 day before the neocortical axons reach the midline. Because the rostrolateral neocortex is the first neocortical region to develop, it sends the first neocortical axons to the midline to form the corpus callosum. We postulate that, together, both laterally and medially projecting cingulate axons may pioneer a path for the medially directed neocortical axons, thus helping to guide these axons toward and across the midline during the formation of the corpus callosum. (C) 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
The Role of Surface Friction in Tropical Intraseasonal Oscillation

The Madden-Julian oscillation (MJO), or the tropical intraseasonal oscillation, has attracted much attention, ever since its discovery in the early seventies for reasons of both scientific understanding and practical forecasts. Among the theoretical interpretations of the MJO, the wave-CISK (conditional instability of the second kind) mechanism is the most popular. The basic idea of the wave-CISK interpretation is that the cooperation between the low-level convergence associated with the eastward moving Kelvin wave and the cumulus convection generates an eastward moving Kelvin-wave-like mode. Later it was recognized that the MJO has an important Rossby-wave-like component. However linear analysis and numerical simulations based on it (even when conditional heating is used) have revealed two problems with the wave-CISK interpretation; i.e., excessive speed and the most preferred scale being zero or grid scale. Chao (1995) presented a discussion of these problems and attributed these problems to the particular type of expression for the cumulus heating used in the linear analyses and numerical studies (i.e., the convective heating is proportional to low-level convergence and a fixed vertical heating profile). It should be pointed out that in the relatively successful simulation of MJO with general circulation models the problem of grid scale being the most preferred scale does not appear and die problem of excessive speed is not as severe as in the linear analysis.
Head Start Wellness Policy Intervention in Hawaii: A Project of the Children's Healthy Living Program.

Abstract Background: The increased prevalence of childhood overweight and obesity across the United States and the Pacific has become a serious public health concern, with especially high prevalence among Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (NHPI) children. This study aimed to measure the effect of a Head Start (HS) policy intervention for childhood obesity prevention. Methods: Twenty-three HS classrooms located in Hawaii participated in the trial of a 7-month policy intervention with HS teachers. Classroom- and child-level outcome assessments were conducted, including: the Environment and Policy Assessment and Observations (EPAO) of the classroom environment; plate waste observations to assess child intake of fruit and vegetables; and child growth. Results: The intervention showed a positive and significant effect on classroom EPAO physical activity (PA) and EPAO total scores. Although mean BMI z-score (zBMI) increased at postintervention for both intervention (mean = 0.60; standard deviation [SD], 1.16...
Inflammation enhances reflex and spinal neuron responses to noxious visceral stimulation in rats.

To improve understanding of sensory processes related to visceral inflammation, the effect of turpentine-induced inflammation on reflex (cardiovascular/visceromotor) and extracellularly recorded lu...
Bank Stability, Sovereign Debt and Derivatives

Bank Stability, Sovereign Debt and Derivatives is a collection of papers originally presented at the European Association of University Lecturers of Banking and Finance Conference in August 2012. The book makes important contributions to the literature on European banking and financial system by providing in-depth descriptive analysis, sound theoretical frameworks, and constructive policy lessons. It will interest economists, bankers, corporate finance officers, and policymakers. Although the research in each chapter mainly focuses on the European banking system or European corporate finance issues, it has applications to the United States and other countries with economic features similar to Europe.
Narratives of Arabic Script: Calligraphic Design and Modern Spaces

ABSTRACTThe histories and practices of Arabic calligraphy and Arabic typography are richly intertwined, and this paper explores the narratives in which Arabic letter designers situate their work. It highlights two sites of Arabic lettering practice: the design firm of Syntax Digital in Amman, Jordan and the Institute of Traditional Islamic Arts at al-Balqa’ Applied University in Salt, Jordan. In dialogue with site representatives, the presentation explores the relationships connecting practices of letter design with wider structures of information architecture and textual application. The increasing flexibility of design remains a key site of textual, material and communicative negotiation. As practices of writing continue to shift both in the Middle East and globally, the variety of visual conventions surrounding Arabie script ask us to reimagine written design.
NUMERICAL SIMULATION OF FLOW FIELD IN A NEW MOLD WITH HYBRID MAGNETIC FIELDS FOR CONTINUOUS CASTING

The flow field in a new mold with hybrid magnetic fields with combination of alternative and static electromagnetic fields for continuous casting was simulated. The comparison of the results with different static magnetic flux density was conducted. The principle of the new mold was analyzed. The results show that the new technique not only has the advantages of both soft contact EMC (electromagnetic continuous casting) and EMBR (electromagnetic braking) but also overcomes some shortcomings of the two techniques in controlling the meniscus.
Towards student/teacher learning in sequential decision tasks

Significant advances have been made in allowing agents to learn, both autonomously and with human guidance. However, less attention has been paid to the question of how agents could best teach each other. For instance, an existing robot in a factory should be able to instruct a newly arriving robot, even if it is from a different manufacturer, has a different knowledge representation, or is not optimal itself.
Induction of Methemoglobin Formation by Nitrosochloramphenicol in Hemolyzed Blood

We studied the effects of chloramphenicol (CAP), nitroso-chloramphenicol (NO-CAP) and thiamphenicol (TAP) on methemoglobin (MeHb) formation in vitro in hemolyzed blood. At concentrations of 0.5 to 10 mM CAP and TAP did not have any effect on hemoglobin. On the other hand, NO-CAP at 0.25 to 5 mM caused both time and concentration dependent increase in MeHb formation. The oxidation of hemoglobin was reversible by potassium cyanide. Since MeHb was detected only at NO-CAP concentration 0.25 mM or higher, methemoglobin formation is not a sensitive indication of NO-CAP presence.
Proteolysis in the rat lung: hypoxia and evidence for an inhibitor of proteolysis

We labeled proteins with [14C]phenylalanine in rats breathing air and assessed the rate of proteolysis in the isolated ventilated lung by measuring the accumulation of [14C]phenylalanine in the medium perfusing the lung. Ventilation with 0% O2 decreased the rate of proteolysis and the ATP content in the lung 60%. Medium from lungs ventilated with 0% O2, when used to perfuse lungs ventilated with 95% O2, decreased the rate of proteolysis 60% without lowering the ATP content of the lung. Correcting the pH of "used" medium or dialyzing used medium did not decrease its ability to inhibit proteolysis. Used medium from nonhypoxic lungs, or exogenous lactate (50 mM), diminished proteolysis only 20%. In a cell-free system the degradation by cathepsin D of radioactive lung proteins and radioactive hemoglobin was decreased by used medium from hypoxic lungs. We conclude that the hypoxic perfused lung releases a factor(s) that decreases the rate of proteolysis in nonhypoxic lungs and that this factor may be a protease inhibitor.
TNF-α Augments RANKL-Dependent Intestinal M Cell Differentiation in Enteroid Cultures

Microfold (M) cells are phagocytic intestinal epithelial cells in the follicle-associated epithelium of Peyer's patches that transport particulate antigens from the gut lumen into the subepithelial...