cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Conference of American Hydrologists (CIPASH) and Committee on Status and Needs in Hydrology (AGU)

The Conference of American Hydrologists is an ad hoc creature of CIPASH, the Committee on International Programs in Atmospheric Sciences and Hydrology which operates under the Geophysics Research Board of the National Academy of Sciences. The Conference was created to represent and speak for the scientific community of hydrologists in the United States, and its assignment was to develop program material in hydrology for a report by CIPASH to The National Academy of Sciences. This task was completed in March 1963. At the first of two meetings of the Conference of American Hydrologists on November 7–9, 1962, it was recognized that a need exists to continue this effective and broadly representative group for further study of the science, as well as related mechanisms, institutions, and agencies. At that time, therefore, a resolution was unanimously adopted calling upon the President of the Section of Hydrology, American Geophysical Union, to appoint a Committee on Status and Needs in Hydrology. This was done, and those who attended the Second Conference of American Hydrologists also constituted the Committee on Status and Needs. In this latter capacity the group considered and reached a consensus on a number of mechanisms which are important to advance the science of hydrology, both nationally and internationally. The Statements of Position are set forth below, followed by the list of members of the Committee on Status and Needs in Hydrology.
Body surface mapping of counterclockwise and clockwise typical atrial flutter: a comparative analysis with endocardial activation sequence mapping.

Abstract OBJECTIVES This study was directed at developing spatial 62-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) criteria for classification of counterclockwise (CCW) and clockwise (CW) typical atrial flutter (Fl) in patients with and without structural heart disease. BACKGROUND Electrocardiographic classification of CCW and CW typical atrial Fl is frequently hampered by inaccurate and inconclusive scalar waveform analysis of the 12-lead ECG. METHODS Electrocardiogram signals from 62 torso sites and multisite endocardial recordings were obtained during CCW typical atrial Fl (12 patients), CW typical Fl (3 patients), both forms of typical Fl (4 patients) and CCW typical and atypical atrial Fl (1 patient). All the Fl wave episodes were divided into two or three successive time periods showing stable potential distributions from which integral maps were computed. RESULTS The initial, intermediate and terminal CCW Fl wave map patterns coincided with: 1) caudocranial activation of the right atrial septum and proximal-to-distal coronary sinus activation, 2) craniocaudal activation of the right atrial free wall, and 3) activation of the lateral part of the subeustachian isthmus, respectively. The initial, intermediate and terminal CW Fl wave map patterns corresponded with : 1) craniocaudal right atrial septal activation, 2) activation of the subeustachian isthmus and proximal-to-distal coronary sinus activation, and 3) caudocranial right atrial free wall activation, respectively. A reference set of typical CCW and CW mean integral maps of the three successive Fl wave periods was computed after establishing a high degree of quantitative interpatient integral map pattern correspondence irrespective of the presence or absence of organic heart disease. CONCLUSIONS The 62-lead ECG of CCW and CW typical atrial Fl in man is characterized by a stereotypical spatial voltage distribution that can be directly related to the underlying activation sequence and is highly specific to the direction of Fl wave rotation. The mean CCW and CW Fl wave integral maps present a unique reference set for improved clinical detection and classification of typical atrial Fl.
Correlation of two AgNOR counts with Ki-67 labeling index: A study in fine-needle aspirates of lymphoproliferative disorders and breast carcinoma

The Ki-67 antibody binds to nonresting cells where Ki-67 labeling index (KLI) reflects proliferative activity (PA). The argyrophilic nucleolar organizer regions (AgNOR) counts have been correlated to ploidy and/or PA. Two AgNOR counting methods distinguish ploidy from PA. The first count is the mean AgNOR count (mAg-NOR) which correlates with ploidy. The second is the percentage of nuclei with > or = 5 AgNORs/nucleus (pAgNOR) which reflects PA. To explore this relationship, we separately stained smears of 20 fine-needle aspirates (FNAs) of lymphoproliferative disorders (n = 12) and breast carcinomas (n = 8) for AgNOR and Ki-67. We also double-stained 10 of the smears for both AgNOR and Ki-67. The correlation of pAgNOR counts and KLI was statistically significant (P < 0.0001) whereas it was not between mAgNOR and KLI (P = 0.13). Additionally, using the double stain, the Ki-67 negative cells had an AgNOR granule range of 1-3/nucleus with a mean of 1.33 (+1.86 SD). The Ki-67 positive cells showed an AgNOR granule range of 2-12/nucleus with a mean of 4.15 (+/- 1.02 SD) (P < 0.0002). We thus conclude that pAgNOR is a more reliable indicator of PA than mAgNOR and that four AgNORs/nucleus is an acceptable number differentiating proliferating from resting cells.
Relationship between interstitial cells of Cajal, fibroblast-like cells and inhibitory motor nerves in the internal anal sphincter.

Interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) have been shown to participate in nitrergic neurotransmission in various regions of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Recently, fibroblast-like cells, which are positive for platelet-derived growth factor receptor α (PDGFRα+), have been suggested to participate additionally in inhibitory neurotransmission in the GI tract. The distribution of ICC and PDGFRα+ cell populations and their relationship to inhibitory nerves within the mouse internal anal sphincter (IAS) are unknown. Immunohistochemical techniques and confocal microscopy were therefore used to examine the density and arrangement of ICC, PDGFRα+ cells and neuronal nitric-oxide-synthase-positive (nNOS+) nerve fibers in the IAS of wild-type (WT) and W/Wv mice. Of the total tissue volume within the IAS circular muscle layer, 18% consisted in highly branched PDGFRα+ cells (PDGFRα+-IM). Other populations of PDGFRα+ cells were observed within the submucosa and along the serosal and myenteric surfaces. Spindle-shaped intramuscular ICC (ICC-IM) were present in the WT mouse IAS but were largely absent from the W/Wv IAS. The ICC-IM volume (5% of tissue volume) in the WT mouse IAS was significantly smaller than that of PDGFRα+-IM. Stellate-shaped submucosal ICC (ICC-SM) were observed in the WT and W/Wv IAS. Minimum surface distance analysis revealed that nNOS+ nerve fibers were closely aligned with both ICC-IM and PDGFRα+-IM. An even closer association was seen between ICC-IM and PDGFRα+-IM. Thus, a close morphological arrangement exists between inhibitory motor neurons, ICC-IM and PDGFRα+-IM suggesting that some functional interaction occurs between them contributing to inhibitory neurotransmission in the IAS.
Gadamer's Literary Criticism as Philosophical Practice

Mesurant la contribution de l'hermeneutique philosophique de Gadamer a l'explication de la relation entre theorie et pratique, l'A. montre comment la definition gadamerienne de l'application informe la pratique critique du penseur et eclaire son rapport a la theorie litteraire. Examinant l'appropriation attentive et la transformation productive du texte en reponse a la question posee par le texte, l'A. montre que le but du criticisme litteraire postmoderne est d'expliciter notre relation a l'alterite du texte et d'augmenter le potentiel creatif de notre vision du monde
46,XY disorder of sex development and developmental delay associated with a novel 9q33.3 microdeletion encompassing NR5A1.

Steroidogenic factor 1 (SF1) is a nuclear receptor encoded by the NR5A1 gene. SF1 affects both sexual and adrenal development through the regulation of target gene expression. Genotypic male and female SF1 knockout mice have adrenal and gonadal agenesis with persistent Mullerian structures and early lethality. There have been several reports of NR5A1 mutations in individuals with 46,XY complete gonadal dysgenesis (CGD) or other disorders of sex development (DSD) with or without an adrenal phenotype. To date microdeletions involving NR5A1 have been reported in only two patients with DSDs. We report a novel microdeletion encompassing NR5A1 in a patient with 46,XY DSD and developmental delay. The phenotypically female patient initially presented with mild developmental delay and dysmorphisms. Chromosome analysis revealed a 46,XY karyotype. A 1.54 Mb microdeletion of chromosome 9q33.3 including NR5A1 was detected by array CGH and confirmed by FISH. Normal maternal FISH results indicated that this was most likely a de novo event. Since most NR5A1 mutations have been ascertained through gonadal or adrenal abnormalities, the additional findings of developmental delay and minor facial dysmorphisms are possibly related to haploinsufficiency of other genes within the 1.54 Mb deleted region. This report further confirms the role of NR5A1 deletions in 46,XY DSD and reinforces the utility of aCGH in the work up of DSDs of unclear etiology.
Regional transit time estimation from image residue curves.

Methods for estimating regional flow from digital angiography or dynamic computed tomography images require determination of indicator mean transit time ( $$\bar t$$ ) through a region-of-interest (ROI). We examine how the ROI kinematics and input dispersion influence the recovery of $$\bar t$$ using a computer-simulated vessel network representing that which might occur in a real organ. The network simulates flow through a large artery branching into two small arteries, each feeding a system of smaller vessels intended to represent capillaries and small vessels below the resolution of the imaging system. The capillaries are drained by a similar system of veins. Concentration curves measured over the inlet to the network and microvascular ROI residue curves are simulated. When the area-height ratio of the microvascular ROI curve is used and all of the indicator is contained within the ROI for at least one time point, $$\bar t$$ is recovered exactly. As the size of the ROI is reduced or the inlet concentration curve becomes more dispresed, the error in the recovery of $$\bar t$$ grows. By first deconvolving the inlet concentration curve from the microvascular ROI curve, and then calculating the area-height ratio, $$\bar t$$ is recovered accurately. If the inlet concentration curve becomes more dispersed between its measured site and the actual inlet to the ROI, or if the flow distribution within the ROI is changed, the estimation of $$\bar t$$ can be degraded. To put the simulations in perspective relative to an example of image data, the methods were applied to microfocal x-ray angiography data obtained from a ⊃700 μm canine pulmonary artery and vein, the surrounding microvasculature and the inlet lobar arterial cannula.
Real Estate Taxation and Commercial Mortgage Underwriting

Recent disclosures about problem commercial real estate loans have exposed the underwriting process to intense scrutiny. This study focuses on mortgage loan underwriters of life insurance companies. After a review of the tax changes that affected commercial real estate from 1969 through 1988, the study tests how loan underwriters reacted to changes in tax benefits. To overcome the interdependent effects of interest rates and capitalization rates, a variation of the Black-Scholes pricing model is used to test the impact of changes in tax benefits. The results indicate that the underwriters do not fully incorporate the value of tax benefits in the underwriting decision. During the period of the largest tax benefits, 1982 to 1986, underwriters became more conservative and increased their equity requirements.
Simulating Simulation: Promoting Perfect Practice With Learning Bundle–Supported Videos in an Applied, Learner-Driven Curriculum Design

Abstract In professional practice, patient safety hinges on accurate nursing assessment and surveillance, disciplined clinical reasoning, communication, and skilled interventions, as reported by the Institute of Medicine. While critical to patient safety, skilled interventions are often taught in isolation, with insufficient practice for mastery. To prevent such segregation, the learning-bundle approach uses a hybrid of appropriate learning tools supporting a weekly scaffolding of applied theory, lab, and clinical. Key to the success of this bundled approach is sufficient opportunity for deliberate practice with the creation of learner-driven perfect practice simulation videos.
Predonated autologous blood transfusions after total knee arthroplasty: immediate versus delayed administration.

Efforts to avoid complications associated with transfusion of allogeneic blood have increased the use of preoperatively donated autologous blood (PAB). A major controversy has arisen: Should the same criteria be used for transfusion of autologous as allogeneic red cells? This study prospectively and randomly compared giving PAB immediately after total knee arthroplasty (TKA), beginning in the recovery room or delaying a transfusion until the patient's hemoglobin had fallen to less than a 9.0 g/dL transfusion trigger point. The results show that patients who received immediate transfusion had fewer nonsurgical complications (P < .002). Because TKAs are associated with an average blood loss of 1,400 mL, we recommend that PAB be used in the immediate postoperative period, especially in the elderly, in whom the risk for cardiac or nonsurgical complications is inherently increased.
Effect of moderate intensity resistance training during weight loss on body composition and physical performance in overweight older adults

The impact of resistance training has not been thoroughly examined in overweight older adults undergoing weight loss. Subjects (n = 27) were overweight and obese (BMI 31.7 ± 3.6 kg/m2) older (age 67 ± 4 years) adults and were randomized into either a 10-week Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension for weight loss diet (DASH, n = 12) or DASH plus moderate intensity resistance training (DASH-RT, n = 15). Outcomes included weight loss, total body and mid-thigh composition, muscle and physical function. There were no significant weight loss differences between the DASH-RT and DASH groups (−3.6 ± 0.8 vs. −2.0 ± 0.9%, p = 0.137). The DASH-RT group had a greater reduction in body fat than the DASH group (−4.1 ± 0.9 vs. −0.2 ± 1.0 kg, p = 0.005). The DASH-RT group had greater changes in lean mass (+0.8 ± 0.4 vs. −1.4 ± 0.4 kg, p = 0.002) and strength (+60 ± 18 vs. −5 ± 9 N, p = 0.008) than the DASH group. There were favorable changes in mid-thigh composition variables in the DASH-RT group that were different than the lack of changes observed in the DASH group, except for intermuscular adipose tissue. Both groups experienced decreases in 400-m walk times showed (DASH −36 ± 11 s, DASH-RT −40 ± 7 s) with no differences between groups. Moderate intensity resistance training during weight loss appears to improve fat mass and thigh composition, but weight loss only does not. However, global measures of physical functioning may improve with a weight loss-only program.
Atmospheric gravity waves from the impact of comet Shoemaker‐Levy 9 with Jupiter

We study the effect of the Jovian water cloud on internal gravity waves generated by the impact of comet SL9. Vertical structure follows Voyager data to the 1-bar level, a moist adiabat from 1 to 5 bars, and a dry adiabat below the 5-bar level. The waves are trapped in the moist layer and propagate horizontally. Their speed is related to the vertical integral of the Brunt-Vaisala frequency, and varies as the square root of the water abundance (130 m/s for solar composition). The amplitudes are large, e.g., ±1 K at a distance of 8000 km for an energy of 10^(27) ergs. The circular ripples should be detectable one or two days after the impact in thermal infrared and visible images.
Renal brush border sodium-sulfate cotransport in guinea pig: effect of age and diet

Renal adaptation to changes in inorganic sulfate intake and age was studied by comparing sulfate uptake by proximal tubule brush border membrane vesicles (BBMV) from guinea pigs of different ages on relatively high- or low-sulfate diets. Adult (>60 days) or young guinea pigs (<25 days) were fed either a control diet (0.28% sulfur content), a sulfur-free diet, or a high-sulfate diet. After 5 days on the diet, BBMV were obtained and kinetic analysis of 35sulfate uptake was determined. In adult guinea pigs, the low-sulfate diet produced a significant increase in apparent maximal velocity (Vmax). In young guinea pigs, a lower sulfate intake did not appreciably increase Vmax, but a high-sulfate intake produced a reduction in Vmax. The affinity for sulfate (Km) was not changed in either age group. The dietary sulfate intake did not alter sodium gradient dependent-D-glucose or 32phosphate Vmax. In conclusion, our data indicate that renal inorganic sulfate BBMV uptake is regulated and responds to conditions of increased need (i.e., during the growth phase in young animals and during periods of decreased sulfate availability in adult animals) by increasing BBMV Vmax.
Evaluation of exposure-specific risks from two independent samples: A simulation study

Background Previous studies have proposed a simple product-based estimator for calculating exposure-specific risks (ESR), but the methodology has not been rigorously evaluated. The goal of our study was to evaluate the existing methodology for calculating the ESR, propose an improved point estimator, and propose variance estimates that will allow the calculation of confidence intervals (CIs).
Neutralization of ions at an electronically excited semiconductor surface

Abstract Neutralization of positive ions colliding with a semiconductor surface is studied. It is shown that the neutralization probability can be significantly enhanced if the surface exposed to the impinging ions is electronically excited. The basic reason behind this is that the impinging ions have easier access to the excited surface electrons than to bulk electrons.
Bees and biogenic amines

Abstract The honey bee ( Apis mellifera ) was tested as a model for the role of catecholamines in behavior because a stereotype social behavior and catecholamines are both present in this species. The observed differences in tissue catecholamines between the queen, drone and worker bees appeared to be more related to the stinging mechanism and sclerotizing than with the neural mechanisms of behavior. Catecholamines in bees were not affected by reserpine nor were they found in nervous tissue. Age appeared to affect catecholamine metabolism in the adult bee and probably contributed to the variability encountered. Histamine also was found in the whole bee and in the stinger apparatus.
Time Course of Post-Traumatic Mitochondrial Oxidative Damage and Dysfunction in a Mouse Model of Focal Traumatic Brain Injury: Implications for Neuroprotective Therapy:

In the present study, we investigate the hypothesis that mitochondrial oxidative damage and dysfunction precede the onset of neuronal loss after controlled cortical impact traumatic brain injury (TBI) in mice. Accordingly, we evaluated the time course of post-traumatic mitochondrial dysfunction in the injured cortex and hippocampus at 30 mins, 1, 3, 6, 12, 24, 48, and 72 h after severe TBI. A significant decrease in the coupling of the electron transport system with oxidative phosphorylation was observed as early as 30 mins after injury, followed by a recovery to baseline at 1 h after injury. A statistically significant (P < 0.0001) decline in the respiratory control ratio was noted at 3 h, which persisted at all subsequent time-points up to 72 h after injury in both cortical and hippocampal mitochondria. Structural damage seen in purified cortical mitochondria included severely swollen mitochondria, a disruption of the cristae and rupture of outer membranes, indicative of mitochondrial permeability transition. Consistent with this finding, cortical mitochondrial calcium-buffering capacity was severely compromised by 3 h after injury, and accompanied by significant increases in mitochondrial protein oxidation and lipid peroxidation. A possible causative role for reactive nitrogen species was suggested by the rapid increase in cortical mitochondrial 3-nitrotyrosine levels shown as early as 30 mins after injury. These findings indicate that posttraumatic oxidative lipid and protein damage, mediated in part by peroxynitrite, occurs in mitochondria with concomitant ultrastructural damage and impairment of mitochondrial bioenergetics. The data also indicate that compounds which specifically scavenge peroxynitrite (ONOO � )o r ONOO � -derived radicals (e.g. ONOO � +H + -ONOOH- K NO2 + K OH) may be particularly effective for the treatment of TBI, although the therapeutic window for this neuroprotective approach might only be 3 h.
PROPERTIES OF BEEF COOKED BEFORE RIGOR ONSET

Bovine sternomandibularis muscles were cooked rapidly at various stages of rigor development. The pre-rigor tissue shortened considerably more than that in which rigor was established, but its cooking loss was less; it was also significantly more tender, particularly if cooked within about 3 hr of slaughter. Changes in pH during cooking were small. At all stages of rigor onset, the samples cooked in a microwave oven were more tender than those cooked by boiling, and in the pre-rigor material weight losses were smaller when microwave heating was used. The results suggest the possible use of pre-rigor meat in the preparation of pre-cooked, ready-to-eat, meat-based foods.
Specific interaction between beta-lactams and soluble penicillin-binding protein 2a from methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus: development of a chromogenic assay

We investigated the enzymatic acylation of penicillin-binding protein 2a (PBP 2a) from methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus by beta-lactams. Using a purified, soluble form of the protein (PBP 2a'), we observed beta-lactam-induced in vitro precipitation following first-order kinetics with respect to protein concentration. We used electrospray mass ionization spectrometry to show that the protein precipitate predominantly contained PBP 2a', with the beta-lactam bound to it in a 1:1 molar ratio. Using nitrocefin, a chromogenic beta-lactam, we confirmed the correlation between PBP 2a' precipitation and its beta-lactam-dependent enzymatic acylation by monitoring the absorbance associated with the precipitate. Finally, dissolving the precipitate in urea, we developed a simple in vitro chromogenic assay to monitor beta-lactam-dependent enzymatic acylation of PBP 2a'. This assay represents a significant improvement over the traditional radioactive penicillin-binding assay.
Evaluation of online consumer medication information.

Abstract Background Millions of Americans search the Internet for health-related information; however, the readability and comprehensiveness of consumer medication information (CMI) on the Internet has not been widely studied. Objective The purpose of this study was to evaluate the readability and comprehensiveness of online CMI. Methods The readability and comprehensiveness of consumer drug information found on 3 well-known Web sites (Medline Plus, Yahoo Health, and WebMD) was evaluated; in particular, information related to 10 commonly prescribed medications. Readability was assessed using the Simple Measure of Gobbledygook (SMOG) and Fry Readability Graph (FRG) tools; comprehensiveness of information was evaluated using the Keystone action plan criteria. Results Using SMOG, the mean reading level of each Web site was 13th grade level or higher. Using the FRG, the mean reading level was 10th grade or higher. Out of the 24 points in the Keystone action plan criteria, information found on each of the Web sites was deemed accurate with mean score of 21, 21, and 19 for Medline Plus, Yahoo Health, and WebMD, respectively. Conclusions For the medications reviewed, CMI found on Web sites was accurate when assessed using the Keystone action plan criteria. The readability levels were higher than the recommended sixth grade level.
Statistical Requirements for Properly Investigating a Null Hypothesis

Summary Issues involved in the evaluation of null hypotheses are discussed. The use of equivalence testing is recommended as a possible alternative to the use of simple t or F tests for evaluating a null hypothesis. When statistical power is low and larger sample sizes are not available or practical, consideration should be given to using one-tailed tests or less conservative levels for determining criterion levels of statistical significance. Effect sizes should always be reported along with significance levels, as both are needed to understand results of research. Probabilities alone are not enough and are especially problematic for very large or very small samples. Pre-existing group differences should be tested and properly accounted for when comparing independent groups on dependent variables. If confirmation of a null hypothesis is expected, potential suppressor variables should be considered. If different methods are used to select the samples to be compared, controls for social desirability bias s...
Local food practices and growing potential: Mapping the case of Philadelphia

Local food systems receive increasing attention as a potential solution to problems in the globalized food system, and the promotion of agriculture and urban sustainability. Despite the centrality of geography of place in the study and practice of local food systems, methods of geographical analysis examining local food systems are just beginning to develop. In this paper we argue that spatial research methods are central to the understanding and evaluation of different components of local food systems. We use the city of Philadelphia as an example to explore the socio-spatial structure of the current local food system, and the integration of remote sensing and GIS techniques to estimate land potential for urban food production.
A configuration dependent muscle model for the myoelectric control of a transfemoral prosthesis

This paper presents the development of a torque-based myoelectric impedance controller for an active-knee transfemoral prosthesis. An anthropomorphically inspired agonist-antagonist impedance controller studied in a myoelectric elbow prosthesis is adapted for the knee joint. To parameterize the controller, regression analysis was applied to a recently updated lower-extremity neuromuscular simulation model that provides estimates of knee torque as a function of knee angle and neural activation. Initial results using a constant moment arm suggest physically unreasonable parameters and poor model performance, but the inclusion of an angle-dependent moment arm in the reduced-order muscle model enables good correlation with the high-order neuromuscular model. The resulting limb controller is tested using a 1-DOF active knee prosthesis donned by a non-amputee subject with an able-bodied adapter. Initial treadmill walking tests demonstrate the potential of this controller to enable effective myoelectric control of the prosthetic limb.
Treatment of arrhythmias during pregnancy

The treatment of arrhythmias during pregnancy is complicated by concerns for fetal well-being. Although no drug is absolutely safe, most are well tolerated. Nonpharmacologic therapy includes vagal maneuvers and esophageal pacing. Temporary and permanent pacing have been used safely during pregnancy, as has direct current cardioversion. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation is complicated by concerns for the fetus, which may be viable at 25 weeks. Diagnosis of the cause of tachyarrhythmias may be enhanced by roving chest leads or esophageal recording. Both supraventricular and ventricular tachycardias may become manifest during pregnancy, and conservative management is desirable if the symptoms are mild. Supraventricular tachycardias respond acutely to adenosine. Ventricular arrhythmias during pregnancy often occur in the absence of structural heart disease and are responsive to drug therapy. The safe use of an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator has been described.
Kerf-Less Removal of Si, Ge, and III–V Layers by Controlled Spalling to Enable Low-Cost PV Technologies

Kerf-less removal of surface layers of photovoltaic materials including silicon, germanium, and III-Vs is demonstrated by controlled spalling technology. The method is extremely simple, versatile, and applicable to a wide range of substrates. Controlled spalling technology requires a stressor layer, such as Ni, to be deposited on the surface of a brittle material, and the controlled removal of a continuous surface layer could be performed at a predetermined depth by manipulating the thickness and stress of the Ni layer. Because the entire process is at room temperature, this technique can be applied to kerf-free ingot dicing, removal of preformed p-n junctions or epitaxial layers, or even completed devices. We successfully demonstrate kerf-free ingot dicing, as well as the removal of III-V single-junction epitaxial layers from a Ge substrate. Solar cells formed on the spalled and transferred single-junction layers showed similar characteristics to nonspalled (bulk) cells, indicating that the quality of the epitaxial layers is not compromised as a result of spalling.
Testing alternative explanations of phantom decoy effects

Phantom decoys are alternatives that asymmetrically dominate a targeted alternative and yet lead to increased selection of the target when the decoy is declared to be unavailable. This effect is difficult to explain within most standard theoretical accounts of decoy effects. The current experiments tested between three explanations of this effect: (1) the relative advantage model based on loss aversion, (2) similarity substitution, and (3) range weighting. In Experiment 1, participants were presented trinary choice sets, with half of the sets containing a phantom decoy in one of five possible locations within the attribute space. Phantom decoy effects were robust across all decoy locations but one, and the pattern of effects most closely corresponded to predictions of the relative advantage model. Experiment 2 used a within-subjects manipulation of the five phantom decoy locations. The overall pattern of effects most closely corresponded to predictions from the relative advantage model, as did the pattern for the group of participants who exhibited the strongest phantom decoy effects. Copyright # 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mechanically tunable phononic band gaps in three-dimensional periodic elastomeric structures

Three-dimensional periodic structures have many applications in acoustics and their properties are strongly related to structural details. Here we demonstrate through simulations the ability to tune the phononic band gaps of 3D periodic elastomeric structures using deformation. The elastomeric nature of the material makes the transformation of the band gaps a reversible and repeatable process, providing avenues for the design of tunable 3D phononic crystals such as sonic switches.
Steam as the working fluid for power recovery from exhaust gases by means of screw expanders

Rankine cycle systems, using steam as a working fluid, are not well suited to the recovery of power from heat sources in the 300–450 °C temperature range, such as internal combustion engine exhaust gases, mainly due to the relatively large enthalpy of vaporization of water. Admitting the steam to the expander as vapour approximately 50 per cent dry, would be preferable but turbines cannot be used to expand vapours from this state. However, screw expanders can operate well in this mode. It is shown that, apart from being environmentally benign and free from flammability risks, a screw-driven wet steam cycle system can recover power from engine exhaust gases, with comparable efficiencies to turbine-driven systems using organic fluids at a significantly lower cost per unit output.
Lower-Extremity Force Decrements Identify Early Mobility Decline Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults

Background Many apparently independent older adults modify daily tasks. Task modifications strongly predict future mobility disability. Clinically intuitive, easily measured “biomarkers” associated with task modifications would offer quantifiable treatment targets for prevention of age-related functional limitations. Objective The objective of the study was to examine lower-extremity muscle strength deficits and functionally relevant cutoff points associated with daily task modifications in community dwelling older adults living independently. Design This was a cross-sectional observational study. Methods Fifty-three participants (mean age=76.4 years, SD=5.2) were tested for task modifications and leg strength. Task modifications were assessed using a previously described tool (summary task modification score). Twenty-six of the participants were classified as task modifiers (TM group), and 27 participants were classified as non–task modifiers (NTM group). A net antigravity leg force in the sagittal plane (NETforce) was calculated by summing the normalized isometric and isokinetic torques from the hip extensors, knee extensors, and ankle plantar flexors. Results Compared with the NTM group, the TM group exhibited 30.0% and 33.5% reduction in lower-extremity isometric and isokinetic NETforces, respectively. Isometric and isokinetic NETforce cutoff points for task modifications were ≤4.24 and 2.77 N·m/kg body weight, respectively. The isometric and isokinetic models both yielded sensitivity and specificity values of 74.1% and 80.8%, respectively (positive likelihood ratio=3.852, 95% confidence interval=1.699–8.735; negative likelihood ratio=0.321, 95% confidence interval=0.167–0.618). Isometric and isokinetic NETforces were significantly associated with task modifications (odds ratio=2.50 and 2.42, respectively). Limitations The cross-sectional design of this study does not allow for a test of causal relationships. This study used a modest yet adequate sample size that may limit generalization of the results. Conclusions Isometric and isokinetic NETforce cutoff points provide quantifiable biomarkers that discriminate community-dwelling older adults who modify daily tasks from those who do not.
Central nervous system endothelium in neuroinflammatory, neuroinfectious, and neurodegenerative disease.

Accumulating evidence points toward a significant role for the microvascular endothelium in the pathogenesis of several neurologic conditions. This review highlights those biochemical, anatomical, and physiological features of the endothelium thought to be dysfunctional in these disease states, and elaborates on novel treatment modalities that target the endothelium. J. Neurosci. Res. 51:423–430, 1998. © 1998 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Model-based waveform design for optimal detection: A multi-objective approach to dealing with incomplete a priori knowledge

This work considers the design of optimal, energy-constrained transmit signals for active sensing for the case when the designer has incomplete or uncertain knowledge of the target and/or environment. The mathematical formulation is that of a multi-objective optimization problem, wherein one can incorporate a plurality of potential targets, interference, or clutter models and in doing so take advantage of the wide range of results in the literature related to modeling each. It is shown, via simulation, that when the objective function of the optimization problem is chosen to maximize the minimum (i.e., maxmin) probability of detection among all possible model combinations, the optimal waveforms obtained are advantageous. The advantage results because the maxmin waveforms judiciously allocate energy to spectral regions where each of the target models respond strongly and each of the environmental models affect minimal detection performance degradation. In particular, improved detection performance is shown compared to linear frequency modulated transmit signals and compared to signals designed with the wrong target spectrum assumed. Additionally, it is shown that the maxmin design yields performance comparable to an optimal design matched to the correct target/environmental model. Finally, it is proven that the maxmin problem formulation is convex.
Defining Me: Narratives of Chinese TESOL Scholars From the Classroom in American Higher Education

This participatory study utilized the narratives of seven Chinese citizens pursuing masters degrees in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) in the United States to inform the experiences of global scholars in American higher education. Data was collected through group dialogues where the principal investigator fielded and addressed questions of the participants in navigating their reflections in U.S. classrooms. Findings included themes that challenged the Chinese students’ training in teaching English as a Foreign Language (EFL) prior to pursuing graduate study that included their position as learning English in an ESL (English as a Second Language) context, assumptions made by professors of students learning English as an additional language that negatively impacted student participation, and barriers caused by culture and language that led to challenges when interacting with American scholars. The impact of cultural expectations and norms in American university classrooms is as critical as language acquisition in determining a sense of belonging and accomplishment for Chinese scholars pursuing TESOL degrees in the United States.
Reversible Alterations in Platelet Morphology Produced by Anticoagulants and by Cold

The morphology of the blood platelets has been studied under various conditions by fixing the platelets, observing them under the phase microscope, and classifying them according to shape. It has been found that most platelets maintain their native disc form in citrated or oxalated blood kept at 37 C. In EDTA blood they are converted to spheres. The platelets in citrated and oxalated blood are sphered by 10 minutes' exposure to 0 C., but many of them resume the disc form when body temperature is restored. Washed platelets prepared from EDTA blood are spherical even when resuspended in saline or in gelatin solution and incubated at 37 C. for 45 minutes. When resuspended in oxalated plasma or in albumin or gum acacia solutions, however, many of them revert to the disc shape. A smaller proportion of unwashed platelets, separated from EDTA blood by centrifugation and resuspended in oxalated plasma also resume their disc form after incubation.
Universal Design (UD) Guidelines for Interactive Mobile Voting Interfaces for Older Adults

Current mobile interfaces have numerous usability problems, especially when used by older adults, population of users diverse in ranges and combinations of dis(abilities). However, user interfaces need to be usable by all users, including older adults and disabled people. Universal design (UD), Design for Aging (DfA), and Universal Usability (UU) consider designing systems and interfaces usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible. Set of more inclusive UD guidelines emerged from this integration of the three approaches with mobile design guidelines in order to address usability of user interfaces by diverse population of older adults. An example of an application of the inclusive UD guidelines was universally designed interactive voting interface, EZ Ballot, designed to improve usability of voting systems for older adults. This paper presents the results of the usability testing of the voting system with young and older adults, and reports equal usability of the ballot for both age groups.
Effects of the imidazoline I2 receptor agonist 2-BFI on the development of tolerance to and behavioural/physical dependence on morphine in rats

Background and Purpose This study examined the effects of imidazoline I2 receptor agonists on the development of tolerance to and physical dependence on repeated morphine treatment in rats. Experimental Approach Two groups of rats (n = 9 per group) were trained to lever press for sucrose (10%) presentation under a fixed-ratio 10 schedule. The rate-suppressing effects of the opioid receptor ligands morphine and naltrexone and the I2 receptor agonist 2-BFI were examined weekly in rats treated with either daily morphine (20 mg·kg−1, s.c.), alone or in combination with 2-BFI (10 mg·kg−1) for 3 weeks. Changes in body weight were measured following naltrexone tests in both groups of rats. In separate experiments, the antinociceptive effects of morphine were assessed using a warm-water tail-withdrawal procedure in rats before and after daily treatments (7 days) with morphine (32 mg·kg−1, i.p.) alone or in combination with various doses of the I2 receptor agonists 2-BFI, BU224 and CR4056. Key Results Daily treatment for 3 weeks, with morphine in combination with 2-BFI produced significantly less tolerance to the rate-suppressing effects of morphine and produced a decreased sensitivity to the rate-suppressing effects of naltrexone as well as decreased naltrexone-induced weight loss, compared with morphine-alone group. Repeated treatment for 7 days with morphine produced antinociceptive tolerance, which was attenuated by co-administration with 2-BFI, BU224 or CR4056. Conclusions and Implications Imidazoline I2 receptor agonists attenuated the development of tolerance to and physical dependence on morphine, further supporting the therapeutic potential of combining I2 receptor agonists and opioids for pain treatment.
Non-Negative Matrix Factorization Based Uncertainty Quantification Method for Complex Networked Systems

The behavior of large networked systems with underlying complex nonlinear dynamic are hard to predict. With increasing number of states, the problem becomes even harder. Quantifying uncertainty in such systems by conventional methods requires high computational time and the accuracy obtained in estimating the state variables can also be low. This paper presents a novel computational Uncertainty Quantifying (UQ) method for complex networked systems. Our approach is to represent the complex systems as networks (graphs) whose nodes represent the dynamical units, and whose links stand for the interactions between them. First, we apply Non-negative Matrix Factorization (NMF) based decomposition method to partition the domain of the dynamical system into clusters, such that the inter-cluster interaction is minimized and the intra-cluster interaction is maximized. The decomposition method takes into account the dynamics of individual nodes to perform system decomposition. Initial validation results on two well-known dynamical systems have been performed. The validation results show that uncertainty propagation error quantified by RMS errors obtained through our algorithms are competitive or often better, compared to existing methods.Copyright © 2015 by ASME
Step-Induced Oxygen Upward Diffusion on Stepped Cu(100) Surface

Surface defects such as step edges play an important role in determining the surface properties, affecting immensely the growth mechanisms and morphologies of the nanostructures in epitaxial film growth processes. Here, we probe the dynamics of the oxidation on stepped Cu(100) using molecular dynamic simulations in conjunction with a reactive force field, and we elucidate the mechanisms and energy barriers affecting the oxidation process. Molecular dynamic simulations show that the adsorbed oxygen adatoms are unevenly distributed on the stepped surface, favoring the top terrace. We show that this behavior is due to Ehrlich–Schwobel (ES) barrier effect. However, differently from the reduced interlayer self-diffusion in descending a step as in a conventional ES barrier effect, we find instead that the ES barrier reduces the ascending diffusion barrier for oxygen, promoting its transport across the step edge and enhancing oxidation of the upper terrace. Additionally, we find that the ES barrier is step-heigh...
Thermophysical Properties and Performance of Riser Sleeves for Steel Castings

Riser sleeves are a popular feeding aid used in the metal casting industry. Reliable simulation of the performance of riser sleeves requires accurate temperature-dependent thermophysical properties. Unfortunately, there are little or no property data available in the open literature. A procedure for developing thermophysical properties of riser sleeves for steel castings is presented here along with its results. Analyses are performed using these sleeve properties to investigate optimal sleeve use. The modulus extension factor (MEF), which quantifies sleeve performance, is calculated for sleeve materials. Regardless of casting size studied here, the MEF determines casting yield improvement when using riser sleeves, and exothermic reactions do not necessarily increase yield unless they increase the MEF. Analyzing the effect of sleeve thickness on casting yield, it is found that the thicknesses of most commercially available riser sleeves are too small to maximize casting yield, particularly for risers of 8 in. diameter and larger.
The Party Period and Public Policy: An Exploratory Hypothesis

When historians in any field simultaneously become uncertain about the relationships among the most important classes of events they study and have fundamental disagreements about periodization, their field may be said to be experiencing a crisis. Such is the condition of American political history. Voting and elections, on the one hand, and government policies, on the other, provide the substance of political history, yet today scholars are wondering how, if at all, these bedrock phenomena affected one another in the American past. Their uncertainty contributes to the second problem, the lack of consensus on a periodizing framework. While the presidential synthesis no longer commands wide support among political historians, they are divided on the leading alternative that has been proposed-the concept of successive party systems separated by periodic critical elections. The two problems are related because without a theory that connects voting and policy, a periodizing scheme based on successive electoral alignments covers, at best, only half the subject matter of political history. Until twenty years ago, something like a responsible-party-government model implicitly guided most historical study of elections and policy-making. Party leaders were depicted as voicing support for government programs and receiving votes on that basis. Once in office, it was assumed, they tried to enact the promised policies. The presidential synthesis lent support to such an approach by suggesting the correspondence between a president's election and the programs of his administration. Thomas C. Cochran challenged the presidential synthesis in 1948,1 but not until the 1960s did scholars question the assumption that party programs linked voters and policies or offer an alternative periodizing formulation. Taking numerous different approaches, researchers within the past two decades have cast doubt on whether policy divisions led to party formation,
Maximal Stimulation by Comb of Honey Bee (Apis mellifera) Hoarding Behavior

Honey bees, Apis mellifera L., in laboratory cages were supplied with from 46.75 to 280.55 cm2 of comb surface area (CSA). Bees with more CSA hoarded more sucrose solution (P < 0.01). The regression of CSA and food storage was linear within the range of 46 to 280 cm2 CSA (P < 0.001). In a second experiment, amounts hoarded by bees with 280.55 or 420.80 cm2 of CSA were not significantly different. Consequently, maximal stimulation of hoarding under laboratory conditions resulted from exposure to ca. 280 cm2 or more of CSA.