cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Tutor-facilitated Adult Digital Literacy Learning: Insights from a Case Study

While the digital divide has decreased, those who are still unable to access and use information and communication technologies are left further behind. An effective digital literacy program helps underserved populations gain needed skills and alleviate the demand placed on public library staff. This case study presents findings on a digital literacy learning model that utilizes a self-paced online platform and in-person volunteer tutors. The researchers found that the learner/tutor relationship is an essential part of the learning process, and that tutors develop a variety of strategies for helping learners. The researchers also identify aspects of effective program implementation.
Immunohistochemical localization of procainamide in normal, ischemic, and necrotic canine myocardium during acute experimental myocardial infarction

This report represents the first application of immunohistochemical methods for localizing an exogenously administered drug. Intravenously administered procainamide was localized in normal, ischemic, and necrotic myocardium in 23 dogs. Rabbit antiprocainamide antibodies were used in an avidin-biotin-peroxidase complex staining method. Normal myocardium demonstrated diffusely positive immunostaining for procainamide, as did the cardiac conduction system and vascular endothelial cells. Necrotic myocardium demonstrated markedly reduced to absent immunostaining. By contrast, in regions of myocardial ischemia without necrosis, immunostaining for procainamide was similar to that in the normal myocardium. Procainamide myocardial tissue levels were reduced in necrotic and ischemic zones compared to normal (p less than 0.05) only in those animals in which procainamide was administered after rather than before the onset of coronary occlusion. The demonstration of the absence of drug binding in the necrotic cells suggests that myocardial tissue levels or radiolabelled assessment of drug distribution can be misleading when nonhomogeneous tissue is sampled. The immunohistochemical technique provides additional information about the regional and cellular distribution of procainamide that is complementary to the information obtainable by radiolabelling microspheres and from biochemical assays.
MAPPING PROPERTIES OF HEAT KERNELS, MAXIMAL REGULARITY, AND SEMI-LINEAR PARABOLIC EQUATIONS ON NONCOMPACT MANIFOLDS

Let be a second order, uniformly elliptic, positive semi-definite differential operator on a complete Riemannian manifold of bounded geometry M, acting between sections of a vector bundle with bounded geometry E over M. We assume that the coefficients of L are uniformly bounded. Using finite speed of propagation for L, we investigate properties of operators of the form . In particular, we establish results on the distribution kernels and mapping properties of e-tL and (μ + L)s. We show that L generates a holomorphic semigroup that has the usual mapping properties between the Ws,p-Sobolev spaces on M and E. We also prove that L satisfies maximal Lp–Lq-regularity for 1 < p, q < ∞. We apply these results to study parabolic systems of semi-linear equations of the form ∂tu + Lu = F(t, x, u, ∇ u).
Enhancement of epoxide hydrolase activity in hepatic microsomes of mice given heterocyclic compounds.

Summary The effects of dietary administration of equimolar doses (5 mmol/kg body wt per day) of trimethylene oxide, trimethylene sulfide, coumaran, benzofuran, indole, and indole-3-carbinol on the activities of microsomal epoxide hydrolase and several other xenobiotic metabolizing enzymes were measured in the liver of female CD-1 mouse. Every compound, with the exception of indole, caused a significant increase (P
Lower bounds for constant degree independent sets

Let ?? denote the maximum number of independent vertices all of which have the same degree. We provide lower bounds for ?? for graphs that are planar, maximal planar, of bounded degree, or trees.
Folding model analysis of 240 MeV (6)Li elastic scattering on (116)Sn and inelastic scattering to low-lying states of (116)Sn

Elastic scattering of 240 MeV $^{6}\mathrm{Li}$ ions from $^{116}\mathrm{Sn}$ was measured from ${4}^{\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}}\ensuremath{\leqslant}{\ensuremath{\theta}}_{\mathrm{c}.\mathrm{m}.}\ensuremath{\leqslant}{32}^{\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}}$. The data were fitted with a Woods-Saxon phenomenological potential and with double folding models using the $M3Y$ $\mathit{NN}$ effective interaction with and without density dependence. DWBA calculations with the fitted parameters were used to calculate cross sections for inelastic scattering to low-lying ${2}^{+}$and ${3}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ states. $B(E2)$ and $B(E3)$ values were extracted and compared with electromagnetic values and those obtained from $\ensuremath{\alpha}$ inelastic scattering.
Topological Defects and the Superfluid Transition of the s = 1 Spinor Condensate in Two Dimensions

The $s=1$ spinor Bose condensate at zero temperature supports ferromagnetic and polar phases that combine magnetic and superfluid ordering. We analyze the topological defects of the polar condensate, correcting previous studies, and show that the polar condensate in two dimensions is unstable at any finite temperature; instead, there is a nematic or paired superfluid phase with algebraic order in $\mathrm{exp}﻿(2i\ensuremath{\theta})$, where $\ensuremath{\theta}$ is the superfluid phase, and no magnetic order. The Kosterlitz-Thouless transition out of this phase is driven by unbinding of half-vortices (the spin-disordered version of the combined spin and phase defects found by Zhou), and the anomalous universal $8{T}_{c}/\ensuremath{\pi}$ stiffness jump at the transition is confirmed in numerical simulations. The anomalous stiffness jump is a clear experimental signature of this phase and the corresponding phase transition.
Nipple discharge: Diagnosis and management

Abstract Nipple discharge is a common complaint and may be a manifestation of a more serious underlying disorder. Discharges may be clear, sanguinous, serosanguinous, milky, or purulent. Unilateral, persistent discharge has a higher association with breast cancer, especially in those women older than age 55. Galactorrhea, when not associated with pregnancy or lactation, is of particular importance to the gynecologist because it may reflect pituitary pathology with resultant amenorrhea. Proper evaluation to establish the correct diagnosis is of paramount importance to achieve timely and effective treatment. Nipple discharge during pregnancy usually is benign but warrants work-up, especially when associated with a mass. Although definitive treatment may occasionally be delayed in the latter part of pregnancy to allow time for fetal maturity, in general, management of an associated malignancy remains the same for a pregnant as for a nonpregnant individual.
Quark van der Waals forces

The possibility of long-range forces between quark which are constituents of different hadrons is considered, in analogy to the Van der Waals forces between electrically neutral atoms. The two-virtual-gluon-exchange force, implied by quantum chromodynamics, can be estimated and is uninterestingly small even if there exist rather low-lying color-octet hadrons. If there are Van der Waals--type forces associated with a quark-confining potential, then there may arise a conflict with the experimentally well determined one-pion-exchange tail of the nuclear force unless any color-octet baryons lie very high in energy. This condition is not met in the model in which the confining potential arises from the small-k singularity of ''dressed'' one-gluon exchange.
Effects of cortisone on blood cells after thermal stress.

Summary1. Our results indicate that cortisone inhibits and retards the development of hemoconcentration after thermal stress in rabbits. We attribute this to its property of maintaining endothelial impermeability. 2. After injections of cortisone the total white cell count is lowered, due largely to severe lymphocytopenia. This finding agrees with previous reports by others. 3. Thermal stress in rabbits is followed by leukocytosis. This is of less degree and develops more slowly under the influence of cortisone.
Medically refractory unstable angina pectoris. II. Hemodynamic and angiographic effects of intraaortic balloon counterpulsation.

Abstract Of 60 patients receiving intraaortic balloon counterpulsation for angina refractory to maximal medical therapy, a subgroup of 10 patients underwent left ventricular angiography both with and without counterpulsation. Severe stenosis of the left anterior descending coronary artery was present in all 10 patients. Counterpulsation resulted in a significant decrease in systolic and end-diastolic left ventricular pressures and no increase in cardiac index. Left ventricular diastolic and systolic volume, ejection fraction and regional contraction patterns, often abnormal, were unchanged. However, mean normalized systolic ejection rate was improved by the addition of counterpulsation. It is concluded that intraaortic balloon counterpulsation has relatively little effect on the left ventricular volume of patients with medically refractory angina pectoris. The symptomatic improvement that takes place seems to occur mainly through the effect of counterpulsation on preload and afterload.
Social marketing to plan a fall prevention program for latino construction workers

BACKGROUND: Latino construction workers experience disparities in occupational death and injury rates. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration funded a fall prevention training program at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas in response to sharp increases in fall-related accidents from 2005 to 2007. The grant's purpose was to improve fall protection for construction workers, with a focus on Latinos. This study assessed the effectiveness of social marketing for increasing fall prevention behaviors. METHODS: A multi-disciplinary team used a social marketing approach to plan the program. We conducted same day class evaluations and follow-up interviews 8 weeks later. RESULTS: The classes met trainee needs as evidenced by class evaluations and increased safety behaviors. However, Spanish-speaking Latinos did not attend in the same proportion as their representation in the Las Vegas population. CONCLUSIONS: A social marketing approach to planning was helpful to customize the training to Latino worker needs. However, due to the limitations of behavior change strategies, future programs should target employers and their obligation to provide safer workplaces. Am. J. Ind. Med. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Language: en
Comparison of alternative interpretive criteria for the HIV-1 Western blot and results of the Multispot HIV-1/HIV-2 Rapid Test for classifying HIV-1 and HIV-2 infections

Abstract Background HIV-1 Western blot (WB) may be positive in specimens from persons with HIV-2 infection due to cross-reactive antibodies. HIV-1 and HIV-2 infections may be identified using assays designed to differentiate HIV-1 and HIV-2 antibody reactivity. Objectives To evaluate the ability of the current CDC WB criteria, alternative more stringent HIV-1 WB criteria (2 env plus one gag or pol band) and the Multispot HIV-1/HIV-2 Rapid Test to accurately differentiate HIV-1 and HIV-2 infections. Study design Two panels were used to determine the ability of each method to properly classify HIV-1 and HIV-2 infections: an HIV-2 panel (n = 114) determined to be HIV-2 antibody-positive by both Multispot and by a validated HIV-2 WB, and 2135 HIV-1/HIV-2 immunoassay repeatedly reactive (IA-RR) specimens from the New York State Department of Health Laboratory (NYS). Results By CDC WB criteria, 53 (46.5%) HIV-2 panel specimens were HIV-1 WB positive, 60 (52.6%) were indeterminate, and 1 (0.9%) was negative; the alternative WB criteria re-classified 75.5% of the positives as indeterminate. Among 2135 NYS IA-RR specimens, the alternative WB criteria increased the proportion of indeterminates by 0.8%. Only 6 (0.3%) of the NYS specimens were determined to be HIV-2 infections; all 6 were classified either as HIV-1 positive or indeterminate by both WB criteria, but were classified as HIV-2 (n = 4) or HIV-1/2 undifferentiated (n = 2) by Multispot. Conclusions The alternative WB criteria classified most of the HIV-2 specimens that were HIV-1 positive by CDC criteria as indeterminate, but also slightly increased the proportion of HIV-1 specimens classified as indeterminate. The WB indeterminate specimens would require further testing or follow-up to resolve the infection status, whereas Multispot directly distinguished HIV-1 from HIV-2.
F, G, K, M SPECTRAL STANDARDS IN THE Y BAND (0.95-1.11 μm)

We take advantage of good atmospheric transparency and the availability of high-quality instrumentation in the 1 μm near-infrared atmospheric window to present a grid of F, G, K, and M spectral standards observed at high spectral resolution (R ≈ 25,000). In addition to a spectral atlas, we present a catalog of atomic line absorption features in the 0.95-1.11 μm range. The catalog includes a wide range of line excitation potentials, from 0-13 eV, arising from neutral and singly ionized species, most frequently those of Fe I and Ti I at low excitation, Cr I, Fe I, and Si I at moderate excitation, and C I, S I, and Si I having relatively high excitation. The spectra also include several prominent molecular bands from CN and FeH. For the atomic species, we analyze trends in the excitation potential, line depth, and equivalent width across the grid of spectroscopic standards to identify temperature and surface gravity diagnostics near 1 μm. We identify the line ratios that appear especially useful for spectral typing as those involving Ti I and C I or S I, which are temperature sensitive in opposite directions, and Sr II, which is gravity sensitive at all spectral types. ASCII versions of all spectra are available in the online version of the journal.
Wind characteristics and wind energy potential in western Nevada

Abstract The wind potential in western Nevada was assessed by using wind, temperature, and pressure data over a period of four and half years from four 50 m tall towers. The seasonal wind patterns for all towers show a maximum during the spring season. Diurnal wind speed patterns for all seasons and months showed a minimum during the late morning and a maximum during the late afternoon. The highest values are during the spring season with multi-annual hourly wind speeds at or above 8 m/s and relative frequency of the wind speed in the optimum turbine range (5–25 m/s) of 70% or higher for the Tonopah tower, with lower values for the other three towers. The monthly power law index values are lower than the standard value 0.147 (in general 0.13 or lower). The hourly turbulence intensities were higher at lower elevations, with values of about 0.35 or higher at the 10 m level and at lower wind speed range (5.0 m/s or less). Higher turbulence intensities were found for all towers and heights during the spring and summer seasons and lower values during the rest of the year. The daily gust factor for the 2003–2007 composite data sets shows low probabilities (2% or less) of the wind gusts exceeding 25 m/s.
Pedagogy and student change in the women's and gender studies classroom

Women's and gender studies (WGS) classes and programmes have been developed on many university and college campuses around the world. Despite some success in the establishment of WGS in higher education, WGS has been the target of significant criticism. Detractors of WGS have charged that WGS is intellectually frivolous and that WGS teachers focus excessively on students' personal thoughts and experiences, are intolerant of differing opinions, present a narrow political ideology and, in many cases, cause distress to students. In contrast, WGS pedagogists have emphasized the importance of allowing students to express their thoughts and opinions and of developing open‐mindedness and scholarly, critical thinking. Further, they have asserted that WGS courses promote important educational goals, including increased awareness of sexism and other social inequities, more egalitarian attitudes toward women and other traditionally oppressed groups, and active community involvement to promote social equality. This r...
The origin of invasive carcinoma of the bladder

One-hundred and four consecutive cases of invasive bladder carcinoma were studied. Twenty of the 104 cases had a history of papillary neoplasms of the bladder while the remaining 84 cases did not. Further, 22 of the 104 cases had cystoscopies, months to years prior to the diagnosis of invasive bladder carcinoma, which documented the absence of previous papillary neoplasms of the bladder. Therefore, this study suggests that papillary neoplasms of the bladder may not be the most common precursor of invasive bladder carcinoma. Consequently, vigorously attacking the highly visible papillary neoplasms of the bladder may not be as fruitful in preventing invasive bladder carcinoma as attempting to identify the presence of other less visible nonpapillary lesions which may be the most frequent precursors of invasive bladder carcinoma.
Intelligence and learning tasks as predictors of scholastic achievement in black and white first-grade children

Abstract The predictive effectiveness of intelligence tests and learning tasks was examined for black and white subjects. Specifically, the focus was on the relative merits of learning tasks in contrast to traditional IQ tests in predicting scholastic achievement of children of markedly different experiential backgrounds. Learning tasks were drawn from three learning assessment procedures: (a) diagnostic teaching, (b) paired-associate, (c) learning-potential assessment using the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices in a pretest-coaching posttest format. Results indicated (a) IQ correlated moderately but significantly with achievement for both groups; (b) the IQ was a more reliable predictor for the white subjects than for the blacks, and (c) for the black group, certain learning tasks were more effective than IQ as predictors. The study is seen as providing evidence for the further exploration of alternative assessment procedures that offer prescriptive directions.
Management of pediatric patients with isolated valvar aortic stenosis by balloon aortic valvuloplasty

This study retrospectively analyzed the data within the U.S. Multicenter Registry for Rotational Ablation to determine the incidence of coronary perforation during rotational ablation, its angiographic predictors and clinical outcomes during 2953 consecutive patients, 3717 lesions. Patients were categorized into Group A (without perforation, N = 2931) and Group B (with perforation, N = 22 patients). Perforation occurred in 0.7% of procedures, and in 0.6% of lesions treated and was more frequent within the right (12/ 1105, 1.1%) and circumflex (9/761, 1.2%) arteries than the left anterior descending artery [1/1727, 0.06%; (P 10 mm. Group B was assessed with regard to major complications, including death, surgery, myocardial infarction, or tamponade (type I); and minor complications; sealing with balloon angioplasty and without clinical sequelae (type II). There were 15 type I: emergency surgery in nine, of whom two died, and six infarctions (5 non-Q wave and one Q wave); and 7 type II patients. Coronary perforation, although a rare complication of rotational ablation, is seen more frequently in the right and circumflex coronary arteries than the left anterior descending artery, and occurs more frequently with lesion eccentricity, tortuousity, and length > 10 mm.
Extension of the Gouy-Chapman double-layer theory to the interface between a liquid and a solid electrolyte

Abstract The Gouy-Chapman theory for diffuse double layers is applied to the interphase between a solid electrolyte having only one mobile species and a liquid electrolyte where the co-ion is also mobile. The potential at the interface is determined as a function of the applied potential difference. Electrical potentials and ionic concentrations are calculated in both the liquid and solid phase. Therefrom the differential capacitances are derived.
Testing the HMO competitive strategy: An analysis of its impact on medical care resources

Competitive approaches to health care reform, including managed competition, are hypothesized to reduce health care expenditures and the resources devoted to medical care. Empirical evidence has been limited. The short- and long-run effects of an experiment closely resembling managed competition are analyzed. We examine effects on hospitals, technology diffusion, physicians, and health insurance premiums. The strategy reduces capital in hospitals, has minor effects on physicians and technology, and has only initial effects on average premiums.
Second-generation charge-optimized many-body potential for Si/ SiO 2 and amorphous silica

A second-generation dynamic charge transfer, many-body potential function is proposed for crystalline and amorphous silica, and for silicon. The potential is based on the first-generation charge-optimized many-body (COMB) potential for these materials. The materials fidelity of the proposed formalism is demonstrated for several crystalline silica polymorphs and amorphous silica. The correct order of most of the experimentally observed polymorphs of the oxide is obtained and a significant improvement is found for the mechanical properties over the predictions of the first-generation potential. Satisfactory agreement is obtained for predictions of structural properties and defect formation energies compared to experimental and first-principles computational values. This potential can be used in conjunction with recently developed COMB potentials for the $\text{Hf}/{\text{HfO}}_{2}$ systems.
Combination Fentanyl and Diazepam for Pediatric Conscious Sedation

OBJECTIVES To evaluate the safety and to describe the use of combination IV diazepam and fentanyl in the pediatric emergency department (PED) as outpatient conscious sedation (CS) for orthopedic procedures. METHODS A retrospective chart review of a standardized protocol for CS administered to 133 consecutive patients requiring CS for outpatient orthopedic procedures. The patients were continuously monitored for heart rate, respiratory rate, and arterial O2 saturation (Sao2) by pulse oximetry. The study was conducted at a large urban PED and regional referral center. RESULTS A total of 133 children (mean age 8.5 years) received 138 orthopedic procedures. Mean (+/- SD) total diazepam dose was 0.12 +/- 0.05 mg/kg; mean total fentanyl dose was 3.18 +/- 1.04 micrograms/kg. Mean time intervals were 4.6 minutes from initial drug administration to start of procedure, 15.5 minutes to end of procedure, and 56 minutes to meeting criteria for release home. Complications included Sao2 < 90% for 15 patients (11%, 95% CI 6.4-17.4%), vomiting for one (0.7%, 95% CI 0.1-4.2%), and severe pruritus for one (0.7%, 95% CI 0.1-4.2%). An episode of Sao2 < 90% was associated with a higher initial mean fentanyl dose (2.60 vs 1.95 micrograms/kg; p = 0.0005), but was not associated with a higher initial mean diazepam dose (p = 0.28). Parenteral opioid use for pain management prior to CS was not associated with an increased risk for Sao2 < 90% (p = 0.42). Heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure were stable during the observational period. No patient required naloxone, flumazenil, artificial airway control, or admission to the hospital. CONCLUSIONS At the doses given in the study, the use of combination diazepam and fentanyl for outpatient CS of PED patients during orthopedic procedures was not associated with serious complications. A higher initial fentanyl dose was associated with episodes of Sao2 < 90%. Therefore, an initial dose of < or = 2.0 micrograms/kg fentanyl titrated to effect is recommended.
PHOTODISSOCIATION DYNAMICS OF METHYLAMINE CATION AND ITS RELEVANCE TO TITAN'S IONOSPHERE

Photodissociation of CH3NH2 + has been studied using the DC sliced ion imaging technique and ab initio calculations in order to understand the formation of HCNH+, an important molecule in Titan's ionosphere. Our experimental and theoretical observations show that hydrogen loss from CH3NH2 + has two channels: one giving rise to the triplet species CH3NH+, while the other product is CH2NH2 +. The latter then decomposes further to form HCNH+. H2 loss from CH3NH2 + has only one channel, yielding CH2NH+. This species further loses H to form HCNH+. The branching ratio of the H, H2, and H+H2 loss channels is found to be 4.2:1:2.5. This is ascribed to the fact that, at these energies, the H loss has one stable triplet product channel, while most of the H2 loss product further decomposes to HCNH+.
Quaternary break-out flood sediments in the Peshawar basin of northern Pakistan

The presence of horizontally bedded, fining upward sequences of sands, silts, and clays throughout the Peshawar basin of northern Pakistan has previously been ascribed to Pleistocene lakes within the basin. Close inspection of these sediments, however, show sedimentological properties that suggest these stacked sequences are more characteristic of deposits of periodic break-out flood deposits and not lacustrine deposits. Exposures near the villages of Piran, Nowshera, Jehingira, Jalala and along the Kabul River show evidence of subaerial exposure (mudcracks and bioturbation zones), lateral continuity and fracture sets. At least three distinct cycles of deposition are apparent in the basin, each exhibiting slightly different structural and sedimentological properties. The groupings and dimensions of the rhythmite sequences indicate that within each cycle multiple episodes of flooding occurred. The absence of significant erosional and depositional features, as well as the preservation of mud rip-up clasts and bioturbation zones further suggests that the periods between episodes of flooding were probably on the order of 101 to 102 years. Evidence of ice-dams and lakes in the Indus drainage system is abundant. Cross-valley moraines and lacustrine deposits that stretch many kilometers upstream are visible in the middle Indus valley between the villages of Sazin and Shatial and Skardu. Calculated ratios of sediment to water suggest that an upstream reservoir at least 32 km3 and perhaps as large as 128 km3 would have been required to produce the extent of rhythmites observed in the Peshawar basin. Generating a reservoir of this size in the Indus drainage system was accomplished near the villages of Sazin–Shatial where large cross-valley moraines and upstream lacustrine sediments indicate large ice-dams as do the moraines and lacustrine sediments near Gilgit and Skardu. The origin of the graded sediments in the Peshawar basin, however, has not been correlated to the failure of a specific ice-dam. The temporal relationship of the graded sediments is unclear. Limited thermoluminescence (TL) analysis of the youngest set of graded sediments (referred to as `lake beds' by previous investigators) in the Peshawar basin suggest an age of at least 130,000 years BP. This time correlates to the Yunz stage of glaciation along the middle Indus valley which spans from the mid to late Pleistocene to about 130,000 years BP.
Durability of the molding tool for silicon carbide electric heaters

The durability of cores fabricated from high-alloy carbon steels for molding silicon carbide electric heaters is inadequate. Brazed-on core shanks of a hard alloy increase the useful life of the core so that the mold action remains troublefree for a whole shift.
A measles outbreak among adolescents

In a May, 1975, outbreak, 147 adolescents, ages 12 to 19 years, were identified as having measles by a physician or school nurse. One junior high school, with an enrollment of 1,122, contributed 131 of the cases. Of the 147 students, 54 were seen by physicians who also supplied their immunization records; 19 of 54 (35%) had received live measles virus vaccine without measles immune globulin, after age one year. The remaining 35 received: killed virus vaccine only (1), K+L (4), L+MIG (4), L at
What is integration

Purpose – This paper aims to provide a clarification of the meaning of the term integration.Design/methodology/approach – A taxonomy of integration definitions derived from the academic and trade literature is developed, analyzed, and documented.Findings – Integration is a word that is commonly used when discussing enterprise applications. The term integration is inserted in technical papers, e‐mail messages, correspondence, proposals, and even causal conversations. After many years of project work, and many misunderstandings and failed meetings and workshops, it can only be stated that the word has multiple and misunderstood meanings. For technical papers (research and trade), the term must be provided with context, or it is impossible to have a meaningful conversation. Next, multiple alternative definitions (that are valid in the literature for the appropriate context) are presented and explained in some detail.Research limitations/implications – The paper is not exhaustive, since new definitions of int...
Status Review of the Protected‐Area System in Myanmar, with Recommendations for Conservation Planning

Myanmar is among the most biologically diverse countries in mainland Southeast Asia. In con- trast to its neighbors, large areas of Myanmar's forest cover remain intact, providing a unique opportunity to conserve biodiversity within protected areas. High levels of deforestation, unrestricted hunting, and destruc- tive agricultural practices have resulted in significant wildlife declines and rapid loss of natural habitats. We analyzed the status of 20 of the 31 officially gazetted protected areas in Myanmar within a framework that classified activities incompatible with protected-area status into two broad categories, small and large scale. Small-scale incompatibilities driven by economic necessity and lack of alternatives for local populations within and adjacent to protected areas occurred more frequently than large-scale incompatibilities driven by larger economic interests. Extraction of nontimber forest products was reported in 85% of the protected areas and ranked highest among the 15 identified incompatibilities. Grazing, hunting, fuelwood extraction, and permanent settlements occurred in more than 50% of the parks surveyed. Forty percent of the protected areas had some infrastructure for reserve management (with significant gaps) but insufficient on-site personnel to adequately perform management activities. Thirty-five percent had approximately half their staff trained in basic field techniques, and 60% had a planning document that was yet to be implemented. Older protected ar- eas were affected by a greater number of incompatibilities than recently established protected areas. Major recommendations include the critical need to address the issue of hunting; involving local communities in the management of protected areas and buffer zones; building the technical capacity of protected-area staff; implementing a comprehensive land-use plan focused on stabilizing land use; and amending existing wildlife laws to fulfill international treaty obligations.
An optimization approach to planning for mobile manipulation

We present an optimization-based approach to grasping and path planning for mobile manipulators. We focus on pick-and-place operations, where a given object must be moved from its start configuration to its goal configuration by the robot. Given only the start and goal configurations of the object and a model of the robot and scene, our algorithm finds a grasp and a trajectory for the robot that will bring the object to its goal configuration. The algorithm consists of two phases: optimization and planning. In the optimization phase, the optimal robot configurations and grasp are found for the object in its start and goal configurations using a co-evolutionary algorithm. In the planning phase, a path is found connecting the two robot configurations found by the optimization phase using Rapidly-Exploring Random Trees (RRTs). We benchmark our algorithm and demonstrate it on a 10 DOF mobile manipulator performing complex pick-and-place tasks in simulation.
Research in natural language processing

Our central research focus is on the automatic acquisition of knowledge about language (both syntactic and semantic) from corpora. We wish to understand how the knowledge so acquired can enhance natural language applications, including document retrieval, information extraction, and machine translation. In addition to experimenting with acquisition procedures, we are continuing to develop the infrastructure needed for these applications (grammars and dictionaries, parsers, evaluation procedures, etc.).
Will switching to LED outdoor lighting increase sky glow

As LED sources are increasingly being used for outdoor lighting, concerns are being raised about their impact on man-made sky glow. This paper compares the amount of light scattered back to Earth f...
Analysis of X-ray Photoelectron Spectra through Their Even Derivatives

The analysis of organic and inorganic surfaces can be carried out very effectively with the aid of x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. In many cases, however, the presently available methods and techniques for data treatment resolutions are not suitable for the qualitative and quantitative identification of the various forms of a given atom on the same surface. The number of components and a good approximation of their original position in the composite curve must be known to use the available curve fitting procedures, otherwise the evaluation can be unreliable. It is suggested that the second and higher even derivatives of the composite could provide these data. The possibility of applying even derivatives of composite curves in combination with a nonlinear least square curve fitting program was investigated. It was found that depending on the noise background of the spectra, the resolution could be improved through this method. The resolution is dependent on the half-width of the component curves, their separation, and ratio. Both Gaussian and Lorentzian curves can be resolved, but the resolution of the latter is easier. The resolution is increasing with higher derivatives; however, increased smoothing must be applied at each step to neutralize the influence of the noise background.
Numerical study of reduced contact resistance via nanoscale topography at metal/semiconductor interfaces

Reduction in contact size via scaling leads to an increase in parasitic contact resistance, which can be a limiting factor in aggressively scaled high-frequency transistors. Using numerical modelling, we predict that nanoscale topography at the metal/semiconductor interface can reduce the effective specific contact resistance by 25% or more using features 10 nm or less in width, even for doping densities as high as 10 20 cm −3 . Previous studies have shown that these features cause an increase in tunnelling current for lightly doped semiconductors. However, we have found that for heavy doping or low barrier heights, the main factor reducing contact resistance is increased interfacial area.
The measurement of coping with stress: Construct validity of the ways of coping checklist and the cybernetic coping scale

Abstract Though numerous Measures of coping have been presented in the literature, procedures used to evaluate the construct validiy of these measures are incomplete, and few studies have examined multiple measures using data from the same sample, This study presents a comparative evaluation of the construct validity of the Ways of Coping Checklist (WCCL; Lazarus and Folkman 1984) and the Cybernetic Coping Scale (CCS; Edwards 1991), based on confirmatory factor analyses of data from 116 MBA students. Results provided moderate support fot the CCS and weak suport fot the WCCL. Recommendations for the use of the WCCL and CCS are offered, and procedures for the development of coping measures are discussed.
Transient diabetes mellitus in a neonatal Thoroughbred foal.

Objective – To describe the clinical presentation, treatment, and outcome of a neonatal foal diagnosed with transient Type 1 diabetes mellitus. Case Summary – A 3-day-old Thoroughbred foal presented with a 24-hour history of diarrhea and depression. Coronavirus particles were observed in the feces via electron microscopy. During hospitalization the foal developed hyperglycemia concomitantly with low insulin concentration and an adequate response to exogenous insulin therapy supported a diagnosis of Type 1 diabetes mellitus. The foal required SC insulin for 26 days, but developed complications associated with insulin therapy that resolved with appropriate care. On follow up assessment the foal was found to be a healthy euglycemic animal with normal insulin concentration at 11 months of age. New or Unique Information Provided – To our knowledge this is the first report of Type 1 diabetes in this age group and the first report of transient neonatal diabetes mellitus in horses. Type 1 diabetes mellitus should be considered a differential diagnosis for hyperglycemia in equine neonates and that it can be transient and managed successfully.
Respiratory Mucosal Immunization with Reovirus Serotype 1/L Stimulates Virus-Specific Humoral and Cellular Immune Responses, Including Double-Positive (CD4+/CD8+) T Cells

Respiratory virus infections are a serious health challenge. A number of models that examine the nature of the respiratory immune response to particular pathogens exist. However, many pathogens that stimulate specific immunity in the lung are frequently not effective immunogens at other mucosal sites. A pathogen that is an effective respiratory as well as gastrointestinal immunogen would allow studies of the interaction between the mucosal sites. Reovirus (respiratory enteric orphan virus) serotype 1 is known to be an effective gut mucosal immunogen and provides a potential model for the relationship between the respiratory and the gut mucosal immune systems. In this study, we demonstrate that intratracheal immunization with reovirus 1/Lang (1/L) in C3H mice resulted in high titers of virus in the respiratory tract-associated lymphoid tissue (RALT). High levels of reovirus-specific immunoglobulin A were determined in the RALT fragment cultures. The major responding components of the bronchus-associated lymphoid tissue were the CD8(+) T lymphocytes. Cells from draining lymph nodes also exhibited lysis of reovirus-infected target cells after an in vitro culture. The present study also describes the distribution of transiently present CD4(+)/CD8(+) double-positive (DP) T cells in the mediastinal and tracheobronchial lymph nodes of RALT. CD4(+)/CD8(+) DP lymphocytes were able to proliferate in response to stimulation with viral antigen in culture. Furthermore, these cells exhibited lysis of reovirus-infected target cells after in vitro culture. These results establish reovirus 1/L as a viable model for future investigation of the mucosal immune response in the RALT and its relationship to the common mucosal immune system.
Feature hiding in 3D human body scans

In this paper, we explore a privacy algorithm that detects human private parts in a 3D scan data set. The analogia graph is introduced to study the proportion of structures. The intrinsic human proportions are applied to reduce the search space in an order of magnitude. A feature shape template is constructed to match the model data points using Radial Basis Functions in a non-linear regression and the relative measurements of the height and area factors. The method is tested on 100 data sets from CAESAR database. Two surface rendering methods are studied for data privacy: blurring and transparency. It is found that test subjects normally prefer to have the most possible privacy in both rendering methods. However, the subjects adjusted their privacy measurement to a certain degree as they were informed of the context of security.
Design Considerations for a Minimally Invasive High-Throughput Automation System for Radiation Biodosimetry

Design aspects of a minimally invasive high-throughput automation system for radiation biodosimetry are reported. The system, currently under development, relies on robotic devices and advanced high-speed automated image acquisition to perform mass triage following a radiological event. A design concept of the automation system is proposed based on the use of an input stage, a centrifuge module, a cell harvesting system, a liquid handling module, an imaging system and a service robot. The biological assays are described along with an analysis of the throughput requirements. The special requirements imposed by bioassay automation, system throughput and minimal invasiveness lead to the design of a custom-made multipurpose gripper and a cell harvesting module. Results on the embodiment design of these modules are provided. A prototype of the automation system is described.
Creativity in the classroom: Special concerns and insights

The authors examine creativity in the engineering classroom. Drawing upon recent research, they enumerate potential blocks to student creativity and, in contrast, they describe the features of classroom environments that stimulate creativity. >
The effects of short-term stimulation on fibroblast spreading in an in vitro 3D system.

Although the short-term effects of mechanical and biochemical stimulation on cell protein and DNA production have recently begun to be evaluated using 3D models, the effects that such stimulation have on cell morphology and adaptation remains unclear. Using a custom-built bioreactor, we were able to create a systematic model to examine the short-term effects of stimulation on cell morphology in a 3D model, specifically by evaluating cell spreading as the short-term indicator of cell adaptation. Fibroblasts were seeded on a porous poly(L-lactic acid) scaffold and cultured in a computerized bioreactor for 24 h under various uniaxial strains (0, 0.6, 3, 6%) and frequencies (0.0125, 0.125 Hz). Also, the effects of transforming growth factor (TGF-β1) (1, 10, 100 ng/mL) were examined on static, nonstimulated cells-scaffold constructs after 24 h. Fibroblasts that had been subjected to mechanical stretching were found to exhibit significantly more spreading than the static control group. Conversely, TGF-β1 between 1 and 100 ng/mL did not produce any significant difference in fibroblast spreading from the control groups after 24 h. Collectively, the findings suggest that cell morphology and adaptation may be affected by short-term mechanical stimulation, as seen by increased cell spreading by the fibroblasts under these experimental conditions. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2006
Between Logocentrism and Lococentrism: Alambrista Challenges to Traditional Theology*

“Olhe, um terrorista!” yelled the construction worker as I passed. I was living in Salvador, Brazil, where eighty percent of the population identifies as something other than white. Though not sharing the same ancestry as my neighbors, I never, as a moreno (brown-skinned person), stood out to them as different. Yet to the man who pointed me out that day, I did. He apparently had been watching the news: another round of Arab men arrested on suspicion of plotting a terror attack. It was a small moment, an aberration amidst the abundance of hospitality I was enjoying in a country not my own. Born in Sri Lanka and raised in the United States, I chose to move to Brazil mainly for personal enrichment—to study and practice liberation theology in a land regarded as one of its homes. With so varied and privileged a background, I saw myself as something of a supra-cultural globetrotter, immune to other peoples' limitations of cultural and national identity. Whenever crossing what others referred to as borders, I rarely ceased to feel centered. Yet that day—the day I was labeled a terrorist—I suffered something of the migrant's anguish, the de-centering humiliation that typically accompanies the border crosser.
Audit of the Treatment of Malnutrition Due to Chronic Intestinal Pseudo-Obstruction With Enteral Nutrition

Purpose: Chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction (CIP) can result in significant malnutrition and weight loss. Although parenteral nutrition can be a useful adjunct in the management of CIP, it is expensive and not without complications. Aim: To determine the outcome of enteral nutrition with nonelemental isotonic formulas in patients with CIP in a tertiary referral center, over the time period 1980 to 1998. Methods: A retrospective medical record review of patients with CIP receiving enteral nutrition. Median follow-up was 3 years (range, 1 to 8 years) Results: 30 patients (20 women, 10 men; mean age at diagnosis, 49 years) with scleroderma (n = 10), amyloidosis (n = 10), and idiopathic CIP (n = 10) were studied. All had failed oral feeding and had a feeding tube placed. Jejunal tubes were placed in 19 patients and gastric tubes in 11 patients. Continuous feedings were used in 24 patients, and 6 patients received intermittent gravity feedings. Initially, the goal rate of delivery using a standard isotonic ...
Two-bounce free-space arbitrary interconnection architecture

The two bounce free-space arbitrary interconnection architecture is introduced. It is requires 3 stages of local electronic routing and 2 passes, or bounces, through a common retro-reflective optical system. The concept combines the global optical interconnection with the minimum nonblocking multistage interconnection network, the Benes network, to achieve arbitrary interconnections across a multichip backplane. The arbitrary interconnection requires only one additional pass through the optical system. The architecture is experimentally validated with a optical module and a fiber coupled LED and detector array to simulate the smart pixel I/O placement in the backplane of the module. The architecture is further evaluated using VCSEL arrays and a CCD camera for resolution and registration measurements.
High-resolution mapping of protein sequence-function relationships

We present a large-scale approach to investigate the functional consequences of sequence variation in a protein. The approach entails the display of hundreds of thousands of protein variants, moderate selection for activity, and high throughput DNA sequencing to quantify the performance of each variant. Using this strategy, we tracked the performance of >600,000 variants of a human WW domain after three and six rounds of selection by phage display for binding to its peptide ligand. Binding properties of these variants defined a high-resolution map of mutational preference across the WW domain; each position possessed unique features that could not be captured by a few representative mutations. Our approach could be applied to many in vitro or in vivo protein assays, providing a general means for understanding how protein function relates to sequence.
A theory of disordered quasi-binary alloys

Abstract A formulation of the statistical mechanics for a quasi-binary alloy of the form A x B 1− x C is presented in which the C atoms are treated exactly, and the A and B atoms are replaced by an effective AB atom which randomly occupies lattice sites in proportion to the relative concentrations of A and B . As in the quasi-chemical approximation this formulation produces a composition-dependent interaction energy between the AB atoms and the C atoms. Static correlation functions between the AB atoms and the C atoms, which can be related back to those between A, B and C atoms, are derived in a high temperature expansion exact to the third order in T c / T , where T c is the highest temperature at which the system shows any long range order. Contact is made to the short range order parameter, and thereby expressions for the ordering temperatures as a function of arbitrary composition and range of interaction are derived.