cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Topographic substrates as strain relief features in stretchable organic thin film transistors

Abstract The fabrication of large-area active devices that can operate under large tensile strains is essential for advancing the technological applications of flexible and stretchable electronics. Here we describe a strain relief mechanism to preserve the performance of organic thin film transistors that operate under strains up to 12%. The scalable fabrication strategy utilizes sinusoidal topographic structures that are directly integrated into elastomeric substrates through controlled buckling. Organic thin film transistors are then prepared onto the prefabricated topographic substrates by conformal coating methods. The stretchability of devices fabricated on substrates with strain relief features is demonstrated by characterizing the strain-dependent performance of transistors in multiple deformation configurations. Devices fabricated on topographic substrates exhibit stabilized operation as measured by maintaining high mobilities and on–off ratios compared to the devices fabricated on flat substrates without strain relief features. The overall utility of topographic substrates is derived from the ability to embed intrinsic stretchability into arrays of active devices in large-area formats in a highly scalable manner.
First Use of Multiple Imputation with the National Tuberculosis Surveillance System

Aims. The purpose of this study was to compare methods for handling missing data in analysis of the National Tuberculosis Surveillance System of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Because of the high rate of missing human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection status in this dataset, we used multiple imputation methods to minimize the bias that may result from less sophisticated methods. Methods. We compared analysis based on multiple imputation methods with analysis based on deleting subjects with missing covariate data from regression analysis (case exclusion), and determined whether the use of increasing numbers of imputed datasets would lead to changes in the estimated association between isoniazid resistance and death. Results. Following multiple imputation, the odds ratio for initial isoniazid resistance and death was 2.07 (95% CI 1.30, 3.29); with case exclusion, this odds ratio decreased to 1.53 (95% CI 0.83, 2.83). The use of more than 5 imputed datasets did not substantively change the results. Conclusions. Our experience with the National Tuberculosis Surveillance System dataset supports the use of multiple imputation methods in epidemiologic analysis, but also demonstrates that close attention should be paid to the potential impact of missing covariates at each step of the analysis.
An immunologic assessment of brain-associated IgG in senile cerebral amyloidosis.

Frontal and occipital lobes were taken within four hours of death from four senile patients (77–94 years) and frozen at −70°C. After thawing at room temperature, gray and white matter were separated and subjected to sequential elution at pH 7.4 and pH 2.5. The eluates were processed for isoelectric focusing on 2.5% polyacrylamide gels and stained with silver nitrate; immunoblotting was done on agarose gels and stained by immunoperoxidase for IgG and light chains. Quantitation of the amount of IgG present in neutral and acidic eluates was performed by immunonephelometry and ELISA. Only the neutral eluates contained significant amounts of IgG, which were usually polyclonal. These data indicate that IgG associated with senile cerebral amyloid are not bound to any brain or vascular component and the data do not support the occurrence of an intraparenchymal immune response.
Analysis of a Model Predator-Prey System with Refuges

Abstract We study a model of a predator-prey system with refuges proposed in McNair [Theoret. Population Biol.29 (1986), 38-63]. We show that all solutions are ultimately bounded and eventually enter a triangular region in the first quadrant. Moreover, two Hopf bifurcations occur and, using singularity theory, one can show that the two branches of periodic solutions join. Finally, we show that the periodic solutions produced by the Hopf bifurcation are unique and hence limit cycles which are globally asymptotically stable from the first quadrant with an equilibrium point deleted.
Synthesis and assembly of a novel recombinant ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase

The Rhodopseudomonas sphaeroides form II ribulose 1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (RuBPC/O) expressed in Escherichia coli has been purified to electrophoretic homogeneity by dye-ligand column chromatography. The form II RuBPC/O made in E. coli exactly co-migrates with the R. sphaeroides enzyme in sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide slab gels. Immunological identity of the recombinant protein was verified by Western immunoblot analysis using antiserum directed against form II RuBPC/O. In addition, sequence determination of the amino terminus of the cloned gene product has established that the protein produced in E. coli under lac transcriptional control is identical to the R. sphaeroides enzyme. Based on comparisons of various catalytic properties, the RuBPC/O isolated from E. coli is functionally identical to the R. sphaeroides enzyme. The E. coli form II RuBPC/O should thus serve as an excellent model for subsequent molecular manipulation of this agriculturally important protein.
On regression analysis with incomplete covariate data

Approximate likelihoods are considered for regression analysis with co-variate data missing at random. The methods are based on discrete approxi¬mations to the covariate distribution. In the first approximation, the covari-ate distribution is assumed to be concentrated on the observed complete cases, with kernel averaging used for the likelihood contribution of partially complete cases. The second method places the mass of the covariate distribution on a discrete grid of points, and uses a penalty function to regularize the covari¬ate distribution estimator. Simulations indicate the methods give reasonably good performance for estimated parameters, but that inferences based on large sample approximations may not be reliable.
Evaluation of Divalent Cation Binding to Phosphatidylserine Membranes by an Analysis of Concentration Dependence of Surface Potential

Abstract Electrostatic considerations predict that the binding of divalent cations to singly charged acidic lipids is likely to proceed with a 1:2 ion-to-lipid stoichiometry, but the fact that divalent cations at ∼0.1 M concentrations reverse the sign of the negative surface potential of membranes provides evidence for 1:1 stoichiometry. In this work, analytic expressions are obtained for 1:1 and 1:2 binding constants and for the fractions of corresponding complexes based on extensions of the Gouy-Chapman-Stern theory and of Cohen-Cohen theory (J. A. Cohen and M. Cohen, Biophys. J. 36, 623, 1981). This approach relies on the ion concentration and the slope of the surface potential vs concentration curve at the charge reversal point. Application of this theory to previously published electrophoresis data on phosphatidylserine vesicles (S. McLaughlin, N. Mulrine, T. Gresalfi, G. Vaio, and A. McLaughlin, J. Gen. Physiol. 77, 445, 1981), varying the thickness of the shearing layer (δ) from 0 to 2 A, showed that (a) the 1:1 binding constants do not depend on δ and are similar to those determined in the original paper; (b) the 1:2 binding constants are extremely sensitive to δ: for Mg2+, Ca2+, Sr2+, and Ba2+, respectively, K22 ≈ 25-35, 85-120, 110-150, and 190-270 M-1 at δ = 0 and K22 ≈ 2-3, 3-5, 5-7, and 10-15 M-1 at δ = 2 A; (c) the fraction of lipid molecules involved in 1:2 complexes (θ) also strongly depends on δ: the values of θ calculated either at the charge reversal point or at the saturation of adsorption were 0.60-0.88 at δ = 0 and 0.22-0.55 at δ = 2 A. These results imply that the thickness of the shearing layer is a critical parameter for which the exact value is required to gain information on the ion binding mechanism from electrophoresis data. The present theory may also be applied to experimental results on surface potential vs concentration curves obtained by other methods.
Renal imaging with radionuclides, ultrasound, and computed tomography

Nuclear medicine, ultrasound, and computed tomography have all contributed greatly to the diagnosis and understanding of renal disease. The 99m Tc-glucoheptonate scan is a multipurpose test for evaluating blood flow, cortical function and excretion, and the location of renal tissue. It is especially useful in renal trauma and vascular disease, congenital anomalies, and pseudomasses. Technetium-99m diethylene triamine pentaacetic acid (DTPA) is most helpful in evaluating obstruction and reflux, and 67 Ga citrate has a major role in inflammatory disease. The gray-scale ultrasound examination helps to characterize masses as cysts, abscesses, or tumors, and is particularly helpful in localization for aspiration, biopsy, or drainage procedures. Its total innocuousness makes echography useful for sequential follow-up in hydronephrosis and masses. Computed tomography with a fast scanner allows the identification of small lesions, and gives the most anatomic information. It permits the differentiation of fat from pelvic tumors and small cysts from neoplasms, and clearly identifies perirenal structures. With contrast enhancement, additional information about the vascularity of lesions is obtained. Although these tests use different physical principles and instruments, the data they provide are often similar, and for practical purposes the use of one modality may preclude the use of others. Difficult judgments are required to make certain that the proper examination or sequence of examinations is done in each case.
Electrospinning of polycarbonate nanofibers with solvent mixtures THF and DMF

The current work demonstrates the electrospinning of polycarbonate dissolved in solvent mixtures of tetrahydrofuran (THF) and dimethylformamide (DMF) to obtain fibers on a nanoscale. The solvent mixtures played a significant role on the morphology of the fibers. The spun fibers showed the characteristics of strong networking with each other as the THF ratio was increased in the solvent mixtures (like 60:40, 70:30 of THF:DMF). The electrostatic voltage, viscosity and surface tension also showed major effects on the fiber morphology and formation of beads. At lower THF and DMF ratios and lower spinning voltages, the bead revealed a globular mushroom shape, while at higher ratios and higher voltages, the beads formed the shape of spindle. The microstructures of the electrospun polycarbonate fibers were quantitively investigated by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscope as a function of processing variables.
Substrate Interactions in BTEX and MTBE Mixtures by an MTBE-Degrading Isolate

Groundwater contaminant plumes from recent accidental gasoline releases often contain the fuel oxygenate MTBE (methyl tert-butyl ether) together with BTEX (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, o-xylene,...
Hydrogen detrapping from grain boundaries and dislocations in high purity iron

Abstract Hydrogen detrapping in high purity iron was studied by measuring evolution rates of quenched-in hydrogen from 80 to 800 K using a quadrupole mass spectrometer in an ultra high vacuum system. The peak of the evolution rate was observed at 395 K in single crystal specimens and 415 K in polycrystalline specimens with a heating rate of 1 K min−1. Effects of grain size and deformation on the evolution rate was also studied. It was shown that the results are consistent with the evolution rates calculated with the binding energy B = 0.51 ± 0.02 eV and the trap density term γCT = (4 ∼ 15) × 10−5 in polycrystalline iron, and B = 0.47 ± 0.02 eVand γCT = (2 ∼ 13) × 10−5 in single crystal iron. The dominant traps are considered to be grain boundaries in polycrystalline specimens and dislocations in single crystal specimens.
Build-Up Approach to Updating the Mock Quiet Spike Beam Model

A crucial part of aircraft design is ensuring that the required margin for flutter is satisfied. A trustworthy flutter analysis, which begins by possessing an accurate dynamics model, is necessary for this task. Traditionally, a model was updated manually by fine tuning specific stiffness parameters until the analytical results matched test data. This is a time consuming iterative process. The NASA Dryden Flight Research Center has developed a mode matching code to execute this process in a more efficient manner. Recently, this code was implemented in the F-15B/Quiet Spike (Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, Savannah, Georgia) model update. A build-up approach requiring several ground vibration test configurations and a series of model updates was implemented to determine the connection stiffness between aircraft and test article. The mode matching code successfully updated various models for the F-15B/Quiet Spike project to within 1 percent error in frequency and the modal assurance criteria values ranged from 88.51-99.42 percent.
A “HIDDEN” DEFICIT IN CENTRAL VISION IN DIABETIC PAN‐RETINAL PHOTOCOAGULATION PATIENTS

— Adaptation ability in the center of vision was tested in diabetic patients treated with pan-retinal photocoagulation for diabetic retinopathy and in normal control subjects. This was accomplished with a specially designed contrast sensitivity testing regimen. Patients with retinopathy showed “hidden” deficits, losses in adaptation ability that could not be measured by standard clinical tests, such as visual acuity. This new test thus quantifies a previously unmeasured visual problem that affects the everyday visual function of these patients.
Persisting circadian rhythm of cell division in a photosynthetic mutant of Euglena.

A persisting, free-running, circadian rhythm of cell division in a heterotrophically grown mutant of Euglena gracilis var. bacillaris having impaired photosynthesis is obtained upon placing a culture that has been previously synchronized by a 10,14 light-dark cycle into continuous darkness at 19°C (but not at 25°C). A similar persisting rhythm is initiated in exponentially increasing cultures (growing in darkness at 19°C) by a single "switch-up" in irradiance to continuous bright illumination. The results implicate an endogenous biological clock which "gates" the specific event of cell division in the cell developmental cycle.
Solidification Behavior and Weldability of Dissimilar Welds Between a Cr-Free, Ni-Cu Welding Consumable and Type 304L Austenitic Stainless Steel

The solidification behavior of a Cr-free welding consumable based on the Ni-Cu system was evaluated in conjunction with Type 304L stainless steel. The weld metal microstructure evolution was evaluated with optical and secondary electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, button melting, and thermodynamic (CALPHAD-based) modeling. Solidification partitioning patterns showed that higher dilutions of the filler metal by Type 304L increased segregation of Ti, Cu, and Si to interdendritic regions. Button melting experiments showed a widening of the solidification temperature range with increasing dilution because of the expansion of the austenite solidification range and formation of Ti(C,N) via a eutectic reaction. The model predictions showed good correlation with button melting experiments and were used to evaluate the nature of the Ti(C,N) precipitation reaction. Solidification cracking susceptibility of the weld metal was shown to increase with dilution of 304L stainless steel based on testing conducted with the cast pin tear test. The increase in cracking susceptibility is associated with expansion of the solidification temperature range and the presence of eutectic liquid at the end of solidification that wets solidification grain boundaries.
Independence of masculine and feminine traits: Empirical exploration of a prevailing assumption

The prevailing assumption that masculinity and femininity develop independently was tested by examining the endorsement contingencies of these two types of sex role traits. The possible moderating effects of gender and stage of the feminist movement were also examined. Self-descriptions of 1,623 college undergraduates (688 males and 935 females) were considered, collected in 1958–1964, 1970–1974, and 1977–1982. The major finding failed to support the assumption of independence. A positive relation was found between the presence of masculine and feminine traits within the same individual, and this was generally true whether the person was male or female and whether the self-descriptions were collected as early as 1958–1964 or as late as 1977–1982. The facilitative effect was stronger in males than in females and was also stronger when more socially favorable traits were considered.
Behavioral detection of electric signal waveform distortion in the weakly electric fish, Gnathonemus petersii

The “novelty response” of weakly electric mormyrids is a transient acceleration of the rate of electric organ discharges (EOD) elicited by a change in stimulus input. In this study, we used it as a tool to test whether Gnathonemus petersii can perceive minute waveform distortions of its EOD that are caused by capacitive objects, as would occur during electrolocation. Four predictions of a hypothesis concerning the mechanism of capacitance detection were tested and confirmed: (1) G. petersii exhibited a strong novelty response to computer-generated (synthetic) electric stimuli that mimic both the waveform and frequency shifts of the EOD caused by natural capacitive objects (Fig. 3). (2) Similar responses were elicited by synthetic stimuli in which only the waveform distortion due to phase shifting the EOD frequency components was present (Fig. 4). (3) Novelty responses could reliably be evoked by a constant amplitude phase shifted EOD that effects the entire body of the fish evenly, i.e., a phase difference across the body surface was lacking (Figs. 3, 4). (4) Local presentation of a phase-shifted EOD mimic that stimulated only a small number of electroreceptor organs at a single location was also effective in eliciting a behavioral response (Fig. 5). Our results indicate that waveform distortions due to phase shifts alone, i.e. independent of amplitude or frequency cues, are sufficient for the detection of capacitive, animate objects. Mormyrids perceive even minute waveform changes of their own EODs by centrally comparing the input of the two types of receptor cells within a single mormyromast electroreceptor organ. Thus, no comparison of differentially affected body regions is necessary. This shows that G. petersii indeed uses a unique mechanism for signal analysis, which is different from the one employed by gymnotiform wavefish.
Cooling Mechanisms of the Planetary Thermospheres: The Key Role of O Atom Vibrational Excitation of CO2 and NO

Cooling due to infrared emissions from O atom excited CO2and NO is a critically important process in the thermal budget of the terrestrial thermosphere. Increasing CO2density due to human activity makes the role of its emission particularly worthy of quantitative evaluation. Furthermore, the O atom excited 15 μm CO2emission has a unique role in the lower thermosphere of Venus where it is the only significant cooling mechanism; it is also an important process in the Martian thermosphere. The experimental and theoretical status of these rate coefficients is reviewed and the unsatisfactory current state of knowledge is pointed out.
Preface to Special Issue on Community Climate System Model (CCSM)

The Community Climate System Model (CCSM) is a national, community-wide project that is based at the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR). The primary support is provided by the National Science Foundation and the Department of Energy, with additional support from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The first version of the model was released in 1996, and the June 1998 Journal of Climate was a special issue devoted to results from that version of the model. The third version of the CCSM and its documentation were released in June 2004 and are available for download from the Web site http:// www.ccsm.ucar.edu/models/ccsm3.0/. Since then, the CCSM3 has been applied to a variety of scientific studies, and many further experiments have been run in support of the Fourth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). The output from the IPCC runs is widely available to the climate science community at the Web sites https://www.earthsystemgrid.org or http://www-pcmdi.llnl.gov/ipcc/about_ipcc.php. This special issue is devoted to results from the CCSM3: there is an introductory paper, and then 25 more papers documenting many aspects of the atmosphere, ocean, land, and sea ice components, and the fully coupled model. The fully coupled model can be run at three different resolutions: a low resolution intended for paleoclimate studies, a standard resolution, and a high resolution, which was used for the IPCC runs. Four of the papers compare simulations and the climate sensitivity across the three CCSM3 resolutions. These 25 papers are authored by members of seven of the CCSM Working Groups: Atmosphere Model, Ocean, Land Model, Polar Climate, Climate Variability, Climate Change, and Paleoclimate. Papers by members of the Biogeochemistry Working Group have recently been published in the August 2005 Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, and in the Journal of Climate, 2006. The fall 2005 issue of The International Journal of High Performance Computing Applications was a special issue on climate modeling, and several papers were authored by members of the Software Engineering Working Group. These working groups are the foundation of the CCSM project, and their meetings are open to anyone from the scientific community who wishes to attend. The CCSM project is managed by the Science Steering Committee, and most of the credit for organizing this special issue must go to Bill Collins of NCAR. He was chairman of the SSC from July 2003 through June 2005, and during this period the CCSM3 was defined, released, the IPCC and other scientific experiments run, and the papers for this Journal of Climate special issue organized. VOLUME 19 J O U R N A L O F C L I M A T E 1 JUNE 2006
Parietal Lobe Lesional Epilepsy: Electroclinical Correlation and Operative Outcome

We retrospectively studied ictal behavior, extracranial EEG, and operative outcome in 10 consecutive patients with intractable partial epilepsy of presumed parietal lobe origin who received a lesionectomy, i.e., resection of the neuroimaging-identified abnormality, at the Mayo Clinic. Nine patients had a pathologically verified foreign-tissue lesion, e.g., tumor or vascular malformation, and 1 patient had gliosis. All patients with foreign-tissue lesions were rendered seizure-free. The patient with gliosis experienced a reduction in seizure tendency. There were no operative complications. The most common seizure type was a simple partial seizure with visual, motor, or sensory symptoms (n = 8). Complex partial seizures (n = 5) and secondarily generalized tonic-clonic seizures (GTC, n = 2) were also observed. The ictal behavior was often nonspecific although useful in identifying lateralization of the epileptogenic zone. Extracranial interictal and ictal EEG changes were unreliable markers of the parietal lobe origin of seizure activity. Lesionectomy without chronic intracranial monitoring or functional mapping may be an effective and safe alternative surgical procedure in patients with partial epilepsy related to parietal lobe lesions.
Global magnetic anomaly and aurora of Neptune

The large offset and tilt of Neptune's dipole magnetic field combine to create a global magnetic anomaly, analogous to but much more important than earth's South Atlantic Anomaly. Energetic particle precipitation loss within the Neptune anomaly creates 'atmospheric drift shadows' within which particle fluxes are greatly reduced. The energetic particle dropout observed by Voyager near closest approach occurred near the predicted times when Voyager passed within the atmospheric drift shadow. Extremely soft, structured bursts of ions and electrons within the drift shadow may result from plasma wave-induced pitch angle scattering of trapped particles confined near the magnetic equator. The dropout does not necessarily imply that Voyager passed through an earth-like discrete auroral zone, as earlier reported. The ion and electron fluxes observed within the dropout period correspond to particles that must precipitate to Neptune's atmosphere within the anomaly region. This anomaly precipitation can account for a major portion of the ultraviolet emissions previously identified as Neptune aurora.
Synergistic Potent Insulin Release by Combinations of Weak Secretagogues in Pancreatic Islets and INS-1 Cells *

Abstract Insulin secretion by the beta cell depends on anaplerosis in which insulin secretagogues are metabolized by mitochondria into molecules that are most likely exported to the extramitochondrial space where they have signaling roles. However, very little is known about the products of anaplerosis. We discovered an experimental paradigm that has begun to provide new information about these products. When various intracellular metabolites were applied in combination to overnight-cultured rat or human pancreatic islets or to INS-1 832/13 cells, they interacted synergistically to strongly stimulate insulin release. When these same metabolites were applied individually to these cells, insulin stimulation was poor. Discerning the contributions of the individual compounds to metabolism has begun to allow us to dissect some of the pathways involved in insulin secretion, which was not possible from studying individual secretagogues. Monomethyl succinate (MMS) combined with a barely stimulatory concentration of α-ketoisocaproate (KIC) (2 mm) stimulated insulin release in cultured rat islets 18-fold (versus 21-fold for 16.7 mm glucose). MMS plus low glucose (2 mm) or pyruvate (5 mm) gave 11- and 9-fold stimulations. These agents also potentiated MMS-induced insulin release in fresh islets, and KIC plus MMS gave synergistic insulin release in cultured human islets. In INS-1 cells, neither MMS nor KIC (10 mm) was an insulin secretagogue, but when added together KIC (2 mm) and MMS stimulated insulin release 7-fold (versus 12-fold for glucose). In islets and INS-1 cells, conditions that stimulated insulin release caused large relative increases in acetoacetate, which is a precursor of pathways to short chain acyl-CoAs. Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry measurements of acetyl-CoA, acetoacetyl-CoA, succinyl-CoA, hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA, and malonyl-CoA confirmed that they were increased by insulin secretagogues. The results suggest a new mechanism of insulin secretion in which anaplerosis increases short chain acyl-CoAs that have roles in insulin exocytosis.
EQUALITY, PRIORITY OR WHAT?

This paper aims to illuminate some issues in the equality, priority, or what debate. I characterize egalitarianism and prioritarianism, respond to the view that we should care about sufficiency or compassion rather than equality or priority, discuss the levelling down objection, and illustrate the significance of the distinction between prioritarianism and egalitarianism, establishing that the former is no substitute for the latter. In addition, I respond to Bertil Tungodden's views regarding the Slogan, the levelling down objection, the Pareto Principle, leximin, the principle of personal good, strict moderate egalitarianism, the Hammond Equity Condition, the intersection approach, and non-aggregative reasoning.
Type-2 pericytes participate in normal and tumoral angiogenesis.

Tissue growth and function depend on vascularization, and vascular insufficiency or excess exacerbates many human diseases. Identification of the biological processes involved in angiogenesis will dictate strategies to modulate reduced or excessive vessel formation. We examine the essential role of pericytes. Their heterogeneous morphology, distribution, origins, and physiology have been described. Using double-transgenic Nestin-GFP/NG2-DsRed mice, we identified two pericyte subsets. We found that Nestin-GFP−/NG2-DsRed+ (type-1) and Nestin-GFP+/NG2-DsRed+ (type-2) pericytes attach to the walls of small and large blood vessels in vivo; in vitro, type-2, but not type-1, pericytes spark endothelial cells to form new vessels. Matrigel assay showed that only type-2 pericytes participate in normal angiogenesis. Moreover, when cancer cells were transplanted into Nestin-GFP/NG2-DsRed mice, type-1 pericytes did not penetrate the tumor, while type-2 pericytes were recruited during its angiogenesis. As inhibition of angiogenesis is a promising strategy in cancer therapy, type-2 pericytes may provide a cellular target susceptible to signaling and pharmacological manipulation in treating malignancy. This work also reports the potential of type-2 pericytes to improve blood perfusion in ischemic hindlimbs, indicating their potential for treating ischemic illnesses.
Prospective multi-arm evaluation of surgical treatments for vocal fold scar and pathologic sulcus vocalis.

Objectives/Hypothesis The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical effectiveness of type I thyroplasty, injection laryngoplasty and graft implantation for the treatment of vocal fold scar and pathologic sulcus vocalis.
Rethinking in African Studies

Book reviewed in this article: Living under Contract: Contract Farming and Agrarian Transformation in Sub-Saharan Africa. Peter D. Little and Michael J. Watts, eds. African Pastoralist Systems: An Integrated Approach. Elliot Fratkin, Kathleen A. Galvin, and Eric Abella Roth, eds. Houses in the Rainforest: Ethnicity and Inequality among Farmers and Foragers in Central Africa. Roy Richard Grinker.
Nucleo-Cytoplasmic Interaction During Macronuclear Differentiation in Ciliate Protists: Genetic Basis for Cytoplasmic Control of SerH Expression During Macronuclear Development in Tetrahymena thermophila

A novel class of mutations affecting the developmental expression of SerH cell surface antigen genes of Tetrahymena thermophila is described. Unlike previous categories of mutation, the four independently isolated mutations of this class act through the cytoplasm to affect SerH genes during macronuclear development. That is, macronuclei which develop under the influence of mutant cytoplasm do not subsequently express H, most likely because the developmental processing of SerH genes is affected. The cytoplasmic effect is specific for the SerH locus and is independent of which SerH allele is present. In place of H, hitherto unknown antigens are expressed. Expression of SerH can be rescued during development either by wild-type cytoplasm exchanged between conjugants or by the homozygous wild-type genotype. The mutations segregate independently of the SerH genes and identify one, possibly two, bistable genes. Possible models to explain these results are discussed.
The OuijAmazon Desktop Metaphor

Amazon.com is the gold standard of e-commerce, representing the integration of a solid understanding of the virtues of the World Wide Web and a keen online business sense taken to the level of art.
A novel low-cost sodium–zinc chloride battery

The sodium–metal halide (ZEBRA) batteries have been considered as one of the most attractive energy storage systems for stationary and transportation applications. Even though the battery technologies have been widely investigated for a few decades, there is still a need to further improve the battery performance, cost and safety for practical applications. In the present work, a novel low-cost Na–ZnCl2 battery with a planar β′′-Al2O3 solid electrolyte (BASE) was proposed, and its electrochemical reactions and battery performance were investigated. Compared to Na–NiCl2 chemistry, the ZnCl2-based chemistry was more complicated, in which multiple electrochemical reactions including liquid-phase formation occurred at temperatures above 253 °C. During the first stage of charge, NaCl reacted with Zn to form Na in the anode and Na2ZnCl4 in the cathode. Once all the NaCl was consumed, further charge with the reaction between Na2ZnCl4 and Zn led to the formation of a NaCl–ZnCl2 liquid phase. During the end of charge, the liquid phase reacted with Zn to produce solid ZnCl2. To identify the effect of liquid-phase formation on electrochemical performance, button cells were assembled and tested at 280 and 240 °C. At 280 °C, with the liquid phase formed during cycling, cells revealed quite stable cyclability. On the other hand, more rapid increase in polarization was observed at 240 °C where only solid-state electrochemical reactions occurred. SEM analysis indicated that the stable performance at 280 °C was due to the suppressed growth of Zn and NaCl particles, which were generated from the liquid phase during the discharge of each cycle.
Physical and Biological Alterations Following Dredging in Two Beach Nourishment Borrow Areas in South Carolina's Coastal Zone

ABSTRACT Crowe, S.E.; Bergquist, D.C.; Sanger, D.M., and Van Dolah, R.F., 2016. Physical and biological alterations following dredging in two beach nourishment borrow areas in South Carolina's coastal zone. Dredging of nearshore subtidal sand deposits as a source for beach fill is a common practice in the SE United States, but the long-term effects of this practice on benthic environments are not well documented. Two borrow areas used to nourish the shoreface of Folly Beach, South Carolina, in 2005 (borrow area A) and 2007 (borrow area B) were sampled for sediment characteristics (silt and clay, calcium carbonate, total organic matter content, and sand phi size) and macrobenthic infaunal community composition using a before–after, control–impact design over periods of 8 and 6 years postdredging, respectively. Following dredging, surficial sediment characteristics within both borrow pits shifted toward finer materials and showed little evidence of recovering 8 and 6 years after impact. Changes in the benth...
Promoting interprofessionalism: initial evaluation of a master of science in health professions education degree program.

This survey study assessed former students’ perceptions on the efficacy of how well a newly implemented master’s in health professions education degree program achieved its academic aims. These academic aims were operationalized by an author-developed scale to assess the following domains: a) developing interprofessional skills and identity; b) acquiring new academic skills; and c) providing a student-centered environment. The respondents represented a broad range of health care providers, including physicians, nurses, and occupational and physical therapists. Generalizability-theory was applied to partition the variance of the scores. Student’s overwhelmingly responded that the program successfully achieved its academic aims.
Bringing in Earthly Redemption: Slobodan Milosevic and the National Myth of Kosovo

Slobodan Milosevic’s rise from a minor Communist Party figure to the eventual Serbian president was bound up in rhetoric. Specifically, I examine how Milosevic rhetorically recast and modified the myth of Kosovo. The myth of Kosovo is one of the fundamental pillars of Serbian identity. I argue Milosevic modified the fundamental themes of the myth—disunity and unity—to bring an earthly redemption to Serbs in the late 1980s. Milosevic’s use of the Kosovo myth cemented his hold on presidential leadership in 1989 and is an important example of how past events are fruitful topoi for political leaders trying to build nationalist movements.
Cloning and expression of human HBP1, a high mobility group protein that enhances myeloperoxidase (MPO) promoter activity

Factors which regulate transcription in immature myeloid cells are of great current interest for the light they may shed upon myeloid differentiation. In the course of screening for transcription factors which interact with the human myeloperoxidase (MPO) promoter we, for the first time, identified and cloned the cDNA and genomic DNA for human HBP1 (HMG-Box containing protein 1), a member of the high mobility group of non-histone chromosomal proteins. HBP1 cDNA was initially cloned from rat brain in 1994, but its presence in human cells or in myeloid tissue had not been described previously. The sequence of human HBP1 cDNA shows 84% overall homology with the rat HBP1 cDNA sequence. We have subsequently cloned the gene, which is present as a single copy, 25 kbp in length. Northern blotting reveals a single 2.6 kb mRNA transcript which is expressed at higher levels in human myeloid and B lymphoid cell lines than in T cell lines tested and is present in several non-myeloid human cell lines. Comparison of the mRNA and genomic sequences reveals the gene to contain 10 exons and 9 introns. The sequence of human HBP1 mRNA contains a single open reading frame, which codes for a protein 514 amino acids in length. The amino acid sequence specified by the coding region shows 95% homology with the rat HBP1 protein. The human protein sequence exhibits a putative DNA-binding domain similar to that seen in rat HBP1 and shows homology with the activation and repressor domains previously demonstrated in the rat protein. We have expressed human HBP1 protein both in vitro and in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. The expressed fusion protein binds to a sequence in a functionally important region within the basal human MPO promoter. In transient co-transfection experiments HBP1 enhances MPO promoter activity. Human HBP1 appears to be a novel transcription factor which is likely to play an important role in regulating transcription in developing myeloid cells.
Implementation of Aeronautical Network Protocols

The aeronautical ANTP protocol suite consisting of AeroTP, AeroRP, and AeroNP has been designed to cope with the challenges in highly-dynamic airborne networks. Via simulations, these protocols have shown significant improvement compared with other traditional protocols. In this paper, we present a prototype implementation of ANTP protocol suite using Python. The implementation is tested in a real-time environment using Linux devices equipped with GPS receiver and radio-controlled vehicles for mobility. The results of several mobility scenarios show correct implementation of protocol’s functions and services.
STUDY ON THE SINTERED HOLLOW BLOCK BASED ON COMPREHENSIVE UTILIZATOIN OF MINING WASTE

Study on the feasibility of sintered hollow block was carried out.The properties of raw materials were analyzed by extracting the chloride and the hyalite from the mining waste with the modem test method and analytical procedure,which is based on the integration with the theory analysis,experimental investigation and cost-effectiveness analysis.At the same time,the influence of the mining waste content and dimensional effect on the physical and mechanical performance was discussed.
34 FAMILIAL LATE-ONSET SPEECH SLURRING AND IMBALANCE

Objective To describe the clinical profile and understand the genetic basis of a family with late-onset idiopathic gait disorder affecting multiple family members. Background Ataxia is a clinically and genetically heterogeneous condition. Acquired causes include congenital malformations, trauma, metabolic/toxic, infectious, para-infectious, or neoplastic. In the inherited syndromes, mode of inheritance may be autosomal dominant or recessive. Spontaneous mutations have also been identified in sporadic cases. Although gene tests are available for several syndromes, the responsible genes for many ataxia syndromes remain unknown. Methods Evaluation consisted of relevant questionnaires and history, a neurologic exam, and genetic testing. Results The family consisted of at least 3 generations of affected individuals with key clinical features including gait instability, eye movement abnormalities, dysarthria, and terminal dysmetria. Conclusion Mode of inheritance is most consistent with autosomal dominant inheritance. All features are consistent with Spinocerebellar Ataxia (SCA) of pure cerebellar origin Genetic testing with the standard Ataxia Panel excludes etiologies that have available genetic tests. We will continue to search for the genetic cause despite negative findings to date.
Exploring the impact of mindfulness meditation training in pre-licensure and post graduate nurses.

Abstract The complex, high stress, technologically laden healthcare environment compromises providers' ability to be fully present in the moment; especially during patient interactions. This "pulling away" of attention (mindlessness) from the present moment creates an environment where decision making can take place in the absence of thoughtful, deliberate engagement in the task at hand. Mindfulness, can be cultivated through a variety of mindfulness practices. Few schools of nursing or hospitals offer mindfulness training, despite study findings supporting its effectiveness in improving levels of mindfulness, and perceived connections with patients and families. Methods A mindfulness program developed for this study and tailored to nursing was used to provide the mindfulness training. Pre and post training assessments were completed and included administration of the Freiburg Mindfulness Inventory (FMI) and the Defining Issues Test (DIT) of moral judgment version 2. Results A statistically significant improvement in the FMI scores p =0.003 was found. The pre-licensure group did not show a statistically significant improvement in their FMI scores pre to post training ( p =0.281), however the post graduate group did ( p =0.004). Statistically significant pre - post scores were found in two schemas of the DIT-2 (P [Post conventional] score, p =0.039 and N2 [Maintaining norms] score, p =0.032). Conclusions Mindfulness training improves mindfulness and some aspects of ethical decision making in the groups studied as part of this project. The findings of this study are promising and further demonstrate the merits of a mindfulness practice, however aspects of mindfulness training would need to be addressed prior to launching a full scale attempt to incorporate this into a work life or some other quality improvement program.
MEMS for in vivo sensing

Abstract: The development of in vivo sensors for continuous monitoring of human health conditions is an area of sustained scientific and technological interest. This chapter highlights the important trends and challenges for microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) and microsystem-based in vivo sensors. The interest in applying MEMS technology for biological applications has grown rapidly because of some of its unique features such as better performance, high sensitivity, fast responsiveness, temporal control, size, cost, and comparable feature sizes. Finally, issues relating to short-term (acute) and long-term (chronic) implantation, along with future prospects for the application of MEMS in implantable biosensors, are discussed.
Rapid Optical Measurements of Microbial Contamination in Raw Ground Beef and Effects of Citrate and Lactate.

The levels of microbial contamination in purchased pre-wrapped fresh ground beef samples were estimated by using the BioSys™ automated optical system for rapid detection of the presence of microorganisms. Additionally, the response of the system to the activity of antimicrobial agents in meat was evaluated after adding (separately) the sodium salts of lactic and citric acid to meat samples. Meat homogenates in peptone water were incubated at 30°C in broth containing the indicators bromcresol purple (pH) or resazurin (redox potential). Curves (light transmittance versus time) generated by the instrument showed significant and rapid changes in the indicator color, and times of detection of the initial changes were inversely proportional to the standard plate counts in the meat samples. This relationship indicated that the detection time can provide a good estimate of the microbial quality of fresh meat. Treatment of meat with 2% citrate or 2% lactate extended the shelf life by about 2 and 4 days. respectively. Detection time values confirmed the ability of the salts to delay the microbial spoilage of meat.
Sizing dynamic wireless charging for light-duty electric vehicles in roadway applications

Dynamic wireless charging is a possible cure for the range limitations seen in electric vehicles (EVs) once implemented in highways or city streets. The contribution of this paper is the use of experimental data to show that the expected energy gain from a dynamic wireless power transfer (WPT) system is largely a function of average speed, which allows the power level and number of coils per mile of a dynamic WPT system to be sized for the sustained operation of an EV. First, data from dynamometer testing is used to determine the instantaneous energy requirements of a light-duty EV. Then, experimental data is applied to determine the theoretical energy gained by passing over a coil as a function of velocity and power level. Related simulations are performed to explore possible methods of placing WPT coils within roadways with comparisons to the constant velocity case. Analyses with these cases demonstrate what system ratings are needed to meet the energy requirements of the EV and what effect longitudinal alignment has on WPT. The simulations are also used to determine onboard energy storage requirements for each driving cycle.
Diet of the Crested Guan (Penelope purpurascens) in Panama: leaf-eating by a tropical frugivore

ABSTRACT We studied the diet of Crested Guans (Penelope purpurascens; Galliformes: Cracidae) in lowland tropical forest on Barro Colorado Island, Panama. From June-August 2015 we collected observations of foraging adults using five-minute focal follows of randomly chosen individuals. A total of 141 food items were recorded over 565 minutes of observations. Although Crested Guans are believed to be primarily frugivorous, we found that they consumed a high proportion of leaves (61.7% of items) and insects (24.8%), with fruits comprising a minority of items (13.5%). Guans preferred to eat young leaves, which are more tender and contain higher levels of nitrogen than mature leaves; however, young leaves also contain higher levels of tannins and other secondary defensive compounds, raising new questions about the mechanisms by which arboreal birds digest leaves. Recent studies have found similarly high levels of leaf consumption in other species of guans and chachalacas, suggesting that folivory may be more wi...
The rib cage reduces intervertebral disc pressures in cadaveric thoracic spines by sharing loading under applied dynamic moments

Abstract The effects of the rib cage on thoracic spine loading are not well studied, but the rib cage may provide stability or share loads with the spine. Intervertebral disc pressure provides insight into spinal loading, but such measurements are lacking in the thoracic spine. Thus, our objective was to examine thoracic intradiscal pressures under applied pure moments, and to determine the effect of the rib cage on these pressures. Human cadaveric thoracic spine specimens were positioned upright in a testing machine, and Dynamic pure moments (0 to ±5 N·m) with a compressive follower load of 400 N were applied in axial rotation, flexion - extension, and lateral bending. Disc pressures were measured at T4-T5 and T8-T9 using needle-mounted pressure transducers, first with the rib cage intact, and again after the rib cage was removed. Changes in pressure vs. moment slopes with rib cage removal were examined. Pressure generally increased with applied moments, and pressure-moment slope increased with rib cage removal at T4-T5 for axial rotation, extension, and lateral bending, and at T8-T9 for axial rotation. The results suggest the intact rib cage carried about 62% and 56% of axial rotation moments about T4-T5 and T8-T9, respectively, as well as 42% of extension moment and 36–43% of lateral bending moment about T4-T5 only. The rib cage likely plays a larger role in supporting moments than compressive loads, and may also play a larger role in the upper thorax than the lower thorax.