cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Testing the Apodized Pupil Lyot Coronagraph on the Laboratory for Adaptive Optics Extreme Adaptive Optics Testbed

We present testbed results of the Apodized Pupil Lyot Coronagraph (APLC) at the Laboratory for Adaptive Optics (LAO). These results are part of the validation and tests of the coronagraph and of the Extreme Adaptive Optics (ExAO) for the Gemini Planet Imager (GPI). The apodizer component is manufactured with a halftone technique using black chrome microdots on glass. Testing this APLC (like any other coronagraph) requires extremely good wavefront correction, which is obtained to the 1 nm rms level using the microelectricalmechanical systems (MEMS) technology, on the ExAO visible testbed of the LAO at the University of Santa Cruz. We used an APLC coronagraph without central obstruction, both with a reference super-polished flat mirror and with the MEMS to obtain one of the first images of a dark zone in a coronagraphic image with classical adaptive optics using a MEMS deformable mirror (without involving dark hole algorithms). This was done as a complementary test to the GPI coronagraph testbed at American Museum of Natural History, which studied the coronagraph itself without wavefront correction. Because we needed a full aperture, the coronagraph design is very different from the GPI design. We also tested a coronagraph with central obstruction similar to thatmore » of GPI. We investigated the performance of the APLC coronagraph and more particularly the effect of the apodizer profile accuracy on the contrast. Finally, we compared the resulting contrast to predictions made with a wavefront propagation model of the testbed to understand the effects of phase and amplitude errors on the final contrast.« less
Temperature/emissivity separation of MTI data using the Terra/ASTER TES algorithm

Surface temperatures and emissivities can be estimated using multispectral thermal infrared (TIR) data, from various instruments. In this paper the temperature-emissivity separation algorithm (TES) is modified to recover surface temperatures and emissivities using Multispectral Thermal Imager (MTI) data from two mid infrared (MIR) and three TIR bands. As TES was originally designed for use with the five TIR bands from the Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection (ASTER) instrument, broadening its application to MIR wavelengths requires careful evaluation of possible atmospheric and reflected daytime solar illumination effects. Numerical simulations show that TES results for MTI data, assuming error-free atmospheric corrections, are statistically similar to TES results for ASTER data, with surface temperature recovery within +/- 1.5K and emissivity recovery within +/- 0.02. However, strong atmospheric absorption (as high as 61%), and expected daytime reflected solar illumination (as high as 50% of measured radiance) in the MIR bands suggest that TES results for MTI data are more sensitive to errors in atmospheric compensation. Furthermore, the relatively steep slope of Planck's radiation curve for typical terrestrial temperatures in the MIR wavelengths, suggests that inverting temperatures from measured MIR radiance using Planck's law will be more sensitive to error. Numerical simulations and preliminary image analysis suggest that the three TIR MTI bands are not sufficient to obtain the desired TES results. However, omitting one of the MIR bands and using a four-band configuration decreases sensitivity to atmospheric effects, while still maintaining acceptable theoretical TES performance.© (2002) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Taking the byte out of cookies: privacy, consent, and the Web

We consider the privacy of personal information on the World Wide Web, emphasizing a concept of privacy as an aspect of social relationships between individuals. We make three contributions to understanding the right to privacy on the Web: (1) we highlight the role of informed consent as an important consideration for privacy, (2) we identify conditions under which the collection and centralization of personal information can be ethically justified, and (3) we offer an interpretation of a "reasonable expectation of privacy" for Internet cookies, a mechanism used by Web sites to remember information about visits to that site.The views, opinions, and conclusions of this paper are not necessarily those of the University of Illinois. Preliminary versions of this paper were presented at the Seventh Annual Meeting of the Association for Practical and Professional Ethics, Dallas, TX, February 26[28, 1998, and the ACM Policy 98 Conference, Washington D.C., May 10-12, 1998.Address for correspondence: Michael C. Loui, Graduate College, 801 S. Wright Street, Champaign, IL 61820-6210, e-mail: m-loui@uiuc.edu, telephone: (217) 333-6715, fax: (217) 333-8019.
NK Cell Genotype and Phenotype at Diagnosis of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Correlate with Postinduction Residual Disease

Purpose: Not all natural killer (NK) cells are equally cytotoxic against leukemia because of differences in receptor gene content and surface expression. We correlated NK cell genotype and phenotype at diagnosis of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) with minimal residual disease (MRD) after induction chemotherapy. Experimental Design: The NK cells and leukemia blasts of 244 patients were analyzed at diagnosis by killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) typing and immunophenotyping. The results were correlated statistically with postinduction MRD status. Results: The odds of being MRD positive in patients with KIR telomeric ( Tel )- A/B genotype were 2.85 times the odds in those with Tel - A/A genotype ( P = 0.035). MRD-positive patients were more likely to have KIR2DL5A ( P = 0.006) and expressed less activating receptor NKp46 and FASL on their NK cells ( P = 0.0074 and P = 0.029, respectively). The odds of being MRD positive increased by 2.01-fold for every percentage increase in NK cells expressing KIR2DL1 in the presence of HLA-C2 ligand ( P = 0.034). The quantity of granzyme B inhibitor PI-9 in the leukemia blasts was greater in patients who were MRD positive ( P = 0.038). Collectively, five NK cell–related factors ( Tel-B –associated KIR2DL5A , NKp46, FASL, granzyme B, and PI-9) are strongly associated with MRD positivity at the end of induction with 100% sensitivity and 80% specificity. Conclusions: Our data support the hypothesis that NK cells with a strong effector phenotype in the setting of decreased leukemia resistance are associated with better leukemia control. Clin Cancer Res; 20(23); 5986–94. ©2014 AACR .
Hfq proximity and orientation controls RNA annealing

Regulation of bacterial gene networks by small non-coding RNAs (sRNAs) requires base pairing with messenger RNA (mRNA) targets, which is facilitated by Hfq protein. Hfq is recruited to sRNAs and mRNAs through U-rich- and A-rich-binding sites, respectively, but their distance from the sRNA–mRNA complementary region varies widely among different genes. To determine whether distance and binding orientation affect Hfq’s chaperone function, we engineered ‘toy’ RNAs containing strong Hfq-binding sites at defined distances from the complementary target site. We show that RNA annealing is fastest when the distal face of Hfq binds an A-rich sequence immediately 3′ of the target. This recruitment advantage is lost when Hfq binds >20 nt away from the target, but is partially restored by secondary structure that shortens this distance. Although recruitment through Hfq’s distal face accelerates RNA annealing, tight binding of six Us to Hfq’s proximal face inhibits annealing. Finally, we show that ectopic A-rich motifs dramatically accelerate base pairing between DsrA sRNA and a minimal rpoS mRNA in the presence of Hfq, demonstrating that proximity and orientation predict the activity of Hfq on long RNAs.
One-electron wavefunctions: variational perturbation theory

Abstract The ground-state wavefunction of H 2 + is calculated using variational perturbation theory. The accuracy of the wavefunction is demonstrated by comparing calculated energies and expectation values with the corresponding exact values. Extrapolation of the ratios of the perturbation energies and of the expectation value coefficients is used to study the asymptotic behavior of the perturbation expansions.
Clinical Application of the Mean Babbling Level and Syllable Structure Level

Purpose This clinical exchange reviews two independent phonological assessment measures: mean babbling level (MBL) and syllable structure level (SSL). Both measures summarize phonetic inventory and...
VLSI architectures for feature extraction and pattern classification

Abstract In statistical methods for image processing and pattern classification, large-scale matrix computations are often performed over huge image data bases. A class of matrix arithmetic networks is proposed for implementing the Foley-Sammon feature extraction algorithm and for generating linear discriminant vectors in pattern classification. Such VLSI feature extractors and pattern classifiers are in high demand in real-time artificial intelligence applications. Performances of the proposed VLSI image analyzers are compared with conventional software approaches using a uniprocessor computer.
Mach: A system software kernel

Abstract The Mach kernel has been ported to a large collection of uniprocessor and multiprocessor systems and has been used to implement commercial operating system environments such as Unix in a performance competitive way. This paper describes the Mach operating system, the way it was used to implement both 4.3BSD Unix and the Macintosh operating system, and the implications of this technology for real-time and secure programming environments.
Periaxonal surface calcium binding and distribution of charge on the faces of squid axon potassium channel molecules

The calcium binding constant associated with external surface charge in a position to influence the voltage sensing charges for potassium channel gating appears to be ∼30 molar−1, a value much larger than previously thought and in approximate agreement with that found for artificial membranes composed of the lipid brain phosphatidylserene. Fixed charge on the periaxonal membrane surface is distributed in such a way that much larger charges occur at a distance of at least 8 angstroms from the channel pore openings. The separation between the ion pathway and the channel gating charge appears to be greater than or equal to 8 angstroms. Periaxonal surface charge which is in a position to determine the surface potential for gating has a magnitude greater than or equal to one (negative) electronic charge per 182 square angstrom before calcium binding, which is reduced to −e/625 A in a normal divalent ionic environment. With the normal divalent ionic composition of seawater the surface potential at a position to influence the gating voltage sensor is ∼−15 millivolts relative to the bulk external potential. The external surface potential is ∼−3 mV at the pore mouth. There appears to be a negligible amount of fixed charge on the axoplasmic surface in the vicinity of the ion channel opening. Further, our results confirm earlier measurements that have given a negligible amount of axoplasmic surface fixed charge whose field components would be in a position to influence the channel gating charges.
Developing a sociological theory for the empirical understanding of terrorism

This article represents an attempt to construct a sociological theory of terrorism by means of six theoretical propositions. Taken together these six propositions attempt to explain counterhegemonic terrorism and the dynamics of organizations that participate in such political violence. The terrorism literature shows three emerging trends: spectacularization, criminalization, and fragmentation as explanations for terrorism. In contrast to these atheoretical trends, the theoretical propositions are offered around the themes of counterhegemony, resource mobilization, counter-institutionalization, power-prestige dynamics, ritualization, and social solidarity. The conclusion suggests that any predictions of terrorism are problematic but that these six theoretical principles outlined herein could offer deeper insight into the sociological phenomena of terrorism.
The Shadowlands — Secrets, Lies, and Assisted Reproduction

Americans love babies and technology, and most Americans applaud the ability of the new assisted-reproduction techniques to help infertile couples have children. But these techniques have also give...
Thermodynamic Analysis of the Chemical Heat Pipe as a Closed Cycle Gas Turbine

In the chemical heat pipe concept, energy is transported long distances by using a high temperature heat source (e.g., a nuclear reactor) at the sender end to convert a mixture of gases (e.g., CO2 and CH4, or H2O and CH4) into an energy-rich combination (CO and H2), and then transporting the mixture by pipeline at close to room temperature to the receiver end. At the receiver end, the stored energy is released by the reverse reaction to generate steam or produce heat for process purposes. Candidate reactions for this system include the Hy-Co reaction (CO2 + CH4 = 2CO + 2H2) and the Eva-Adam reaction (CH4 + H2O = CO + 3H2). As written, these reactions are endothermic in the forward direction and exothermic in the reverse direction. In the Eva-Adam reaction, the forward conversion (steam or methane reforming) is favored by high temperatures and low pressures. For example, at a temperature of 1100 K and a pressure of 1 atmosphere, the degree of advancement in the forward direction is about 93%. The reverse conversion (methanation) is favored by low temperatures and high pressures. For example, at 800 K and 25 atmospheres, the degree of advancement in the reverse direction is about 95%. Thus, heat representing most of the heat of reaction can be made available at the sender end at a relatively high temperature. Since the system requires two pressure levels, compressors (and turbines to drive them) are necessary, as well as strategically placed heat exchangers. Thus results a closed cycle gas turbine system with a dissociating gas as the working fluid. This paper analyzes the Eva-Adam system and evaluates the energy-delivered to energy-supplied ratio. The efficiency is improved if the return pipeline is insulated.Copyright © 1988 by ASME
Rate of hospitalization for gynecologic disorders among reproductive-age women in the United States

Objective To analyze reproductive-tract disorders that resulted in hospitalization of reproductive-age women in the United States. Methods Data from the National Hospital Discharge Survey for 1988,1989, and 1990 were used to study women 15–44 years old who had any gynecologic diagnoses noted in their discharge summaries. Results Based on average annual discharge rates per 10,000 women, the five most frequent diagnostic groups were pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) (average annual rate 49.3, 95% confidence interval [CI] 43.6–55.0), benign cysts of the ovary (average annual rate 32.7, 95% CI 28.8–36.6), endometriosis (average annual rate 32.4, 95% CI 28.5–36.3), menstrual disorders (average annual rate 31.4, 95% CI 27.6–35.2), and uterine leiomyomas (average annual rate 30.4, 95% CI 26.7–34.1). The highest rates for PID were among women 25–39 years old and for women of races other than white. Highest rates for uterine leiomyomas were among women 40–44 years old and for women of races other than white. Highest rates for endometriosis were among women 40–44 years old and white women. Racial differences existed among all ages in the uterine leiomyoma and endometriosis groups. Average annual rates of benign cysts and menstrual disorders increased with age, but there were no statistically significant differences according to race in these two diagnostic groups. Conclusion Our findings confirmed the importance of PID as a common cause of hospitalization among reproductive age women and identified additional gynecologic conditions as causes for hospitalization as well. We found significant age and racial differences not only among women with discharge diagnoses of PID but also among those with discharge diagnoses of uterine leiomyomas and endometriosis.
Family of curves for the rough surface reflection coefficient

The paper describes a family of theoretical curves for the rough surface reflection coefficient and an envelope in which these curves lie. One of these curves fits the experimental data well; other experimental data points lie within the envelope.
A safe technique for resection of perforated sigmoid diverticulitis.

A technique for safe “proximal to distal” dissection of the acutely inflamed sigmoid colon is described.
The relevance of time-delayed coincidence Mössbauer experiments for the interpretation of the uncertainty principle

Time-delayed coincidence Mossbauer experiments, in which the spread in energy may be either greater or less than the natural linewidth, are discussed. This discussion leads to the conclusion that in the uncertainty relation ΔE Δt ≥\(\begin{array}{*{20}c} / \\ h \\ \end{array} /2\), Δt should be interpreted as the duration time of the measurement and not as the lifetime of the state. Further analysis shows that confinement of photons to the region of space between emitter and absorber should cause a frequency spread much larger than actually observed. This leads to the conclusion that to think of photons as being created at one point in space, traveling with the velocity of light to another point, then being absorbed or destroyed, is incorrect.
Public investment criteria, insurance markets, and income taxes

Abstract The evaluation of small government investments is studied in a one-commodity, two-period world with risk and income taxation, assuming both complete and incomplete insurance markets. When marginal personal tax rates differ or markets are incomplete, there are at least two interpretations of the assumption that the distribution of income is optimal. The correct discount rate for riskless investment depends on which interpretation is chosen. The correct adjustment for risk generally does not. The use of nonmarket information - relating the returns from the proposed investment to those from ongoing activities - to compute this adjustment is explored.
Gamma ray image characteristics in sodium iodide slabs

Abstract A Monte Carlo calculation has been made of the effects of detector scattering on the gamma ray imaging properties of sodium iodide slabs. All interactions within the detector were assumed to contribute to the image. A detailed accounting was kept of the radial distribution away from the point of incidence of both the number of interactions and the deposited energy. Data are presented for slabs of thickness ranging from 1 8 ″ to 2″ and over the energy interval from 140–999 keV.
Rethinking gender and identity in energy studies

Abstract Gender and identity should be core concerns for energy researchers and policymakers, because they mediate access to resources, exposure to pollutants, and opportunities to participate in energy resource management, policy, and science. Accordingly, this article suggests four research agendas ripe for further development: eliminating indoor air pollution, strengthening community resource management, developing feminist energy jurisprudence, and increasing women's representation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and energy fields. This article is a call to action to publish gender and identity research of great consequence in this new journal.
EWS-ATF-1 chimeric protein in soft tissue clear cell sarcoma associates with CREB-binding protein and interferes with p53-mediated trans-activation function

The recurrent t(12;22) (q13;q12) chromosomal translocation associated with soft tissue clear cell sarcoma results in a chimeric protein EWS-ATF-1 that acts as a constitutive transcriptional activator. The CBP/p300 transcriptional coactivator, which links various transcriptional factors to basal transcription apparatus, participates in transcriptional activation, growth and cell cycle control and differentiation. In this study, we show that EWS-ATF-1 associates constitutively with CBP both in vitro and in vivo. Both EWS and ATF-1 fusion domains are needed for this interaction. Here, we demonstrate that EWS-ATF-1 represses p53/CBP-mediated trans-activation function. Overexpression of CBP can counteract this repressive effect of EWS-ATF-1. Taken together, these findings suggest that one of the mechanisms by which EWS-ATF-1 may cause tumors is through targeting CBP/p300 resulting in the loss of function of p53. This novel mechanism may be responsible for the development of these and other related solid tumors.
Finite thickness effect of a zone plate on focusing hard x-rays

Spatial resolution and focusing efficiency are two important properties of a zone plate in x-ray focusing applications. A general expression of the zone plate equation describing its zone registration is derived from the interference of spherical waves emited from two mutually coherent point sources. An analytical expression of the focusing efficiency in terms of the zone plate thickness and x-ray refractive indices of the zones is also derived. Validity condition for using this expression is considered. Thickness required for obtaining adequate focusing efficiency is calculated as a function of x-ray energy for several representative materials. The spatial resolution of a finite thickness zone plate is worse than that of an infinetly thin zone plate which is approximately equal to the smallest zone width of the zone plate. The effect of the finite thickness on the spatial resolution is considered. This manuscript has been authored under contract number W-31-109-ENG-38 with the U. S. Department of Energy. Accordingly the U. S. Government retains a non-exclusive royalty-free license to publish or reproduce the published form of this contribution or allow others todo so for U. S. Government purposes. 146 / SPIE Vol 1345 Advanced X-Ray/EUV Radiation Sources andApplications(1990)© (1991) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Superconvergence of nonconforming finite element method for the Stokes equations

This paper derives a general superconvergence result for nonconforming finite element approximations of the Stokes problem by using a least-squares surface fitting method proposed and analyzed recently by Wang for the standard Galerkin method. The superconvergence result is based on some regularity assumption for the Stokes problem and is applicable to any nonconforming stable finite elements with regular but non-uniform partitions.
Computation of motion from stereo image sequence using the unified optical flow field

In this paper a new approach to motion analysis from a sequence of stereo images has been proposed. Based on a four-frame model the new concept of unified optical flow field is presented. It is a generalization of the optical flow [1] to stereo imagery. A set of fundamental equations is established to characterize the unified optical flow field. Another set of equations is then derived from which 3-D motion can be reconstructed via the use of the field quantities of the unified optical flow field. Unlike the current existing techniques for motion analysis from stereo imagery the recovered motion by using this new approach is for a whole continuous field instead of only for some features . It does not need finding feature correspondence and therefore is much more efficient.© (1990) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Giant infrared absorption bands of electrons and holes in conjugated molecules

The absorption of mid-infrared light by organic molecules is used for diagnostics and sensing purposes. Here Zamadar et al. find that mid-infrared molar absorption coefficients of conjugated molecules bearing charges, owing to polaron vibrations, are often more than one hundred times larger than those of comparable neutral molecules.
Masked Ion Beam Lithography For Submicrometer Device Fabrication

An essential step in the evaluation of masked ion beam lithography (MIBL) as a practical technology for submicrometer pattern replication has been taken in the fabrication of functional NMOS devices using MIBL exposures on all levels. In MIBL, a collimated beam of protons is directed through a patterned mask to expose a resist-covered wafer in proximity to the mask. Employing silicon channeling masks with appropriate gold absorber patterns for each level of a four-mask level NMOS process, exposures of high resolution resists were performed and patterns transferred with standard etching processes. We present details on the NMOS test chip vehicle, the resist and processing technology development, and the measured device characteristics.
A little of Nepal: Nepali diaspora in the US in an age of globalization

This article, while examining the Nepalis' efforts to negotiate between two worlds (hostland and homeland) through the striking realities of belonging to both, also examines issues of identity, assimilation, adjustment and notions of home expressed in their struggles to create a new sense of themselves in the process of self-construction which immigrants commonly encounter in the USA. The study is exploratory in nature and is expected to fill an important gap in scholarship of the South Asian as well as the Nepali diaspora in the United States. DOI: 10.3126/bodhi.v3i1.2817 Bodhi Vol.3(1) 2009 p.106-119
Left ventricular imaging with digital subtraction angiography using intravenous contrast injection and fluoroscopic exposure levels.

Abstract First-pass left ventriculograms were obtained using digital subtraction angiography in 24 patients after intravenous injection of 30 to 40 ml of iodinated contrast material. An image processing computer was used to enhance the iodine signal in the image relative to the background soft tissue by digitizing each new frame of the fluoroscopic exposure and subtracting from it a stored "mask" image. Digital left ventriculograms were obtained in the 30-degree right anterior oblique (RAO) position using high fluoroscopic exposure levels [8 mA and 70 to 90 kVp] and compared to 30-degree RAO cineangiograms obtained at cardiac catheterization. Standard cineanglograms were performed in 33 patients at cardiac catheterization but six (18%) were excluded because of runs of ventricular tachycardia initiated by the standard intraventricular injection of 40 ml of contrast media. Digital subtraction angiography was attempted in the 33 patients and left ventriculograms of clinically useful quality were obtained in 30 (91%). There were close correlations between end-diastolic volumes ( r = 0.82), end-systolic volums ( r = 0.93), and ejection fractions ( r = 0.96). Multiple premature ventricular contractions occurred in a total of 10 of 33 (30%) patients during standard intraventricular cineangiography but did not occur in any patients during the intravenous first-pass technique. Wall motion abnormalities were visualized as well by digital angiography as by the standard method. Digital angiography appears to be an important new addition to diagnostic cardiology because it provides a less invasive outpatient method for obtaining contrast left ventriculograms which have much greater spatial resolution than radionuclide cineangiograms.
Body Attitudes and Objectification in Non-Suicidal Self-Injury: Comparing Males and Females

The authors evaluated the theoretical suggestion that self-objectification, negative body attitudes, and body-image avoidant behaviors are associated with non-suicidal self-injury among both males and females. A sample of 365 male and female (82.4% reporting female) undergraduate students (26.5% reporting NSSI) from a variety of academic disciplines completed a secure on-line survey assessing objectification, body image related variables, and history of NSSI. Participants reporting a history of NSSI endorsed significantly more body-related disturbances than participants reporting no history of NSSI. Males reporting a history of NSSI scored similarly to females both with and without a history of NSSI, and only differed from males without a history of NSSI on self-objectification. Theoretical models proposing body objectification and attitudes are important to understanding etiological risks for NSSI have merit. Additional research on these potential risk factors is needed.
Effect of Ga doping on the multiferroic properties of RMn1-xGaxO3 (R=Ho,Y)

Structural, thermal expansion, thermal conductivity, magnetic, and dielectric measurements on single-crystal $R{\mathrm{Mn}}_{1\ensuremath{-}x}{\mathrm{Ga}}_{x}{\mathrm{O}}_{3}$ ($R=\mathrm{Ho}$ or Y) hexagonal compounds have revealed that the $c$ axis decreases with increasing temperature with a larger $\ensuremath{\mid}dc∕dT\ensuremath{\mid}$ above ${T}_{\mathrm{C}}$ than below it, which shows that the cooperative $\mathrm{Mn}{\mathrm{O}}_{5}$ site rotations responsible for the ferrielectricity expend energy to induce the ferroic ${R}^{3+}$-ion displacements along the $c$ axis. Ga doping raises the ferrielectric Curie temperature ${T}_{\mathrm{C}}$ and the Mn-spin reorientation temperature ${T}_{\mathrm{SR}}$ while lowering ${T}_{\mathrm{N}}$ of the Mn spins and the Ho magnetic ordering temperature ${T}_{2}$. The data show an important coupling between the ${\mathrm{Mn}}^{3+}$-ion and ${\mathrm{Ho}}^{3+}$-ion spins as well as a ${T}_{\mathrm{SR}}$ that is driven by the cooperative $\mathrm{Mn}{\mathrm{O}}_{5}$ site rotation and ${R}^{3+}$-ion displacements that control the $c$ lattice parameter. The data also support an enhanced spin-lattice interaction in the geometrically frustrated Mn-spin system.
What does the child bring to the task of learning to read? A summary of the New England reading acquisition projects

Abstract We summarise our research into four issues: children's early hypotheses about how print represents speech, levels of phonemic awareness in children at the beginning of their school careers, the effectiveness of preschool training in phonemic awareness in promoting subsequent literacy acquisition, and characteristics of children who are at risk for reading difficulties because of a family history of literacy problems. All four research questions are cast in the framework of the nature-nurture debate by focusing on what resources the child brings to the task of learning to read. We conclude that these resources are limited, and that the nature of these limitations does not support those theorists, associated with the “whole language” approach to reading instruction, who hold that learning to read is governed by the same processes as learning to speak. We note some educational implications of our findings, in particular the importance of directly teaching children about the segmental structure of th...
Optimizing Retention Basin Networks

Retention basins are an effective and common means of flood control. Differing from detention, retention fully contains a particular storm event, using infiltration as the primary means of disposal. For a complex watershed with multiple subwatersheds; however, requiring basins to retain only flow from their contributing subwatershed may result in a suboptimal solution both in terms of cost and overall flood control. This paper introduces a design procedure for considering location and sizing of a network of retention basins within a watershed. It utilizes the discrete dynamic programming technique to determine the ideal locations and geometry for each basin. A design example demonstrates that this method may allow significant cost savings over traditional methods.
Topology of Euglena chloroplast protein precursors within endoplasmic reticulum to Golgi to chloroplast transport vesicles.

Euglena chloroplast protein precursors are transported as integral membrane proteins from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to the Golgi apparatus prior to chloroplast localization. All Euglena chloroplast protein precursors have functionally similar bipartite presequences composed of an N-terminal signal peptide domain and a stromal targeting domain containing a hydrophobic region approximately 60 amino acids from the predicted signal peptidase cleavage site. Asparagine-linked glycosylation reporters and presequence deletion constructs of the precursor to the Euglena light-harvesting chlorophylla/b-binding protein of photosystem II (pLHCPII) were used to identify presequence regions translocated into the ER lumen and stop transfer membrane anchor domains. An asparagine-linked glycosylation site present at amino acid 148 of pLHCPII near the N terminus of mature LHCPII was not glycosylated in vitro by canine microsomes while an asparagine-linked glycosylation site inserted at amino acid 40 was. The asparagine at amino acid 148 was glycosylated upon deletion of amino acids 46–146, which contain the stromal targeting domain, indicating that the hydrophobic region within this domain functions as a stop transfer membrane anchor sequence. Protease protection assays indicated that for all constructs, mature LHCPII was not translocated across the microsomal membrane. Taken together with the structural similarity of all Euglenapresequences, these results demonstrate that chloroplast precursors are anchored within ER and Golgi transport vesicles by the stromal targeting domain hydrophobic region oriented with the presequence N terminus formed by signal peptidase cleavage in the vesicle lumen and the mature protein in the cytoplasm.
Matrix Metalloproteinase-Assisted Triggered Release of Liposomal Contents

We offer a novel methodology for formulating liposomes by incorporating sequence-specific collagen-mimetic peptides such that they are specifically "uncorked" by a matrix metalloproteinase, MMP-9. By encapsulating carboxyfluorescein (as a self-quenching fluorescent dye), we demonstrate that the time-dependent release of the dye from liposomes is due to the specific enzymatic cleavage of the surface-exposed collagen-mimetic peptides. The specificity of such cleavage is attested by the fact that the liposomal "uncorking" and their content release occur only by MMP-9 and not by a general proteolytic enzyme, trypsin, despite the fact that the collagen mimetic peptides contain the trypsin cleavage site. The mechanistic details underlying the formulations of liposomes and their enzyme-selective "uncorking" and content release are discussed. Arguments are presented that such liposomes can be fine-tuned to serve as the drug delivery vehicles for the detection and treatment of various human diseases, which occur due to the overexpression of a variety of pathogenic matrix metalloproteinases.
Superiority of sonographic hematoma guided resection of mammogram only visible breast cancer: wire localization should be an exception--not the rule.

Background The goal of breast conservation in cancer treatment is to obtain adequate margins with minimum tissue loss to achieve acceptable oncologic and cosmetic outcome. The standard for resection of breast cancers visible only on mammogram is wire localization (WL), which has a high rate of positive margins. We hypothesized that sonographic hematoma guided (SHG) resection achieves better margin clearance while minimizing volume of resection by more accurate lesion localization.
Optical properties of arachidate monolayers by integrated optical techniques

Abstract The refractive indices of thin dielectric films on the surface of an optical waveguide were determined from the mode patterns, i.e., effective indices in the guide as a function of selected visible laser wavelengths. These more accurate results are compared with previous measurements and illustrate the advantages of this method.
Using Translation Exercises in the Communicative EFL Writing Classroom.

mplementing process pedagogy in an L2 writing classroom has its own limits for students with low English proficiency. Although L1 writers commonly benefit from writing multiple drafts, most of the low English level Korean college students in my English composition class did not benefit from the revisions. This article introduces an innovative technique, which combines the two dichotomous approaches�process and product�through the use of grammar-translation in a reflective and collaborative environment. It discusses how using their previous learning approach�based on the grammar-translation method�helped the students to recognize the importance of accuracy for successful written communication and to raise awareness of the audience. It also discusses how this approach has revealed the fact that students� first language use in a second language writing classroom can be a positive tool for improving their writing proficiency and helping them realize the importance of seeing their own writing more objectively.
Variation in performance on auditory and visual monitoring tasks as a function of signal and stimulus frequencies

Observers were required to detect double jumps of a diffuse light spot jumping in a circular pattern and more intense noise pulses in a pulse train. Seven groups performed at different combinations of stimulus and signal frequencies, higher signal frequency/stimulus frequency ratios, and lower stimulus frequencies. Stimulus frequency was a more potent determiner of performance than signal frequency, and performance was not invariant within a given signal frequency/stimulus frequency ratio. Correlations of dependent measures were also examined.-Results are discussed with reference to various theories of vigilance behavior.
Contribution of oxygen partial pressures investigated over a wide range to SrRuO3 thin-film properties in laser deposition processing

SrRuO3 (SRO) thin films were grown on SrTiO3 (100) substrates using the pulsed laser deposition method. In order to fully exploit the correlation between their properties and the partial (working) pressures of oxygen in which they are grown, a wide range of pressures—from 0.1to300mTorr—was investigated. SRO ablation plumes showed a shape transition from forward directed to confined isotropic at 60mTorr. Also, all measured properties of SRO films displayed significant changes at 60mTorr. Out-of-plane lattice constants and strains of SRO films were quite large for low-pressure growth (up to 10mTorr), but became notably minimized at 60mTorr and continued to change gradually with further pressure increases. Ru deficiencies seemed to occur regardless of working pressure value. The island growth mode was dominant for low pressures up to 10mTorr, followed by the step flow growth mode at 60mTorr and step flow plus two-dimensional growth at 200mTorr, reverting then back into island growth at 300mTorr. Only those S...
Computer-Formulated Least-Cost Concentrate Mixes for Dairy Cows

Abstract Four feeding trials involving 251 dairy cows were conducted to compare the performance of cows fed commercial concentrate mixes with cows fed iso-nutrient least-cost concentrate mixes. Double reversal designs were used in three trials and the fourth was a 300-day trial. Various methods of allotting concentrates (free choice in the milking parlor, according to production, and the same amount to all cows) were used in the different trials. All concentrate mixes were pelleted. The cows fed the least-cost mixes produced 1.31, −0.02, and −0.67 kg more milk with 0.13, 0.06, and 0.0% less milk fat than the cows fed the control mixes. Production in the 300-day trial was 6,912 kg milk with 3.66% milk fat and 6,672 kg milk with 3.75% milk fat for the least-cost and control treatments, respectively. Differences were significant in only the first of the double-reversal trials. Prices of the least cost mixes were $4.49, $2.99, and $1.05 per metric ton less than the control mixes.
Sulfur accumulation in western wheatgrass exposed to three controlled SO2 concentrations

Sulfur concentrations of western wheatgrass tillers and individual leaves were measured from plants exposed to four SO2 concentrations (9, 52, 105 and 183 μg·m−3). Sulfur concentration of plants was a linear function of either time of exposure or concentration.
On supply chain cash flow risks

This study models the supply chain related cash flow risks for a business entity measured by the standard deviations of cash inflows, outflows, and netflows of each period in a planning horizon. The goal is to provide an insightful look on how common practices that intend to improve the Cash Conversion Cycle (CCC), e.g., offering early payment discounts, may contribute to cash flow risks. We show the benefits and recommend the best policy of using Asset-Backed Securities (ABS) to finance accounts receivable as a means to shorten the CCC and lower the cash inflow risk. It is particularly helpful to small vendors having tight cash reserves and high financing costs.
On the spectra of a Hardy kernel

Abstract A class of integral operators, K , on L p spaces is studied. The operator I − K is invertible on L r and L s but not on L p for some p between r and s . This gives an example of an operator T densely defined and bounded in L r and L s norms but which is not bounded in L p norm for some intermediate p .
Optical coherence tomography findings of quinine poisoning.

PURPOSE To report a case of acute quinine poisoning, document acute and chronic macular changes with optical coherence tomography imaging and fluorescein angiography (FA), and to review the literature on ocular toxicity of quinine. METHODS A 32-year-old white female presented to our Emergency Department after ingesting over 7.5 g of quinine. She underwent a complete ophthalmologic examination, fluorescein angiography, Stratus time-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT), and electroretinography at 72 hours and 15 months postingestion. Stratus time-domain and Cirrus spectral-domain OCT, fundus autofluorescence, and FA were obtained at 28 months postingestion. RESULTS Fluorescein angiography at 72 hours postingestion revealed normal filling times and vasculature. OCT showed marked thickening of the inner retina bilaterally. At 15 and 28 months follow-up, fundus photography and fluorescein angiography demonstrated optic nerve pallor, severely attenuated retinal vessels while OCT showed inner retinal atrophy. Fundus autofluorescence did not reveal any retinal pigmentary abnormalities. CONCLUSIONS Quinine toxicity as seen by OCT reveals increased thickness with inner retinal hyperreflectivity acutely with development of significant retinal atrophy in the long-term. Fundus autofluorescence reveals an intact retinal pigment epithelial layer at 28 months. These findings suggest that quinine poisoning may produce a direct toxic effect on the inner retina in the acute phase resulting in long-term retinal atrophy.
Fusion and differentiation of murine C2C12 skeletal muscle cells that express Trichinella spiralis p43 protein

The ability of a 43 kDa stichocyte protein from Trichinella spiralis (Tsp43) to interfere with mammalian skeletal muscle gene expression was investigated. A MYC-tagged Tsp43 construct was expressed as a recombinant protein in C2C12 myoblasts. Transfection with low amounts of expression plasmid was required for successful expression of the protein. This construct had apparent toxic effects on transfected myoblasts and ectopic green fluorescent protein expression was suppressed in myoblasts co-transfected with the Tsp43 construct. These effects may result from similarities of Tsp43 to DNase II. Use of the general DNase inhibitor aurintricarboxylic acid (ATA) enhanced expression of MYC-Tsp43 in transfected muscle cells. Myoblasts transfected with Tsp43 did not fuse well when cultured under differentiation conditions without ATA. In contrast, transfected myoblasts transiently cultured with ATA underwent fusion and differentiation. Under short-term differentiation conditions without ATA, unfused myoblasts nevertheless expressed both MYC-Tsp43 and myosin heavy chain. Collectively, the results support that Tsp43 has a role in the T. spiralis life cycle that is distinct from repressing muscle gene expression during the muscle phase of infection. While the function of Tsp43 as a DNase is under debate, the effects of ATA on transfected muscle cells were consistent with this possibility.
The Center for the History of Entomology

The Center for the History of Entomology was conceived 6 years ago, in early 1973. Several retired entomologists at The Pennsylvania State University discussed the possibility of systematically preserving, within the framework of the Frost Entomological Museum at Penn State, the historically interesting and significant professional correspondence and memorabilia that they were cleaning out of their desks and homes. Stuart W. Frost, for whom the Museum was named, and John O. Pepper, retired extension entomologist, together with Arnold Mallis, who had a large amount of correspondence and pictorial material resulting from research on his recently published book American Entomologists (Mallis 1971), agreed to pool their considerable amounts of historical material to make it available to scholars and entomologists interested in the history of the profession.
In-Situ Optical Measurements of Water Vapor Concentration and Temperature in a Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell at Steady State and Under Dynamic Cycling

A robust, accurate and fast in-situ sensor was developed for detection of water vapor partial pressure and temperature simultaneously at the anode and cathode channels of a PEM fuel cell. Tunable diode laser absorption spectroscopy (TDLAS) utilizing wavelength modulation (WMS) was employed for these measurements. This method determines the ratio of the second and first harmonics (2f/1f) of the spectroscopic absorption profile of water vapor by the aid of a software lock-in amplifier. Measurements were taken using a diode laser emitting around a wavelength of 1471 nm where the water vapor absorption exhibits significant sensitivity to partial pressure and temperature. Measurements of water vapor concentration and temperature in were taken at steady and dynamic operating conditions in the anode and cathode gas channels near the inlet and outlet ports of a serpentine channel PEM fuel cell with Nafion membrane of active area 50 cm2 . Different load and inlet humidity conditions were tested to characterize the operation at different conditions. The partial pressure of water vapor increases towards the exit of both the gas channels, but the increase is found to be more significant on the cathode side. The dynamic operation of the fuel cell was also examined in this study as well as the simultaneous measurements at the anode and cathode gas channels.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Design for Middle-Way of Intelligent Energy-Saving System with Embedded System

The narrow of land and large population the resource of Taiwan mainly depended on import from foreign countries and the ratio reaches to 99.39% [1], which was 5.38% more than that of last year. According to the 2010 statistics of Energy Bureau of Taiwan Ministry of Economy, [2], the energy consumption inner the island was about, 12.03 billion kiloliter oil, which was 6.40% more than that of last year. Meanwhile the electricity consumption was 10.3 Kilo-degree, which was 7.32% more than that of last year [3]. Nowadays Taiwan was stepping forward to WTO and Green Island, and it faced the continue progress of industry and more and more energy requirements, oil price instable, the limitation of electricity consumption in summer, and manage to the green house problem of earth, besides, the cost of developing green energy was too high, so how to get to energy-saving becomes one more important issue.