cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Large‐scale high‐fidelity atomistic simulations for emerging materials and electronics devices

The quest for ever higher levels of detail and realism in nanoelectronics simulations presents formidable modeling and computational challenges. These simulations are expected, however, to benefit from the development of specific advanced mathematical techniques and high-performance parallel algorithms to achieve high-fidelity simulations of materials and transport problems. Here, we propose to investigate novel simulation strategies which aim to go beyond qualitative predictions by proposing quantitative simulations from the atomistic scale to the transistor macroscale. Results obtained on carbon nanotubes to compute the electron density using these advanced techniques and first-principle calculations, are presented here. (© 2008 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Microfluidic polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis with in situ immunoblotting for native protein analysis.

We introduce an automated immunoblotting method that reports protein electrophoretic mobility and identity in a single streamlined microfluidic assay. Native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) was integrated with subsequent in situ immunoblotting. Integration of three PA gel elements into a glass microfluidic chip achieved multiple functions, including (1) rapid protein separation via on-chip PAGE, (2) directed electrophoretic transfer of resolved protein peaks to an in-line blotting membrane, and (3) high-efficiency identification of the transferred proteins using antibody-functionalized blotting membranes. In-chip blotting membranes were photopatterned with biotinylated antibody using streptavidin polyacrylamide (PA) thus yielding postseparation sample analysis. No pressure driven flow or fluid valving was required, as the assay was operated by electrokinetically programmed control. A model sample of fluorescently labeled BSA (negative control), α-actinin, and prostate specific antigen (PSA) was ...
Changes in Coordination of Sterically Demanding Hybrid Imidazolylphosphine Ligands on Pd(0) and Pd(II)

Low-coordinate organometallic complexes are important in structure and catalysis, and hemilability or secondary interactions such as hydrogen bonding enabled by hybrid ligands are receiving increasing attention. To study the factors controlling these phenomena, three new imidazol-2-ylphosphine ligands, L, were made. In these ligands, the bulk around P and the hindrance at the basic and potentially coordinating imidazole N-3 were varied. Remarkably, L2Pd(0) complexes 3a−c were shown to be two-coordinate, 12-electron species, despite the availability of imidazole N-3 to enter into η2-P,N chelation. In oxidative additions of C−X bonds to the Pd(0) complexes, reaction rates and products could be controlled by the nature of the C and X groups and the R groups on the phosphine. Most significantly, whereas 4c-PhI and 4c-MeOTf from 3c are normal trans-bis(phosphine)Pd(R)(X) species, 5a-PhI, 5a-PhBr, and 5b-PhI from 3a and 3b were shown by X-ray diffraction to be a monomeric species with a single η2-P,N-chelating ...
The Role of Cavitation in Liposome Formation

Liposome size is a vital parameter of many quantitative biophysical studies. Sonication, or exposure to ultrasound, is used widely to manufacture artificial liposomes, yet little is known about the mechanism by which liposomes are affected by ultrasound. Cavitation, or the oscillation of small gas bubbles in a pressure-varying field, has been shown to be responsible for many biophysical effects of ultrasound on cells. In this study, we correlate the presence and type of cavitation with a decrease in liposome size. Aqueous lipid suspensions surrounding a hydrophone were exposed to various intensities of ultrasound and hydrostatic pressures before measuring their size distribution with dynamic light scattering. As expected, increasing ultrasound intensity at atmospheric pressure decreased the average liposome diameter. The presence of collapse cavitation was manifested in the acoustic spectrum at high ultrasonic intensities. Increasing hydrostatic pressure was shown to inhibit the presence of collapse cavitation. Collapse cavitation, however, did not correlate with decreases in liposome size, as changes in size still occurred when collapse cavitation was inhibited either by lowering ultrasound intensity or by increasing static pressure. We propose a mechanism whereby stable cavitation, another type of cavitation present in sound fields, causes fluid shearing of liposomes and reduction of liposome size. A mathematical model was developed based on the Rayleigh-Plesset equation of bubble dynamics and principles of acoustic microstreaming to estimate the shear field magnitude around an oscillating bubble. This model predicts the ultrasound intensities and pressures needed to create shear fields sufficient to cause liposome size change, and correlates well with our experimental data.
Cholesterol and cholesteryl ester concentration in different size classes of cultured human fibroblasts: effect of in vitro aging.

Early and late passage WI-38 fibroblasts were fractionated on the basis of cell size by gravity sedimentation, and free and esterified cholesterol concentrations were determined in each fraction. The cholesteryl ester concentration in all size classes of late passage cells was greater than that of all size classes of early passage cells; the average of all fractions of late passage cells was 2.5 times greater (pg/μm3) and 1.7 times greater (μg/mg protein) than that of all fractions of early passage cells (p< 0.001). The average free cholesterol concentration (μg/mg protein) in late passage cell fractions exhibited a consistent, but not statistically significant, increase over that in early passage cells. These results indicate that the increase in cholesteryl ester concentration in late passage WI-38 fibroblasts is not solely attributable to the large, non-dividing cells which accumulate in senescing cultures.
Forecasting September Atlantic Basin Tropical Cyclone Activity

September is the most active month for Atlantic basin tropical cyclone activity with about 50% of all hurricane activity occurring during this month. Utilizing National Centers for Environmental Prediction‐National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCEP‐NCAR) reanalysis data, a prediction scheme for forecasting September tropical cyclone activity has been developed. Based on hindcasting results from 1950 to 2000, 30%‐75% of the variance for most tropical cyclone parameters can be hindcast by the end of July. This hindcast skill improves to 45%‐ 75% by the end of August. Similarly, cross-validated hindcast skill explains from 20% to 65% for most variables by the end of July, improving to 30%‐65% by the end of August. Simple least squared linear regression was utilized to calculate hindcast skill, and variables were selected that explained the largest degree of variance when combined with the other predictors in the scheme. These predictors tend to be global in nature and include zonal and meridional wind at 200 and 1000 mb and sea level pressure measurements at various global locations.
Objective Function Approximation: An Application to Spatial Price Equilibrium Models

This paper describes a method for selecting a grid size for the piece wise-linear approximation of a separable quadratic program. It describes and demonstrates application of the procedure to a spatial price equilibrium model. The method is based on an a priori bound relating the amount of objective function approximation error to the suboptimality induced in the solution of the actual optimization problem.
The mobility of Pt atoms and small Pt clusters on Pt(111) and its implications for the early stages of epitaxial growth

Abstract We use the effective medium approximation to calculate the activation energy for the site-to-site motion of Pt atoms and Pt clusters with two to seven atoms, on the Pt(111) surface. We find that clusters are highly mobile and will move as a whole rather than by breaking into fragments that reunite in a different place. The results are used to examine the properties of the islands formed in the earliest stages of Pt deposition on the surface. We show that island formation at temperatures below 500 K occurs through the formation of stable clusters. There is no critical nucleus and the density of the supersaturated gas of single atoms on the surface is very close to zero; the islands do not originate through density fluctuations. We also rationalize the existence of three distinct regimes in the temperature dependence of island sizes at low coverage. They are due to absence of atom “evaporation” from islands onto the surface, at low temperature; to evaporation from open shell islands but not from the closed shell ones, at intermediate temperature; and to evaporation from all islands, at higher temperature.
Non-monotonic Responses of Phytoplankton Biomass Accumulation to Hydrologic Variability: A Comparison of Two Coastal Plain North Carolina Estuaries

Freshwater inputs often play a more direct role in estuarine phytoplankton biomass (chlorophyll a) accumulation than nitrogen (N) inputs, since discharge simultaneously controls both phytoplankton residence time and N loading. Understanding this link is critical, given potential changes in climate and human activities that may affect discharge and watershed N supply. Chlorophyll a (chla) relationships with hydrologic variability were examined in 3-year time series from two neighboring, shallow (<5 m), microtidal estuaries (New and Neuse River estuaries, NC, USA) influenced by the same climatic conditions and events. Under conditions ranging from drought to floods, N concentration and salinity showed direct positive and negative responses, respectively, to discharge for both estuaries. The response of chla to discharge was more complex, but was elucidated through conversion of discharge to freshwater flushing time, an estimate of transport time scale. Non-linear fits of chla to flushing time revealed non-monotonic, unimodal relationships that reflected the changing balance between intrinsic growth and losses through time and along the axis of each estuary. Maximum biomass occurred at approximately 10-day flushing times for both systems. Residual analysis of the fitted data revealed positive relationships between chla and temperature, suggesting enhanced growth rates at higher temperatures. N loading and system-wide, volume-weighted chla were positively correlated, and biomass yields per N load were greater than other marine systems. When combined with information on loss processes, these results on the hydrologic control of phytoplankton biomass will help formulate mechanistic models necessary to predict ecosystem responses to future climate and anthropogenic changes.
One Educational Technology Colleague’s Journey from Dotcom Leadership to University E-Learning Systems Leadership: Merging Design Principles, Systemic Change and Leadership Thinking

This paper describes my journey from instructional technology professional and doctoral student to instructional technology leader and tenure-track faculty member. I reflect on 15 years of application, in government, industry, and higher education, of what I learned in the classroom from some of the giants of the field (Wager, Morgan, Kaufman, Dick, Keller, Harless, Reiser, Driscoll). With the continuing proliferation of technology throughout all levels of higher education, systems thinking and the instructional systems design (ISD) process is highly relevant and germane. Its application, however, must be done with care as many people do not understand it and it is applied within a complex, imperfect social and organizational cultural context that requires compromise, consensus building, patience, and a willingness to proceed slowly. The growing role of technology in organizations, and especially e-Learning in education, has increased the need for systems thinking and systemic change in order to manage rapid change.
The material-point method for granular materials

Abstract A model for granular materials is presented that describes both the internal deformation of each granule and the interactions between grains. The model, which is based on the FLIP-material point, particle-in-cell method, solves continuum constutitive models for each grain. Interactions between grains are calculated with a contact algorithm that forbids interpenetration, but allows separation and sliding and rolling with friction. The particle-in-cell method eliminates the need for a separate contact detection step. The use of a common rest frame in the contact model yields a linear scaling of the computational cost with the number of grains. The properties of the model are illustrated by numerical solutions of sliding and rolling contacts, and for granular materials by a shear calculation. The results of numerical calculations demonstrate that contacts are modeled accurately for smooth granules whose shape is resolved by the computations mesh.
Personalizing Instruction and Reference: A Personal Attempt to Close the Public Service Gap

This article presents and discusses a class-based approach to more closely tie together reference and instruction services, with the goal of addressing shortcomings of both the traditional reference and instruction models. This project entailed the provision of individual feedback for all students in selected first-year seminar classes and senior seminar classes, in which the librarian was an essential component of the research process. The project's effectiveness was evaluated via surveys of students who received librarian feedback through written comments on annotated bibliographies or reference consultations.
Lung lymphocytes in bleomycin-induced pulmonary disease.

Previous studies have not clearly defined the role of cell-mediated immunity in bleomycin-induced lung injury. In this report the functional activity of T lymphocytes obtained from minced lung preparations, bronchoalveolar lavage, and blood of rabbits treated with bleomycin was examined in cell proliferation and cell-mediated cytotoxicity assays. Four days after instillation of bleomycin (10 units/kg) into the right lung, histologic examination revealed mononuclear cell interstitial infiltrates and alveolar exudates. Right lung bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) cell counts were similar in both groups, but the percentage of lymphocytes and neutrophils was elevated in bleomycin-treated groups (25% vs. 7% and 35% vs. 0% respectively;p<0.05). Spontaneous proliferation of cultured BAL and blood lymphocytes was similar in bleomycin-treated rabbits and controls. After 24 h of incubation with interleukin-2 (IL-2), BAL lymphocytes from bleomycin-treated rabbits had nearly a 4-fold greater proliferative response than lymphocytes from untreated rabbits. Concanavalin-A-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (CDCMC) assays were performed to evaluate cytolytic lymphocyte activity. Spontaneous CDCMC activity was not detected in BAL fluid or in blood lymphocytes from either treated or control animals. After 24 h of incubation with IL-2, significant CDCMC activity was detected in lung lymphocytes from bleomycin-treated animals, but not in lung lymphocytes from control animals. These results indicate that stimulated lymphocytes are present in the lungs of rabbits 4 days after exposure to bleomycin.
Motivational Effects of Competition and Goal Setting in Reward and Non-Reward Conditions

The effects of six classroom motivational treatments on 112 fifth and sixth grade students were measured using a difference score on a substitution task. Individual goal setting and competitive treatments, under reward and non-reward conditions, are analyzed by means of planned comparisons. Results indicate a significant interaction which suggests caution against an oversimplified interpretation of main effects. A S’s performance in a competitive treatment is shown to be dependent upon three factors: his initial ability relative to that of his classmates; the presence or absence of a reward; the homogeneous or heterogeneous nature of the group in competition. The evaluation of this significant 3-way interaction ( i. e., ability x reward x grouping) and comparisons of means suggest several tentative hypotheses and raise highly relevant questions regarding the use of classroom motivational techniques which are competitive in nature.
Intelligent decision support and information systems in enterprise: evolutionary-based optimization

Most of the existing search systems ''software' are modeled using crisp logic and queries. We introduce fuzzy querying and ranking as a flexible tool allowing approximation where the selected objects do not need to match exactly the decision criteria resembling natural human behavior. The model consists of five major modules: the fuzzy search engine, the application templates, the user interface, the database and the evolutionary computing. The system is designed in a generic form to accommodate more diverse applications and to be delivered as stand-alone software to academia and businesses.
Nonlinear response of the sine-Gordon breather to an a.c. driver

We investigate the nonlinear response of the continuum sine-Gordon (SG) breather to an a.c. driver. We use an ansatz by Matsuda which is an exact collective variable (CV) solution for the unperturbed SG breather and uses only a single CV, r(t), which is the separation between the center of masses of the kink and antikink that make up the breather. We show that in the presence of a driver with an amplitude below the breakup threshold of the breather into kink and antikink, the a.c.-driven SG is quite accurately described by the r(t), which is a solution of an ordinary differential equation for a one-dimensional point particle in a potential V(r) driven by an a.c. driver and with an r-dependent mass, M(r). That is below the threshold for breakup, the solution for a driven r(t) and the use of the Matsuda identity gives a solution for the a.c.-driven SG, which is very close to the exact simulation of the a.c.-driven SG. We use a wavelet transform to analyze the frequency dependence of the time-dependent nonlinear response of the SG breather to the a.c. driver. We find the wavelet transforms of the CV solution and of the simulation of the a.c.-driven SG are qualitatively very similar to each other and often agree quite well quantitatively. In cases of breakup of the breather into K and A, where there is no appreciable radiation of phonons, we find the CV solution is very close to the exact simulation result.
Effect of proteases and phospholipases on [3H]yohimbine binding to human platelet membranes

Abstract Trypsin and chymotrypsin inactivated specific [ 3 H]yohimbine binding sites in the partially purified human platelet membranes in a concentration- and time-dependent fashion. The maximal inactivation (70–80% of control) was incomplete regardless of the concentrations of the proteases used or the incubation time. Scatchard analysis of the binding data showed that the total number of binding sites was reduced, but the affinity of the receptor to the ligand remained unaffected. Pretreatment of the membranes with unlabeled yohimbine or epinephrine produced a 20–30% increase in the specific [ 3 H]yohimbine binding; however, this treatment offered only a slight protection (10–15%) against trypsin-induced inactivation of [ 3 H]yohimbine binding. Pretreatment with phospholipase A 2 produced a complete inhibition, while pretreatment with phospholipase C resulted in only a partial (70–80% of control) reduction in [ 3 H]yohimbine binding. The inhibitory effects were not reversed when the specific binding of [ 3 H]yohimbine was carried out with membranes treated with phospholipases and subsequently washed with defatted bovine serum albumin, suggesting that products released from phospholipolysis were not involved in the inhibition of [ 3 H]yohimbine binding. These results suggest that the integrity of the receptor proteins and phospholipids is necessary for the specific binding of the ligand to the α 2 -adrenoreceptor proteins of the human platelet membranes.
The effects of 5-fluoruracil treatment on 3'-fluoro-3'-deoxythymidine (FLT) transport and metabolism in proliferating and non-proliferating cultures of human tumor cells.

Abstract 3′-Fluoro-3′-deoxythymidine (FLT) positron emission tomography (PET) has been proposed for imaging thymidylate synthase (TS) inhibition. Agents that target TS and shut down de novo synthesis of thymidine monophosphate increase the uptake and retention of FLT in vitro and in vivo because of a compensating increase in the salvage pathway. Increases in both thymidine kinase-1 (TK1) and the equilibrative nucleoside transporter hENT1 have been reported to underlie this effect. We examined whether the effects of one TS inhibitor, 5-fluorouracil (5FU), on FLT uptake require proliferating cells and whether the effects are limited to increasing TK1 activity. Methods The effects of 5FU on FLT transport and metabolism, TK1 activity, and cell cycle progression were evaluated in the human tumor cell line, A549, maintained as either a proliferating or non-proliferating culture. Results There were dose-dependent increases in FLT uptake that peaked after a 10 μM 5FU exposure and then declined to baseline levels or below at higher doses in both proliferating and non-proliferating cultures. The dose-dependence for FLT uptake was mirrored by changes in TK1 activity. S phase fraction did not correlate with FLT uptake in proliferating cultures. Chemical inhibition of hENT1 reduced overall levels of FLT uptake but did not affect the low dose increase in FLT uptake. Conclusions 5FU only affects FLT uptake in proliferating A549 cells and increases in FLT uptake are directly related to increased TK1 activity. Our studies did not support a role for hENT1 in the increased uptake of FLT after exposure to 5FU. Our studies with A549 cells support the suggestion that FLT-PET could provide a measure of TS inhibition in vivo .
Reply to the Comment on “The binding energy of Ni+ · (N2O)”

Abstract The estimation of the binding of the Ni+ · (N2O) and Ni+ · (CO2) ions from simple electrostatic arguments has led to a debate as to the expected geometry of these two species. In opposition to the statements made in the above paper, we find electrostatic calculations alone are inadequate to predict the ion geometry in this case.
Favorable Outcomes Using Long-Term Implantable Left Ventricular Assist Devices in Patients Sixty Five Years of Age and Older

Purpose Advanced age is viewed by some programs as a relative contraindication for long-term mechanical circulatory support. The purpose of this study was to review our results with long-term left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) in patients 65 years or greater in age. Methods and Materials From March 2006 through June 2012, 130 patients underwent implantation of a HeartMate II or HeartWare LVAD at our institution. Four patients who underwent device exchanges were removed from the study. Of the remaining 126 patients, 24 (19.1%) were 65 years or greater. Results Mean age was 68.1 + 2.9 (65-75) years for the older group and 50.4 + 10.6 (18-64) years for the younger group (p figure 1 ] There was no significant difference in the incidence of diabetes, hypertension, chronic renal insufficiency, or hepatic function between the groups (p=NS). A greater proportion of older patients had previous cardiac surgery (50.0% vs. 26.5%; p=0.047). There was no significant difference in survival between the groups with survival at 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years of 77.4%, 77.4%, 64.5%, respectively for the older groups versus 91.9%, 83.6%, 78.4% for the younger group (p=0.319). There was no significant difference in postoperative driveline infections, strokes, pneumonia, right ventricular failure, gastrointestinal bleeding, or readmissions within thirty days (p=NS). Using Cox Proportional Hazard Models, age ≥ 65 was not an independent predictor of mortality (p=NS). Conclusions These data demonstrate similar short and long-term results for elderly and young LVAD recipients. This supports proceeding with long-term mechanical circulatory support in carefully selected elderly patients.
MRI findings in posttraumatic spinal cord Wallerian degeneration

We present MRI findings in a patient who presented with a remote cervical cord injury and with onset of new symptoms. Imaging showed findings compatible with Wallerian degeneration (WD) above and below the level of the original injury. We review the pathogenesis of spinal cord WD and its implications.
Neural realization of TMR with coverage

Abstract The discrete-time Markov model of the Triple Modular Redundancy hardware, employing fault detection and coverage, is realized with a feedforward recursive neural network. The appropriate value of the failure rate, for the desired reliability of the hardware under design, is extracted from the neural weights at convergence. The simulation results prove the validity and stability of the neural realization.
Electrochemical detection of arsenic via a microfluidic sensor and mobile interface towards affordable, rapid, and point-of-use water monitoring

Arsenic contamination of groundwater presents a major obstacle to the development of water infrastructure in developing countries, with severe long-term health consequences. Current solutions for arsenic testing range from simple colorimetric assays to sophisticated laboratory tests. Colorimetric kits are simple and low-cost, yet these types of tests generally suffer from a lack of precision and use toxic chemicals as test reagents while laboratory-based techniques, such as mass spectrometry, are accurate but considerably more expensive, requiring off-site analysis of samples. Electrochemical detection in a microfluidic platform offers many advantages, such as portability, minimal use of instrumentation, and ready integration with electronics. Toward a solution to water quality interventions, we have demonstrated an electrochemical sensor combined with mobile interface that detects arsenic suitable for rapid, affordable, and point-of-care water monitoring. Using this platform, we successfully demonstrate the detection of arsenic and the automatic interpretation and mapping of the detection results via a mobile application. We expect such a platform for diagnostics via mobile phone with automated test interpretation and mapping to provide an indispensable tool, especially in rural areas where the needs are the greatest, but the lack of laboratory facilities and trained personnel is a real obstacle.
Inhibition of in vitro metabolic activation of carcinogens by wheat sprout extracts

Abstract Extracts from the roots and the leaves of wheat sprouts selectively inhibited the mutagenic effect of carcinogens requiring metabolic activation as demonstrated in the Ames Salmonella/ mammalian‐microsome test. Formation of dihydrodiol metabolites of benzo(a)pyrene was significantly reduced, as seen in high‐pressure liquid chromatographic profiles of metabolites.
The overarm-throwing pattern among U-14 ASA female softball players: a comparative study of gender, culture, and experience

Abstract A developmental description of overarm-throwing characteristics of U-14 female ASA softball players is presented here. Comparisons were made between these athletes and teens of similar age in the United States (Runion, Roberton, & Langendorfer, 2003) and in Germany (Ehl, Roberton, & Langendorfer, 2005). A majority of the softball players demonstrated the most advanced developmental levels for the backswing, foot, humerus, and forearm components. Seventy percent (n = 26) demonstrated a Level 2 trunk, while 30% (n = 11) demonstrated a differentiated trunk, Level 3. The average throwing velocity was 62.58 ft/s (19.07 m/s). Comparisons were made to girls with less throwing experience in the United States (Runion et al.) and Germany (Ehl et al.); the softball players threw with greater velocity (9.12 ft/s [2.77 m/s]and 15.89 ft/s [4.84 m/s], respectively) and demonstrated superior trunk, humerus, and forearm actions. The boys from both countries threw the ball faster than the softball players. Signifi...
Atomic contrast transfer in annular darkfield images

SUMMARY We examine some of the assumptions underlying the standard optical equation as used for modelling high-resolution annular darkfield (Z-contrast) images of thin specimens. The validity of the approximations (i) that scattering occurs as spherical waves (atoms are point potentials) and (ii) that the depth of focus is infinite is found to be resolution-dependent. The correction to the optical equation for non-spherical wave scattering is found to be important when the probe size is of the order of 0·1 nm or smaller, and does not vanish in the ideal case of a large annular detector with no hole. Depth of focus becomes an important consideration at 100 kV for probes smaller than about 0·2 nm when the specimen thickness exceeds 10 nm. Both corrections can significantly degrade the effective point-to-point resolution of high-resolution Z-contrast images relative to that predicted by the standard optical equation.
The physical symbol system hypothesis of Newell and Simon: a classroom demonstration of artificial intelligence

The essay below deals with Newell and Simon's hypotheses about the nature of intelligent action. The material is suitable for a classroom demonstration of artificial intelligence at the high school level and above.Discussion questions following the essay are designed to encourage making explicit connections between computer science, philosophy, and the life sciences. They are part of an effort to formulate an information-oriented, algorithmic view of nature.
Effects of massive overdose of epidural morphine sulphate.

A postoperative patient injected with epidural morphine, 60 mg, developed transient left bundle branch block and somnolence. The overdose was effectively treated with a continuous naloxone infusion for 19 hours. Analgesia persisted for an additional 19.5 hours. There was no evidence of sympathetic blockade or narcotic related neurotoxicity.
The laparoscopic sponge

Purpose: Hemorrhage and spillage of enteric contents during laparoscopic surgery can be problematic and obscure the operative field. Although the suction device can often clear the field, we have found that use of a sponge is often more efficient and effective. Materials and methods: An unrolled 4 × 4 sponge can be introduced down a 10-mm port without difficulty. The addition of a suture tied to one corner of the sponge allows easy retrieval of the sponge and eliminates the possibility of leaving the sponge in the abdomen. Conclusions: The laparoscopic sponge is simply constructed and is easily introduced and retrieved through a trocar. It can be used to deal with a troublesome hemorrhage, either to put on direct pressure or to absorb blood. It can also be used as a blunt retractor and dissector. With the addition of the suture tail, it is quickly retrieved and cannot be forgotten within the abdomen.
A Thermoluminescence Dosimetry System for Use in a Survey of High-Energy Bremsstrahlung Dosimetry

A thermoluminescence dosimetry system suited for a survey of high-energy bremsstrahlung in U. S. radiation-therapy departments has been selected and calibrated. The experiments leading to the choice of the recommended operational characteristics, including dosimeter handling, annealing and readout, dosimeter stability in the contemplated mode of operation, dosimeter response over the photon-energy range to be covered, irradiation geometry and irradiation level are treated in detail. Results are reported of a pilot study involving the shipment of a typical survey assembly (a plastic phantom loaded with a set of dosimeters) for irradiation in one U. S. therapy department and the overall uncertainty of the proposed survey procedure is discussed.
Interference impacts on ZigBee-based Wireless Mesh Networks for building automation and control

ZigBee-Wireless Mesh Networks (ZigBee-WMNs) are recognized as a cost-effective and flexible solution for building automation and control systems (BACs). They have the potential to unify the methods of data communication for sensors, actuators, appliances, and asset-tracking devices in BACs. They offer a means to build a reliable but affordable network backbone to facilitate building control. ZigBee operates primarily in the license-free 2.4 GHz ISM (Industrial, Scientific and Medical) band. This feature makes the technology easily applicable, but also potentially vulnerable to interference by other electronic systems working in the same band such as WLAN-systems of IEEE 802.11 and microwave ovens. This paper reports the experimental results to quantify the impact of different interferers on ZigBee-WMNs. They show that, among different interferers, interference from microwave oven is indeed a major problem. In particular, it results in bigger drop rate and retrial rate compared to the impact of WiFi on WMN. It is expected that the results can provide a quantitative basis for designing reliable ZigBee-WMNs.
Lipopolysaccharide pretreatment modulates the disease course in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis

Treatment with the bacterial product lipopolysaccharide (LPS) prior to the induction of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) consistently led to a delayed onset of disease but not to a reduction in disease severity. T cell proliferation was reduced in LPS-treated mice, due at least in part to a loss in antigen presenting cell function. T cell and macrophage infiltration into the CNS was delayed and TNFα production was diminished in LPS pre-treated mice, consistent with the delay in disease onset. Real-time PCR analysis of gene expression in the CNS of LPS or saline pre-treated mice demonstrated an early induction of TNFα, TGFβ, IFNβ, and SOCS3 in the LPS pre-treated mice. Thus, exposure to LPS prior to EAE induction affects antigen presentation and may modulate the expression of inflammatory regulators that impact the autoimmune disease course.
Physics Of Image Formation By Microwave Scattering

The complex permittivities of three-dimensional inhomogeneous biological bodies can be extracted from microwave scattering data by inverse scattering approach. A water-immersed microwave system is used to contract the wavelength to millimeter range and to enhance impedance matching with the biological body. Contraction of the wavelength increases the image resolution, while impedance matching promotes the microwave penetration. Scattered fields are measured using an array of 127 dipole elements and a total size of approximately 15cm x 18cm with operating frequency at 3 GHz. Two inverse scattering approaches have been developed. One approach, which has been published earlier, utilizes an inverse scattering theorem which may be considered as a generalization of the Lorentz reciprocity theorem to dissipative media. The other approach, which is presented in this article, takes scattering measurement by an array with various directions of incident wave; the wave equation is converted to a matrix equation by dividing the dielectric body into a number of cells, the dielectric data is then obtained by inverting the matrix equation. In both approaches, uniqueness is assured owing to the dissipativity of the propagation medium.
Prestige Among Black Colleges: Examining the Predictors of HBCU Peer Academic Reputation

This study uses hierarchical multivariate regression to examine whether traditional measures of college and university performance are salient predictors of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) US News and World Reports peer reputation scores when HBCUs are rated exclusively by HBCU administrators. Due in large part to their unique history and mission, HBCUs often underperform in relation to non-HBCUs on traditional performance measures such as selectivity, graduation rates, and institutional wealth. By using these markers as the primary means for determining the effectiveness of colleges and universities, it has been argued that the larger higher education community unfairly mischaracterizes HBCUs as lower quality institutions. This has led many in the HBCU community to call for a rejection of these traditional standards of assessing institutional quality. The findings of this study, however, suggest that HBCU administrators rely heavily on these traditional measures when asked to assess the quality of other HBCUs. The potential implications of this are discussed.
ICOSS: a two-layer object-based intelligent cell control architecture

Abstract This paper reviews past cell control approaches, and addresses a cell control architecture called ICOSS (Intelligent Cell Objects/Intelligent Supporting Shell) that is applicable to an automated manufacturing factory. The ICOSS architecture consists of two layers: the inner layer that we call the intelligent cell objects (ICO), and the outer layer that we call the intelligent supporting shell (ISS). The ICO contains cell control knowledge that can perform generic cell control functions such as scheduling, dispatching and monitoring. The ISS, on the other hand, contains cell databases that represent the specific cell environment. The two layer approach allows more efficiency in developing and implementing intelligent cell control by considering generic cell control knowledge and cell-specific databases separately. The cell control knowledge in both layers are organized using the object hierarchy. The object classes and generic methods (or procedures) defined in each object class are detailed in the paper. In addition, the objects in the ICO can be modified or added by transmitting them through an established computer network rather than being loaded at individual manufacturing cell control computers. The effectiveness of using the ICOSS two-layer architecture will be greater when it is used to update a large number of manufacturing cell controllers in an automated factory.
High-Resolution Core Level Studies of Interdiffusion and Reaction at Metal-Semiconductor Interfaces

We present a detailed microscopic investigation of interactions and reactions occurring at refractory-metal silicon interfaces at room temperature. High resolution core level photoemission results for Ti coverages in the range 0.2–16 monolayers on cleaved Si(111)2×1 show that three new distinct Si environments are created by semiconductor surface disruption. In agreement with heats of formation or electronegativity differences, all the chemical shifts are at lower binding energy. Each of them represents a different metal-Si coordination or configuration. Analogous results for Sc overlayers indicate that at least two reacted species are present. For both Ti and Sc, the reaction is started at submonolayer coverages. Analysis of the Si 2p intensity attenuation curves shows an evolution characterized by the sequential growth of the different species. Indeed, each species grows, reaches saturation, and is then attenuated. This is associated with the competition between diffusion and reaction at the interface.
The political-media complex

(1992). The political‐media complex. Communication Monographs: Vol. 59, No. 4, pp. 397-400.
Women's Work and Wages in the United States

I. Changes in women's work, 1900–1910. Trade and transportation, 203. — Manufactures; the continuance of the industrial revolution, 204. — Domestic and personal service workers, 206. — II. Wages of Women in the United States, 207. — Minimum wage means a living wage, 208. — Various investigations of actual wages, 209. — Effect of lost time and seasonal occupation, 210. — III. Causes of Low Wages, Lack of mobility, 212. — Youth, 213. — Race and immigration, 217. — Woman as a member of a family group, 222. — IV. Minimum wage legislation and the potential labor supply, 228. — Possible prolongation of the working years, 229. — Probable attraction of more women into industry, 230. — Part time workers may be transformed into full time, 230. — V. Conclusion, 232. — Needed measures of support for the minimum wage legislation, 234.
A social benefit-cost analysis of mandatory deposits on beverage containers

Abstract This paper presents a social efficiency analysis of mandatory deposits on beverage containers. Five kinds of resource effects are identified, evaluated and added up: (1) litter (both pickup and “eyesore” costs); (2) solid waste collection; (3) container costs; (4) production and distribution costs; and (5) consumer convenience. It is shown that the desirability, on efficiency grounds alone, of mandatory deposits is not indisputable; it depends critically on one's evaluation of (1) the average value of the time it takes consumers to return empty containers and (2) the average value of the “eyesore” benefit of a dramatically reduced (i.e., by around three-fourths) volume of beverage container litter.
Quantitative aspects of proline utilization during flight in tsetse flies

ABSTRACT. The proline concentration of the haemolymph in resting tsetse flies provides a reasonable indication of their total proline content. Estimates of pre-flight proline content obtained on this basis were compared with the proline content of flies that had been flown for different durations to provide an estimate of the rate of proline consumption at different stages of flight. The results indicate that the apparent ability of tsetse flies to continue flight after their proline reserves have been exhausted is an artefact of experimental procedure. It is concluded that the flight capacity of tsetse flies is effectively limited by the magnitude of their proline reserve, although this reserve is capable of being supplemented to some extent by the limited synthetic capacity of the fat body.
Myocardial ischemia detected by transesophageal echocardiography in a patient undergoing peripheral vascular surgery

Prevention and early treatment of myocardial ischemia remain among the primary goals of the anesthesiologist taking care of high-risk patients, such as those undergoing vascular surgery. Guidelines have been published to assist in directing preoperative evaluation and optimization of cardiovascular status. Although perioperative monitoring allows early detection of ischemic events, all monitors have limitations that must be understood before they can be used effectively. We present a case of severe intraoperative myocardial dysfunction detected only by transesophageal echocardiography in a patient undergoing a peripheral vascular procedure. Preoperative and intraoperative management is also discussed.
Feasibility of autologous cord blood cells for infants with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy.

Objective To assess feasibility and safety of providing autologous umbilical cord blood (UCB) cells to neonates with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). Study design We enrolled infants in the intensive care nursery who were cooled for HIE and had available UCB in an open-label study of non-cyropreserved autologous volume- and red blood cell-reduced UCB cells (up to 4 doses adjusted for volume and red blood cell content, 1-5 × 107 cells/dose). We recorded UCB collection and cell infusion characteristics, and pre- and post-infusion vital signs. As exploratory analyses, we compared cell recipients' hospital outcomes (mortality, oral feeds at discharge) and 1-year survival with Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, 3rd edition scores ≥85 in 3 domains (cognitive, language, and motor development) with cooled infants who did not have available cells. Results Twenty-three infants were cooled and received cells. Median collection and infusion volumes were 36 and 4.3 mL. Vital signs including oxygen saturation were similar before and after infusions in the first 48 postnatal hours. Cell recipients and concurrent cooled infants had similar hospital outcomes. Thirteen of 18 (74%) cell recipients and 19 of 46 (41%) concurrent cooled infants with known 1-year outcomes survived with scores >85. Conclusions Collection, preparation, and infusion of fresh autologous UCB cells for use in infants with HIE is feasible. A randomized double-blind study is needed.
Marching to the beat of Moore's Law

Area density scaling in integrated circuits, defined as transistor count per unit area, has followed the famous observation-cum-prediction by Gordon Moore for many generations. Known as "Moore's Law" which predicts density doubling every 18-24 month, it has provided all important synchronizing guidance and reference for tools and materials suppliers, IC manufacturers and their customers as to what minimal requirements their products and services need to meet to satisfy technical and financial expectations in support of the infrastructure required for the development and manufacturing of corresponding technology generation nodes. Multiple lithography solutions are usually under considerations for any given node. In general, three broad classes of solutions are considered: evolutionary - technology that is extension of existing technology infrastructure at similar or slightly higher cost and risk to schedule; revolutionary - technology that discards significant parts of the existing infrastructure at similar cost, higher risk to schedule but promises higher capability as compared to the evolutionary approach; and last but not least, disruptive - approach that as a rule promises similar or better capabilities, much lower cost and wholly unpredictable risk to schedule and products yields. This paper examines various lithography approaches, their respective merits against criteria of respective infrastructure availability, affordability and risk to IC manufacturer's schedules and strategy involved in developing and selecting best solution in an attempt to sort out key factors that will impact the decision on the lithography choice for large-scale manufacturing for the future technology nodes.
Using Children's Books as an Approach to Enhancing Our Understanding of Disability

Abstract Children's books can be used as a tool for teaching about the unique needs of children with disabilities. This article offers strategies for using books as a medium for increasing our understanding about disability. In the article a disability is viewed as an aspect of cultural diversity. A list of children's books focusing on the topic of disability is offered.
INFLUENCE OF AUTONOMIC BLOCKADE ON ACONITINE INDUCED PULMONARY EDEMA.

Summary1. Bilateral injection of aconitine into the preoptic areas of rats results in a marked rise in systemic arterial pressure and a rise in pulmonary venous pressure followed or accompanied by ...
Pharmacotherapy of heparin- induced thrombocytopenia.

Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is a life-and-limb threatening condition that is associated with the development of antibodies that activate platelets and the coagulation system in the presence of unfractionated heparin or low molecular weight heparin. The binding of antibody to heparin-PF-4 complexes can activate platelets, leading to an acute, often catastropic, thrombotic diathesis. The most common laboratory finding is the development of thrombocytopenia 5 or more days after beginning heparin treatment, which occur in up to 1 – 5% of patients exposed to heparin, depending on type of heparin and indication for anticoagulation. The onset of thrombocytopenia can be immediate or delayed for several weeks after the exposure to heparin. Approximately 50 – 60% of patients who develop HIT manifest acute venous or arterial thrombosis and a significant percentage of these patients die or develop vascular gangrene of a limb that requires amputation. Given the severe sequelae associated with HIT, recogniti...
Optimization with Vector — Valued Cost

Up till now we have considered problems involving a single performance index or cost, namely, a scalar-valued functional. This is predicated on the supposition that one can select a single, overriding criterion in the form of a functional whose value is to be extremized. However, as we have observed a long time ago (Ref. 17.1), “one person’s optimum may well be another’s pessimum.” For example, in designing a product the engineers may wish to maximize strength or durability, the environmentalists may strive for minimum pollution, while the managers may desire to minimize cost or to maximize profit, and so on. In general these goals are not compatible; that is, one would not expect to be able to arrive at a design that results in the simultaneous satisfaction of all parties who can influence the design.