cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Strong Support Effects on the Insulator to Metal Transition in Supported Pt Clusters as Observed by X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy

The development of a new in situ probe of metallic character in supported metal clusters utilizing X-ray absorption spectroscopy is described. The technique is based on the extent of screening of the core-hole left in the neutral final state after the X-ray absorption. The technique allows for the clear differentiation between local interatomic charge transfer and more delocalized metallic screening. The particle size at the metal insulator transition is found to depend strongly on the electron richness of the support oxygen atoms (i.e., ionic vs covalent oxides). Pt particles on supports with electron poor oxygen atoms (covalent) show metallic screening for sizes as small as 12 A in diameter. In contrast, on supports with electron rich oxygen atoms (ionic) the Pt particles do not show metallic behavior until around 20 A. The wide variation of previously reported estimates of the particle size at which the insulator to metal transition occurs is explained, giving a consistent picture for the onset of metallic character, and the reasons for the strong support effect.
Improved technique for investigation of cell metabolism by31P NMR spectroscopy

SIp NMR studies on microorganisms have been carried out with the cells embedded in agarose gel. The novel use of the gel for the NMR studies has advantages over the usual liquid suspensions in terms of improved reproducibility of data and cell viability, with no net loss of spectral quality. Polyphosphate formation in Escherichia coli was monitored continuously for up to 24 h and metabolic changes in yeast for 6 h. Changes of the intracellular pH during glycolysis in yeast were determined from the chemical shift of the internal Pi. NMR titration curves of Pi in the presence of Mg2+ indicate uncertainties in internal pH values estimated by this technique.
Force measurements on platelet surfaces with high spatial resolution under physiological conditions

Abstract Investigations on platelets are essential to understanding the regulation of hemostasis and thrombosis. Activated platelets undergo dramatic conformational and morphological changes mediated by numerous plasma proteins. AFM techniques can combine high spatial resolution with measurements of the mechanical properties of platelet surfaces. Here, we demonstrate two-dimensional force mapping over a human platelet adsorbed on glass under physiological buffer. The best resolution of platelet membrane elasticity we obtained was at 15.6×15.6 nm 2 pixel −1 . In addition, quantitative information on platelet surface charge density was extracted from individual force curves with the aid of DLVO theory.
A Comparative Study of Fringe Benefit Offerings for Entry Level Managers

Labor shortages in managerial personnel are projected for the 1990s. Foodservice employers will be vying with other hospitality employers for qualified candidates. Foodservice organizations may be at a competitive disadvantage because their positions are perceived to lack the glamour and prestige associated with resorts/ tourism jobs. Recruiters need to emphasize other organizational strengths, such as those employee benefits which job hunters prize. This article reports the results of an industry survey on employee I fringe benefits offered to entry level hospitality managers. A comparative industry-wide analysis indicates that institutional foodservice employers provide superior benefits in a number of benefit categories.
Neuronal death in newborn striatum after hypoxia-ischemia is necrosis and evolves with oxidative stress.

The mechanisms for neurodegeneration after hypoxia-ischemia (HI) in newborns are not understood. We tested the hypothesis that striatal neuron death is necrosis and evolves with oxidative stress and selective organelle damage. Piglets ( approximately 1 week old) were used in a model of hypoxia-asphyxia and survived for 3, 6, 12, or 24 h. Neuronal death was progressive over 3-24 h recovery, with approximately 80% of putaminal neurons dead at 24 h. Striatal DNA was digested randomly at 6-12 h. Ultrastructurally, dying neurons were necrotic. Damage to the Golgi apparatus and rough endoplasmic reticulum occurred at 3-12 h, while most mitochondria appeared intact until 12 h. Mitochondria showed early suppression of activity, then a transient burst of activity at 6 h, followed by mitochondrial failure (determined by cytochrome c oxidase assay). Cytochrome c was depleted at 6 h after HI and thereafter. Damage to lysosomes occurred within 3-6 h. By 3 h recovery, glutathione levels were reduced, and peroxynitrite-mediated oxidative damage to membrane proteins, determined by immunoblots for nitrotyrosine, occurred at 3-12 h. The Golgi apparatus and cytoskeleton were early targets for extensive tyrosine nitration. Striatal neurons also sustained hydroxyl radical damage to DNA and RNA within 6 h after HI. We conclude that early glutathione depletion and oxidative stress between 3 and 6 h reperfusion promote damage to membrane and cytoskeletal proteins, DNA and RNA, as well as damage to most organelles, thereby causing neuronal necrosis in the striatum of newborns after HI.
Building Gaussian Process Based Metamodels Using Variable-Fidelity Experiments for Dynamic Analysis of Mechanical Systems

Given the highly nonlinear attribute of the underlying dynamics associated with the time evolution of multibody systems, an open question in mechanical system simulation is how one can reliably replace a model whose simulation is time consuming with a more expeditious one. Pushing this idea to the limit one can all together eliminate the dynamics of the problem using a set of simulations that train a predictor that is later used to provide the time evolution of the dynamic system. This paper investigates a Gaussian Random Function (GRF) based approach that attempts to address these questions. It relies on a framework recently proposed in the Statistical Analysis community that largely deals with the issues of model validation, calibration, and data integration. The approach investigated has several steps that are illustrated with a slider-crank mechanical systems whose time evolution is governed by a nonlinear set of index 3 Differential Algebraic Equations (DAEs). The paper concludes with a set of remarks on the potential of GRFs in the context of time domain analysis of mechanical systems.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Compulsive buying: Does it matter how it’s measured?

Abstract The primary purpose of the present study is to compare and contrast the validity and reliability of the Faber and O’Guinn [Faber, R. J., & O’Guinn, T. C. (1992). A clinical screener for compulsive buying. Journal of Consumer Research, 19 , 459–469] and Edwards [Edwards, E. A. (1993). Development of a new scale for measuring compulsive buying behavior. Financial Counseling and Planning, 4 , 67–84] compulsive buying scales within a nomological network. Although both psychometric scales were designed to measure compulsive buying, the two instruments appear to be distinct in how they conceptualize the compulsive buying phenomenon. The seven-item compulsive buying scale developed by Faber and O’Guinn (1992) is the most commonly used scale for measuring compulsive buying. The Edwards scale in contrast is not as well-known. Empirical results of the present study suggest that the two compulsive buying scales may be capturing either separate constructs, or different dimensions of the same compulsive buying construct. Edwards (1993) compulsive buying scale, for instance, is correlated with materialism but not with attitudes toward money while the Faber and O’Guinn scale is not correlated with materialism but is correlated with attitudes toward money. The present study’s results suggest, among other things, that it does in fact appear to matter how compulsive buying is measured.
Complex potential surface for the B 1 2 metastable state of the water anion

The potential-energy surface corresponding to the complex resonance energy of the $^{2}B_{1}$ Feshbach resonance state of the water anion is constructed in its full dimensionality. Complex Kohn variational scattering calculations are used to compute the resonance width, while large-scale configuration interaction calculations are used to compute the resonance energy. Near the equilibrium geometry, an accompanying ground-state potential surface is constructed from configuration interaction calculations that treat correlation at a level similar to that used in the calculations on the anion.
Disease management organisation approach to chronic illness

This paper states that traditional facilities (i.e., hospitals, remote physician offices or referral care) may not be the best choice for chronic diseases that require long-term care. The increased need for specialised managed care for the growing numbers in the USA who require such care suggests that a disease management organisation (DMO) approach can best diagnose, treat and use health informatics to create treatment protocols for that specific population. Chronic viral hepatitis in Central Florida is presented to illustrate the need for DMOs that have a centralised structure, provide a platform for data acquisition through patient evaluation and diagnosis and provide both immediate treatment recommendations and long-term health monitoring. Unless surgery or an emergency requires acute care, this paper suggests building local capacity in terms of DMOs for managing chronic illness versus hospital management, on the premise that separate facilities can provide more cost-effective and defined treatment for the compounding aspects of chronic disease, to achieve the best outcomes for patients.
Studies on the Mode of Action of Glucocorticoids in Rats: A Comparison of the Effects of Cortisol and Glucose on the Formation of Liver Glycogen

Five rats from a group of adrenalectomized, fasted rats were given a single injection of approximately 1 mg cortisol/100 g body weight, after which blood glucose levels were measured at intervals over a period of 3 hours. Another 5 rats from the same group were given a series of subcutaneous injections of glucose during the 3-hr period, and their levels of blood glucose were measured at similar intervals. At the end of the 3 hours, liver glycogen was determined. Although the average blood glucose levels of the glucose-injected group were higher throughout the experiment than those of the cortisol-injected group, the cortisol-injected rats were found to have considerably more glycogen. The conclusion is drawn that the early changes in liver glycogen resulting from the injection of cortisol in fasted, adrenalectomized rats cannot be accounted for quantitatively by changes in blood glucose levels alone.
Waveforms for defibrillation and cardioversion: recent experimental and clinical studies.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW The advent of biphasic waveforms for external defibrillation has generated extensive experimental and clinical investigation. At the same time, it has led to the development and clinical use of biphasic waveforms of several different designs. Finally, other types of waveforms, primarily triphasic, have entered experimental evaluation. RECENT FINDINGS There is virtually universal agreement that biphasic waveforms, regardless of design, have greater efficacy in defibrillation of ventricular fibrillation and in cardioversion of atrial fibrillation when compared with monophasic waveforms. It remains unresolved, however, whether any specific biphasic waveform has greater clinical superiority than others. Likewise, it remains to be demonstrated whether any biphasic waveform is less injurious to myocardial function than another and whether injury, if it is incurred, is secondary to peak delivered current or to delivered energy. Biphasic truncated exponential waveforms are used by most manufacturers, whereas a rectilinear biphasic waveform and a pulsed waveform also are being used clinically. SUMMARY Biphasic waveforms have supplanted monophasic waveforms for defibrillation and cardioversion. They include biphasic truncated exponential, rectilinear, and pulsed biphasic versions. At this time, there is no certain evidence of clinical superiority of one waveform over another in terms of either efficacy or myocardial injury.
Palliative endoscopic surgery in advanced sinonasal and anterior skull base neoplasms.

Abstract Objectives To explore the role of endoscopic surgery for palliative intent in patients with advanced sinonasal and anterior skull base neoplasms. Study Design Retrospective, multi-institutional case series. Setting Tertiary academic center. Subjects and Methods The medical records of six patients with advanced sinonasal and skull base neoplasms undergoing endoscopic surgery for palliative purposes were reviewed for patient demographics, treatment course, and postoperative outcome measures. Results The histology in this series included metastatic sinonasal mucosal melanoma in three patients, and high-grade sarcoma, chordoma, and pituitary carcinoma each in one patient. The predominant symptoms in all patients related to sinonasal mass effect and local extension of disease. Symptomatic improvement was achieved in five of the six patients despite the poor overall outcome from the underlying lesion. There were no perioperative complications in this series. Conclusion Endoscopic surgery may allow for palliation in advanced sinonasal and skull base neoplasms. The indications for this procedure are individualized on the basis of disease demographics and overall prognosis.
The liver in AIDS.

Deficits in cell-mediated immunity in AIDS result in a wide variety of hepatic complications, including granulomas, cytomegalovirus hepatitis, multimicrobial AIDS cholangiopathy, Kaposi's sarcoma, and lymphoma. Kupffer cells are the major hepatic target cell population for human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1), and rhesus monkeys with simian immunodeficiency virus infection have served as a model for ultrastructural analysis of viral clearance by these cells. The majority of patients with established AIDS reveal abnormalities on serum liver tests. In these individuals, the differential diagnosis includes opportunistic infections and neoplasms, as well as possible concomitant chronic viral hepatitis B, C, D, and G, and drug hepatotoxicity. This article reviews the spectrum of hepatic pathology in AIDS and discusses the effects of HIV-1 infection on hepatitis virus infections.
Development of a NdFe-steel Hybrid Wiggler For SSRL

A NdFe-steel hybrid configured permanent magnet wiggler is being developed for insertion in the SPEAR ring at the Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory, SSRL. Featuring 15 complete periods, a 12.9-cm magnetic period length, and a peak magnetic field range of 0.01-1.4 Tesla, the wiggler was designed to provide an intense radiation source for the National Laboratory/University of California participating research team (PRT) facility on Beam Line VIII-W. A new permanent magnet material, neodymium-iron (NdFe), is being used in the magnetic structure instead of rare-earth cobalt, REC, used previously in the 27-period wiggler now on Beam Line VI. NdFe advantages include a 16% higher coercive force (10.6-kOe vs. 9.0-kOe) and lower cost. The wiggler design features a thin walled, rigid vacuum chamber with pole pockets on opposing surfaces allowing a 2.1-cm minimum magnetic gap with a 1.8-cm beam vertical aperture. At 3 GeV the wiggler at peak field is expected to radiate approximately two kilowatts in a 5-mrad horizontal fan with a 7.8 keV critical energy. Calculations are in progress to model the wiggler radiation spatial and spectral radiation emission.
Thermally controlled preferential molecular aggregation state in a thiacarbocyanine dye.

Herein we report the experimental and theoretical study of the temperature dependence of a thiacarbocyanine dye in its monomer, H- and J-aggregates states. We demonstrate the ability to control the ratio of monomer, H- and/or J-aggregates with heat. We link such a control to the conformation dependence of the molecule. An alternative way to gain access to the dominating species without changing the concentration as a complete switching mechanism between all the present species is proposed. The results presented in this work lead to a better understanding of thiacarbocyanine dye’s behavior.
Research note: Job design and technology: A sociotechnical systems perspective

This study is a constructive replication of investigations into the technology-job design relationship. It is hypothesized that the utilization of a preprogrammed/system controlled technology reduces environmental variance resulting in routine (simple) versus non-routine (complex) job designs. Empirically it was noted that employees perceive and describe their jobs as routine when they interact with a system controlled technology.
Keratin-Positive Ewing's Sarcoma: An Ultrastructural Study of 12 Cases:

Ewing's sarcoma/primitive neuroectodermal tumor (EWS/PNET) is an aggressive neoplasm of bone and soft tissue. Histologically, it is characterized by the presence of small round blue cells, which us...
A rare η2-butadienyl complex from an alkyne double insertion with double vinylidene rearrangement

A rare η2-butadienyl Ir(III) complex with a weak Ir···C bond is formed from 1-alkyne double insertion with the independent double alkyne to vinylidene rearrangement. A reaction intermediate is isolated, and labeling and crossover experiments indicate the intramolecularity of both alkyne to vinylidene rearrangements.
Workplace Flexibility as an Organizational Response to the Aging of the Workforce: A Comparison of Nonprofit and For-Profit Organizations

The degree to which flexible work options are available to employees has been used as an indicator of the extent to which organizations have responded to workforce needs, including those related to the aging of the workforce. This article uses an organizational adaptation framework to determine factors that explain variation in the degree to which flexible work options are offered in for-profit and non-profit organizations. Findings indicate that while the scope of flexible work options offered was similar among for-profits and non-profits, the factors that predicted variance in the scope of these options differed somewhat between the two sectors.
ACP Journal Club. Review: Aspirin does not reduce CV events but may reduce nonfatal stroke in peripheral artery disease.

Source Citation Berger JS, Krantz MJ, Kittelson JM, Hiatt WR. Aspirin for the prevention of cardiovascular events in patients with peripheral artery disease: a meta-analysis of randomized trials. J...
Synthesis and electrochemical properties of bis(3,4-furyldimethylthio)tetrathiafulvalene and other tetrathiafulvalene donors with eight-membered heterocycles

Abstract Bis(3,4-furyldimethylthio)tetrathiafulvalene, bis(but-2-ene-1,4-dithio)tetrathiafulvalene and bis(2,3-dimethylbut-2-ene-1,4-dithio)-tetrathiafulvalene are synthesized in high yield from tetrakis(cyanoethylthio)tetrathiafulvalene and primary alkyl halides. Electrochemical properties are compared and the new donors are related to analogous quasi-one-dimensional organic metals.
Ultraviolet extinction to 10.8 inverse microns

UV extinction curves that represent observed variations i diffuse clouds (Zeta Oph, Xi Per, and Sigma Sco) have been derived by combining IUE and Voyager data and have been modeled by a multicomponent size distribution of silicate and carbonaceous giants. We have used theoretical model atmospheres as our reddening-free standards, and, in the case of Zeta Oph, also compare with the use of a stellar standard. An attempt was made to classify the UV spectra via theoretical spectral indices, but still missing line opacity appears to limit the use of this method at the present. The modeling includes five possible grain ingrediants, largge (0.015-0.25 micrometers) and small (0.005 micrometers) silicate grains, similarly large and small carbonaceous grains, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). The observed extinction curves are fitted by the model via nonlinear Chi-square-minimization, varying the fractional amount of cosmic Si and C that are locked up in each igredient. The observed variation from 'steep' to 'flat' UV extinction curves is found to correspond to a modest model variation in the lower limit of the power-law size distribution of the large grains. Graphite is found to be necessary grain ingredient that cannot be replaced by the laboratory amorphous carbon materials. Carbonaceous mantles on the larger silicate grains provide no good fits to the observed curves. Using absorption properties of neutral laboratory PAHs limits PAHs to a few percent of the cosmic C abundance for acceptable fits that also give values for R(sub V) close to the observed values.
Wireless Body Area Networks: Where does energy go?

Wireless Body Area Networks (WBANs) promise to revolutionize health care in the near future. By integrating bio-sensors with a mobile phone it is possible to monitor an individual's health and related behaviors. Monitoring is done by analyzing the sensor data either on a mobile phone or on a remote server by relaying this information over a wireless network. However, the “wireless” aspect of WBAN is being limited by the battery life of the mobile phone. A WBAN designer has a range of options to trade-off limited battery with many important metrics. From the choice of programming languages to dynamically choosing between computation versus communication under varying signal strengths, there are several non-obvious choices that can have dramatic impact on battery life. In this research we use an in-field deployed WBAN called KNOWME to present a comprehensive quantification of a mobile phone's energy consumption. We quantify the energy impact of different programming paradigms, sensing modalities, data storage, and conflicting computation and communication demands. Based on the knowledge gained from the measurement studies, we propose an Active Energy Profiling strategy that uses short profiling periods to automatically determine the most energy efficient choices for running a WBAN.
Dynamics of arsenic speciation in surface waters: As(III) production by algae

Algae reduce and methylate arsenate [As(V)]. The end product of the overall transformation reaction can be arsenite [As(III)] or methylated arsenic. Field and laboratory data suggest a strong correlation between the end product of the reaction and the growth rate of the algae, with As(III) only produced during log (exponential, fast) growth. The result is a peak in As(III) concentration preceding or coincident with the algal bloom. This paper analyzes data from 18 different water bodies (five lakes, one river, six estuary/marine sites, six experimental sites). Algal blooms, As(III) peaks and algal blooms with preceding or coincident As(III) peaks were identified. In total, 80 algal blooms were identified, 49 (61%) of which were associated with As(III) peaks. In 78% of water bodies algal blooms were typically (>50%) associated with As(III) peaks. The average time lag between As(III) peaks and algal blooms was 20 days (standard deviation 18 days). Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Substrate effects in the post-ischemic myocardium

A study was undertaken to examine the effects of glucose versus pyruvate as the sole substrate following severe myocardial ischemia. Glycolysis usually contributes only a small amount to total ATP production and may be rate limiting in providing tricarboxcylic acid (TCA) cycle substrates. Consequently, pyruvate may be a more effective substrate by bypassing glycolysis to feed directly to the TCA cycle and oxidative phosphorylation. Isolated rat hearts were studied in a retrograde (Langendorff) perfusion apparatus while in an NMR spectrometer. Rate pressure product (RPP), myocardial oxygen consumption (MVO2), and the unidirectional Pi → ATP rate were measured in control and postischemic hearts with or without the inotrope dobutamine. The unidirectional Pi → ATP rate was higher in the glucose than the pyruvate hearts and the difference increased further postischemia. This increase over that of the pyruvate hearts has been attributed to a glycolytic component of ATP metabolism. Oxygen consumption was higher in pyruvate hearts at equivalent levels of performance. It thus appears that the glycolysis rate is significant and may be elevated following severe myocardial ischemia. Perfusion with pyruvate requires increased rates of oxidative phosphorylation to make up for the loss of glycolytically produced ATP. Optimal postischemic substrate delivery may require several compounds, one of which should be glucose.
Interaction of sodium overlayers with the PbS(100) (galena) surface: evidence for a Na↔Pb exchange reaction

Abstract X-ray standing wave (XSW) and core level photoemission methods were used to study the atomic and electronic structure of sodium overlayers on cleaved (100) surfaces of the mineral galena (PbS). Both techniques provide clear evidence of an exchange reaction in which, at least, a portion of the surface lead ions (Pb 2+ ) is replaced by sodium ions (Na + ). The replacement results in a new component in the photoemission spectra associated with reduced lead, while a direct change in the lead surface atom position relative to the 200 bulk diffraction planes is observed in the XSW signa. Changes in the surface geometry of sulfur ions are smaller. The interface of the reacted PbS surface is strongly disordered, as indicated by a small coherent fraction (0.37–0.48) for sodium and rapid quenching of the substrate (1×1) low energy electron diffraction pattern.
Is Oregon's Farmland Preservation Program Working?

Abstract Oregon's nationally recognized farmland protection program has had some success, but the future viability of commercial farming in Oregon remains in doubt. The recent proliferation of hobby farms threatens that viability by increasing land prices and fragmenting land holdings, thus hindering the expansion of commercial farms and the consolidation of parcels into commercial farm units. To curb the growth in hobby farms, Oregon's legislature and courts have tightened the standards that govern future residential development in agricultural zones. Local governments also have recognized the hobby farm problem and appear to have improved their administration of the state-mandated farmland preservation program.
Mechanisms for Vasopressin Effects on Intraocular Pressure in Anesthetized Rats

Continuous intracameral infusions of a balanced salt solution (0.175 microliter min-1) have been reported to raise intraocular pressure (IOP) in anesthetized rats. Palm et al. (1995) previously reported that this effect was attenuated significantly by inclusion of arginine-vasopressin (AVP, 10 ng 0.175 microliter-1) in the infusate. This study used experimental and computer simulation methods to investigate factors underlying these changes in IOP. First, constant intracameral infusions of artificial cerebrospinal fluid (aCSF) at different fixed rates (0.049-0.35 microliter min-1) were used to estimate the outflow resistance. Secondly, IOP responses were measured during an 2 hr intracameral infusion of either aCSF or AVP that was the sum of a small constant component (0.05 microliter min-1) and a larger periodic component (0.25 microliter min-1, cycling for 4 min on, then 4 min off); the mean infusion rate was 0.175 microliter min-1. As shown previously for 0.175 microliter min-1 constant infusions, the periodic aCSF infusion induced a significant rise in IOP that was attenuated by AVP administration. Complex demodulation analysis and the estimated gain parameter of a second order transfer function fit to the periodic responses indicated that outflow resistance increased significantly during the infusions in both aCSF and AVP groups, but that the indices of resistance did not differ significantly between aCSF and AVP infused eyes. This finding implies that changes in outflow resistance do not explain the difference in IOP responses to intracameral aCSF and AVP. The two responses differed significantly, though, in damping factors, such that the aCSF responses were considerably more underdamped than the AVP responses. It is hypothesized that aCSF-induced increase in IOP reflects both (1) a small component reflecting increased outflow resistance and (2) a larger non-resistive component. Since the non-resistive component is insensitive to pretreatment with acetazolamide, it is suggested that the aCSF-induced elevation in IOP reflects primarily vascular perfusion changes that are reduced by local vasoconstrictor actions of AVP. The latter mechanism likely maintains vascular perfusion of the globe when intraocular hypertension develops.
Scales of gravity

We propose a framework in which the quantum gravity scale can be as low as ${10}^{\ensuremath{-}3}\mathrm{eV}.$ The key assumption is that the standard model ultraviolet cutoff is much higher than the quantum gravity scale. This ensures that we observe conventional weak gravity. We construct an explicit brane-world model in which the brane-localized standard model is coupled to strong 5D gravity of infinite-volume flat extra space. Because of the high ultraviolet scale, the standard model fields generate a large graviton kinetic term on the brane. This kinetic term ``shields'' the standard model from the strong bulk gravity. As a result, an observer on the brane sees weak 4D gravity up to astronomically large distances beyond which gravity becomes five dimensional. Modeling quantum gravity above its scale by the closed string spectrum we show that the shielding phenomenon protects the standard model from an apparent phenomenological catastrophe due to the exponentially large number of light string states. The collider experiments, astrophysics, cosmology and gravity measurements independently point to the same lower bound on the quantum gravity scale, ${10}^{\ensuremath{-}3}\mathrm{eV}.$ For this value the model has experimental signatures both for colliders and for submillimeter gravity measurements. Black holes reveal certain interesting properties in this framework.
FRET-enabled biological characterization of polymeric micelles.

Translation of micelles from the laboratory to the clinic is limited by a poor understanding of their in vivo fate following administration. In this paper, we establish a robust approach to real-time monitoring of the in vivo stability of micelles using Forster Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET). This characterization method allows for exquisite insight into the fate of micellar constituents, affording the capabilities to rapidly and efficiently evaluate a library of synthetically derived micellar systems as new therapeutic platforms in vivo. FRET-enabled biological characterization further holds potential to tailor material systems being uniquely investigated across the delivery community towards the next generation of stable therapeutics for disease management.
Relative Intensities of Band Lines in the Infra-red Spectrum of a Diatomic Gas

IN a previous theoretical discussion of the relative intensities of band lines in the infra-red vibration-rotation spectrum of a diatomic gas by one of us (E. C. Kemble, Proc. Nat. Acad. Sci., 10, 274, 1924, and Phys. Rev. 25, 1, 1925) the formula
Two new ligands for carbonic anhydrase mimicry

Abstract The syntheses of tris(2-nicotinic acid)methanol methyl ether 5 and tris(2-picolinic acid)methanol methyl ether 6, two tridentate ligands designed to also act as scaffolds for constructing chiral environments around their metal binding sites, is described. Improved yields for the essential lithiation–alkylation reactions that generate the trispyridyl core of these types of ligands are reported.
Adsorption of a Radiolabeled Random Hydrophilic/Hydrophobic Copolymer at the Liquid/Liquid Interface: Kinetics, Isotherms, and Self-Exchange

The synthesis and labeling (with 35S) of a water-soluble random copolymer of styrenesulfonate and tert-butylstyrene (20 mol %) is described. Adsorption of this copolymer to the toluene/water interface is followed in situ using a proximity radiometric detection scheme, where the organic phase also serves as a scintillator. Adsorption isotherms, determined with the aqueous phase either salt-free or containing 1 M NaCl, are of the high-affinity type, with respective pseudolimiting adsorbed amounts of 0.24 and 1.4 mg m-2. Adsorption is fairly rapid, occurring with a time constant of a few minutes. Self-exchange of radiolabeled polymer at the interface, performed with a solution excess of unlabeled polymer, is complete within a few hours, providing evidence that the surface excess is under thermodynamic, rather than kinetic, control. Preliminary comparisons of the liquid/liquid interface and a chemically similar polystyrene/water interface reveal that the adsorption isotherms are similar despite the additional...
An Unbounded Matroid Intersection Polyhedron

Abstract A characterization of the maximum-cardinality common independent sets of two matroids via an unbounded convex polyhedron is proved, confirming a conjecture of D.R. Fulkerson. A similar result, involving a bounded polyhedron, is the well-known matroid intersection polyhedron theorem of Jack Edmonds; Edmonds's theorem is used in the proof.
Tunneling injection into modulation doping structures: a mechanism for negative differential resistance three-terminal high-speed devices

A tunneling injection mechanism into the channel of a modulation doping field effect transistor is discussed. In the presaturation regime of the drain current, the source current exhibits negative differential resistance as a result of the charge control by the gate field in the channel. The tunneling three-terminal device promises high-frequency operation. >
Antimüllerian hormone as a measure of reproductive function in female childhood cancer survivors

Objective To evaluate the utility of measuring antimullerian hormone (AMH) in childhood cancer survivors to assess ovarian reserve, pubertal status, and fertility potential. Design Cross-sectional study. Setting Academic medical center. Patient(s) Fifty-three female childhood cancer survivors, median age 13.9 years (range: 9–25 years) recruited at least 1 year from completion of cancer therapy. Intervention(s) None. Main Outcome Measure(s) Serum AMH, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and estradiol measurements, pubertal/menstrual history and Tanner staging, with risk of gonadotoxicity classified as low or high based on chemotherapy agent and pelvic/abdominal radiation. Result(s) Thirty-one of the 53 patients (58%) in the cohort had diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) detected by an AMH value 12 IU/mL in 17 patients (32%). The patients exposed to high-risk chemotherapy or pelvic radiation were at statistically significantly higher risk for DOR as measured by their AMH level. The AMH level was also statistically significantly lower in the patients who had delayed puberty. Conclusion(s) Using the serum gonadotropins level to screen childhood cancer survivors for ovarian failure is a suboptimal method. The AMH value identified the patients at risk for delayed puberty and those who could benefit from fertility preservation counseling, which makes AMH perhaps the optimal screening tool for assessing ovarian reserve in this population.
Threatened fishes of the world: Xenotoca eiseni Rutter, 1986 (Goodeidae)

Common names: Redtail splitfin, redtail goodeid, mexicalpique cola roja (Miller et al. 2005). Conservation status: Listed as endangered by Jelks et al. (2008) and Dominguez-Dominguez et al. (2005), but not by IUCN (IUCN 2009) or SEMARNAT (NOM 2001). Identification: Possesses a single posteriorly positioned dorsal fin, orange to red-orange pigmentation on the caudal peduncle extending to the caudal fin, most prominent in males; fins without dark pigment; dorsal surface dusky; females lighter ventrally without irregular spotting on body; maximum size 75 mm SL (Miller et al. 2005). Illustration by CSK-L (male, 43 mm SL). Phylogenetic and phylogeographic analyses conducted by Webb et al. (2004), Doadrio and Dominguez (2004), and Kenway (2008). Distribution: Tributaries of the Rios Grande de Santiago, Ameca, Ayuquila, Compostela, and Coahuayana and endorheic Lago de Magdalena basins, Mexico. Abundance: Dominguez-Dominguez et al. (2008), De la VegaSalazar (2006), Dominguez-Dominguez et al. (2005) and our own sampling (2006 & 2008) indicated that many populations are extirpated, or have become small and localized. It was common in the Santiago and Magdalena basins, and present, but not abundant in the Rios Ameca and Compostela. Decreases in abundance occurred at Rio Compostela from 2006–2008 despite similar environmental conditions. In 2008, Poecilia butleri was more abundant than previously; possibly indicating competition between these two species. Ecology: Occurs in spring-fed pools, streams, and lakes to depths of 1 m, aquatic vegetation is occasionally present. Produces young in March and April (Miller et al. 2005). Threats: Habitat degradation, specifically water pollution and extraction of water for irrigation, and introduction of non-natives. Conservation action: “Xenotoca” eiseni receives no governmental protection. Conservation recommendation: Additional surveys are needed to investigate environmental conditions and population sizes of extant populations. Institution of a monitoring program and Environ Biol Fish (2010) 87:219–220 DOI 10.1007/s10641-010-9584-2
Social network analysis of self-taught e-learning communities

The technique of Social Network Analysis (SNA) has been for years used extensively in the fields of sociology and communication research. Recently however, SNA has been extended to study online communication and virtual communities. In this paper, we have used SNA to analyse the social networks that have formed around a self-taught e-learning community. In traditional face-to-face learning environments, the students are part of a classroom where there is a teacher who presents the lectures and supervises the communication interactions. But what happens when the learning takes place online and there is no teacher to mentor the process? We have carried out SNA on such a community with the aim of discovering what roles, groups and characteristics the students take on when there is no teacher present and discuss the implications of our results.
Mirror augmented photovoltaics and time series analytics of the I–V curve parameters

Mirror augmented photovoltaics (MAPV) represents a potentially useful and cost effective path to increasing PV energy harvest. Collection of the full I–V curve enables extraction of information that can provide insights into the degradation phenomena. Because of the transcendental nature of the cell current as a function of voltage, it is not possible to solve in terms of I(V) explicitly, except by means of the Lambert W function. We investigated several techniques for parameterizing the I–V curve to extract the values of R s and R sh by developing our own custom models for solar cells and commercial modules using SPICE. Our models allowed for direct I–V curve generation given the input parameters of temperature, integrated irradiance, series and shunt resistance, reverse saturation current and diode ideality factor. Parameter variation in our SPICE model allowed for generation of I–V curves representing possible commercial modules. These digital I–V curves were analyzed as if they were collected from real, fielded modules and subjected to various parameter extraction techniques. Parameters extracted by these various techniques were then compared to the input values to verify accuracy and determine a relative error. We selected a method for accurately extracting values of R s and R sh and ideality factor over a range of interest. We will present this method, our current progress in automating this data collection and analysis process as well as the variation over 6 months of the daily values of n, R s and R sh for two mirror augmented PV modules.
Novel techniques of mechanical circulatory support for the right heart and Fontan circulation

Abstract Background Currently available ventricular assist devices are designed primarily for use in patients with left sided heart failure. This study evaluated the efficacy of the Jarvik 2000 ventricular assist device (VAD) as a pulmonary pump to power a Fontan circuit in a large animal model. Methods Without the use of cardiopulmonary bypass, Fontan circulations were surgically created in 4 pigs (50kg) using synthetic grafts from the inferior and superior vena cavas to the main pulmonary artery. Subsequently, the VAD was implanted within the common Fontan graft to provide a pulmonary pump. Direct chamber pressures and epicardial Doppler images were taken during the various phases of the experiment. Heart rate, femoral artery blood pressure, oxygen saturation, and aortic flow rate were continuously recorded. The outflow cannula of the VAD was then partially banded by 50% and then 75% to mimic increased afterload. Results Fontan and VAD implantation was successfully performed in all 4 animals. Arterial pressure and aortic flow decreased dramatically with institution of the Fontan but were restored to baseline upon activation of the VAD. The pressure within the systemic venous circulation rose precipitously with institution of the Fontan circulation and improved appropriately with activation of the VAD. Adequate perfusion was maintained during increased afterload. Conclusions An axial flow VAD can restore normal hemodynamics and cardiac output when used as a pulmonary pump in a Fontan circulation. A VAD can rescue a failing Fontan as a bridge to transplant or recovery, even in the setting of high pulmonary resistance.
A modified runs test for symmetry

Abstract We present a modification of a recently proposed test of symmetry about a known center. The new test uses Wilcoxon scores to weigh the runs and has a limiting normal distribution under the null hypothesis. A Monte Carlo study shows that it is more powerful than both the runs and Wilcoxon signed-rank test for the symmetry problem against alternative in the lambda family.
On the probability of chaos in large dynamical systems: A Monte Carlo study

Abstract In this paper we report the result of a Monte Carlo study on the probability of chaos in large dynamical systems. We use neural networks as the basis functions for the system dynamics and choose parameter values for the networks randomly. Our results show that as the dimension of the system and the complexity of the network increase, the probability of chaotic dynamics increases to 100%. Since neural networks are dense in the set of dynamical systems, our conclusion is that most large systems are chaotic.
Instantaneous energetics of puma kills reveal advantage of felid sneak attacks

Pumas (Puma concolor) live in diverse, often rugged, complex habitats. The energy they expend for hunting must account for this complexity but is difficult to measure for this and other large, cryptic carnivores. We developed and deployed a physiological SMART (species movement, acceleration, and radio tracking) collar that used accelerometry to continuously monitor energetics, movements, and behavior of free-ranging pumas. This felid species displayed marked individuality in predatory activities, ranging from low-cost sit-and-wait behaviors to constant movements with energetic costs averaging 2.3 times those predicted for running mammals. Pumas reduce these costs by remaining cryptic and precisely matching maximum pouncing force (overall dynamic body acceleration = 5.3 to 16.1g) to prey size. Such instantaneous energetics help to explain why most felids stalk and pounce, and their analysis represents a powerful approach for accurately forecasting resource demands required for survival by large, mobile predators.
Post‐packaging Pasteurization Reduces CIostridiur perfringens and Other Bacteria in Precooked Vacuum‐packaged Beef Loin Chunks

Precooked beef loin chunks were vacuum packaged after inoculation with Clostridium perfringens vegetative cells or spores. The control group was uninoculated. Chunks were either nonpasteurized or pasteurized, and stored at 4°C for up to 85 days. Pasteurization reduced populations of vegetative cells (VC) and vegetative cells from spores (VCS) of C. perfringens on beef chunks throughout 85 days of refrigerated storage. Without pasteurization, constant populations of VC and VCS were maintained for 28 and 65 days, respectively. Indige-nous microflora populations of nonpasteurized beef chunks increased for up to 28 days and remained high thereafter. Pasteurization prevented the microflora from exceeding populations of 200 log10/cm2 (surface) or mL (broth) for 85 days of storage. Pasteurization increased the shelf-life of precooked beef loin chunks.
Person attribute search for large-area video surveillance

This paper describes novel video analytics technology which allows an operator to search through large volumes of surveillance video data to find persons that match a particular attribute profile. Since the proposed technique is geared for surveillance of large areas, this profile consists of attributes that are observable at a distance (including clothing information, hair color, gender, etc) rather than identifying information at the face level. The purpose of this tool is to allow security staff or investigators to quickly locate a person-of-interest in real time (e.g., based on witness descriptions) or to speed up the process of video-based forensic investigations. The proposed algorithm consists of two main components: a technique for detecting individual moving persons in large and potentially crowded scenes, and an algorithm for scoring how well each detection matches a given attribute profile based on a generative probabilistic model. The system described in this paper has been implemented as a proof-of-concept interactive software tool and has been applied to different test video datasets, including collections in an airport terminal and collections in an outdoor environment for law enforcement monitoring. This paper discusses performance statistics measured on these datasets, as well as key algorithmic challenges and useful extensions of this work based on end-user feedback.1
Alcohol use among out-of-treatment crack using African-American women

Objective: The purpose of this study was to categorize the quantity and frequency of alcohol use among African–American women who were abusing crack cocaine and to explore relationships between cat...