cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Crossing versus locking: Bit threads and continuum multiflows

Bit threads are curves in holographic spacetimes that manifest boundary entanglement, and are represented mathematically by continuum analogues of network flows or multiflows. Subject to a density bound, the maximum number of threads connecting a boundary region to its complement computes the Ryu-Takayanagi entropy. When considering several regions at the same time, for example in proving entropy inequalities, there are various inequivalent density bounds that can be imposed. We investigate for which choices of bound a given set of boundary regions can be "locked", in other words can have their entropies computed by a single thread configuration. We show that under the most stringent bound, which requires the threads to be locally parallel, non-crossing regions can in general be locked, but crossing regions cannot, where two regions are said to cross if they partially overlap and do not cover the entire boundary. We also show that, under a certain less stringent density bound, a crossing pair can be locked, and conjecture that any set of regions not containing a pairwise crossing triple can be locked, analogously to the situation for networks.
Episodic future thinking, delay discounting, and exercise during weight loss maintenance: The PACE trial.

Objectives Weight loss maintenance (WLM) is the next major challenge in obesity treatment. While most individuals who lose weight intend to keep their weight off, weight regain is common. Temporal Self-Regulation Theory posits that whether intentions lead to behavior depends on self-regulatory capacity, including delay discounting (DD; the tendency to discount a larger future reward in favor of a smaller immediate reward). Episodic Future Thinking (EFT; mental imagery of a future event for which a health goal is important) may improve DD and promote behavior change. Described herein is a trial protocol designed to examine whether EFT improves DD within the context of weight loss maintenance. Method Participants who lose ≥5% of initial body weight in an online behavioral weight loss intervention will be randomly assigned to a standard weight loss maintenance program (WLM-STD) or a weight loss maintenance program plus EFT (WLM + EFT). Both interventions involve periodic phone and in-person treatment sessions. Participants in WLM + EFT will engage in daily EFT training via smartphone. To control for contact, participants in WLM-STD will engage in daily Healthy Thinking (reviewing strategies for weight management) on their smartphone. Our primary hypothesis is that WLM + EFT will yield better improvements in DD compared to WLM-STD. We will also explore whether DD mediates the relationship between intervention allocation and physical activity (secondary outcome). Weight and contextual variables will be explored. Conclusions This study is the first to test whether EFT improves DD within the context of weight loss maintenance; results from this experimental medicine approach could have important implications for understanding the impact of both EFT and DD on sustained behavior change. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved).
Homogeneous titanium hydroxide yields hydroxyl decorated nanofiber separator with improved electrolyte uptake and device capacitance

Abstract Good wettability of separators in batteries and capacitors is crucial for performance. Titanium hydroxide (Ti(OH)x) has been shown to greatly improve the wettability of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) nanofibers (NFs). In this work, PVDF/Ti(OH)x NFs were evaluated for their potential use as separators. Results show that PVDF NFs incorporated with Ti(OH)x have improved electrolyte uptake (EU) between 550 and 1200 EU% compared to untreated PVDF with less than 100 EU%. Significant improvements in capacitance are seen from capacitors utilizing PVDF/Ti(OH)x NF separators with the best performing PVDF/Ti(OH)x NF at 15 wt% Ti(OH)x with 446.8 mF/cm2 compared to untreated PVDF NF separator with 262.7 mF/cm2.
Association of Adoption of Transcarotid Artery Revascularization With Center-Level Perioperative Outcomes.

Importance Transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR) may serve as a safer alternative to carotid endarterectomy (CEA) for certain patients with carotid artery stenosis. Objective To determine the center-level association of TCAR adoption with overall perioperative outcomes for TCAR and CEA combined at centers performing both procedures. Design, Setting, and Participants This comparative-effectiveness research was conducted with a difference-in-difference analysis using retrospective data from 2015 to 2019 from the Vascular Quality Initiative registry, a consortium of more than 400 centers in North America. Included patients underwent TCAR or CEA for carotid artery stenosis. Patients who underwent transfemoral carotid stenting were excluded. Data were analyzed from December 2019 through August 2020. Exposures Center-level adoption of TCAR vs not. Main Outcomes and Measures The rate of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), a composite of in-hospital stroke, myocardial infarction, or death at 30 days, was measured. Results Among 86 027 patients who underwent revascularization for carotid artery stenosis, 7664 patients (8.9%) underwent TCAR (mean [SD] age, 73.1 [9.6] years; 2788 [36.4%] women; 6938 White patients [90.6%]; and 3741 patients with symptoms [48.8%]) and 78 363 patients (91.1%) underwent CEA (mean [SD] age, 70.6 [9.2] years; 30 928 [39.5%] women; 70 663 White patients [90.2%]; and 37 883 patients with symptoms [48.3%]). The number of centers performing both TCAR and CEA increased from 15 centers in 2015 to 247 centers in 2019, a more than 16-fold increase. The proportion of all carotid procedures that were TCARs increased from 90 of 12 276 (0.7%) in 2015 to 2718 of 15 956 (17.0%) in 2019, a 24-fold increase. Overall, the crude rate of MACE was similar for TCAR and CEA (178 patients [2.3%] after TCAR vs 1842 patients [2.4%] after CEA;P = .91). However, the rate of MACE over time decreased for CEA (406 of 16 404 patients [2.5%] in 2015 vs 189 of 10 097 patients [1.9%] in 2019;Pfor trend Conclusions and Relevance This comparative-effectiveness study of a cohort of patients who underwent TCAR or CEA found that availability of TCAR at a hospital was associated with a decrease in the likelihood of perioperative MACE after carotid revascularization.
Balancing crop production and energy harvesting in organic solar-powered greenhouses

Summary Adding semitransparent organic solar cells (ST-OSCs) to a greenhouse structure enables simultaneous plant cultivation and electricity generation, thereby reducing the greenhouse energy demand. However, there is a need to establish the impact of such systems on plant growth and indoor climate and to optimize system tradeoffs. In this work, we consider plant growth under OSCs and system-relevant design. We evaluate the growth of red leaf lettuce under ST-OSC filters and compare the impact of three different OSC active layers that have unique transmittance. We find no significant differences in the fresh weight and chlorophyll content of the lettuce grown under these OSC filters. In addition, OSCs provide an opportunity for further light and thermal management of the greenhouse through device design and optical coatings. The OSCs can thus affect plant growth, power generation, and thermal load of the greenhouse, and this design trade space is reviewed and exemplified.
Parametric study of the progressive freeze concentration for desalination

Abstract A progressive freeze concentration (PFC) process was applied to treat several waters where clean ice was generated one-dimensionally, and salt and impurities concentrate into the liquid phase. The impact of eight process parameters on salt percent removal and ice percent recovery were investigated. They were coolant temperature, stirring rate, advance speed of crystallizer, feed solution concentration, feed solution temperature, ice seeding, crystallizer material, and mixing flow pattern. The significant process parameters found were stirring rate, coolant temperature, and feed solution concentration. Temperature difference between feed solution temperature and coolant temperature is important in minimizing supercooling which has a negative effect on treatment. For example, our results showed a temperature difference of 10 °C for a feed solution temperature of 2.5 °C were needed to minimize supercooling. Salt percent removal was found to be directly related to while ice percent recovery was inversely related to the stirring rate. Treatment of an artificial seawater (salinity 35.67 g/L) and a RO brine concentrate (salinity 2600 mg/L) resulted in 51% and 70% ice percent recovery and 74% and 97.7% salt percent removal, respectively. An application of the PFC process includes brine concentrate treatment for inland desalination plants.
The Tyranny of Inequity: A Close Look at Accommodation via the Americans With Disabilities Act

Accommodation, from a federal vantage point of law, is a gratuity of consideration from the majority to consider the minority. The rationed service for the disadvantaged is akin to the tyranny of the majority, coined by Alexis de Tocqueville, and along the lines of Chris Rock’s minimum wage theory (1991). I will hypothesize the correlation of the tyranny of accommodation through Cindy Lou, a deaf high school graduate from Florida moving with her aunt and uncle to Whoville to attend community college. Mythically set within realistic parameters, I will uncover the inequity of the law.
A meaningful path

The diversity among people is real and clearYet, some can't see it or choose not to hearPerceptions guide reality to create meaning and truthAnd that pattern may be solidified, even from youthYet, ...
Pilot and Data Power Allocation for Massive MIMO Systems with an Acceptable Complexity

In this paper, a method of power control is proposed in massive multiple-input multiple-output systems on the downlink transmission in order to maximize the spectral efficiency, where a base station with a large number of antennas serves the users equipped with a single antenna. Given the total power budget at the base station, power is allocated to all pilots symbols and various data symbols among the users. Experimental results indicate that the proposed power control method is superior to the most of existing schemes in terms of the spectral efficiency.
In vivo studies of cysteine metabolism. Use of D-cysteinesulfinate, a novel cysteinesulfinate decarboxylase inhibitor, to probe taurine and pyruvate synthesis.

Abstract Although several pathways contribute to the catabolism of L-cysteine, the products formed are few--taurine + CO2 and pyruvate + ammonia + sulfate. L-Cysteinesulfinate is a key intermediate that is either decarboxylated to ultimately yield taurine or transaminated to yield pyruvate. There is strong evidence that pyruvate is also formed by several cysteinesulfinate-independent pathways collectively referred to as "cysteine desulfhydrase." The quantitative importance of cysteinesulfinate-independent pathways of taurine synthesis is less clear, but it has been suggested that taurine synthesis from the cysteamine released during phosphopantetheine and CoASH turnover accounts for the high taurine content of tissues with very low levels of cysteinesulfinate decarboxylase activity (e.g. skeletal muscle and heart). In the present studies, the metabolic flux through each of these pathways was quantitated in vivo by monitoring the formation of respiratory 14CO2 in mice administered L-[1-14C]- or L-[3-14C]cyst(e)ine. Mice given 0.05 mmol/kg of L-cystine or 0.5 or 2.5 mmol/kg of L-cysteine catabolize 35, 51, and 72% of the dose, respectively, in 6 h; the relative contribution of taurine synthesis to total catabolism decreases from 63 to 51 to 42% as the L-cyst(e)ine dose is increased. To evaluate the role of L-cysteinesulfinate in taurine synthesis, D-cysteinesulfinate was characterized and used as a metabolism-resistant, potent, and specific inhibitor of cysteinesulfinate decarboxylase. Studies with L-[1-14C]- and L-[3-14C]cysteine in the presence of inhibitor indicate that 85-93% of taurine synthesis occurs from L-cysteinesulfinate: the calculated contribution of the phosphopantetheine pathway is small and may approximate zero. L-Cysteinesulfinate transmamination accounts for 25% of pyruvate synthesis from L-[14C]cystine (0.05 mmol/kg) but only 11% of pyruvate synthesis from L-[14C]cysteine (2.5 mmol/kg). Cysteine desulfhydrase reactions account for most of the pyruvate synthesis.
Capillary gas chromatography of carbolines

Abstract A method was developed for the gas chromatographic analysis of carbolines (pyridoindoles) on fused-silica glass capillary columns, coated with SuperoxTM-4. Separation characteristics are presented for all four possible isomers of carboline and several methyl-, methoxy- and dihydro-derivatives fo β-carboline (norharman). These gas chromatographic techniques were utilized in the development of a rapid method for the analysis of norharman and harman (1-methyl-β-carboline) in cigarette smoke condensate. Levels of norharman and harman found in the smoke of a research reference cigarette were 11.2 and 3.6 μg/cigarette, respectively. Commercial non-filter cigarettes gave similar values, while filtered brands gave lower values. The identification of α-carboline in cigarette smoke is reported.
Single-period newsvendor modelling of flu vaccination order quantities

The objective of this paper is to determine optimal inventory levels of flu vaccines at one medical facility using the newsvendor model while also maintaining customer service levels and maximising profit. Using four years of empirical evidence, we illustrate the optimal ordering quantity of flu vaccine by healthcare managers to provide proper medical coverage. This research provides an initial step for ordering quantities of perishable biopharmaceuticals. The research also develops a framework for the logistics of ordering in the presence of multiple constraints throughout the supply chain network. An important contribution of this work is demonstrating the value of the posited logistics model within the context of a healthcare application that has the potential to influence practice.
Biological Activities of Rabbit Immunoglobulin M and Immunoglobulin G Antibodies to Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Immunoglobulin (Ig)M and IgG antibodies, prepared in the rabbit against the protective antigen of Pseudomonas aeruginosa P4, were compared as to their biological activities in vitro and in vivo. In vitro biological activities of these antibodies were determined by passive hemagglutination, bactericidal, and opsonophagocytic tests. Increased effectiveness of IgM over IgG on a molar basis was demonstrated in all of these tests. However, in mouse protection tests, in which the purified globulins were injected intraperitoneally 4 hr prior to challenge with P. aeruginosa suspended in hog gastric mucin, IgM anticapsular antibody was found to be less effective than IgG antibody. The exact mechanism whereby IgG antibody exerts more protective ability than IgM antibody is still unknown. We present evidence to suggest that the difference in activity between the two classes of antibody is due to the ability of the IgG antibody to enter the bloodstream more rapidly than the IgM antibody and also to the ability of IgG to diffuse rapidly through the tissues of the organs.
Experiments with Monomolecular Films on the Surface of the Open Sea

Abstract Experiments with monomolecular films were conducted in the axis of the Gulf Stream, east of Miami, in June 1972, to examine the feasibility of spreading and maintaining a continuous partially-polymerized thin film on the ocean's surface under various wind conditions as part of an investigation directed toward hurricane abatement through evaporation suppression. Photographic documentation of the history and structure of the artificially produced sea sticks indicates that a clearly visible slick forms almost immediately upon deployment of the film-forming material from a ship, remains continuous and homogeneous for several hours, damps waves, and reforms after penetration by a ship. Initial results from laser profilometer measurements clearly document the wave damping characteristics of the slick; specifically, damping of gravity waves as well as capillary waves occurred. Relatively quiescent atmospheric and sea conditions prevailed, unlike those in a hurricane environment.
Multidrug-resistant coagulase-negative Staphylococci in food animals.

Aims To study the antimicrobial resistance of coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) in animals. Methods and Results In the present study, a total of 87 CoNS recovered from food animals were characterized by antimicrobial susceptibility testing, resistance gene identification and conjugation. Of the seven species studied, Staphylococcus lentus, Staphylococcus sciuri, Staphylococcus xylosus and Staphylococcus haemolyticus accounted for over 96% of the isolates. In addition to β-lactam resistance (100%), high percentages of CoNS were resistant to tetracycline (67·8%), erythromycin (36·7%), clindamycin (27·5%) and quinopristin/dalfopristin (14·9%). Importantly, 47 (54%) isolates were resistant to at least three antimicrobial classes, including six CoNS resistant to six antimicrobial classes. The common genes for the above-mentioned resistance phenotypes were mec(A), tet(M), erm(A) and vga(A)LC, which were identified from 68·7%, 61%, 56·2% and 69·2% of the isolates, respectively. tet(M) was conjugatively transferable from 10 tetracycline-resistant CoNS to a Enterococcus strain, underlining the potential of antimicrobial resistance transfer from Staphylococcus to the commensal bacteria in human. Conclusions Multidrug resistance and resistance to non-β-lactam antimicrobials are common in CoNS in animals. Significance and Impact of the Study The data improve our understanding on the extent to which CoNS contribute to the dissemination of antimicrobial resistance in the food production environment.
Biosynthesis and secretion of laminin and S-laminin by human prostate carcinoma cell lines

Laminin has been previously shown to participate in tumor invasion and metastasis. Tumorigenesis by human prostate cell lines can be influenced by exogenous laminin. We have found that the human prostate tumor cell lines DU145, LNCaP, and PC-3 produce a variant form of the B1 chain of laminin, known as S-laminin. DU145 cells produce laminin containing a ratio of A:B1:B2:S of 1.8:1.0:2.5:1.0, respectively, compared to LNCaP cells, which have a ratio of A:B1:B2:S of 1.0:0:10.0:2.5. Kinetic analysis of laminin production showed that LNCaP cells retained most of their laminin production and secreted laminin forms characterized by decreased levels of n-acetyl glucosamine and sialic acid. In contrast, DU145 cells secreted most of their laminin in mature forms. LNCaP cells bound very little laminin to their surface. These features of LNCaP cells could contribute to their documented low adhesivity in vitro and its nontumorigenic phenotype. © 1994 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Long wavelength InAs/InGaSb infrared detectors: Optimization of carrier lifetimes

The performance characteristics of type‐II InAs/InxGa1−xSb superlattices for long and very long‐wave infrared detection are discussed. This system promises benefits in this wavelength range over conventional technology based on Hg1−xCdxTe, in part because of suppressed band‐to‐band Auger recombination rates which lead to improved values of detectivity. The formalism for calculating Auger rates in superlattices is developed and the physical origin of Auger suppression in these systems is discussed. Accurate K⋅p band structures are used to obtain radiative, electron–electron, hole–hole, and band‐to‐band Auger rules, as well as shallow trap level assisted Auger recombination rates for photodiodes. Theoretical limits for high temperature operation of ideal photovoltaic detectors are presented and compared with HgCdTe.
Compatibilized polymer blends with nanoscale or sub-micron dispersed phases achieved by hydrogen-bonding effects : Block copolymer vs blocky gradient copolymer addition

Abstract Addition of styrene (S)/4-hydroxystyrene (HS) block, blocky gradient, or blocky random copolymer to 80/20 wt% polystyrene (PS)/polycaprolactone (PCL) blends is examined as a compatibilization strategy. Four copolymers are synthesized by controlled radical polymerization, each with an S block and the other block being a HS block or S/HS random or gradient copolymer. Compatibilization depends on copolymer level and HS sequence distribution and content. Using a two-step solution-mixing/melt-mixing process, addition of 2 wt% and 5 wt% nearly symmetric S/HS diblock copolymer leads to compatibilization with average PCL domain diameters of 390–490 nm and 90–110 nm, respectively. In contrast, adding 0.25–0.75 wt% copolymer leads to microscale dispersed-phase domains and only reduced melt-state coarsening. Results with 2–5 wt% added copolymer indicate that a major reduction in interfacial tension is facilitated by hydrogen bonding of HS units and PCL carbonyl groups. Nanoscale confinement of normally semi-crystalline PCL within blends with 100 nm dispersed phases impedes PCL crystallizability, yielding liquid-state PCL domains at room temperature and demonstrating that properties of nanostructured blends and microstructured blends can differ greatly. Polystyrene/PCL blends are also made by one-step melt mixing with low mol% HS copolymers. Adding 5 wt% blocky gradient S/HS copolymer (86/14 mol% S/HS) leads to compatibilization with an average dispersed-phase diameter of 360–420 nm. In contrast, adding 5 wt% blocky random (87/13 mol% S/HS) or 5 wt% diblock (81/19 mol% S/HS) copolymer yields microscale dispersed-phase domains and only reduced coarsening. Crystallization in these blends is less hindered than in blends containing 2–5 wt% nearly symmetric S/HS diblock copolymer, indicating that both hydrogen bonding and confinement suppress PCL crystallization.
"The die is cast"--"I am going home": the appointment of Herbert McLean Evans as head of anatomy at Berkeley.

Herbert McLean Evans, scientist-physician, historian of science and medicine, connoisseur of the arts and bibliophile, was a dominant figure in American biology, and especially endocrinology, for forty years.2 Of the many peers and collaborators of Evans interviewed by the author, only one thought he did not deserve the Nobel Prize on purely scientific grounds. Not just one, but at least four of his lines of work and discovery are generally thought of as being of a nature and caliber deserving the highest honor: (1) development of the vascular system, (2) elucidation of the estrous cycle in the rat and the role of pituitary gonadotropins in reproduction, (3) discovery of growth hormone, and (4) discovery and isolation of vitamin E. The first of these was entirely Evans's own work. The other three were collaborative efforts, but Evans's contribution to each was crucial, as most participants acknow-
Glycine synergistically potentiates the enhancement of LTP induced by a sulfhydryl reducing agent

Two selective modulators of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor function, dithiothreitol (DTT) and glycine, each dramatically enhanced long-term potentiation (LTP) in area CA1 of the hippocampus slice. Glycine synergistically potentiated the effect of DTT. Kynurenate, but not strychnine, antagonized the modulatory effect of glycine on LTP, while 2-amino-5-phosphonovalerate blocked LTP in all cases. Neither oxidation with 5-5-dithio-bis-2-nitrobenzoic acid nor exposure to the oxidized form of DTT had any effect on LTP. These data suggest that in vivo the reducing potential of local environments may interact with endogenous glycine to regulate NMDA receptor function.
Anharmonicity and the inverse isotope effect in the palladium-hydrogen system.

We have used the full-potential linearized-augmented-plane-wave (LAPW) method to perform electronic-structure calculations for the palladium-hydrogen system in the rocksalt structure for the static lattice and for the cases of hydrogen displacements in the 〈100〉, 〈110〉, and 〈111〉 directions. Utilizing the LAPW total energies, and the approximation of an isotropic anharmonic oscillator, we have determined the zone-center optic modes for PdH, PdD, and PdT and find very good agreement with experiment. Using our lattice-dynamics results and our calculations of the electron-phonon interaction in the rigid-muffin-tin approximation, we have determined the superconducting coupling parameter \ensuremath{\lambda} and ${\mathit{T}}_{\mathit{c}}$ for these three hydrides. We find that the inverse isotope effect is semiquantitatively accounted for by the anharmonic lattice dynamics, without assuming an explicit dependence of the electron-phonon interaction on hydrogen isotope, in agreement with earlier calculations. However, there is a significant quantitative variation of the isotope effect with the value of the Coulomb pseudopotential parameter ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\mu}}}^{\mathrm{*}}$, which must be estimated. We also estimate the effect of pressure on ${\mathit{T}}_{\mathit{c}}$ and on the isotope effect.
Development of a serum biomarker panel predicting recurrence in stage I non–small cell lung cancer patients

Objective Molecular diagnostics capable of prognosticating disease recurrence in stage I non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients have implications for improving survival. The objective of the present study was to develop a multianalyte serum algorithm predictive of disease recurrence in stage I NSCLC patients. Methods The Luminex immunobead platform was used to evaluate 43 biomarkers against 79 patients with resectable NSCLC, with the following cohorts represented: stage I (T 1 -T 2 N 0 M 0 ) NSCLC without recurrence (n = 37), stage I (T 1 -T 2 N 0 M 0 ) NSCLC with recurrence (n = 15), and node-positive (T 1 -T 2 N 1 -N 2 M 0 ) NSCLC (n = 27). Peripheral blood was collected before surgery, with all patients undergoing anatomic resection. Univariate statistical methods (receiver operating characteristics curves and log-rank test) were used to evaluate each biomarker with respect to recurrence and outcome. Multivariate statistical methods were used to develop a prognostic classification panel for disease recurrence. Results No relationship was found between recurrence and age, gender, smoking history, or histologic type. Analysis for all stage I patients revealed 28 biomarkers significant for recurrence. Of these, the log-rank test identified 10 biomarkers that were strongly ( P Conclusions We report the development of a serum biomarker algorithm capable of preoperatively predicting disease recurrence in stage I NSCLC patients. Refinement of this panel might stratify patients for adjuvant therapy or aggressive recurrence monitoring to improve survival.
Prevalence of nocturia in United States men: results from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

Purpose: We estimated the prevalence of nocturia in the United States male population and identified associated factors.Materials and Methods: Data were analyzed for 5,297 men (20 years old or older) who participated in the 2005–2006 and 2007–2008 cycles of the NHANES, a cross-sectional survey of the United States noninstitutionalized population. Getting up 2 or more times at night to urinate was coded as nocturia. Potential factors included age, race/ethnicity, education, waist circumference, self-reported health status, chronic diseases, and prior diagnosis of benign prostatic enlargement and/or prostate cancer (men 40 years old or older). Prevalence and prevalence odds ratios were estimated from a multivariable logistic regression analysis using appropriate sampling weights.Results: The prevalence of nocturia was 21% (weighted 95% CI 19.3–23.0). Nocturia increased in prevalence with age (p <0.001) from 8.2% (CI 6.7–10.2) in men 20 to 34 years old up to 55.8% (CI 51.3–60.2) in men 75 years old or older....
Metal particles produced by laser ablation for ICP-MS measurements.

Abstract Pulsed laser ablation (266 nm) was used to generate metal particles of Zn and Al alloys using femtosecond (150 fs) and nanosecond (4 ns) laser pulses with identical fluences of 50 J cm−2. Characterization of particles and correlation with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP–MS) performance was investigated. Particles produced by nanosecond laser ablation were mainly primary particles with irregular shape and hard agglomerates (without internal voids). Particles produced by femtosecond laser ablation consisted of spherical primary particles and soft agglomerates formed from numerous small particles. Examination of the craters by white light interferometric microscopy showed that there is a rim of material surrounding the craters formed after nanosecond laser ablation. The determination of the crater volume by white light interferometric microscopy, considering the rim of material surrounding ablation craters, revealed that the volume ratio (fs/ns) of the craters on the selected samples was approximately 9 (Zn), 7 (NIST627 alloy) and 5 (NIST1711 alloy) times more ablated mass with femtosecond pulsed ablation compared to nanosecond pulsed ablation. In addition, an increase of Al concentration from 0 to 5% in Zn base alloys caused a large increase in the diameter of the particles, up to 65% while using nanosecond laser pulses. When the ablated particles were carried in argon into an ICP–MS, the Zn and Al signals intensities were greater by factors of ∼50 and ∼12 for fs versus ns ablation. Femtosecond pulsed ablation also reduced temporal fluctuations in the 66Zn transient signal by a factor of 10 compared to nanosecond laser pulses.
Weak Gaugino Production at the SSC

The prospect for the detection of supersymmetry from the trileptonic signal arising from the final state in PP collisions at SSC is examined. The most severe background arises from the leptonic modes coming from final state decays. In addition a new phenomenon emerges at SSC energies in that normally hadronically quiet events are associated with considerable background hard jet activity. Cuts are proposed to drastically reduce the background. Preliminary estimates indicate that the supersymmetric trileptonic signal should be detectable for Wino mass up to 80 GeV over a wide range of the t-quark mass.
Visual cue and chemical cue interactions in a dry trap with food-based synthetic attractant for Ceratitis capitata and Anastrepha ludens (Diptera: Tephritidae).

Several modifications of a plastic dry trap baited with synthetic lures (ammonium acetate and putrescine) were field tested in Guatemala for capture of the Mediterranean fruit fly, Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann), and the Mexican fruit fly, Anastrepha ludens (Loew). The cylindrical plastic dry trap has 3 holes for release of internally placed chemical lure as well as for insect access into the trap, and a painted band that provides a visual cue. Fruit flies entering the trap move to internally placed toxicant–sugar panels, causing insect death after they feed. Visual cue modifications in traps painted green or orange included comparisons between shiny or dull trap exteriors and among a range of widths of the painted band on the trap body (3–15 cm wide). Chemical cue modifications included 3 versus 6 access holes in the body of the cylindrical dry trap and tests of 2 doses of a new putrescine formulation. The greatest amount of discrimination among the tested modifications was demonstrated by female C. capitata . The highest capture of female C. capitata was in green 3–hole traps with dull exteriors and with visual cues 12–15 cm wide. Variation in the width of the visual cue and in the number of access holes had less effect on capture of male C. capitata than on females, but capture of males was the lowest in orange traps with shiny exteriors. Capture of female A. ludens was relatively unaffected by the modifications tested, although highest capture was obtained with the green visual cue of 3–7.5 em and the orange visual cue of 7.5–12 cm. Male A. ludens response was similar to that observed in females, although the capture of males among the modifications tested was more variable. There were interactions between visual cues associated with the trap body and the dose of putrescine, thus optimal dose of putrescine may vary with visual cue used in the trap design. Results from this study indicate that modifications in the plastic dry trap can be used to improve the capture of female C. capitata and to develop more cost–effective dry traps for field use against pest Tephritidae.
Development of a new method for the extraction of bitumen from tar sands using sonication and sodium silicate

The authors believe that the new process described can stand by itself. Also, it can be utilized to modify existing commercial tar sand operations. The process requires pilot plant study before scale-up to commercial operation. The following conclusions can be drawn. 1. Tar sand recovery using sodium silicate and sonication represents a new extraction process. 2. The bitumen recovered is low in ash, virtually free of metal and asphaltenes. 3. The bitumen recovered is upgraded to 15° API (raw bitumen was 7.6° API) for a 95% cumulative recovery (based on carbon content). 4. The asphaltene and preasphaltene separate as solid agglomerates to the bottom. 5. The solid agglomerates are highly enriched with strategic metals (e.g., Ti, Fe, V, Ni, etc.). 6. Clean sand and intact clay can be easily and essentially recovered in full. 7. The process mechanism utilizes the principle of membrane-mimetic chemistry and ultrasonic irradiation. 8. Self-propagated surfactants are formed during the reaction. 9. Kinetic studies reveal the S-shape characteristic rate curve for 95% cumulative recovery of bitumen. 10. An economic analysis for a pilot plant with a capacity of 1000 barrels of bitumen per day indicates that the process is commercially attractive.
The Relationship between Core Self-Evaluations and Work and Family Satisfaction: The Mediating Role of Work-Family Conflict and Facilitation.

Abstract This study examines the impact of work–family conflict and work–family facilitation on work and family outcomes and explores the influence of core self-evaluations (CSE) among these relationships. CSE is comprised of self-esteem, neuroticism, locus of control, and general self-efficacy. CSE was found to be negatively related to work interfering with family (WIF) and family interfering with work (FIW) conflicts, but not to work-to-family facilitation (W→FF) or family-to-work facilitation (F→WF). WIF and FIW negatively predicted work and family satisfaction, respectively. Additionally, W→FF was significantly related to job satisfaction in the hypothesized direction, and F→WF positively predicted family satisfaction. Job satisfaction negatively predicted intentions to quit. The research and practical implications, as well as limitations of this study are discussed.
The effects of sex, metabolic syndrome and exercise on postprandial lipemia.

Objective Exercise has been suggested to have cardioprotective benefits due to a lowering of postprandial triglycerides (PPTG). We hypothesized that a morning exercise bout would significantly lower PPTG measured over a full day, in response to moderate fat meals (35% energy) in men more so than women, and in metabolic syndrome (MetS) relative to normal weight (NW) individuals.
Stoichiometric and catalytic oxidations by dinuclear copper(I) and copper(II) complexes of a Schiff base ligand derived from the 2:2 condensation of pyridine 2,6-dicarboxaldehyde and 1,5,9-triazanonane

Abstract Dicopper(I) and dicopper(II) complexes of the macrocyclic ligand 3,7,11,19,23,27,33,34-octaazatricyclo[27.3.1.113,17]tetratriacontadeca-1(32),2,11,13,15,17(34)18,27,29(33),30-ene, (PD)2(DIPN)2, were prepared and examined for their reactivities. The dioxygen complex of [Cu2(PD)2(DIPN)2]2+ was generated in solution and was found to catalytically convert hydroquinone, t-butylhydroquinone, 2,6-di-t-butylphenol, and 2,6-dimethoxyphenols to their respective oxidation products, benzoquinone, t-butylbenzoquinone, 3,3′,5,5′-tetra-t-butyldiphenoquinone, 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethoxydiphenoquinone. The substrates 3,5-di-t-butylcatechol and 4-t-butylcatechol were converted to 3,5-di-t-butyl-1,2-benzoquinone and the γ-lactone of 3-hydroxy-4-t-butylmuconic acid ester respectively whereas for 4-methylcatechol the complex was inactive. The dicopper(II) complex of (PD)2(DIPN)2, [Cu2(PD)2(DIPN)2]4+ gave products with these substrates that were identical to the products obtained with the Cu(I) dioxygen complex. In addition, 4-methylcatechol was converted to the γ-lactone of 3-hydroxy-4-methylmuconic acid ester. The oxidation of 3,5-di-t-butylcatechol by [Cu2(PD)2(DIPN)2]2+ and dioxygen was found to be first order in the complex. The oxygenated form of the complex [Cu2(PD)2(DIPN)2]2+ was determined to be more effective (gave more turnovers) than oxygenated forms of analogous dicopper(I) complexes of ligands prepared from furan-2,5-dicarboxaldehyde and 1,4,7-triazaheptane and from pyridine-2,6-dicarboxaldehyde and 1,4,7-triazaheptane.
c‐Abl proto‐oncoprotein is expressed and tyrosine phosphorylated in human sperm cell

The presence and possible role of c-Abl proto-oncoprotein was investigated in human sperm cell. The c-Abl monoclonal antibody (mAb), against the protein tyrosine kinase domain of v-Abl protein, reacted specifically with the acrosomal region of methanol-fixed capacitated and non-capacitated human sperm cell in the indirect immunofluorescence technique. The c-Abl mAb predominantly recognized two protein bands of 145 kD and 95 kD in detergent-solubilized (Triton X-100 and NP-40) sperm and testes preparations in the Western blot procedure. The 95 kD protein band reacted stronger than the 145 kD band and was the only band detected in the lithium diiodosalicylate (LIS)-solubilized sperm preparation, and even in the Triton X-100/NP-40 extracts of sperm of some men. In the in vitro kinase assay using the Triton X-100-solubilized capacitated sperm preparation, the 95 kD protein was autophosphorylated at the tyrosine residues, which was inhibited in the presence of c-Abl mAb. The tyrosine phosphorylation of sperm proteins, especially of the 95 kD protein, has been shown to have a vital role in human sperm function, namely, the sperm capacitation/acrosomal exocytosis and binding to zona pellucida of oocyte. These findings suggest that the c-Abl or c-Abl-like proteins are present in mature sperm cells that are tyrosine autophosphorylated and may have a role in human sperm cell function.
The propagation of cylindrical detonations in monodisperse sprays

A detailed experimental study has been made of the propagation and structure of cylindrical detonations propagating through monodisperse droplet clouds of low and high vapor pressure fuels. The experiments were conducted in a 140 cm long pie-shaped shock tube using an explosive charge at the vertex as the initiator. The low vapor pressure systems considered were 400 μm droplets of decane, kerosene, and kerosene with 25% NPN in atmospheres of oxygen. A 400 μm heptane spray in oxygen was the high vapor pressure fuel. Both radius-time trajectories of the outward propagating waves and high speed Schlieren streak photographs of the reaction zone were obtained. Very different results were obtained for the low and high vapor pressure fuels. The low vapor pressure fuels had long reaction zones governed by the droplet breakup process and the detonations propagated at velocities appreciably below the theoretically computed CJ value. In the high vapor pressure case a gaseous detonation was observed to propagate through the fuel vapor already present followed by an extended region of droplet burning. A simple theory which explains the observed behavior of the two phase detonations in terms of the interaction between the outward propagation and the induction length has been developed. A new definition of induction length suitable to spray detonations has been introduced.
Height development of shade-tolerant conifer saplings in multiaged Acadian forest stands

Understory growth dynamics of northern conifer species were studied in four stands managed under multiaged silvicultural systems in eastern Maine. Height growth of Picea rubens Sarg., Abies balsame...
Electromagnetomechanical elastodynamic model for Lamb wave damage quantification in composites

Physics-based wave propagation computational models play a key role in structural health monitoring (SHM) and the development of improved damage quantification methodologies. Guided waves (GWs), such as Lamb waves, provide the capability to monitor large plate-like aerospace structures with limited actuators and sensors and are sensitive to small scale damage; however due to the complex nature of GWs, accurate and efficient computation tools are necessary to investigate the mechanisms responsible for dispersion, coupling, and interaction with damage. In this paper, the local interaction simulation approach (LISA) coupled with the sharp interface model (SIM) solution methodology is used to solve the fully coupled electro-magneto-mechanical elastodynamic equations for the piezoelectric and piezomagnetic actuation and sensing of GWs in fiber reinforced composite material systems. The final framework provides the full three-dimensional displacement as well as electrical and magnetic potential fields for arbitrary plate and transducer geometries and excitation waveform and frequency. The model is validated experimentally and proven computationally efficient for a laminated composite plate. Studies are performed with surface bonded piezoelectric and embedded piezomagnetic sensors to gain insight into the physics of experimental techniques used for SHM. The symmetric collocation of piezoelectric actuators is modeled to demonstrate mode suppression in laminated composites for the purpose of damage detection. The effect of delamination and damage (i.e., matrix cracking) on the GW propagation is demonstrated and quantified. The developed model provides a valuable tool for the improvement of SHM techniques due to its proven accuracy and computational efficiency.
THE SOLUBILITIES OF THE ALKALI METAL SALTS AND THE PRECIPITATION OF CS+ FROM AQUEOUS SOLUTION

Abstract Radioactive 137Cs may be removed from nuclear waste aqueous solutions by precipitation. Alkali metal salt solubility trends show that the Cs+ salts have the largest range of solubilities for all of the alkali metal salts and that Cs+ should be the most likely ion of the group to form a precipitate in solution. The tetraphenylborate anion (B(C5H5)4−, TPB) precipitates Cs+ as the insoluble CsTPB. However, there are a number of problems associated with this compound and another precipitating agent is needed. A potential substitute is the cobalt dicarbollide anion (Co(B9C2H11)2−, CDC) which forms a slightly more soluble compound, CsCDC. The anion:cation volume ratios for several simple alkali metal salts, when compared with their solubility values, indicate that forces within the solid crystal control solubility. Similar comparisons for the TPB and CDC anions indicate that the solubilities are controlled by the hydrophobic nature of the anion. Some requirements are proposed for an anion to form a precipitate with Cs+.
Pushing the envelope on lipodystrophy

Autosomal dominant partial lipdystrophy (PLD), in which regional adipose loss is coupled with insulin resistance, is strongly associated with missense mutations in LMNA, encoding lamin A/C—a component of the nuclear envelope. This finding indicates that other proteins and functions of the nuclear envelope may have bearing on disorders of adipose tissue and insulin action.
When Status Equals Make Status Claims

Several studies have shown that second-order expectations, an interactant's perceptions of a coactor's self-other expectations, can affect the receiving actor's performance expectations and behavior. Using new theoretical developments, we report new data and further tests of three models concerning effects of coactors' expressed expectations. Prior work focused on interaction of individuals differing in status; here we study interacting status equals. Results show that a simple aggregation model, with parameters estimated in an earlier study, predicts results very accurately.
Studies of renal injury IV: The GLUT1 gene protects renal cells from cyclosporine A toxicity

Studies of renal injury IV: The GLUT1 gene protects renal cells from cyclosporine A toxicity. Background Renal cells activate the GLUT1 gene when exposed to stress. This response promotes glucose influx and glycolysis, which protects cells and preserves viability. We tested the hypothesis that cytotoxicity from cyclosporine A (CsA), a valuable but nephrotoxic immunosuppressor, also activated the GLUT1 gene. Methods and Results. GLUT1 nuclear transcription was increased in LLCPK 1 cells injured with CsA, 10 -5 mol/L or more for 24 hours, with increases of GLUT1 mRNA and protein levels, resulting in greater glucose consumption and glycolysis. The integrated stress response to CsA toxicity was cytoprotective, as blockade of glucose influx and glycolysis with 10 -4 mol/L phloretin magnified CsA toxicity. Remarkably, whereas phloretin reduced GLUT1 transcription, it still increased GLUT1 protein and mRNA levels, and even amplified their responses to CsA. Interestingly, intracellular pH was preserved despite of greater lactic acid production in the face of Na + /H + exchange inhibition from CsA toxicity. However, further inhibition of Na + /H + exchange with amiloride greatly magnified CsA toxicity and GLUT1 gene transcription. Conclusion Activation of the GLUT1 gene during renal cell injury is mediated by at least two redundant systems. CsA stimulates GLUT1 gene transcription when membrane transport delivers glucose to the cell. However, when glucose delivery is compromised, GLUT1 gene expression is still supported by alternative mechanisms that remain operational even after cellular energy metabolism is compromised further by inhibition of glucose and glycolytic fluxes.
Estrogen receptor protein of breast cancer as a predictor of recurrence

To assess the value of estrogen receptor protein (ERP) as a predictor of tumor recurrence, 556 patients treated by mastectomy between 1973 and 1978 for primary operable breast cancer had ERP determination of their tumors. All patients had histologically negative nodes. Two hundred fifty-six patients were ERP-positive, 233 were ERP-negative, and 67 were ERP-borderline. ERP-borderline patients showed recurrence and survival figures similar to ERP-negative patients and were grouped with them in the analysis. With a median follow-up of 75 months, overall survival for the entire group at 72 months was 93% with a disease-free survival of 85%. No difference in either overall survival or DFS was noted between the ERP-positive (94% and 83%, respectively) and ERP-negative (91% and 86%, respectively) groups. The incidence of recurrence in premenopausal women was 12% (14/115) in the ERP-negative patients versus 17% (9/48) among the ERP-positive patients. This contradicts the current impression that ERP-negative, premenopausal patients have a poorer prognosis than ERP-positive patients. Postmenopausal patients had a 16% recurrence in both ERP-negative (27/171) and ERP-positive (31/202) categories. On the basis of 6-year median follow-up, it was concluded that ERP status is not an indicator of recurrence. In particular, patients with negative nodes should not be considered for adjuvant chemotherapy on the basis of negative estrogen receptor status of their primary tumors.