cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
ITO-free large-area organic light-emitting diodes with an integrated metal grid

We report on ITO-free large-area organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) fabricated on glass substrates comprising α-NPD as a hole transport layer (HTL) and coevaporated CBP:Ir(ppy)3 as the emission layer. Indium-tin-oxide (ITO) was replaced with a conductive polymer electrode and an electroplated thick metal grid was used to improve the homogeneity of the potential distribution over the transparent polymer electrode. An electrical model of a metal grid integrated OLED shows the benefits of the use of metal grids in terms of improving the uniformity of the light emitted as the area of the OLED increases as well as the conductivity of the transparent electrode decreases. By integrating metal grids with polymer electrodes, the luminance increases more than 24% at 6 V and 45% at 7 V compared to the polymer electrode devices without a metal grid. This implies that a lower voltage can be applied to achieve the same luminance, hence lowering the power consumption. Furthermore, metal grid integrated OLEDs exhibited less variation in light emission compared to devices without a metal grid.
Preferential manganese accumulation in dreissenid byssal threads

The elemental composition of byssal threads from two freshwater mussels Dreissena polymorpha (zebra) and Dreissena bugensis (quagga) has been determined by proton-induced X-ray emission spectroscopy. Sulphur and manganese are present at 30–100-fold higher concentrations in the threads than in ambient waters of Lake Erie. Calcium, phosphorus and copper levels are also somewhat enhanced in byssus. Since dreissenid byssus is not mineralized, Mn may be organometallically complexed to the functional side chains of byssal proteins.
New results on rational random behavior

Abstract This letter deals with conditions under which it is preferable to buy a zero amount of information; with a proportionality of the information and loss variances associated with two different decision distributions; and with a limiting chi-square distribution of the decision maker's loss when the marginal cost of information is small.
1056. Failure of an Insulator Element To Prevent Retroviral Insertional Activation of Oncogenes and Lymphomagenesis

Gene therapy vectors that insert into the human genome are proving successful in treating human inherited disorders. However, studies to date, such as trials of murine gammaretrovirus (MLV) vectors in humans, have encountered the complication of insertional activation of host oncogenes by the retroviral vectors leading to tumorigenesis. One potential strategy to prevent this complication and improve the safety of gene therapy vectors is the use of insulator elements to prevent transcriptional enhancers in insertional vectors from activating the promoters of adjacent oncogenes. We have tested the ability of the chicken beta-globin HS4 insulator (cHS4) element to prevent insertional activation of oncogenes and T-cell lymphomagenesis by an MLV. MLVs have been extensively used for genome-based, high throughput molecular identification of oncogenes (http://rtcgd.ncifcrf.gov/). Enhancer activation of oncogenes, usually from distances>10 kbp, is by far the most frequent mechanism of tumorigenesis by these retroviruses. We inserted the cHS4 insulator into the LTR of a T-cell lymphomagenic, replication-competent MLV. The cHS4 element was stable within the viral genome for multiple rounds of viral replication in cultured cells and mice. Infection of mice induced a modest, though statistically significant, slowing of the appearance of lymphomas in infected mice. We then applied inverse PCR and genomic analysis to determine the insertion sites of MLVs in the genomes of the tumor cells. This analysis showed that inserted proviruses were able to activate flanking oncogenes (Myc, Rras2, Rasgrp1, Ccnd3, Kras, Runx1, Fos, Gfi1, Pim1) by an enhancer mechanism even when the cHS4 element was positioned between the viral enhancer and the promoter of the mouse oncogene. Moreover, the percentage of tumors with proviruses positioned in that orientation was the same with either the insulated or the wild type virus. Thus the cHS4 element did not prevent insertional activation of numerous oncogenes. These results mean that the use of insulators to block oncogene activation by insertional gene therapy vectors is not a simple issue. Instead, careful experimentation will be required to devise an effective approach.
Ornithine Decarboxylase in Rat Skin: 2. Differential Response to Hair Plucking and a Tumor Promoter

Ornithine decarboxylase (ODC; EC 4.1.1.17) activity is induced in dorsal rat skin by either application of the tumor promoter 12-0-tetradecanoyl-phorbol-13-acetate (TPA) or by hair plucking. In TPA-treated rat skin, ODC activity does not rise above controls until 3hr post-treatment. Following a peak at 4 hr, ODC activity declines until it reaches control levels at 12hr. In contrast, stimulation of skin by hair plucking causes a 50% decrease in ODC activity by 1hr. Enzyme activity then increases linearly to a peak at 4hr and remains at 3 times control levels up to 12hr. In skin stimulated by both hair plucking and TPA, the peak activity is found to exceed the maximum of either stimulus alone in an additive manner. The response to TPA occurs mainly in the epidermis, while both the epidermis and dermis show a substantial response to hair plucking. Both stimuli cause a lengthening of the half-life of ODC. Stimulation of ODC by hair plucking is insensitive to indomethacin administration but TPA-response is inhibited 74%. Stimulation of ODC by hair plucking is inhibited by Actinomycin D only if Actinomycin D is given at the time of stimulus administration, and then only partially. The TPA-response is fully inhibited by Actinomycin D if given at the time of TPA application. Inhibition is roughly proportional to the duration of Actinomycin D treatment up to the activity peak at 4hr. These results indicate that the tumor promoter, TPA, and the more physiological stimulus, hair plucking, stimulate skin ornithine decarboxylase activity by different mechanisms.
Improving tapping mode atomic force microscopy with piezoelectric cantilevers

This article summarizes improvements to the speed, simplicity and versatility of tapping mode atomic force microscopy (AFM). Improvements are enabled by a piezoelectric microcantilever with a sharp silicon tip and a thin, low-stress zinc oxide (ZnO) film to both actuate and sense deflection. First, we demonstrate self-sensing tapping mode without laser detection. Similar previous work has been limited by unoptimized probe tips, cantilever thicknesses, and stress in the piezoelectric films. Tests indicate self-sensing amplitude resolution is as good or better than optical detection, with double the sensitivity, using the same type of cantilever. Second, we demonstrate self-oscillating tapping mode AFM. The cantilever's integrated piezoelectric film serves as the frequency-determining component of an oscillator circuit. The circuit oscillates the cantilever near its resonant frequency by applying positive feedback to the film. We present images and force-distance curves using both self-sensing and self-oscillating techniques. Finally, high-speed tapping mode imaging in liquid, where electric components of the cantilever require insulation, is demonstrated. Three cantilever coating schemes are tested. The insulated microactuator is used to simultaneously vibrate and actuate the cantilever over topographical features. Preliminary images in water and saline are presented, including one taken at 75.5 microm/s-a threefold improvement in bandwidth versus conventional piezotube actuators.
The in vitro biosynthesis and metabolism of progesterone and estrogens by chimpanzee placental tissue.

Abstract The biosynthesis and metabolism of progesterone and estrogens have been studied in chimpanzee placental tissue in vitro. The conversion of androstenedione-4-14C to estrone and estradiol-17β and of pregnenolone-7α-3H to progesterone has been demonstrated. In addition, the following metabolites were isolated following incubation of either pregnenolone-7α-3H or progesterone-4- 14 C: 20α-dihydroprogesterone, 20β-dihydroprogesterone, 6β-hydroxyprogesterone, 5α-pregnane-3,20 dione. The compound 5α-pregnan-3β o1-20-one was identified only after incubation with pregnenolone-7α-3H, while 5β-pregnane-3, 20 dione was identified only after incubation with progesterone-4- 14 C. No estrogens could be demonstrated following the incubation of placental preparations with either of the C 21 substrates.
Competitive employment: Teaching mentally retarded employees self-instructional strategies

The purpose of this study was to teach two mentally retarded employees to perform tasks associated with their jobs. Typically, they served meals during lunch and dinner hours; however, they failed to wipe counters, and check and restock supplies. A self-instructional package, similar to the package introduced by Bornstein and Quevillon (1976), was incorporated to improve their performance in these areas. A multiple-baseline design was utilized in which training was sequentially introduced across subjects. The subjects were taught to ask questions about which tasks needed to be completed, answer their questions, and guide their performance in the task by self-instructing. The self-instructional strategies were introduced just prior to lunch and dinner (30-min period) and during the first 30 min of the lunch and dinner service periods, respectively. During training, both subjects demonstrated that they were capable of rehearsing each of the self-instructional strategies in a specific sequence. Following training, both subjects performed at least one of the three tasks (i.e., wiping counters, checking supplies, restocking supplies) during 84 and 88% of the observed work periods. Additionally, the results of the intervention indicated that both subjects spent more time working and met or exceeded nonprobationary, nonhandicapped coworkers' production standards (social validation measure). The results of this study are compared with those reported by others. Future areas of research are indicated.
Testosterone and 17β-estradiol induce glandular prostatic growth, bladder outlet obstruction, and voiding dysfunction in male mice.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) are common in older men and can contribute to lower urinary tract symptoms that significantly impact quality of life. Few existing models of BOO and BPH use physiological levels of hormones associated with disease progression in humans in a genetically manipulable organism. We present a model of BPH and BOO induced in mice with testosterone (T) and 17β-estradiol (E2). Male mice were surgically implanted with slow-releasing sc pellets containing 25 mg T and 2.5 mg E2 (T+E2). After 2 and 4 months of hormone treatment, we evaluated voiding patterns and examined the gross morphology and histology of the bladder, urethra, and prostate. Mice treated with T+E2 developed significantly larger bladders than untreated mice, consistent with BOO. Some mice treated with T+E2 had complications in the form of bladder hypertrophy, diverticula, calculi, and eventual decompensation with hydronephrosis. Hormone treatment caused a significant decrease in the size of the urethral lumen, increased prostate mass, and increased number of prostatic ducts associated with the prostatic urethra, compared with untreated mice. Voiding dysfunction was observed in mice treated with T+E2, who exhibited droplet voiding pattern with significantly decreased void mass, shorter void duration, and fewer sustained voids. The constellation of lower urinary tract abnormalities, including BOO, enlarged prostates, and voiding dysfunction seen in male mice treated with T+E2 is consistent with BPH in men. This model is suitable for better understanding molecular mechanisms and for developing novel strategies to address BPH and BOO.
Field observations and numerical model experiments for the snowmelt process at a field site

Abstract There are several levels of models for the snowmelt process in terms of the snow thermal structure: isothermal, bi-layered and multi-layered models. However, it is difficult to choose the appropriate level of complexity for application because the number of unknown variables is crucial in model handling. One of the major issues in energy balance snow models is the shape of the snow temperature vertical profile. This profile, if taken as a specified function, would simplify a snowmelt model calibration and computation significantly. In this study, in order to determine the appropriate representative snow vertical thermal profile, snow temperature measurements have been performed using five snow thermocouples placed vertically along an observation tower with insulating arms. Also, as a field experimental study of an energy balance snow model, the net radiation, air temperature, relative humidity and wind speed along with the vertical one dimensional snow temperature profile have been observed at a field site in Lake Tahoe Basin. The computational results correspond with the measured snow temperature profile and snow water equivalent reasonably well. It is illustrated that the temperature in the snow near surface (called the “active layer”) varies daily, and the lower snow layer (called the “inactive layer”) is barely affected by the atmosphere. The results of field observations and the numerical experiments show that the vertical temperature distributions in the active layer, which is the upper layer affected by energy exchange with the atmosphere, generally have an exponential shape during night time under cold weather, while snow pack stays around 0 °C during daytime. Both of the results indicate that not only the snow temperature in the top active layer, but also the thickness of snow active layer fluctuates during the snowmelt process. The observation results show that the thickness of the active layer may reach about 60 cm in Sierra Nevada, California. These results provide significant information for the development of appropriate approximations in physically based snowmelt modeling.
The Acquisition of Informed Consent for Foster Children's Research Participation:

In a public child welfare agency, 6 respondents were recruited for a pilot study about foster children's transitions from birth homes to out-of-home care. During recruitment, knowledge was gained about the acquisition of informed consent for foster children's research participation, a topic about which there is remarkably little prior literature. In addition to being a necessity for research enactment, consent acquisition is a multifaceted process involving complex relationships with colleagues, potential respondents, and their birth and foster parents. Four detailed vignettes each illustrate a consent issue. With reference to each vignette, suggestions are made for researchers' sensitive, ethical, planful consent acquisition. Implications for agency-based professionals are offered, as are ideas for future study of consent acquisition.
Transitions in histone variants during sea urchin spermatogenesis

Transitions in the histone complement of nuclei during sea urchin spermatogenesis were investigated by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis. Nuclei were isolated from male gonads of individuals differing in degree of maturity. Unlike protamines, the sea urchin sperm-specific histone variants Sp H1 and Sp H2B appear early in spermatogenesis, well before spermatid differentiation, as the predominant representatives of their classes. Both proteins are phosphorylated from their first appearance until the last steps of spermiogenesis, when the highly condensed late spermatid nuclei become spermatozoan nuclei. Phosphorylation of serine occurs mostly (Sp H1) or entirely (Sp H2B) on the N-terminal portions of these molecules. We conclude that phosphorylated sperm-specific histone variants in the sea urchin function in spermatocytes during meiosis and are the major histones present during replication and transcription in some spermatogonia as well. We propose that the dephosphorylation of Sp H1 and Sp H2B in late spermatids is not primarily responsible for spermatid chromatin condensation but instead may act to stabilize the chromatin of the spermatozoon or aid in the final shaping of the sperm nucleus.
ESTROGEN ACTION VIA THE CAMP SIGNALING PATHWAY : STIMULATION OF ADENYLATE CYCLASE AND CAMP-REGULATED GENE TRANSCRIPTION

Estrogenic hormones, believed to exert most of their effects via the direct interaction of their receptors with chromatin, are found to increase cAMP in target breast cancer and uterine cells in culture and in the intact uterus in vivo. Increases in intracellular cAMP are evoked by very low concentrations of estradiol (half maximal at 10 pM) and by other physiologically active estrogens and antiestrogens, but not by an inactive estrogen stereoisomer. These increases in cAMP result from enhanced membrane adenylate cyclase activity by a mechanism that does not involve genomic actions of the hormones (are not blocked by inhibitors of RNA and protein synthesis). The estrogen-stimulated levels of cAMP are sufficient to activate transcription from cAMP response element-containing genes and reporter plasmid constructs. Our findings document a nongenomic action of estrogenic hormones that involves the activation of an important second-messenger signaling system and suggest that estrogen regulation of cAMP may provide an additional mechanism by which this steroid hormone can alter the expression of genes.
A Growth Inhibitor in Clematis viticella L. Seeds

Abstract Clematis viticella seeds contained a water-soluble growth inhibitor. The inhibitor was partially purified utilizing organic solvent partitioning, polyvinylpolypyrrolidone (PVPP) column chromatography, and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Inhibitory activity was evaluated with a lettuce seed bioassay. The 1/3 X partially purified extract had little effect on lettuce seed germination, but reduced radicle elongation. The inhibitor was a heat stable, acidic compound which did not co-elute with abscisic acid (ABA) and its bioassay activity was unaffected by methylation and demethylation.
A Longitudinal Analysis of Changing Job Quality and Worker Satisfaction in Israel

Prior research has indicated that the nature of work has changed dramatically in recent years in response to economic shifts and an increasingly global economy. This study used non-panel longitudinal data from the International Social Survey Program (Work Orientations I and II: 1989 and 1997-survey questions on job characteristics and job quality) to examine the changing job quality and job satisfaction determinants in Israel, while exploring the country contextual and cultural shifts that impacted this change. Descriptive statistics and regression analysis show that there were many significant changes in the intrinsic and extrinsic job characteristics and perceived job satisfaction of Israeli workers from 1989 to 1997. The study found workers' job satisfaction impacting firm performance and workers' well-being. The results affirm the need for firms to be cognizant of differences and unique challenges facing Israeli workers and thus tailor their management philosophy and policies to create an organizational environment mutually beneficial to the firm and the employees.
An assessment of optimal waste load allocation and assimilation characteristics in the Arroyo Colorado River watershed, TX along the US–Mexico border

Effective water quality management requires careful consideration of pollutant fate and transport, proper estimation of non-point source loadings, and maximum allowable allocation of point source discharges. A decision support system (DSS) that addresses all these issues is developed in this study by embedding mass-balance expressions, GIS, and a remote-sensing-based non-point source loading scheme into a hybrid goal-programming approach and is applied to the rapidly growing Arroyo Colorado River watershed along the US–Mexico border. The model components were favorably evaluated against field data and previous studies. The DSS was used to evaluate the carrying capacity of the river, defined based on the water quality standards for biochemical oxygen demand, dissolved oxygen, and minimum in-stream flow requirements. The results indicated that on a macro-scale, the current stresses utilize about 40 % of the maximum carrying capacity. However, the most upstream and downstream sub-watersheds are currently over stressed and need to reduce their loadings. The assimilative capacity of the river is not sufficient to carry current flows at their permitted discharge concentrations implying an inequity among discharges with regard to treatment cost burden. Sensitivity analyses indicated that the carrying capacity was more affected by policy choices made for water quality standards then where they were to be enforced (i.e., compliance locations). Urban areas currently cover 13 % of the watershed but contribute nearly 45 % of the total non-point source loadings. Therefore, the urbanization in this watershed must be carefully planned with emphasis on stormwater treatment and management to sustain this valuable resource for future generations.
Transient photoluminescence and excited-state optical absorption in trigonal selenium.

The results of an investigation of the transient mid-gap photoluminescence (PL) and photo-induced optical absorption in trigonal Se are presented. Direct evidence is found for a barrier of 35\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}5 meV to trapping of free excitons at the PL center. All the features of the PL, including the high-temperature nonradiative decay, can be explained with a simple model in which electron-phonon coupling in the excited state of the PL center, although very strong (S=50), is nonetheless linear.
Application of the eigenvalue moment method to important one-dimensional quantum systems

The authors study the effectiveness of the eigenvalue moment method as applied to various one-dimensional quantum problems which have appeared in the literature. Of particular interest are the radial potential problems (including angular momentum effects) -Ze2/(r+ beta ) and r2+ lambda r2/(1+gr2) studied by De Meyer and Vanden Berghe (1990) (and more recently by Fernandez (1991)), and Witwit (1991) respectively. They also examine the potentials 1/2x2+or-gx4/(1+ alpha gx2), exhaustively studied by Auberson and Boissiere (1983). Finally, they examine the one-dimensional regulated Bohr atom with potential -Z/( mod x mod + alpha ), well studied by Loudon (1959), and Haines and Roberts (1969).
Instantaneous Normal Mode Approach to Liquid State Dynamics

The instantaneous normal mode (INM) approach to liquid state dynamics is presented. INM is put in historical context, and the underlying physical ideas, including the importance of the potential en...
The chlorinated insecticide 1,1-dichloro-2,2-bis(4-chlorophenyl)ethane (p, p′-DDD) increases intracellular calcium in rat myometrial smooth muscle cells

A previous report from this laboratory showed that two DDT isomers, o,p′-DDT and p,p′-DDD, increased the frequency of spontaneous oscillatory contractions to a similar extent in isolated rat uterine segments. Because regulation of intracellular calcium is fundamental for the development of oscillatory contractions, the present study examined the effects of p,p′-DDD on intracellular free calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) in individual rat myometrial smooth muscle cells loaded with the fluorescent Ca2+ indicator fura 2. In the presence of extracellular calcium, 50 and 100 μM p,p′-DDD significantly increased peak [Ca2+]i 586 and 921%, respectively, over basal [Ca2+]i. No significant effect was observed with 10 μM p,p′-DDD. In the absence of extracellular calcium, the response to 100 μM p,p′-DDD was significantly attenuated, with cells averaging a 108% increase in peak [Ca2+]i over basal levels, presumably through Ca2+ release from intracellular stores. Nifedipine and cadmium chloride, blockers of voltage-dependent calcium channels, inhibited 100 μM p,p′-DDD-stimulated increases in [Ca2+]i such that peak [Ca2+]i was increased 250% and 259%, respectively. Because of the prominent inhibition observed with the voltage-dependent calcium channel blockers, the effect of p,p′-DDD on membrane depolarization was examined using a cationic fluorescent indicator of membrane potential, [diS-C2(5)]. A concentration of 50 μM p,p′-DDD depolarized the cells by 35% of maximum during treatment with p,p′-DDD. The data demonstrate that p,p′-DDD increased [Ca2+]i in rat myometrial smooth muscle cells in a concentration-related manner, and that this increase was largely dependent on influx of extracellular calcium through dihydropyridine-sensitive, voltage-dependent calcium channels. The data further show that p,p′-DDD depolarized the plasma membrane, providing a possible mechanism for activation of voltage-dependent calcium channels. Additionally, another calcium source, perhaps an intracellular pool, contributes significantly less to the rise of [Ca2+]i. Whether p,p′-DDD initiates the calcium response by direct actions on the plasma membrane or by other means remains to be determined.
Heightened inflammation is linked to carotid intima-media thickness and endothelial activation in HIV-infected children

Abstract Objectives HIV+ patients are at increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Inflammation plays a role in adults, but has not yet been assessed in HIV+ children. We compared proinflammatory cytokines and adhesion molecules in HIV+ children versus healthy controls, and assessed their relationship to carotid intima-media thickness (IMT). Methods Evaluations were performed on 27 HIV+ children and 30 HIV-healthy controls (2-21 years) who were prospectively enrolled in our pediatric cohort. Measurements included internal carotid artery (ICA) and common carotid artery (CCA) IMT, fasting lipids, insulin, proinflammatory markers (TNF-α, soluble TNF receptors (sTNFR-I, -II), IL-6, high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), myeloperoxidase (MPO)), and adhesion molecules (soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1, soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (sVCAM-1), von Willebrand factor). Results Among HIV+, mean age was 11 years, 33% males, 70% black. 96% acquired HIV vertically; median CD4 count (CD4%) was 1058 (35%) cells/ml; 96% were on antiretroviral therapy (ART); 70% had HIV-1 RNA P Conclusions This study shows increased hsCRP in HIV+ children compared to healthy controls. As seen in adults, hCRP was associated with carotid IMT, which support a role for inflammation in CVD risk of HIV+ children.
A multigrid method for solution of vorticity—velocity form of 3‐D navier—stokes equations

A multigrid method has been developed and applied to the simulation of unsteady three-dimensional incompressible flow, using the Navier—Stokes equations in terms of vorticity and velocity variables. A system of equations for the velocity problem, consisting of the continuity equation and three curl equations, is first formulated as a uniquely determined, non-singular system. An efficient and robust technique, namely the multigrid distributive Gauss—Seidel scheme, is developed for solution of this system of algebraic equations. The method is applied to study 3-D flow in a shear-driven cavity.
Convective Transport in an Optical Fiber Coating Applicator for a Non-Newtonian Fluid

Convective transport in an optical fiber coating applicator and die system has been simulated for a non-Newtonian fluid. Low density Polyethylene (LDPE) is employed for the numerical analysis, though ultraviolet (UV) curable acrylates are commonly used, because of lack of property information for acrylates and similar behavior of these two materials. The equations governing fluid flow and heat transfer are transformed to obtain flow in a cylindrical domain. A SIMPLE-based algorithm is used with a non-uniform grid. In contrast to the isothermal case, streamlines for the non-Newtonian fluid are found to be quite different for various fiber speeds. The temperature level in the applicator is much higher for the Newtonian case, due to the larger fluid viscosity and associated viscous dissipation. The shear near the fiber is found to be lower for the Newtonian fluid. As expected, the effects become larger with increasing fiber speed. A very high temperature rise is observed in the die, regardless of fiber speed. This study focuses on the non-Newtonian effects during the coating process, and several interesting and important features, as compared to the Newtonian case, are observed.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Detecting trends and biases in time series of ozonesonde data

Abstract In this paper, we discuss the complexities associated with the analysis and interpretation of trends in time series of ozonesonde data, focussing on approaches to deal with the special constraints imposed by the irregular nature of the ozonesonde data set. To improve upon earlier studies which have used monthly mean values and parametric techniques on ozonesonde data, a non-parametric statistical method is introduced to enable us to work with data from individual flights rather than with monthly mean values. To this end, ozone time series data are separated into their long-term, seasonal and short-term components to properly characterize the various scales of motion (climatic, annual and synoptic scale) embedded in the data set. We show that the statistical method used here meets the requirements for a reliable analysis of ozonesonde data. It is shown further that this approach enables us to estimate trends in the ozonesonde data with a very high degree of confidence. We then introduce a non-parametric technique for discerning sudden changes in time series data and discuss its usefulness in detecting potential biases in ozonesonde time series data, introduced by changes in instrumentation, flight time, preflight preparation and data reduction procedures. The results show that the method is able to detect discontinuities in the ozonesonde data which are supported by station histories. It is shown that the long-term trend estimates can be significantly affected by the presence of biases in the data. Although further research is necessary to adequately account for artificial breaks in the data at all heights and stations, there is an indication that the estimated upward trend in the raw tropospheric ozone data at Payerne, Hohenpeissenberg and Edmonton might be attributable, in part, to the presence of biases in the data.
Conservatism with robustness tests for linear feedback control systems

This paper examines a variety of techniques for assessing stability robustness of linear multivariable feed-back control systems to model uncertainty in the open-loop plant, which is represented as an additive or multiplicative dynamic perturbation to the nominal plant transfer function matrix. It addresses the issue of conservation with certain robustness tests based on matrix norms and measures by exploiting known relationships between those quantities and the eigenvalues of a matrix. Techniques for selecting transformations to reduce conservatism for several classes of uncertainty are identified. Relative conservatism of various robustness tests is illustrated for a two-input/two-output example.
All-water-based electron-beam lithography using silk as a resist

Traditional nanofabrication techniques often require complex lithographic steps and the use of toxic chemicals. To move from the laboratory scale to large scales, nanofabrication should be carried out using alternative procedures that are simple, inexpensive and use non-toxic solvents. Recent efforts have focused on nanoimprinting and the use of organic resists (such as quantum dot-polymer hybrids, DNA and poly(ethylene glycol)), which still require, for the most part, noxious chemicals for processing. Significant advances have been achieved using 'green' resists that can be developed with water, but so far these approaches have suffered from low electron sensitivity, line edge roughness and scalability constraints. Here, we present the use of silk as a natural and biofunctional resist for electron-beam lithography. The process is entirely water-based, starting with the silk aqueous solution and ending with simple development of the exposed silk film in water. Because of its polymorphic crystalline structure, silk can be used either as a positive or negative resist through interactions with an electron beam. Moreover, silk can be easily modified, thereby enabling a variety of 'functional resists', including biologically active versions. As a proof of principle of the viability of all-water-based silk electron-beam lithography (EBL), we fabricate nanoscale photonic lattices using both neat silk and silk doped with quantum dots, green fluorescent proteins (GFPs) or horseradish peroxidase (HRP).
Structures of three halo(tetramethylethylenediamine)copper(I) complexes

The X-ray crystal structures of three halo(tetramethylethylenediamine)copper(I) complexes have been determined. (TMED)2Cu+CuCl 2 − (I) crystallizes in monoclinic space groupP21/n with lattice constantsa=9.332(9),b=15.126(7),c=14.49(1) A,β=96.95(7)°. (TMEDCuBr)2 (II) crystallizes in monoclinic space groupP21/c with lattice constantsa=12.064(5),b=11.888(6),c=15.841(6) A,β=113.97(3)°. (TMED CuI)2 (III) crystallizes in monoclinic space groupP21/c with lattice constantsa=12.401(6),b=12.159(6),c=15.412(9) A,β=109.12(4)°. Compound (I) is a molecule exhibiting two discrete environments for copper(I). The cation is a pseudotetrahedral monomer and the anion a linear monomer. Both (II) and (III) are dimers with asymmetrically bridging bromine and iodine atoms, respectively. Distortions from tetrahedral geometry are observed about the copper atoms in (II) and (III).
Evolution of distorted rotating black holes. III. Initial data

In this paper we study a new family of black hole initial data sets corresponding to distorted "Kerr" black holes with moderate rotation parameters, and distorted Schwarzschild black holes with even- and odd-parity radiation. These data sets build on the earlier rotating black holes of Bowen and York and the distorted Brill wave plus black hole data sets. We describe the construction of this large family of rotating black holes. We present a systematic study of important properties of these data sets, such as the size and shape of their apparent horizons, and the maximum amount of radiation that can leave the system during evolution. These data sets should be a very useful starting point for studying the evolution of highly dynamical black holes and can easily be extended to 3D.
Variances in the Measurement of Ceramic Powder Properties.

Variances in the measurement of properties used to characterize ceramic powders are discussed in the context of the International Energy Agency’s study, Annex II, Subtask 2, which includes chemical and physical measurements for five powders: two grades of silicon nitride, and one grade each of silicon carbide, silicon, and zirconia. The analysis presented here includes results for 39 properties reported by 25 laboratories using approximately 700 samples of the powders. Measurement uncertainties are discussed in the contexts of measurement variations within given laboratories (withinlaboratory variance, sometimes called repeatability), among different laboratories (between-laboratory variance, also called reproducibility), and among different measurement techniques (between-methods variance). The analysis shows that the between-laboratory variance tends to be significantly greater than either the within-laboratory or the between-methods variances. The implication of this result is that the most important improvements in powder characterization measurements may be achieved through the standardization of the measurement methodologies.
3-D reconstructions of nanometer-scale helical objects from cryo electron microscopy images

Statistical algorithms are described for 3-D signal reconstruction problems where the object has a helical symmetry with unknown symmetry parameters and the data is cryo electron micrographs of multiple identical instances of the object. Two object models are described: a Fourier-Bessel series model for a helical object and a spherical harmonics series model for a motif which is then replicated in an array to form a helical object where, in both cases, the unknown parameters are the coefficients in the series. The measured images are essentially noisy 2-D projections of the 3-D electron scattering intensity where the projection orientation is not known. A maximum likelihood estimator computed by an expectation-maximization algorithm is used in both cases to estimate the unknown parameters.
How College Affects Student Athletes

This chapter applies psychosocial and cognitive developmental theories to student athletes.
Abundance and Diversity of Arthropods in Nests of Lark Sparrows (Chondestes grammacus)

Abstract We examined abundance and diversity of arthropods in nests of lark sparrows (Chondestes grammacus). No true ectoparasite occurred in the nests sampled (n = 69) and no ectoparasite was found on nestlings. However, 67% of nests contained non-parasitic arthropods from ≥16 families. There was no significant difference in number of arthropods per gram of nesting material or diversity (at familial to higher taxonomic order) with height of nest (ground or arboreal), date of nesting, duration of activity per nesting attempt, mean or maximum temperature of nest, and frequency of prescribed burning of the habitat, or in relation to nest-building by two species of birds (lark sparrows and northern mockingbirds Mimus polyglottos).
Secular trends in body mass index and skinfold thickness with socioeconomic factors in young adult women

Secular trends in the relationship of body mass index (BMI) and skinfold thickness to educational and income levels were examined for white and black men aged 18-34 y over the period 1960-80 with data from three successive national surveys: NHES Cycle I, NHANES I, and NHANES II. Statistical models were fitted to assess the variability in mean BMI over time within levels of education or income. There were few secular changes in mean BMI. In both white and black men a secular change from a slight positive association between mean BMI and education to a negative association was characterized chiefly by an increase in mean BMI at the lowest educational level. A slight positive association between income level and mean BMI persisted almost unchanged over this period. Mean BMI was similar for black and white men. These findings are compared and contrasted with those from a similar study for young women.
Diffusional Effects in Nickel Oxide Reduction Kinetics

Nickel is widely used as an industrial catalyst and has recently been investigated as an oxygen carrier in chemical looping combustion (CLC), which is a novel approach for power generation that offers inherent CO2 capture. However, prior studies have reported a wide range of activation energy values for nickel formation from the reduction of NiO by hydrogen. In the present work, this reaction was investigated using the Friedman isoconversional method for a series of thermogravimetric curves, which were obtained at varying heating rates. The intrinsic activation energy for the reduction of NiO was observed to be in the range of 91.8−94.5 kJ/mol, whereas values of 42.6 kJ/mol and ∼0 kJ/mol were found at intermediate and high heating rates, respectively, which correspond to intermediate and high temperatures. This demonstrates the presence of internal and external mass-transfer limitations during the reaction, and it provides a likely explanation for the varying activation energy values reported in prior wor...
On tree congestion of graphs

This paper investigates the problem of embedding a graph into a tree with the same vertex set (a spanning tree in particular), such that the maximum congestion of the edges is minimized. We calculate exact formulas for the tree congestion and spanning tree congestion for various families of graphs, including grids and complete bipartite graphs.
Prevalence of Chronic Ankle Instability in High School and Division I Athletes

Objective. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of chronic ankle instability among high school and collegiate athletes. Design. Descriptive epidemiological survey. Methods. Athletes from four high schools and a division I university were contacted to participate. For collegiate athletes, a questionnaire packet was distributed during preparticipation physicals. For high school athletes, parental consent was obtained and then questionnaires were distributed during preparticipation physicals, parent meetings, or individual team meetings. All athletes completed the Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool for both their left and right ankles. Subjects also provided general demographic data and completed the Ankle Instability Instrument regarding history of lateral ankle sprains and giving way. Athletes were identified as having chronic ankle instability if they scored less than 24 on the Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool. Results. Of the 512 athletes who completed and returned surveys, 23.4% were identified as having chronic ankle instability. High school athletes were more likely to have chronic ankle instability than their collegiate counterparts (P Language: en
Using Complications Associated With Postmastectomy Radiation and Immediate Breast Reconstruction to Improve Surgical Decision Making

Objectives To identify factors independently associated with surgical complications in oncologic and reconstructive surgery and to examine sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy data, along with variables that are typically known prior to definitive resection, for their ability to impact the prediction of need for postmastectomy irradiation (PMRT). Design Retrospective review. Setting University hospital. Patients Mastectomy patients with stage I to III breast cancer treated in 2000 to 2008. Main Outcome Measures Complication rates of oncologic and reconstructive surgery requiring reoperation and clinicopathologic variables that independently predict complications and/or PMRT administration by multivariate analysis. Results Among 100 of 302 mastectomy patients who underwent PMRT, complications occurred in 44% who underwent immediate breast reconstruction (IBR) and 7% who did not ( P P P = .005). Three percent of patients with T2 or smaller tumors and zero positive SLN required PMRT. Among those with T2 tumors, 49% with a positive axilla lymph node underwent PMRT. Independent predictors of PMRT need were T2 vs T1 tumors, positive axillary lymph node status, and the number of positive SLNs, with odds ratios of 5.8 ( P P P = .001), respectively. Conclusions Postmastectomy irradiation was associated with a high rate of surgical complications and implant loss among patients who underwent IBR. Determining the number of positive SLNs prior to definitive resection and reconstructive operations may reduce complications and implant loss by guiding surgical decision making. Patients with a negative SLN are unlikely to require PMRT. Those with positive SLN(s) are high-risk IBR candidates with a quantifiable PMRT risk.
A new thin-film CuGaSe/sub 2//Cu(In,Ga)Se/sub 2/ bifacial, tandem solar cell with both junctions formed simultaneously

Thin films of CuGaSe/sub 2/ and Cu(In,Ga)Se/sub 2/ were evaporated by the 3-stage process onto opposite sides of a single piece of soda-lime glass, coated bifacially with an n/sup +/-TCO. Junctions were formed simultaneously with each of the p-type absorbers by depositing thin films of n-CdS via chemical bath deposition (CBD) at 60/spl deg/C. The resulting four-terminal device is a nonmechanically stacked, two-junction tandem. The unique growth sequence protects the temperature-sensitive p/n junctions. The initial device (/spl eta/ = 3.7%, V/sub oc/ = 1.1 V [AM1.5]) suffered from low quantum efficiencies. Initial results are also presented from experiments with variations in growth sequence and back reflectors.
Montane Meadow Change during Drought Varies with Background Hydrologic Regime and Plant Functional Group

Climate change models for many ecosystems predict more extreme climatic events in the future, including exacerbated drought conditions. Here we assess the effects of drought by quantifying temporal variation in community composition of a complex montane meadow landscape characterized by a hydrological gradient. The meadows occur in two regions of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (Gallatin and Teton) and were classified into six categories (M1-M6, designating hydric to xeric) based upon Satellite pour l'Observation de la Terre (SPOT) satellite imagery. Both regions have similar plant communities, but patch sizes of meadows are much smaller in the Gallatin region. We measured changes in the percent cover of bare ground and plants by species and functional groups during five years between 1997 and 2007. We hypothesized that drought effects would not be manifested evenly across the hydrological gradient, but rather would be observed as hotspots of change in some areas and minimally evident in others. We also expected varying responses by plant functional groups (forbs vs. woody plants). Forbs, which typically use water from relatively shallow soils compared to woody plants, were expected to decrease in cover in mesic meadows, but increase in hydric meadows. Woody plants, such as Artemisia, were expected to increase, especially in mesic meadows. We identified several important trends in our meadow plant communities during this period of drought: (1) bare ground increased significantly in xeric meadows of both regions (Gallatin M6 and Teton M5) and in mesic (M3) meadows of the Teton, (2) forbs decreased significantly in the mesic and xeric meadows in both regions, (3) forbs increased in hydric (M1) meadows of the Gallatin region, and (4) woody species showed increases in M2 and M5 meadows of the Teton region and in M3 meadows of the Gallatin region. The woody response was dominated by changes in Artemisia spp. and Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus. Thus, our results supported our expectations that community change was not uniform across the landscape, but instead could be predicted based upon functional group responses to the spatial and temporal patterns of water availability, which are largely a function of plant water use and the hydrological gradient.
Peer navigation improves diagnostic follow-up after breast cancer screening among Korean American women: results of a randomized trial

Objective To test an intervention to increase adherence to diagnostic follow-up tests among Asian American women.
Physics of ultrasonic surgery using tissue fragmentation: Part II

Ultrasonic surgical aspirators typically operate at a frequency between 20 and 60 kHz. A vibrating hollow horn moves against the tissue and suction is applied. The interaction causes tissue to fragment; the fragmented material is then aspirated. However, the mechanism of interaction is poorly understood: the most common view relates it to cavitation, probably active in concert with other mechanisms, including the direct jack-hammer effect, shock-induced stress, acoustic microstreaming and shearing stress. It has also been attributed to chopping, which will produce emulsification. This article reports a study that collected and analyzed ultrasonic, high-speed photographic, visual/optical and electrical data for a 23-kHz unit operating in water and a range of fresh pig tissues. The primary mechanism for tissue fragmentation is shown to be horn-tip impact and other mechanical forces, operating in combination with hydrodynamic forces applied to the tissue on the forward stroke in each cycle. No evidence of cavitation in tissue was observed.