cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of spectral fluctuations on conductance-peak height statistics in quantum dots

Physics Department, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey 08544and NEC Research Institute, 4 Independence Way, Princeton, New Jersey 08540~Received 4 March 2002; published 29 July 2002!Within random matrix theory for quantum dots, both the dot’s one-particle eigenlevels and the dot-leadcouplings are statistically distributed. While the effect of the latter on the conductance is obvious and has beentaken into account in the literature, the statistical distribution of the one-particle eigenlevels is generallyreplaced by a picket-fence spectrum. Here we take the random matrix theory eigenlevel distribution explicitlyinto account, and observe signiﬁcant deviations in the conductance distribution and magnetoconductance ofclosed quantum dots at experimentally relevant temperatures.DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.66.033308 PACS number~s!: 73.23.Ad
Chapter 5 Energetics of Membrane Permeability

Abstract The Gibbs free energy of dipole or ion permeation of lipid bilayers is calculated as the sum of all electrostatic, solvophobic and specific interactions. Partitioning models are consistent with dipole permeation and some features of ionic permeation, particularly, if the solvophobic energy is taken into account. Ionic and dipole permeability are extremely sensitive to the ionic/dipolar radius. Despite this sensitivity, calculations of the permeability can be carried out for typical monovalent cations, and provide reasonable estimates, but only for hydrated species. An alternative mechanism proposed for ionic permeation involves the occurrence of transient pore‐like defects in lipid bilayers which permit ions to bypass the Born energy barrier. The two alternative hypotheses, partitioning vs. transient pores, can be tested by measuring the ionic and dipolar permeation through bilayers of varying thickness. Experimental observations for ions permeability are consistent with the transient pore mechanism for shorter chain lipids, but tend towards the theoretical line for partitioning models for longer chain lipids. Results for small neutral solutes are best explained by the solubility‐diffusion mechanism. The proposed method of calculation of the Gibbs free energy of ion or dipole membrane transfer can be effectively used not only in describing the biophysical properties of bilayers, but also in extraction processes, pharmaceutical applications and liquid membrane separations. In this method it has been found that that the free energy of the solvophobic effect is opposite in sign to the electrostatic effect. As a result, the sum of the electrostatic and solvophobic components of the Gibbs free energy decreases with ionic size. The specific energy of ion/dipolar layer interaction depends on the dipolar membrane surface potential. These calculations yielded the permeability of different ions and molecules through bilayer membranes in good agreement with experimental data.
Ocean Coupling to Topographically-Enhanced Atmospheric Flow

Abstract : The goal of this project is to understand and predict oceanic and atmospheric processes in coastal areas where winds are topographically steered and strengthened. The proposed work aims to probe details of the interaction of mountainous island terrain with synoptic and intra-seasonal disturbances, and the associated ocean response and feedback. The research questions include: How do intra-seasonal and synoptic disturbances combine to generate spatial/temporal variability of the ocean and atmosphere on small time and space (e.g., operational) scales? How do terrain effects influence local precipitation and wind patterns during atmospheric episodes? How do warm wake waters surrounding islands impact the atmosphere during synoptic and intra-seasonal events? What is the evolution of atmospheric and oceanic boundary layers over the course of atmospheric passages, and what role do wind orientation and terrain play?
Cataloging the Wide World of Web

SUMMARY The Internet has become one of the leading forms of communication and information dissemination in the world today. Furthermore, the Internet provides great opportunities for librarians to supply their remote patrons with an invaluable research tool that will provide access to a vast amount of information and services. However, the Internet is currently a disorganized mesh of a variety of information resources, which makes it difficult for researchers to locate resources that are relevant, authoritative and reliable. This paper demonstrates the need for better organization of the information resources on the Internet, and then discusses various methods and initiatives towards resolving these issues of organization. Some methods mentioned for organizing the Internet include improving the capabilities of search engines, and the use of metadata both within and separate from Web documents. The new roles of librarians in the electronic environment are also discussed.
Geographic information science and technology at Louisiana State University

The research and education in Geographic Information Science and Technology (GISc & T) at Louisiana State University (LSU, www.lsu.edu) has been necessitated by its geographical location in the sou...
Estimation of energy expenditure, net carbohydrate utilization, and net fat oxidation and synthesis by indirect calorimetry: evaluation of errors with special reference to the detailed composition of fuels

Sources of error in the interpretation of respiratory data are evaluated and reviewed with special reference to the detailed composition of foods. Estimates of fuel utilization or synthesis are 12-fold more sensitive to errors in the nonprotein respiratory quotient than is the heat equivalent of oxygen. Estimates of protein oxidation from nitrogen excretion can be in error from +14 to -39% of the true value. Heat equivalents of oxygen, respiratory quotients, and urinary nitrogen-to-oxygen conversion ratios are considered for 60 artificial and 101 conventional food proteins, 36 artificial and 125 conventional food fats, and the different carbohydrates contained in these foods. It is concluded that there is considerable uncertainty when the mix of fuels utilized is assessed accurately. Accuracy is best within 5% of the true values. This analysis is completed with descriptions of some physiological sources of error in an appendix.
Konno Aortoventriculoplasty Following Arterial Switch Operation Requires Pulmonary Valve Disruption and Right Ventricular Outflow Tract Reconstruction

In the presence of a small aortic annulus, aortic valve replacement can be challenging. Several annular enlarging techniques have been described to allow placement of an adequately sized prosthesis. In patients who have undergone prior cardiac surgery, particularly for congenital heart defects, standard techniques may require modification. This case describes the challenges of enlarging the aortic annulus after previous arterial switch operation for transposition of the great arteries. Specifically, the Konno aortoventriculoplasty following arterial switch operation requires pulmonary valve disruption and right ventricular outflow tract reconstruction.
“France Needs Children”: Pronatalism, Nationalism and Women's Equity

This article examines debates and discussions surrounding French pronatalist policies enacted in the 1980s. Drawing on data collected from a wide range of primary and secondary sources, including d...
An elementary proof of the adelson—panjer recursion formula

Abstract We present a new proof of the Adelson—Panjer recursion formula for computing discrete Compound Poisson densities. It uses only elementary probability theory and elementary arithmetic.
Accurate probabilities for the sign test

Limitations in currently available methods for producing significance probabilities for the sign test are discussed. Two simple modifications to the continuity corrected normal approximation are derived and presented in a simple form. These modifications are shown to markedly reduce the relative error in approximating exact probabilities. The relative simplicity of these modifications and the importance of accurate p values suggest that one or both modifications could be useful improvements.
Partial word knowledge in the absence of recall

Attributes of words can be known even when the words are not currently retrievable. Although repeatedly demonstrated for semantic and contextual dimensions, the evidence is ambiguous for structural characteristics. The present research demonstrates significant above-chance first-letter knowledge across four ordinal levels of retrieval confidence for nonretrieved words--tip of the tongue (TOT), high familiar, low familiar, unfamiliar. Contrary to prior research, there was minimal evidence for syllable number knowledge, even at highest confidence levels. Initial letter recognition in the absence of retrieval resembles the recognition without identification in episodic memory (Cleary, Current Directions in Psychological Science 17: 353-357, 2008), and such implicit familiarity may contribute more generally to confidence assessments of word knowledge in both semantic and episodic memory domains. Furthermore, this outcome suggests that word feature priming in the form of partial phonological activation may occur to some extent for all words during a retrieval attempt, and even for ones that are judged to be unknown.
Water jet and abrasive water jet cutting of unidirectional graphite/epoxy composite

Abstract Unidirectional graphite/epoxy composite material has been machined by water jet and abrasive water jet cutting processes. Topography and morphology of the machined surfaces were evaluated with surface profilometry and scanning electron microscopy. The surface characteristics in terms of roughness and the micromechanisms of material removal for both processes were analysed and compared. Abrasive water jet surface characteristics of graphite/epoxy were found to be significantly different from those of the water jet cutting process and micromechanical behaviour of material removal was strongly dependent on the fibre orientation.
Physiologic and anatomic basis for contralateral R1 in blink reflex

We studied the rate of appearance and mechanism of contralateral R1 responses in normal subjects. Contralateral R1 could be produced by facilitating maneuvers such as a gentle contraction of the orbicularis oculi and conditioning stimulus of the median nerve. In addition, changing the position of the stimulating anode to the midline evoked these responses that were abolished by blocking the contralateral supraorbital nerve, confirming its peperipheral origin. We conclude that crossed trigeminofacial pathways probably exist in normal subjects, but in some instances contralateral peripheral trigeminal ophthalmic sensory fibers may be stimulated, giving rise to a contralateral R1 response.
Pharmacological profile of radioligand binding to the norepinephrine transporter: instances of poor indication of functional activity.

Abstract Binding assays for the norepinephrine (NE) transporter (NET) with [ 3 H]nisoxetine have generally yielded weak potencies for compounds related to cocaine and 1-(2-(di(4-fluorophenyl)-methoxy)-ethyl)-4-(3-phenylpropyl)piperazine (GBR 12909), as compared with their functional activity in inhibiting NE uptake. In the present work with HEK-293 cells expressing the human NET (hNET), potential underlying causes for this discrepancy have been addressed: ambient temperature of the binding assay, buffer in the assay, preparation used for source of the NET, and radioligand. The results indicate that the standard [ 3 H]nisoxetine binding assay at 0 °C with cell membrane preparations in high Na + buffer underestimates the functional potency of compounds related to cocaine and GBR 12909; in drug development studies it is advisable to either carry out [ 3 H]nisoxetine binding assays with intact cells under uptake conditions, or perform classical [ 3 H]NE uptake studies with intact cells (or with synaptosomes from brain tissue).
Graduate Admissions in Clinical Psychology: Observations on the Present and Thoughts on the Future

Observations on the current state of admissions to clinical programs, and thoughts on some issues for the future, are offered. Application trends and recent developments such as electronic application and the proliferation of admissions-relevant message boards are highlighted. Issues for the future such as the impact of the increasing emphasis on mentorship on the admissions process, the merits of the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) and the admissions interview, and characteristics of the applicant pool are discussed. It is argued that the admissions process is best served when programs and applicants alike are clear about their goals, interests, strengths, limitations, and core values as they relate to the profession, thereby increasing the probability of an optimum fit between students and programs.
What have you done for me lately? Performance and brand identification in NASCAR

In endorsement and sponsorship research, the connection between athletes' performance and brand identification is sparse. In the USA, the National Association of Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) is sponsor-driven. While the old line in NASCAR was 'win on Sunday, sell on Monday', the hiring and firing of a driver is often steered by the driver's personality and ability to act in the role of product spokesman. This study uses a two-year sample of 1,000 US fans surveyed by telephone to test whether performance on the track leads to increased visibility of a sponsor. We find that while brand identification is more likely for consistent finishes, driver and sponsor continuity play a more significant role in establishing a link between NASCAR fans and sponsors.
Vector preference and host defense against infection interact to determine disease dynamics

Vector preference based on host infection status has long been recognized for its importance in disease dynamics. Prior theoretical work has assumed that all hosts are uniformly susceptible to the pathogen. Here we investigated disease dynamics when this assumption is relaxed using a series of vector–host epidemiological compartment models with variable levels of host resistance or tolerance to infection – collectively termed defense. In our models, vectors cannot acquire the infection from resistant hosts but can acquire from tolerant hosts. Specifically, we investigated the interacting effects of vector preference and host defense in a series of single- and two-patch models. Results indicate that resistant host types generally reduce disease prevalence and pathogen spillover, independent of vector preference. The epidemiological consequences of host tolerance, however, depended on vector preference. When vectors preferred diseased hosts, tolerance reduced incidence compared to susceptible hosts; when vectors avoided diseased hosts, tolerance enhanced disease prevalence. Finally, a variation of the model that included preference-based vector patch leaving rates suggests that both resistance and tolerance can promote pathogen spillover if vectors prefer diseased hosts, because of increased vector dispersal into susceptible patches. Collectively, we found complex, context-dependent effects of vector preference and host defense on disease dynamics. In the context of management programs for vector-borne diseases, managers should consider both the precise form of host defense present in a population, breed, or cultivar, as well as vector feeding behavior.
Involvement of nitric oxide in the signal transduction of salicylic acid regulating stomatal movement

The effects and the relationship between salicylic acid (SA) and nitric oxide (NO) onVicia faba L. stomatal movement were studied. The results here showed that exogenous SA and NO induced stomatal closure, 100 μmol/L SA induced a rapid and striking NO increase in the cytosol of guard cells. This phenomenon was largely prevented by 200 μmol/L 2-phenyl-4,4,5,5-tetramethylimidazoline-1-oxyl-3-oxide (PTIO), a specific NO scavenger, and 25 μmol/LN G-nitro-L-Arg-methyl eater (L-NAME), an inhibitor of NO synthase (NOS) in mammalian cells that also inhibits plant NOS. In addition, SA-induced stomatal closure was largely prevented by PTIO and L-NAME. These results provide evidence that guard cells generate NO in response to SA via NOS-like activity, and that such NO production is required for full stomatal closure in response to SA. H-(1,2,4)-oxadiazole-[4,3-α]quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ), an inhibitor of guanylate cyclase, and nicotinamide, an antagonist of cADPR production, inhibited the effects of SA- and NO-induced stomatal closure. It suggests that both cGMP and cADPR might mediate the signal transduction of SA and NO-induced stomatal closure.
Interface to a design knowledge base in a CIM environment that understands user design intentions

Abstract A new dialogue-based approach towards conceptual interactive design within a CIM environment is presented. The main objective is the development of a highly interactive interface to a mechanical design knowledge base, where the interactive system attempts to understand the intentions that underlie the designer's queries. The need for such a system stems from the observation that effective interaction between the designer and the knowledge-based system is possible only when the system has a fairly accurate notion of what the user intends to know or do. The designer's perceived beliefs and goals have to be interpreted in terms of the mechanical engineering design knowledge that resides in the knowledge base. This automatically implies that:(i) there is a need to capture the structural, functional and behavioural relationships that form the core of the knowledge domain; and (ii) there is a need for tracking the user's intentions and goals during the interaction. The author's approach is based on a model that uses an explicit causal network of behavioural states to perform commonsense reasoning about the mechanical engineering design domain. This is coupled with an enhanced language understander with a mechanism for contextual understanding. To comprehend the implied design intentions from the designer's input, both language dependent concepts and relevant design (domain) dependent knowledge are utilized in the reasoning strategy. An interactive environment based on this approach has been developed in Smalltalk-80. This approach is illustrated with an example dealing with the domain of automotive caburettor design.
DIATOM SUCCESSION IN THE RECENT SEDIMENTS OF LAKE OKEECHOBEE, FLORIDA, U.S.A.

Diatoms and other siliceous microfossils were extracted from 1 cm samples of a 49 cm, 210Pb-dated core taken in 1988 from Lake Okeechobee, a large, shallow lake located in southern Florida (27° N Lat), U.S.A. Microfossil assemblages consisted mainly of sponge spicules and diatoms. Cysts or other chrysophyte remains were exceedingly rare. Although diatoms were present in low numbers and preservation was poor, trends in assemblage composition suggest that Lake Okeechobee has undergone substantial changes in hydrologic budget and trophic status during the period studied. The ratio of planktonic to benthic species was highest just prior to western settlement of the region and has been low and stable thereafter, probably indicating reduction in lake level. Taxa, particularly Actinocyclus, which are tolerant of eutrophication and salinization, increased after ca. 1940, indicating further modification of inputs to the lake.
Seasonal contrasts in snow-cover characteristics on Ross Sea ice floes

Snow-cover characteristics on ice floes in the Ross Sea, Antarctica, were examined during cruises in autumn 1998 and summer 1999. The autumn snow cover was shallower, colder and had higher and more variable salinity, and smaller single and composite grain-sizes than the summer snow cover. The autumn snow cover was dominated by rounded particles in chains of grains and clusters, while the summer snow cover was composed primarily of melt clusters. There was extensive flooding of the summer snow cover at the snow/ice interface. The summer snow cover was nearly isothermal and close to the melting point. It exhibited obvious signs of melting and refreezing in the form of ice lenses, pipes and superimposed ice, although no melt ponds were evident. Many of the ice lenses were located directly above the saline standing water found on most of the summer ice floes.
Submillimeter fourier-transform spectrometer measurements of atmospheric opacity above mauna kea.

We present accurately calibrated submillimeter atmospheric transmission spectra obtained with a Fourier-transform spectrometer at the Caltech Submillimeter Observatory on Mauna Kea, Hawaii. These measurements cover the 0.9–0.3-mm wavelength range and are the first in a series aimed at defining the terrestrial long-wave atmospheric transmission curve. The 4.1-km altitude of the Mauna Kea site provides access to extremely low zenith water-vapor columns, permitting atmospheric observations at frequencies well above those possible from sea level. We describe the calibration procedures, present our first well-calibrated transmission spectra, and compare our results with those of a single-layer atmospheric transmission model, AT. With an empirical best-fit continuum opacity term included, this simple single-layer model provides a remarkably good fit to the opacity data for H_2O line profiles described by either van Vleck–Weisskopf or kinetic shapes.
Laparoscopic radical cystoprostatectomy with bilateral nephroureterectomy: initial report

OBJECTIVES To present our experience with laparoscopic radical cystoprostatectomy and bilateral nephroureterectomy for organ-confined, muscle-invasive transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) of the bladder in two patients with dialysis-dependent end-stage renal disease (ESRD). PATIENTS AND METHODS Two men aged 77 and 65 years with organ-confined, muscle-invasive TCC of the urinary bladder and pre-existing dialysis-dependent ESRD underwent laparoscopic bilateral pelvic lymphadenectomy, radical cystoprostatectomy and bilateral nephroureterectomy. Urine spillage was avoided and en bloc urothelial integrity between the bladder and the two renal specimens was maintained throughout the procedure. The intact, entrapped specimens were removed en bloc via a Pfannenstiel incision at the end of the procedure. RESULTS The total operative duration was 573 and 660 min, respectively, including repositioning and re-draping between each major step. Blood loss was 350 and 1000 mL, respectively. Both patients tolerated the procedure well and there were no intraoperative complications. The first patient resumed oral intake 3 days after surgery and was discharged home after 5 days. The second patient's course after surgery was complicated by a prolonged adynamic ileus and infection of the catheter placed for continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis. He was discharged 28 days after surgery and died from unknown causes at 30 days. CONCLUSIONS To our knowledge, this is the first report of radical urotheliectomy, consisting of bilateral pelvic lymph node dissection, radical cystoprostatectomy, and bilateral nephroureterectomy, using entirely intracorporeal laparoscopic techniques.
Judicial Demand—Screening and Decisions on the Merits A Second Look

The relationship between policy makers' demand-screening decisions and their responses to demands that have been given full consideration can be examined in courts which possess discretionary juris...
Non-contact imaging for surface-opening cracks in concrete with air-coupled sensors

Rapid and accurate non-destructive evaluation (NDE) techniques are needed to assess the in-place condition of concrete structures. However the time and effort required to perform NDE tests using conventional surface-mounted contact sensors hinder rapid evaluation of large full-scale structures. The suitability of surface waves and non-contact sensing techniques to detect the presence of concrete defects is examined here. First, the ability to detect leaky surface waves in concrete with air-coupled sensors is demonstrated. Surface waves in a concrete slab specimen are generated by an electrically-controlled impact source. Next, the data and signal processing needed to improve leaky surface wave data, with respect to eventual application to velocity and attenuation images, are demonstrated. Finally velocity and wave attenuation data collected from a concrete slab specimen that exhibits surface cracking are presented. Test results show that the proposed energy ratio (attenuation) criterion is more sensitive to existence of cracks than the velocity criterion.
A Folded All-Reflecting Schmidt Camera And Ultraviolet Image Converter For Space-Astronomy Applications

Folded all-reflecting Schmidt camera UV image converter system for space astronomy applications, discussing pressure sensitivity effects on UV direct recording emulsion
Species Limits and Phylogenetic Relationships in the Didelphid Marsupial Genus Thylamys Based on Mitochondrial DNA Sequences and Morphology

Abstract Species of the didelphid marsupial genus Thylamys, commonly known as fat-tailed mouse opossums, are broadly distributed in the open habitats of central and southern South America. In this report we examine species limits in the genus and infer phylogenetic relationships among Thylamys species using both molecular phylogenetic and morphological methods. We assessed species limits using a broad geographic sample of DNA sequences from the mitochondrial gene cytochrome b in conjunction with morphological character analysis, and we inferred phylogenetic relationships among species using the cytochrome-b dataset in addition to sequences from the mitochondrial genes cytochrome c oxidase subunit II and NADH dehydrogenase 2 for a representative subset of individuals. Based on the results of these analyses, we recognize Xerodelphys (new subgenus) for T. karimii and T. velutinus, and we recognize seven valid species in the nominotypical subgenus. The latter includes T. macrurus, T. pusillus, and two monophy...
Substance abuse treatment outcomes among American Indians in the Telephone Aftercare project

Thirty American Indians who had successfully completed their residential substance abuse treatment program with Phoenix-based Native American Connections, Inc. agreed to participate in the Telephone Aftercare Program when they returned to their homes on the reservation. They were provided with graduated monthly aftercare contacts through the telephone for a nominal period of six months, during which time they were interviewed monthly regarding their substance use, and on other life domains at three and six months following discharge from their residential program. Using their baseline data as the comparison, results suggest that six months following residential treatment, clients showed decreased drinking and other drug use, had fewer encounters with the criminal justice system, and had improved familial and social interactions and relationships.
In vitro selection of RNAs that undergo autolytic cleavage with Pb2

An in vitro selection method has been developed to obtain RNA molecules that specifically undergo autolytic cleavage reactions by Pb2+ ion. The method utilizes a circular RNA intermediate which is regenerated following the cleavage reaction to allow amplification and multiple cycles of selection. Pb2+ is known to catalyze a specific cleavage reaction between U17 and G18 of yeast tRNA(Phe). Starting from pools of RNA molecules which have a random distribution of sequences at nine or ten selected positions in the sequence of yeast tRNA(Phe), we have isolated many RNA molecules that undergo rapid and specific self-cleavage with Pb2+ at a variety of different sites. Terminal truncation experiments suggest that most of these self-cleaving RNA molecules do not fold like tRNA. However, two of the variants are cleaved rapidly with Pb2+ at U17 even though they lack the highly conserved nucleotides G18 and G19. Both specific mutations and terminal truncation experiments suggest that the D and T loops of these two variants interact in a manner similar to that of tRNA(Phe) despite the absence of the G18U55 and G19C56 tertiary interactions. A model for an alternate tertiary interaction involving a U17U55 pair is presented. This model may be relevant to the structure of about 100 mitochondrial tRNAs that also lack G18 and G19. The selection method presented here can be directly applied to isolate catalytic RNAs that undergo cleavage in the presence of other metal ions, modified nucleotides, or sequence-specific nucleases.
To cool or not to cool

From the Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Mo. Disclosures: Author has nothing to disclose with regard to commercial support. Received for publication Sept 24, 2014; accepted for publication Sept 25, 2014; available ahead of print Oct 22, 2014. Address for reprints: Jennifer S. Lawton, MD, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S Euclid Ave, Campus Box 8234, St Louis, MO 63110 (E-mail: lawtonj@wustl.edu). J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2014;148:2718-9 0022-5223/$36.00 Copyright 2014 by The American Association for Thoracic Surgery http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jtcvs.2014.09.090
Synthesis of Polyolefin/Layered Silicate Nanocomposites via Surface-Initiated Ring-Opening Metathesis Polymerization

Here we report the synthesis and characterization of block copolymer/layered silicate (BCPLS) nanocomposites via the surface-initiated ring-opening metathesis polymerization (SI-ROMP) of norbornene and cyclopentene from montmorillonite clay (MMT). The MMT particle surfaces were functionalized with a norbornene-terminated alkylammonium surfactant through ion exchange. Block copolymer brushes of norbornene and cyclopentene were polymerized directly from the surface of these functionalized clay platelets, yielding highly exfoliated nanocomposites. A fraction of the polymer brushes were removed from their substrate by reverse ion exchange and characterized in parallel with their corresponding nanocomposite analogues. The thermal, mechanical, and morphological characteristics of the BCPLSs and their neat analogues were then compared directly. This enabled us to assess the role of the MMT filler in the thermal properties, solid/melt state rheology, and morphology.
Electrochemical infrared characterization of CO domains on ruthenium-decorated platinum nanoparticles

Spectra obtained by electrochemical infrared reflection absorption spectroscopy (EC-IRAS) for carbon monoxide (CO) adlayers formed by partial CO dosing on various ruthenium-decorated platinum nanoparticle films are reported. The need to achieve a well distributed rather than aggregated metal nanoparticle array is demonstrated, given that such nanoparticle aggregates induce complex dielectric behavior. The strategy here is to use an "organic glue matrix" (short chain SAMs) between the nanoparticles and the gold substrates. The observed promotion in CO electrooxidation by the existence of a Ru island on Pt nanoparticles, of interest to fuel-cell catalysis, showed a strong relationship with Ru surface concentrations, consistent with previous studies on single crystal or polycrystalline bimetallic surfaces. Two distinctive CO infrared bands, one for the Pt-CO and one for Ru-CO domain were found after the dipole coupling of CO within the two CO domains was minimized. Interestingly, those two CO bands showed independent electrooxidation behavior with electrode potential changes. Also, it is shown that the electrooxidation of CO on large Ru islands is less facile than on small Ru islands. In addition, the activity of commercial Pt/Ru alloy nanoparticles to CO stripping was tested and IRAS spectra were reported as a comparison to our Ru-decorated Pt nanoparticles.
DNA Templates for Fluorescent Silver Clusters and I-Motif Folding

When compared with silver nanoparticles, silver clusters comprised of ∼101 atoms are distinguished by their strong fluorescence, and DNA directs and stabilizes particular types of clusters via base-specific interactions. Two main observations considered in this paper are the pH dependence of the fluorescence and the folded conformation of the oligonucleotide−cluster conjugates. Two i-motif forming oligonucleotides (dTA2C4)4 and (dC4A2)3C4 coordinate red and green emissive species, and these fluorescent species are favored in slightly acidic and basic solutions, respectively. The red emission is highest at pH 6, at which the i-motif forms of the oligonucleotides are also stable. When assessed by size exclusion chromatography, the oligonucleotide and cluster conjugate have similar global structures, which indicate that the DNA strands are similarly organized at this pH. The green emission is highest at pH 8−9. In these basic solutions, the oligonucleotide alone is unfolded, yet the green and red cluster−oli...
Pr-doping of the high-magnetoresistance perovskite Nd23Sr13MnO3

Abstract We have investigated the effect of Pr-doping on the Nd-sites in the high magnetoresistance (MR) perovskite Nd 2 3 Sr 1 3 MnO 3 . For polycrystalline materials, negative MR as high as ∼ 235% is observed near 237K in pure Nd 2 3 Sr 1 3 MnO 3 . The substitution of Pr for Nd leads to a reduction in the overall MR, and an increase of the MR-peak temperature. We investigate the possibility that the large negative MR originates from the formation of localized magnetic polarons.
Simulation of Segregation to Interfaces in Metal-Oxides

Segregation of isovalent cation impurities to (001) and (011) free surfaces in (Co0.3Ni0.7)O and (Fe0.12Mn0.88)O was investigated using atomistic computer simulations. Impurity concentrations were represented by a mean-field approximation, and equilibrium distributions of impurities were calculated by minimization of the free energy. Surface energy effects were found to dominate segregation behavior, even when in competition with misfit strain energy effects. These Free Energy method predictions compared well with more accurate Monte Carlo simulations, suggesting that the mean-field representation of impurity concentration is satisfactory for this application.
Clinician image review patterns in an outpatient setting

We have previously described a system for delivering radiology information to the desktop computers used for the electronic medical record (EMR). The system was built with the ability to record physician usage to a database. This usage information was then studied to help understand the value and requirements of an application that could display radiology information on the EMR workstations. This system was used by both primary care physicians and specialists primarily in the out-patient setting. We found that while there was substantial variation in usage both within and between the two physician groups, there was a high degree of support for maintaining image display capabilities on the workstations.
Endosome sorting of β2-adrenoceptors is GRK5 independent

We have investigated the role of G protein-coupled receptor kinase 5 (GRK5) in the regulation of endosome sorting of human β2-adrenoceptors. Expressing GRK5 at a high level significantly increased the extent of internalization of wild-type β2-adrenoceptors and of an internalization-defective mutant receptor, and increased receptor phosphorylation at serines 355 and 356 in the cytoplasmic tail. Overexpressing GRK5 did not alter β2-adrenoceptor recycling as assessed by immunofluorescence microscopy and radioligand binding assays nor was there any change in receptor downregulation. These data indicate that GRK5 does not regulate the sorting of β2-adrenoceptors in the endocytic pathway. British Journal of Pharmacology (2004) 141, 277–284. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0705504
Age- and location-related changes in microglial function

Inflammation in the central nervous system (CNS) is primarily regulated by microglia. No longer considered a homogenous population, microglia display a high degree of heterogeneity, immunological diversity and regional variability in function. Given their low rate of self-renewal, the microenvironment in which microglia reside may play an important role in microglial senescence. This study examines age-related changes in microglia in the brain and spinal cord. Using ex-vivo flow cytometry analyses, functional assays were performed to assess changes in microglial morphology, oxidative stress, cytokine production, and phagocytic activity with age in both the brain and spinal cord. The regional CNS environment had a significant effect on microglial activity with age. Blood-CNS barrier permeability was greater in the aging spinal cord compared with aging brain; this was associated with increased tissue cytokine levels. Aged microglia had deficits in phagocytosis at baseline and after stimulus-induced activation. The identification of age-specific, high scatter microglia together with the use of ex-vivo functional analyses provides the first functional characterization of senescent microglia. Age and regional-specificity of CNS disease should be taken into consideration when developing immune-modulatory treatments.
Review: Peripheral Arterial Disease and Diabetes: A Clinical Update

Peripheral arterial disease is characterized by a gradual reduction in blood to the extremities secondary to atherosclerosis. In diabetes, the pattern of atherosclerotic occlusion typically shows a propensity toward the infrapopliteal vessels. Additionally, impairment of the microcirculation manifests in diminished vasoreactivity and a functional ischemia that is not always correctable with surgery. However, when a nonhealing wound is complicated by peripheral arterial disease, revascularization is paramount to wound healing. Revascularization can be accomplished through traditional bypass surgery or newer endovascular interventions, such as angioplasty and stenting. These less invasive techniques of revascularization offer the advantages of quicker recovery and lower morbidity but durability may be compromised. Ultimately, the choice of revascularization procedure should be based on the clinical characteristics of the atherosclerotic lesion along with the individual patient history.
Diffusion, swelling, and consolidation in glassy polystyrene microspheres

The effects of prior thermal and swelling history on the kinetics and apparent equilibria of subsequent n-hexane sorption in monodisperse, submicrometer diameter, glassy polystyrene microspheres were studied. Repetitive sorption and desorption cycling was compared with continuous sorption and desorption experiments. The apparent equilibrium uptake of n-hexane in preswollen samples decreased monotonically with the cumulative time under vacuum independent of the cycle frequency or the number of sorption-desorption cycles. This consolidation was modeled as a first order relaxation process with a single characteristic relaxation time. “As-received” samples swelled in the presence of the penetrant and the apparent equilibrium n-hexane content increased monotonically with the time under n-hexane. The Berens-Hopfenberg diffusion-relaxation model accurately describes the cyclic and continuous swelling behavior of the “as-received” sample. At each temperature studied, a true equilibrium n-hexane content was approached asymptotically for the preswollen and “as-received” samples after sufficient time under vacuum or n-hexane, respectively. Whereas the apparent sorption equilibria were controlled by the cumulative time under vacuum or n-hexane for the preswollen and “as-received” samples, respectively, the absorption kinetics are subject to a systematic variation which depends only on the immediate prior vacuum history of the sample. The temperature dependence of the kinetic and equilibrium parameters describing diffusion, consolidation, and swelling suggests a unified molecular interpretation of these diverse glassy-state transport and relaxation processes.
Sex Differences in the Interaction of Adults and Preschool Children

The interaction between adults and preschool children was observed while children engaged in a group arts-and-crafts activity. Subjects were 16 male and 16 female children and 2 male and 2 female adults. The percentage of times the child's satisfactory task behavior was followed by an adult response was used as the measure to determine whether adults respond differently to boys and girls, whether this is related to different patterns of behavior displayed by boys and girls, and whether this differential response varies with the sex of the adult. There was a tendency for boys to receive more attention from adults than girls. Female adults showed a greater differential response, giving proportionately more attention to boys than did male adults. The amount of attention a child received was not correlated, however, with amount of attention-seeking behavior displayed by the child during the task. Implications for the role of male adults in the early school environment are suggested.
Studying endocrine disrupter action and toxicology in ER knock‐out mice

Estrogen receptors (ER) are thought to play a crucial role in development, reproduction, carcinogenesis and normal physiology. Using gene targeting techniques, we have produced lines of transgenic mice homozygous for the disrupted ERα gene (αERKO) and ERβ genes (βERKO). Comparable levels of ER-β mRNA were found in tissues of αERKO mice suggesting that ER-β expression is not dependent on ERα. αERKO mice were totally unresponsive to uterotropic assays with estradiol, Genistein, hydroxy TAM, DES or EGF treatment. Progesterone receptor (PR) mRNA was detected in αERKO mice, but not stimulated by estrogen in the uterus, mammary gland and ovary. Pituitary hormones are elevated in αERKO females but same as WT in βERKO mice indicating that ERα plays a major role in peptide hormone regulation. Genistien was equally effective in αERKO as WT mice in suppressing serum LH levels suggesting its action in this estrogen target response involved a non-ER mediated mechanism compared to the uterine genistein activity. Analysis of the mammary glands of adult αERKO mice, showed a primitive ductal rudiment while the βERKO had the fully developed ductal tree seen in WT siblings. The influence of ERα activity on mammary tumorgenicity was evaluated by crossing αERKO with an oncogenic WNT-1 transgenic mouse line having an increased incidence of mammary tumors. Mice with WT ER levels and WNT-1 transgene show 98% tumor incidence at 27 weeks of age. αERKO/WNT-1 mice showed a delayed onset (54 weeks). These results indicate that mammary tumors can develop from ER negative tissues, but with a delayed onset. A second cross with erB2 (Neu) transgenics shows that WT and hetero Neu mice have a tumor incidence at 54 wks of age. αERKO/Neu have an extremely low incidence past 90 wks. Compared to the WNT/ERKO the ERKO/Neu have a poorer tumor rate suggesting that ERα plays a more prominent role in this oncogenic tumor induction. Since the initial description of DES carcinogenesis in both humans and mice, a major question was what aspect of the DES action was ER mediated or non-receptor mediated. Perinatal DES treatment to WT mice showed numerous phenotypic toxicological and carcinogenic effects including, persistent vaginal cornification, uterine hyperplasia, oviductal hypertrophy in females. In similarly treated males, DES induced seminal vesicle atrophy and prostatic hyperplasia. αERKO treated males and females showed none of the observed toxic effects indicating that ERα was involved in mediating these DES effects and not ERβ. Further characterization of the mice and comparison of the DES effects in βERKO mice and double ER gene KO mice will be needed to more fully the specific roles of the two different forms of ER in estrogen hormone toxicology and hormonal carcinogenesis.
Customer-based discrimination against major league baseball players: Additional evidence from All-star ballots

Abstract This paper extends the analysis of [Hanssen, A., Andersen, T., 1999. Has discrimination lessened over time? A test using baseball's All-star vote. Economic Inquiry 37, 326–352] using All-star votes from 1990 through 2000 to investigate customer-based discrimination in Major League Baseball (MLB). The previous findings of no evidence of customer-based racial discrimination against minority players are confirmed. However, the evidence suggests that after controlling for player and team characteristics, Blacks and Latinos were actually preferred by MLB All-star voters during the 1990s. Initial evidence suggests that over the sample period the bias for Blacks came from voters in the South and Midwest, the bias for Latinos came from voters in the Midwest and West, while there was residual bias for White players in the South.
Studies of Quaternary saline lakes; II, Isotopic and compositional changes during desiccation of the brines in Owens Lake, California, 1969-1971

Abstract Owens Lake is an alkaline salt lake in a closed basin in southeast California. It is normally nearly dry, but in early 1969, an abnormal runoff from the Sierra Nevada flooded it to a maximum depth of 2·4 m. By late summer of 1971, the lake was again nearly dry and the dissolved salts recrystallized. Changes in the chemistry, pH, and deuterium content were monitored during desiccation. During flooding, salts (mostly trona, halite, and burkeite) dissolved slowly from the lake floor. Their concentration in the lake waters increased as evaporation removed water and salts again crystallized, but winter temperatures caused precipitation of some salts and the following summer warming caused their solution, resulting in seasonal variations in the concentration patterns of some ions. The pH values (9·4–10·4) changed with time but showed no detectable diurnal pattern. The deuterium concentration increased during evaporation and appeared to be in equilibrium with vapor leaving the lake according to the Rayleigh equation. The effective α(D/H in liquid/D/H in vapor) decreased as salinity increased; the earliest measured value was 1·069 [as total dissolved solids (TDS) of lake waters changed from 136,200 to 250,400 mg/1]and the last value (calc.) was 1·025 (as TDS changed from 450,000 to 470,300 mg/1). Deuterium exchange with the atmosphere was apparently small except during late desiccation stages when the isotopic contrast became great. Eventually, atmospheric exchange, combined with decreasing α and lake size and increasing salinity, stopped further deuterium concentration in the lake. The maximum contrast between atmospheric vapor and lake deuterium contents was about 110%.
Immunoreactivity of tumor-associated glycoprotein (TAG-72) in normal, hyperplastic, and neoplastic colon

Monoclonal antibody B72.3 recognizes tumor-associated glycoprotein (TAG-72) and has been widely used to identify malignant epithelial cells in cytologic and histologic preparations. We investigated TAG-72 expression in normal, hyperplastic, and neoplastic adult colon tissues. Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded samples of normal (43), hyperplastic (20), and neoplastic (70) colonic tissue were studied with B72.3 using the avidin-biotin complex immunoperoxidase method. TAG-72 expression was detected in 100% of the invasive carcinomas, in 84% of the normal colon samples, in 100% of the hyperplastic polyps, and in 93% of the adenomatous or mixed hyperplastic-adenomatous lesions. Among cases expressing TAG-72 immunoreactivity, the extent of staining varied from 100% of cells in normal and hyperplastic lesions to 10% to 100% in neoplastic lesions. A consistent supranuclear (presumably Golgi) staining pattern was observed in all tissues with the exception of carcinoma and some adenomas; in these cases, staining localized to the luminal surface and intraluminal mucin and/or was diffusely cytoplasmic. From these data, it is clear that TAG-72 is expressed in both benign and neoplastic cells of the human adult colon, although different patterns of expression may distinguish malignant transformation. Furthermore, carcinoma cells less consistently express TAG-72, so that small biopsies or cytologic specimens may be falsely negative due to sampling errors.