cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pyrite and oxidized iron mineral phases formed from pyrite oxidation in salt marsh and estuarine sediments

Abstract We used scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray analysis to examine sediments from vegetated portions of three salt marshes, the Great Sippewissett Marsh (Cape Cod, MA), Sapelo Island (Georgia), and the Hackensack Meadowlands (N.J.), and from the sediments of an estuary, Newark Bay (N.J.). Pyrite particles were abundant in sediments from all sites. Both fine grained pyrite crystals and framboids were found. Single, fine grained crystals (diameter = 0.2 to 2.0 micrometers) predominated in all samples, strong evidence for rapid formation of pyrite. We also found both microcrystalline and framboidal iron-oxyhydroxide phases in many of the sediment samples. This is evidence of pyrite oxidation within the sediments and suggests that iron is conserved in salt marshes even as pyrite is oxidized. The thermodynamic stability of iron phases in marsh sediments, and recent pyrite oxidation studies in coal, suggest goethite as the crystalline iron-oxyhydroxide phase present. In addition, we sometimes found a red amorphous coating on grass roots from the Great Sippewissett and Sapelo Island marshes. This coating is likely a form of hydrated iron (III) oxide.
Decarboxylation Mechanism of Amino Acids by Density Functional Theory

The decarboxylation mechanisms of amino acids with and without water were studied by density functional theory at the B3LYP/6-31G level. Without water, two decarboxylation channels exist for the low molecular weight amino acids glycine (Gly) and alanine (Ala), whereas only one exists for the other amino acids. Channel one for Gly and Ala takes place from a neutral conformer in which the carboxylic hydrogen is intramolecularly hydrogen bonded to the nitrogen atom of the amino group. During the development of the transition-state structure, the carboxylic hydrogen atom first shifts to the amino group forming the zwitterion and then from the −NH3+ group to the α-carbon forming the product amine. Accompanying proton transfer, the C−CO2 bond elongates. Channel two starts from the higher-energy anti carboxylic hydrogen conformer and involves the direct heterolytic loss of CO2 accompanied by simultaneous proton transfer. The calculated energy barriers range from 288 to 307 kJ/mol with an average of 299 kJ/mol. T...
Relationship of connexin43 expression to phenotypic modulation in cultured human aortic smooth muscle cells

Transition of arterial smooth muscle cells from the contractile to the synthetic phenotype in vivo is associated with up-regulation of the gap-junctional protein, connexin43 (Cx43). However, the role of increased Cx43 expression in relation to the characteristic features of the synthetic phenotype - altered growth, differentiation or synthetic activity - has not previously been defined. In the present study, growth was induced in cultured human aortic smooth muscle cells by treatment with thrombin and with PDGF-bb; growth arrest was induced by serum deprivation and contact inhibition. Alterations in Cx43 expression and gap-junctional communication were analyzed in relation to expression of markers for contractile differentiation and extracellular matrix synthesis. Treatment with thrombin, but not PDGF-bb, led to up-regulation of Cx43 gap junctions, increased synthetic activity yet also enhanced contractile differentiation. Inhibition of growth by deprivation of serum growth factors in sub-confluent cultures had no effect on Cx43 expression or contractile differentiation. Growth arrest by contact inhibition led to progressive reduction in Cx43 expression, in parallel with progressive increase in expression of differentiation markers but no alteration in synthetic activity. Of a range of stimuli examined, only thrombin had the combined effect of increasing Cx43 gap-junction communication, growth and synthesis, yet it also enhanced contractile differentiation. Down-regulation of Cx43 and improved contractile differentiation occurred only when growth arrest was induced through the contact-inhibition pathway, though, in this instance, synthesis remained undiminished. We conclude that Cx43 levels, though having common correlates, are not exclusively linked to the cell phenotype or the state of growth.
Analysis of computing-load assignment in a multi-processor computer

Many of today's numerical problems are too time-consuming to be done on conventional computers. In some cases it is possible to reduce the overall computation time significantly by assigning part of the computation to one or more computers which work in parallel. If there is any uncertainty or random variation in the time required by either of the processors for completing its share of the computation, one cannot always divide the work between the computers in such a way that they will always finish at approximately the same time. Thus, it is possible for a considerable degradation in performance to occur.
EROSION OF CERAMIC THERMAL BARRIER COATINGS

Abstract A study was made to relate the erosion behavior of several experimental zirconia-base ceramic thermal barrier coatings to their processing parameters and microstructure. The incremental erosion rates were measured and each specimen was examined using optical and scanning electron microscopy. Erosion experiments were conducted in a room temperature erosion test apparatus using 63–100 μm silica erodent particles with impact velocities of 30 m s−1 (100 ft s−1). Erosion rates in the steady state condition are presented for impingement angles of 30° and 90°. It was determined that significant differences in erosion rates occurred because of variations in the processing parameters, composition and resulting coating morphology. Initial erosion rates were found to be strongly dependent on the surface roughness while steady state erosion appears to be more dependent on the intrinsic coating properties and porosity.
A new formulation of some discrete-time stochastic-parameter state estimation problems

Abstract Linear unbiased full-order state estimation problem for discrete-time models with stochastic parameters and additive finite energy type disturbance signals is reformulated in terms of linear matrix inequalities. Two estimation problems that are considered are the design for mean-square bounded estimation error and the design for the mean-square stochastic version of the suboptimal H ∞ estimator. These two designs are shown to apply to both the estimation with random sensor delay and estimation under observation uncertainty.
Global optimization via the Langevin equation

We provide a simple proof of the convergence of the cooling algorithms, i.e., the annealing algorithm and the Langevin equation. The convergence is established for temperature schedules which are very near to optimal ones. Our methods are based on Differential Equations techniques.
"Entrepreneurship, Entrepreneur, and Entrepreneurial Firm: Conceptual Integration and Synthesis"

As an emerging field of academic study, entrepreneurship is receiving increased research attention from scholars across a wide range of disciplines. While this growth in popularity has added great vitality to the field, it has also hindered knowledge accumulation due to increased diversity in conceptual and investigative approaches. To help address this problem, the current paper seeks to integrate the existing fragmented literature on three core phenomena central to the field: entrepreneurship, entrepreneur, and entrepreneurial firm. Unlike previous efforts that sought to achieve integration through an all-encompassing definition that is often complicated and difficult to operationalize, we adopt the approach of first identifying the most basic or salient attribute(s) of the phenomenon concerned and use it to define the concept in the simplest way possible. We then supplement the basic definition with a typology that identifies the different forms in which the phenomenon may manifest itself. The utility ...
Macrosomia: influence of maternal overweight among a low-income population.

Macrosomia (birth weight >4000 gm) is associated with a wide variety of adverse intrapartum and perinatal outcomes. To evaluate the effect of pregravid obesity on infant birth weight, we examined data from a low-income population of women ( n = 127,879). The population was divided into five groups on the basis of pregravid body mass index (weight/ height2) designated by the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey II reference population (
Search costs influence the spatial distribution, but not the level, of extra-pair mating in tree swallows

Costs of searching for a mate are an important component of models of sexual selection, yet they have rarely been examined in wild populations of vertebrates. In this paper, we report an experiment in which we handicapped female tree swallows by clipping some flight feathers. This manipulation increased the costs of flight and searching for extra-pair mates. Despite these costs, handicapped females had the same level of extra-pair mating (percentage of extra-pair young, percentage of broods with extra-pair young, and the number of extra-pair sires per brood) as control females. However, handicapped females were more likely to have young sired by extra-pair males that lived closer to her nest than control females. This change in the distribution of extra-pair mating was most likely due to female choice rather than male coercion, and it suggests that extra-pair mating has significant benefits to females. One important implication of our study is that ecological and social factors that influence search costs could affect the spatial distribution of extra-pair sires and, consequently, the intensity of sexual selection. These effects may have been overlooked in previous studies that did not identify extra-pair sires.
Bilayer membrane elasticity and dynamic response

Abstract The changes in capacitance of hexadecyltrimethylammonium chloride bilayer membranes spanning a circular aperture were determined as a function of time during square wave and sinusoidal expansion. The capacitive response is independent of frequency at very low frequencies but decreases with increasing frequency, and again becomes independent of frequency at higher frequencies (>10 Hz). This behavior is interpreted in terms of a model which takes into account membrane elasticity, membrane formation or thinning rate, and border elasticity. Elastic constants of 150 to 300 dynes/cm were inferred. Membrane breakage occurred upon application of film tensions of 3 to 10 dynes/cm above the equilibrium value (0.5 to 10 dynes/cm). The effect of aperture geometry on membrane stability is discussed.
n-Dodecane oxidation at high-pressures: Measurements of ignition delay times and OH concentration time-histories

Abstract Ignition delay times and OH concentration time-histories were measured during n-dodecane oxidation behind reflected shocks waves using a heated, high-pressure shock tube. Measurements were made over temperatures of 727–1422 K, pressures of 15–34 atm, and equivalence ratios of 0.5 and 1.0. Ignition delay times were measured using side-wall pressure and OH∗ emission diagnostics, and OH concentration time-histories were measured using narrow-linewidth ring-dye laser absorption near the R-branchhead of the OH A–X (0, 0) system at 306.47 nm. Shock tube measurements were compared to model predictions of four current n-dodecane oxidation detailed mechanisms, and the differences, particularly in the low-temperature negative-temperature-coefficient (NTC) region where the influence of non-ideal facility effects can be significant, are discussed. To our knowledge, the current measurements provide the first gas-phase shock tube ignition delay times (at pressures above 13 atm) and quantitative OH concentration time-histories for n-dodecane oxidation under practical engine conditions, and hence provide benchmark validation targets for refinement of jet fuel detailed kinetic modeling, since n-dodecane is widely used as the principal representative for n-alkanes in jet fuel surrogates.
Reinventando a história: Lincoln Gordon e as suas múltiplas versões de 1964

U.S. Ambassador Lincoln Gordon was at the center of U.S. operations that supported the 1964 coup d’etat, from coordinating connections through Vernon Walters with the military conspirators to lobbying for a U.S. naval task force that could intervene should a civil war break out between pro and anti-Goulart forces. At the time, and in the following years, Gordon, however, insisted that the coup d’etat was "100 percent Brazilian." Using U.S. State Department documents, Gordon’s speeches, oral histories, and a 2005 interview with the former ambassador, this article analyzes the changing justifications that Gordon has offered over the last forty years to explain why he supported the overthrow of Goulart and gave unconditional support to the new military regime.
Size analysis of latex emulsions using a centrifugal-disc photosedimentometer☆

Abstract An improved version of the centrifugal-disc photosedimentometer originally devised by Kaye is described. Particle-size analysis of Dow latex suspension, ranging in size from 0.557 to 2.956 μ are described using this instrument. Experimental conditions are discussed with particular reference to the stability of the double layer used in this method of analysis. It is shown that unstable conditions, resulting in breakdown or streaming of the suspension layer, occur at sample concentrations between 0.03 and 0.3 col.%. The presence of tightly-bound doublets and larger multiplets is shown and the disruption of multiplets and fracture of particles under ultrasonic vibration is demonstrated.
Isolation of S-n-butylcysteine sulfoxide and six n-butyl-containing thiosulfinates from Allium siculum.

Nectaroscordum (Lindl.) Gren. & Godr. (Alliaceae) is a small subgenus of the genus Allium consisting of only two species, Allium siculum (Ucria) Lindl. and Allium tripedale (Trautv.) Grossh. Both are rare ornamental bulbous plants used in gardening. The former is native to Asia Minor, southern France, and Sicily (hence the trivial name Sicilian honey garlic), where it grows in damp shady woods. It is still sometimes referred to by the synonymous names Allium nectaroscordum, Nectaroscordum siculum Ucria, A. dioscorides auct., or A. meliophilum Juz. The second member of the subgenus, A. tripedale (syn. N. tripedale Trautv. or N. persicum (Bornm.) Bornm.), is indigenous to Armenia, Iran, and Iraq. Both members of the Nectaroscordum subgenus, A. siculum and A. tripedale, are very closely related to other plants of the genus Allium L. Due to their close morphological similarities, the relationship between these two groups has long been embroiled in taxonomic controversy. At present, classification of Nectaroscordum as a subgenus in the Allium genus is generally accepted. The chromosome basic number of x ) 9, special and unique characteristics of most flower parts, and other morphological peculiarities of Nectaroscordum species were the main arguments in support of separating this oligotypic group at a generic level. 1-3 A. siculum attracted our attention because of its odor, which is notably different from that of common alliaceous plants. This paper describes our investigation of the amino acid odor precursors present in this plant and their primary breakdown products.
Diaminopimelate decarboxylase of Lemna perpusilla : partial purification and some properties

Summary Diaminopimelate decarboxylase ( meso -2,6-diaminopimelate carboxy-lyase, EC 4.1.1.20), an enzyme of lysine synthesis, has been extracted from the higher plant Lemna perpusilla grown on a new chemically defined medium. For the enzyme assay, a spectrophotometric method has been developed which permits direct determination of lysine in the presence of diaminopimelate. The decarboxylase, a sulfhydryl enzyme, was partially purified by (NH 4 ) 2 SO 4 fractionation and DEAE-cellulose chromatography. The enzyme is highly specific for meso -2,6-diaminopimelate. Pyridoxal 5-phosphate is indicated as cofactor. The enzymic reaction has a pH optimum of approx. 7.0, and a temperature coefficient of 2.0 (between 15° and 40°). The substrate affinity [ K m , 0·35 mM) is considerably higher than that for corresponding bacterial decarboxylases. These findings support earlier conclusions that the diaminopimelate-lysine path is characteristic of an evolutionary continuum ranging from bacteria to higher plants.
Linear approximation of prepyriform evoked potential in cats.

Abstract Electrodes were implanted in six cats for stimulation of the lateral olfactory tract with pulses of constant amplitude and duration, and for recording from the primary olfactory cortex. Wave forms of single-shock evoked potentials (time-response curves) were determined with an average response computer. Frequency-response curves were constructed by plotting mean absolute amplitude of evoked potential against stimulus rate. These results were analyzed in terms of a linear second-order differential equation simulated by an analog computer. Reconstruction of the evoked potential required driving the computer with single pulses, differentiating the damped sinusoidal output with an RC-network, and mixing response frequencies having one to three discrete means and a normal distribution about each mean. Reconstruction of the frequency-response curves required use of the same stimulation and recording devices used on the animals, plus differentiation and distribution of the output, plus addition of “spontaneous” or intercurrent activity. In occasional instances the evoked potential could be closely approximated by a simple exponentially decaying cosine wave. The majority of wave forms displayed varying degrees of distortion from that pattern, with stable individual differences among cats. Such differences could be simulated by mixing of component frequencies, which were identified from peaks in the frequency-response curves. It was concluded that, for constant amplitudes of impulse driving less than 1.5 × threshold, any electrical response of this cortex in the waking cat could be approximated by a linear second-order equation, to such an extent that specification of frequency spectrum, phase of onset, amplitude, and Q would describe that response.
Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa in Children and Adolescents: A Review of the Past 10 Years

ABSTRACT Objective To critically review the research in juvenile anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa over the past 10 years and highlight recent advances in normal development as it pertains to these disorders and their diagnosis, prevention, and treatment. Method Computerized search methods were combined with manual searches of the literature. A detailed review of the most salient articles is provided. Preference was given to studies involving children and adolescents that approached the subject from a developmental perspective. Results The information from these studies is presented in a developmental framework. Research in eating disorders has progressed, but definitive longitudinal data are still absent from the literature. Research specific to treatment of child and adolescent eating disorders remains rare. Conclusions Data approaching eating disorders from a developmental perspective are available in only a few studies. Research is needed addressing normative data on the development of eating behavior and specific risk and resilience factors for pathology in specific developmental periods. Especially lacking are studies regarding the continuities and discontinuities of eating disturbances across the life span. Best documented are epidemiological studies of prevalence and incidence, long-term outcome in anorexia nervosa, and short-term treatment response in bulimia. J. Am. Acad. Child Adolesc. Psychiatry , 1998, 37(4): 352–359.
Towards Comprehensive Modeling of Reliability for Smart Grids: Requirements and Challenges

Smart grids utilize computation and communication to improve the efficacy and dependability of power generation, transmission, and distribution. As such, they are among the most critical and complex cyber-physical systems. The success of smart grids in achieving their stated goals is yet to be rigorously proven. In this paper, our focus is on improvements (or lack thereof) in reliability. We discuss vulnerabilities in the smart grid and their potential impact on its reliability, both generally and for the specific example of the IEEE-14 bus system. We conclude the paper by presenting a preliminary Markov imbedded systems model for reliability of smart grids and describe how it can be evolved to capture the vulnerabilities discussed.
Ambulatory hemorrhoidectomy with CO2 laser

PURPOSE: This study was undertaken to evaluate ambulatory hemorrhoidectomy using the CO2 laser. METHODS: Ninety consecutive patients (50 males, 40 females), 80 percent of whom had second or third degree hemorrhoids, had ambulatory hemorrhoidectomy performed with a CO2 laser in the left lateral Sims position under local anesthesia and intravenous sedation. Dissection was entirely performed with the CO2 laser using an open technique. RESULTS: One patient with polycythemia vera was admitted subsequently for secondary hemorrhage. All but three patients had healed within four weeks. No long-term sequelae were encountered. CONCLUSION: These results compare favorably with those obtained by others and show that ambulatory laser hemorrhoidectomy may simplify management in selected patients.
Autonomically induced conversion of pulmonary vein focal firing into atrial fibrillation.

Objectives: This study was designed to determine the mechanism(s) whereby focal firing from pulmonary veins (PVs) is converted into atrial fibrillation (AF).Background: The mechanism(s) whereby PV ...
Advancements in real-time engine simulation technology

The approaches used to develop real-time engine simulations are reviewed. Both digital and hybrid (analog and digital) techniques are discussed and specific examples of each are cited. These approaches are assessed from the standpoint of their usefulness for digital engine control development. A number of NASA-sponsored simulation research activities, aimed at exploring real-time simulation techniques, are described. These include the development of a microcomputer-based, parallel processor system for real-time engine simulation.
Power to detect risk alleles using genome-wide tag SNP panels.

Advances in high-throughput genotyping and the International HapMap Project have enabled association studies at the whole-genome level. We have constructed whole-genome genotyping panels of over 550,000 (HumanHap550) and 650,000 (HumanHap650Y) SNP loci by choosing tag SNPs from all populations genotyped by the International HapMap Project. These panels also contain additional SNP content in regions that have historically been overrepresented in diseases, such as nonsynonymous sites, the MHC region, copy number variant regions and mitochondrial DNA. We estimate that the tag SNP loci in these panels cover the majority of all common variation in the genome as measured by coverage of both all common HapMap SNPs and an independent set of SNPs derived from complete resequencing of genes obtained from SeattleSNPs. We also estimate that, given a sample size of 1,000 cases and 1,000 controls, these panels have the power to detect single disease loci of moderate risk (λ ∼ 1.8–2.0). Relative risks as low as λ ∼ 1.1–1.3 can be detected using 10,000 cases and 10,000 controls depending on the sample population and disease model. If multiple loci are involved, the power increases significantly to detect at least one locus such that relative risks 20%–35% lower can be detected with 80% power if between two and four independent loci are involved. Although our SNP selection was based on HapMap data, which is a subset of all common SNPs, these panels effectively capture the majority of all common variation and provide high power to detect risk alleles that are not represented in the HapMap data.
REACTIVITY OF IODIDE IN VOLCANIC SOILS AND NONCRYSTALLINE SOIL CONSTITUENTS

Reaction of iodide [I−(aq)] with a series of volcanic-ash soils was compared with reaction onto noncrystalline materials that constitute much of the inorganic fraction of these soils, Our hypothesis is that these high-surface-area materials account for iodide retention by providing sites for anion exchange. Iodide sorption onto imogolite and ferrihydrite is rapid (<30 min) but not particularly extensive; imogolite has a threefold to fourfold greater affinity for iodide compared to ferrihydrite on a mass basis. In contrast, rates of iodide retention by volcanic-ash soils were slow and did not attain a steady-state after 300 h. The extent of this largely irreversible reaction can be attenuated by sterilization, but it cannot be suppressed. The iodide retained by the soils can only be completely recovered by treatment with boiling 2 M sodium hydroxide. The amount of iodide retention by soils was inversely correlated with pH, but showed no relationship with organic matter concentration, surface area, or imogolite and ferrihydrite concentrations. The reaction of iodide with the volcanic-ash soils is consistent with a rapid initial uptake by soil mineral surfaces, followed by a slower reaction of soil organic matter with oxidized forms of iodide. Under our experimental conditions, iodide is likely slowly oxidized by dissolved oxygen to molecular iodine. Solutions of molecular iodine [I2(aq)] react relatively quickly with laboratory-grade humic acid solutions and the rate increases with increasing pH. The slow rate of iodination is consistent with the continual formation and reaction of I2(aq)] or HOI(aq) by titration with soil organic matter.
Superfluid Vortex Motion

The two-dimensional path functions are derived for (1) a superfluid vortex subject to unbounded potential flows (of normal and superfluid) and an external force; and (2) a vortex “ring” parallel to a plane boundary. The sign of the phase changes due to vortex flow, and the temperature dependence of vortex damping due to the normal fluid, are discussed.
Inhibition of interleukin-1β and prostaglandin E2 thermogenesis by glycyl-glutamine, a pro-opiomelanocortin-derived peptide

Abstract Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and other cytokines produce fever by stimulating prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) synthesis in thermoregulatory regions of the preoptic area and anterior hypothalamus (POA/AH). Prostaglandin E2 is thought to raise body temperature, at least in part, by stimulating β-endorphin release from pro-opiomelanocortin neurons that innervate the POA/AH. In this study, we investigated whether glycyl-glutamine (β-endorphin30–31), an inhibitory dipeptide synthesized from β-endorphin post-translationally, inhibits IL-1β and PGE2-induced hyperthermia. Hyperthermic sites were identified by microinjecting PGE2 (3 fmol/1 μl) into the medial preoptic area (mPOA) of conscious, unrestrained rats. Interleukin-1β (1 U) injection into the same PGE2 responsive thermogenic sites in the mPOA elicited a prolonged rise in colonic temperature (Tc) (+1.02±0.06°C) that persisted for at least 2 h. Glycyl-glutamine (3 nmol) co-injection into the mPOA inhibited IL-1β thermogenesis completely (Tc=−0.18±0.22°C). Glycyl-glutamine had no effect on body temperature when given alone to normothermic rats. Co-injection of individual amino acids, glycine and glutamine (3 nmol each amino acid), failed to influence IL-1β-induced thermogenesis, which indicates that Gly-Gln hydrolysis does not explain its inhibitory activity. Glycyl-glutamine (3 nmol) also prevented the rise in body temperature produced by PGE2 (PGE2=0.89±0.05°C; PGE2 plus Gly-Gln=−0.16±0.14°C), consistent with evidence that PGE2 mediates IL-1β-induced fever. These findings demonstrate that Gly-Gln inhibits the thermogenic response to endogenous pyrogens.
Polymer Interphase Materials by Forced Assembly

The interphase between two immiscible glassy polymers was probed using nanolayer films with tens to thousands of alternating layers of two polymers. Various combinations of poly(methyl methacrylate), polycarbonate, and a series of styrene−acrylonitrile copolymers were brought together by forced assembly. Continuous nanolayers with thickness on the size scale of the interphase were observed directly using atomic force microscopy. Interphase thickness was extracted from the layer thickness dependence of oxygen permeability. The interphase thickness showed the predicted dependence on the χ interaction parameter and correlated with interphase strength as measured with the T-peel test. Interphase specific volume, as determined by density, exhibited both positive and negative deviations from constituent additivity. The deviations correlated with the change in free volume hole size from positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy but did not correlate directly with the χ parameter. The origin of the deviations w...
Meteorological transport of continental soot to Antarctica

An impactor/concentrator/microdensitometer (ICM) instrument system has been constructed and calibrated. This system is sufficiently sensitive to measure the black (carbon soot) component of Antarctic aerosol with a sampling time of four hours. The impactor concentrator was exposed to Antarctic air at Ross Island in September 1987. Microdensitometer analysis of the collected specimens indicates that the maximum black aerosol concentration was observed concurrently with the arrival of the warmest air accompanying a cyclonic storm. This is similar to the concurrence of continental radon and lead isotopes with warm advection, measured on the Antarctic coast by Polian et al. (1986). It is possible that continental soot can be transported to the Antarctic coast several times each year by this mechanism.
Creativity and Locus of Control among Mexican College Students

Most earlier studies of college students in the U.S. suggest that internal locus of control is positively related to creativity. The current study on college students in Mexico supports one recent study in the Southeastern U.S. indicating that external college students are more creative. Creative college students in Mexico may be more similar to creative students in the rural Southeast; however, the similarity of findings in these two recent studies may also suggest a changing trend among college students. Perhaps creative students of the late 1970's have a more external orientation than college students of a decade ago.
-Poly-L-lysine and nisin A act synergistically against Gram-positive food-borne pathogens Bacillus cereus and Listeria monocytogenes

Aims: To test e-poly-l-lysine and nisin A for possible synergistic activity against selected food-borne pathogens and food spoilage organisms. Methods and Results: Synergistic activity was observed against Gram-positive Listeria monocytogenes and Bacillus cereus cells and spores of B. cereus in 96 well plate assays. However, nisin A had no effect alone or in combination with e-poly-l-lysine against Gram-negative Escherichia coli cells. In addition, when tested against yeast Zygosaccharomyces bailii, nisin A and partially inhibitory concentrations of e-poly-l-lysine antagonized each other. Conclusions: Nisin A and e-poly-l-lysine showed synergistic activity against B. cereus and L. monocytogenes. Significance and Impact of the Study: The application of nisin A and e-poly-l-lysine is a promising all-natural method of controlling Gram-positive food-borne pathogens, spores and spoilage organisms.
A meta ERM and its relational translation for a database design system

A meta model for an extended entity-relationship model is presented. This model was used as the data model for the implementation of a database design tool. Interesting aspects of the extended entity-relationship model, for which the meta model is described include generalization hierarchy and minimum and maximum cardinalities. Mapping of the meta model to the relational model of data is presented. In the context of its relational materialization, constraints on the meta model are also described.
Effects of Simulated Rain and Cement Amendments on Protonematal Growth of the Urban Moss, Bryum capillare, in Culture

Abstract Bryum capillare, a moss of worldwide distribution, is ubiquitous to cities where it is commonly found growing within the cracks of sidewalks. Because of its occurrence in the harsh and depauperate urban environment, it was hypothesized that this moss is resistant to the deleterious effects of pollutants, such as acid rain. We tested this by measuring the growth response of an axenic culture line of B. capillare to simulated pH-adjusted rain. Field and experimental data both suggest that B. capillare is not especially resistant to acid rain. In the first experiment B. capillare protonematal cultures were subjected to simulated rain at pH levels between 3 and 8. Cultures at pH 4.0 simulated rain resulted in an approximate 50% reduction in colony area from that obtained in the pH 8.0 treatment. Therefore, we would expect the acid rain in Washington, DC to be unfavorable to the growth of B. capillare. Yet, the moss is both common and abundant in the city. In a second experiment the optimal pH for the...
Melanization of Cryptococcus neoformans and Histoplasma capsulatum Reduces Their Susceptibilities to Amphotericin B and Caspofungin

The fungal pathogens Cryptococcus neoformans and Histoplasma capsulatum produce melanin-like pigments in the presence of L-dopa in vitro and during mammalian infection. We investigated whether melanization affected the susceptibilities of the fungi to amphotericin B, caspofungin, fluconazole, itraconazole, or flucytosine (5FC). Using the standard macrodilution MIC protocol (the M27A protocol) of the National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards for yeast, we found no difference in the susceptibilities of melanized and nonmelanized C. neoformans and H. capsulatum isolates. Killing assays demonstrated that melanization reduced the susceptibilities of both fungi to amphotericin B and caspofungin. Laccase-deficient C. neoformans cells grown with L-dopa were significantly more susceptible than congenic melanin-producing yeast to killing by amphotericin B or caspofungin. Preincubation of amphotericin B or caspofungin with melanins decreased their antifungal activities. Elemental analysis of melanins incubated with amphotericin B or caspofungin revealed an alteration in the C:N ratios of the melanins, which indicated binding of these drugs by the melanins. In contrast, incubation of fluconazole, itraconazole, or 5FC with melanins did not significantly affect the antifungal efficacies of the drugs or the chemical composition of the melanins. The results suggest a potential explanation for the inefficacy of caspofungin against C. neoformans in vivo, despite activity in vitro. Furthermore, the results indicate that fungal melanins protect C. neoformans and H. capsulatum from the activities of amphotericin B and caspofungin and that this protection is not demonstrable by standard broth macrodilution assays.
FT-IR Characterization of the Distribution of 2-Phenylcycloalkanones in Micellar Environments†

The location of ring-substituted ketones, such as 2-phenylcycloalkanones in surfactant solutions, is readily characterized by FT-IR spectroscopy, since the sensitivity of the carbonyl group stretching vibration to changes in hydrogen bonding makes this an effective reporter for hydrophobic micellar core environments versus hydrophilic aqueous environments. Thus, FT-IR provides a direct means of examining the relative distribution of the probes between the micellar and aqueous environments and also allows elucidation of the factors that influence probe distributions. These factors include the hydrophobicity (ring-size, degree of substitution) and conformational flexibility of the ketone probes, as well as the nature of the surfactant and the size of micelles formed by the surfactant. FT-IR is employed to investigate the probe distribution as a function of all of these factors.
TRACER- a practical construct for dealing with complexity in human interactive systems

The aim of this paper is to show how methodological ideas can be developed from theoretical first principles of complexity, by presenting TRACER, a practical construct for dealing with complexity in human interactive systems. Utilising the concept of a human interactive system life cycle exhibiting discrete phases, it can be seen that the use of a methodologically driven approach can be instrumental in the development of the life and success of a system.The two elements of TRACER are considered.1 The TRA CER Construct which utilises three linked dimensions: human requirements of the system; human understanding of the system; and capability of the participants in the system.2 The TRACER Methodology, with discrete but interactive stages of translation, rapport, assessment, comparison, evaluation and recognition.TRACER is eclectic in nature, using techniques from psychology, sociology and cross-cultural studies in order to understand the nature of complexity and human capability to interact with system deman...
The natural history of West Nile virus infection presenting with West Nile virus meningoencephalitis in a man with a prolonged illness: a case report

Introduction Estimates indicate that West Nile virus infects approximately one and a half million people in the United States of America. Up to 1% may develop West Nile virus neuroinvasive disease, in which infected patients develop any combination of meningitis, encephalitis, or acute paralysis.
Upgrading and protecting traffic in an optical network by bottleneck-cut identification

An optical network can be cost-effectively upgraded by enhancing the capacity of links in the "bottleneck-cut". The "bottleneck-cut" information is also important for network protection. We develop and evaluate an algorithm for finding the "bottleneck-cut".
Is It Asthma, COPD, or Something In Between, and Does it Matter?

Asthma and COPD are the most common obstructive pulmonary diseases of adults. Although differences exist in the genetics, pathogenesis, histopathology, cellular characteristics, and clinical features of these 2 diseases, both disorders are heterogeneous and share a number of features that may be
Microtopographical assembly of cardiomyocytes.

One of the central challenges in cardiac tissue engineering is the control of the assembly and organization of functional cardiac tissue. Maintenance of a three-dimensional tissue architecture is key to myocardial function in vivo, and a variety of studies hint that provision of topological cues within scaffolds can facilitate the engineering of functional myocardial tissue by promoting this architecture. To explore this possibility in an isolated and well-defined fashion, we have designed scaffolds of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) with microtopographic pillars (“micropegs”) to provide cells with defined structures with which to interact in three dimensions. We show that these surfaces permit HL-1 cardiomyocytes to grow, form myofibrillar structures and cell–cell adhesions, and beat spontaneously. Additionally, the cells and their nuclei interact with the full length of the micropegs, indicating that the micropegs promote a three-dimensional cytoarchitecture in the context of a two-dimensional scaffold. We also show that the number of cells interacting with a micropeg can be controlled by manipulating incubation time, micropeg spatial arrangement, or micropeg diameter. Western blots reveal that the expression of the junctional markers N-cadherin and connexin 43 is upregulated in the presence of specific arrangements of micropegs, suggesting that micropegs can enhance cardiomyocyte function. Together, these data show that microtopography can be used to provide three-dimensional adhesion and control the assembly of functional cardiac tissue on a two-dimensional surface.
Craze healing in polymer glasses

Craze healing was observed in many amorphous glassy polymers. A detailed study of the kinetics of craze healing in atactic polystyrene (Mw = 255,000) was conducted. The crazes were created in 0.08 mm films in air at room temperature, To, and constant stress, σo ⋍ 2,300 psi, healed at temperature Th for a time, Th, at σ = 0, and recrazed at To and σo. Nucleation times, τ1 and τ2, and growth rates, L1, and L2, for the first and second loading, respectively, were measured as a function of th and Th for individual crazes using dark field optical microscopy. Complete optical and mechanical healing was observed for Th ⩾ 70°C(Tg ≅ 100°C). At constant Th, healing progressed in five stages with increasing th as follows; (i) no healing, τ2 = 0, L2 ≫ L1; (ii) partial healing, τ2 L1; (iii) similar growth, τ2 = τ1, L2 = L1; (iv) slower growth, τ2 > τ1, L2 < L1; (v) disappearance, τ2 ∞, L2 0. A craze healing envelope of Th vs Th was obtained for the above stages. Craze healing occurred by line mode in which uniform healing occurred along the entire length of the craze.
RF technologies for advancing space communication infrastructure

This paper addresses key technologies under development at the NASA Glenn Research Center designed to provide architecture-level impacts. Specifically, we describe deployable antennas, a new type of phased array antenna and novel power amplifiers. The evaluation of architectural influence can be conducted from two perspectives where said architecture can be analyzed from either the "top-down" to determine the areas where technology improvements will be most beneficial or from the "bottom-up" where each technology's performance advancement can affect the overall architecture's performance. This paper takes the latter approach with focus on some technology improvement challenges and address architecture impacts. For example, using data rate as a performance metric, future exploration scenarios are expected to demand data rates possibly exceeding 1 Gbps. To support these advancements in a Mars scenario, as an example, Ka-band and antenna aperture sizes on the order of 10 meters will be required from Mars areostationary platforms. Key technical challenges for a large deployable antenna include maximizing the ratio of deployed-to-packaged volume, minimizing aerial density, maintaining RMS surface accuracy to within 1/20 of a wavelength or better, and developing reflector rigidization techniques. Moreover, the high frequencies and large apertures manifest a new problem for microwave engineers that are familiar to optical communications specialists: pointing. The fine beam widths and long ranges dictate the need for electronic or mechanical feed articulation to compensate for spacecraft attitude control limitations.
Intrapersonal and Interpersonal Theories of Motivation from an Attributional Perspective

In this context, I will present the current state of my attributional approach to motivation and classroom issues. The picture I will paint includes two inter-related theories. Imagine, for example, a student has just received a poor grade on an exam and we, as psychologists, desire to predict if he or she will continue in school or drop out. Among the likely predictors are subjective expectancy of future success and self-directed emotions related to self-esteem, guilt, shame, and others. These self-directed thoughts and feelings comprise what I label an intrapersonal theory of motivation.
Influence of Potentially Confounding Factors on Sea Urchin Porewater Toxicity Tests

The influence of potentially confounding factors has been identified as a concern for interpreting sea urchin porewater toxicity test data. The results from >40 sediment-quality assessment surveys using early-life stages of the sea urchin Arbacia punctulata were compiled and examined to determine acceptable ranges of natural variables such as pH, ammonia, and dissolved organic carbon on the fertilization and embryological development endpoints. In addition, laboratory experiments were also conducted with A. punctulata and compared with information from the literature. Pore water with pH as low as 6.9 is an unlikely contributor to toxicity for the fertilization and embryological development tests with A. punctulata. Other species of sea urchin have narrower pH tolerance ranges. Ammonia is rarely a contributing factor in pore water toxicity tests using the fertilization endpoint, but the embryological development endpoint may be influenced by ammonia concentrations commonly found in porewater samples. Therefore, ammonia needs to be considered when interpreting results for the embryological development test. Humic acid does not affect sea urchin fertilization at saturation concentrations, but it could have an effect on the embryological development endpoint at near-saturation concentrations. There was no correlation between sediment total organic carbon concentrations and porewater dissolved organic carbon concentrations. Because of the potential for many varying substances to activate parthenogenesis in sea urchin eggs, it is recommended that a no-sperm control be included with every fertilization test treatment.
Understanding Self-Report Bias in Organizational Behavior Research

Self-report and mono-method bias often threaten the validity of research conducted in business settings and thus hinder the development of theories of organizational behavior. This paper outlines a conceptual framework for understanding factors that influence the motivation of an employee to bias his or her responses to questions posed by organizational researchers. Using a longitudinal, multitrait-multimethod dataset, we illustrate various aspects of the problem and argue that traditional approaches for controlling self-report bias do not adequately prevent the problem. The results suggest the need for developing a theory of method effects and companion analytic techniques to improve the accuracy of psychological research in business settings.
Experienced Conflict in Decision-Making as a Function of Level of Cognitive Complexity

Two studies sought to establish a link between cognitive complexity and decisional conflict under noncompliant conditions. Difficulty of making a decision was used operationally as a means of infer...
Successful application of α-haloallyllithium for a simple, convenient preparation of α-haloallylboronate ester

Abstract The first successful application of α-haloallyllithium, LiCH(X)CH=CH 2 , conveniently generated in situ from allyl halide and LDA in THF at −78 °C, for reaction with triisopmpyl borate to produce the valuable intermediate, α-haloallylboronate ester, is described.
Do XBRL filings enhance informational efficiency? Early evidence from post-earnings announcement drift

Abstract In 2009, the Securities Exchange Commission (SEC) mandated public firms to file their financial statements using eXtensible Business Reporting Language (XBRL). The SEC's main motive behind this mandate is that XBRL filings would enhance the informational efficiency in the stock markets by making financial data easier to use and analyze for a broad range of investors. Using a sample from the first wave of mandated XBRL filers, we find a decline in post earnings announcement drift for the good news portfolio in the post-XBRL adoption period. Instead of a drift associated with underreaction, we find that markets overreact to negative earnings surprises for the bad news portfolio during our observation period, which coincides with the financial crisis. We detect limited evidence that XBRL adoption mitigates overreaction, which is another form of market inefficiency. We also find limited evidence that XBRL particularly benefits small investors.