cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Brief assessment for suicidal ideation in OEF/OIF veterans with positive depression screens

Abstract Objectives We describe processes, rates, and patient and system correlates of brief structured assessments (BSAs) for suicidal ideation among Operation Enduring Freedom/Operation Iraqi Freedom (OEF/OIF) veterans with positive depression screens. Methods Electronic Veterans Affairs (VA) medical record and Department of Defense data were used to identify individual-level and BSA-process variables for 1662 OEF/OIF veterans at three VA Medical Centers. Results Overall, 1349/1662 (81%) veterans received BSAs for suicidal ideation within 1 month of depression screening; 94% of BSAs were conducted within 1 day. Stratified analyses revealed significant intersite differences in veteran demographics, instruments used, clinical setting and staff performing assessments, and correlates of assessment completion. At two sites, men were more likely to be assessed than women [odds ratio (OR)=2.15 (95% confidence interval {CI}=1.06–4.38) and 3.14 (CI=1.27–7.76)]. In a combined model adjusted for intrasite correlation, assessment was less likely during months 8–12 and 13–18 of the study period [OR=0.39 (CI=0.28–0.54) and OR=0.48 (95% CI=0.35–0.68), respectively] and more likely to occur among veterans receiving depression or posttraumatic stress disorder diagnoses on the day of depression screening [OR=1.83 (CI=1.36–2.46) and OR=1.50 (CI=1.13–1.98), respectively]. Conclusions Most veterans with positive depression screens receive timely BSAs for suicidal ideation. Processes used for brief assessment for suicidal ideation vary substantially across VA settings.
Validating a new assessment method for deception detection: Introducing a Psychologically Based Credibility Assessment Tool

Abstract The current set of studies was designed to test a new credibility assessment tool, the Psychologically Based Credibility Assessment Tool (PBCAT). Participants watched lab-generated videos of true and false alibi statements, provided while under varying degrees of cognitive load. Judges either provided a truth/lie judgment only, or also rated 11 behavioral cues on the PBCAT. When stories were told under cognitive load the effectiveness of cues at discriminating truth/deception was enhanced, with targets under higher load judged more accurately. Results regarding the new assessment tool indicate that it is capable of improving deception detection performance, even with minimally trained, nonexpert observers.
Decisional deprivation and its linkages: A Study of MBA program directors

This study extends previous research on decisional participation by including additional variables for consideration, and by focusing on another occupational group. Seven hypotheses were formulated to assess the linkages of variables to decisional deprivation. Results from a survey of 256 MBA Directors indicate that the extent of decisional deprivation was strongly related to affective responses and stress reactions; moderately related to demographic, job characteristic, and organizational characteristic variables; but not related to career plans.
Let’s Hear It for the Guys: California’s Male Involvement Program

California’s Male Involvement Program (MIP) is a statewide effort to involve young and adult males in teen pregnancy prevention. MIP has been successful in attracting an ethnically and culturally diverse group of young men in multiple community settings. Many of these youth are exposed to risk factors often associated with unintended teen pregnancy, including poverty and academic failure. The program also aims to support young males in a variety of ways that go beyond traditional family planning education or services, helping participants to successfully navigate a healthy passage into adulthood. Programs assist young men through mentoring, affirming cultural roots that emphasize responsibility, and providing alternatives to early fatherhood. Evaluation results document that although MIP significantly improves the knowledge of a vast number of participants concerning pregnancy risk, contraception, and sexual responsibility, it has encountered difficulty in translating knowledge into changed behavior. Nevertheless, the MIP staff understand that issues affecting male involvement in teen pregnancy prevention are complex and deeply rooted in cultural and societal norms—complexities that require tailoring of programs to their needs. Thus, MIP offers insights for planning and implementing an expanded set of responsive strategies at the local, state, and national levels.
Clinical–Pathologic Stage Discrepancy in Bladder Cancer Patients Treated With Radical Cystectomy: Results From the National Cancer Data Base

Purpose To examine the accuracy of clinical staging and its effects on outcome in bladder cancer (BC) patients treated with radical cystectomy (RC), using a large national database. Methods and Materials A total of 16,953 patients with BC without distant metastases treated with RC from 1998 to 2009 were analyzed. Factors associated with clinical–pathologic stage discrepancy were assessed by multivariate generalized estimating equation models. Survival analysis was conducted for patients treated between 1998 and 2004 (n=7270) using the Kaplan-Meier method and Cox proportional hazards models. Results At RC 41.9% of patients were upstaged, whereas 5.9% were downstaged. Upstaging was more common in females, the elderly, and in patients who underwent a more extensive lymphadenectomy. Downstaging was less common in patients treated at community centers, in the elderly, and in Hispanics. Receipt of preoperative chemotherapy was highly associated with downstaging. Five-year overall survival rates for patients with clinical stages 0, I, II, III, and IV were 67.2%, 62.9%, 50.4%, 36.9%, and 27.2%, respectively, whereas those for the same pathologic stages were 70.8%, 75.8%, 63.7%, 41.5%, and 24.7%, respectively. On multivariate analysis, upstaging was associated with increased 5-year mortality (hazard ratio [HR] 1.80, P P =.160). In contrast, more extensive lymphadenectomy was associated with decreased 5-year mortality (HR 0.76 for ≥10 lymph nodes examined, P P =.042). Conclusions Clinical–pathologic stage discrepancy in BC patients is remarkably common across the United States. These findings should be considered when selecting patients for preoperative or nonoperative management strategies and when comparing the outcomes of bladder sparing approaches to RC.
Morphological changes in the mechanically unloaded myocardial cell.

The role of stretch and/or tension in maintaining the structural integrity of the myocardial cell was investigated in 16 cats. Right ventricular papillary muscles were studied 1-28 days after transection of the chordae tendinae and compared to adjacent intact papillary muscles. A progressive atrophy, as shown by decreased mean cell cross-sectional area, occurred; by the 28th day mean cardiocyte area was only 28% of the control value. The earliest ultrastructural changes (one day after surgery) were primarily focal and included disorientation of contractile filaments and loss of Z-line substance. During the first week, vacuolation, loss of contractile filaments and infiltration of macrophages and fibroblasts were characteristic. By the second week a massive loss of contractile substance, disappearance of the sarcoplasmic reticulum, and a marked increase in connective tissue occurred. Leptomere structures, membrane alterations, and phagocytosis were the most typical changes between the second and fourth week. Hydroxyproline assays on papillary muscles unloaded for three days showed a 38% increase in connective tissue, indicating an early increase in connective tissue/muscle mass associated with mechanical unloading. It is concluded that the cardiocyte is extremely dependent upon mechanical loading, i.e., stretch and/or tension. Mechanical unloading (tenotomy) results in rapid and marked cellular degeneration which exceeds that observed in skeletal muscle following either disuse or denervation.
Spin-Wave Theory of Planar Ferromagnets and Antiferromagnets

The temperature dependence of the magnetization is calculated for a tetragonal crystal structure in which each atom has strong ferromagnetic coupling to the nearest neighbors in its own plane, but much weaker ferromagnetic or antiferromagnetic coupling to atoms in other planes. It is shown that, for a ferromagnet, the decrease of magnetization goes as ${\ensuremath{\tau}}^{\frac{3}{2}}$ for low temperatures and as $\ensuremath{\tau}\mathrm{ln}\ensuremath{\tau}$ for higher temperatures. The anti-ferromagnetic sublattice magnetization is shown to have the same temperature dependence as a two-dimensional ferromagnet with an effective anisotropy energy. The free energy is calculated in both cases and the results are used to show that the sublattice magnetization should be slightly larger on the anti-ferromagnetic side of an exchange-inversion transition.
Employer and employee obligations and rights under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act

Abstract As more Reserve and National Guard troops are called to leave the civilian workforce and enter military service, employers must understand the legal rights those service members possess and the employers’ legal obligations that are now required under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA). Current data and litigation trends suggest many employers are not fully aware of their legal obligations under USERRA and the punishing legal liability they may face. USERRA applies to virtually all employers, and the law uniquely provides for both corporate and individual liability for discriminating against employees or applicants because of military service. This article provides an overview of USERRA from the perspective of employers, employees, and potential employees. Practical advice is rendered herein not only for those covered by the Act, but also for employers regarding adherence to this law while avoiding liability under USERRA.
Alternative approaches to clustering and scoring the Bayley infant behavior record

Abstract One hundred eighty three black, low-income infants were assessed on the Home Observation for Measurement of the Environment (HOME) at 12 months and on the Bayley Mental Development Index (MDI) and Infant Behavior Record (IBR) at 13 months. Ninety infants were retested at 25 months. Factor analysis of the IBR at 13 months yielded three factors similar in content to those found for middle-class infants by Matheny (1980). A comparison of the two sets of clusters—one derived from Matheny, the other from this study—indicated that the Matheny (1980) attention cluster was the strongest predictor of 25-month MDI and the only one to add significantly to 13-month MDI in predicting 25-month MDI. Although clusters relating to affect and arousal related to HOME scores, attention did not, suggesting that attention may be more constitutionally than environmentally based. Analyses of suspect ratings demonstrated the validity of this approach and indicated high suspect ratings for this sample on hyporeactivity.
Gas chromatographic determination of selected group IV—VI element hydrides

Abstract The gas chromatographic separation and detection of germanium, tin, arsenic, and antimony as their volatile hydrides has been studied. The hydrides were generated from aqueous solution by the addition of sodium borohydride. Either balloon trap or freeze trap collection of the hydrides was utilized. In the former, the atmosphere was sampled above the solution in a 125-ml flask with a balloon attached to a sidearm, with a 10-cm 3 gas-tight syringe, and injected into the gas chromatograph. In the latter, the evolved hydrides were collected in a U-tube immersed in liquid nitrogen, followed by stoppering of the tube with a rubber septum. The hydrides were then expanded into a 10-cm 3 syringe inserted in the septum by immersion of the U-tube. A Porapak Q column was used with mass spectrometric detection. The order of elution was GeH 4 , AsH 3 , SnH 4 , and SbH 3 . Separations were improved by temperature programming. Concentration detection limits for 5-ml samples with the freeze trap method were: Ge (1 p.p.b.); Sn (10 p.p.b.); As (2 p.p.b.); Sb (20 p.p.b.).
Characteristics and mechanisms of electrorheological fluids

Electrorheological (ER) fluids consist of suspensions of fine polarizable particles in a dielectric medium, which upon application of an electric field take on the characteristics of a solid in times of the order of milliseconds and reversibly return to liquid behavior upon removal of the field. The rheology, electrical characteristics, and structure of typical ER fluids are here reviewed. The proposed mechanisms and their accord with experimental data are discussed. Some directions for future research are mentioned.
Acute transient cryofibrinogenemia in infants

Four infants with respiratory infections demonstrated a transient cryopathy resulting from cryofibrinogenemia. Three of the four had severe bilateral tender indurated swelling of the extremities without evidence of cyanosis. The fourth child had cold cyanotic swelling of his feet. Despite the resemblance to the hand-foot syndrome of sickle cell anemia, none of the children had sickle hemoglobin. Significant amounts of cryofibrinogen, but no cryoglobulin, were found in their plasma, and disappeared when the respiratory infection cleared. Attempts to reproduce the symptoms due to cryofibrinogen and cold sensitivity were successful in two of the three children tested. We believe that these four represent the first children reported to have symptomatic cryofibrinogenemia.
9.1: Development of a 5.1 Inch Field Emission Display

A 5.1-inch, high voltage, full-color, quarter VGA field emission display (FED) has been developed for use in applications requiring high brightness, wide viewing angle, and thin package space. The display is an engineering platform used to further develop the FED and associated technologies. The Spindt tip array, with a pixelated anode, produces a uniform, crisp image. Thin, modular, low power electronics drive the display. A NTSC controller is included in the display and simplifies user operation using standard interfaces.
85 MOTHER-INFANT INTERACTION (MIA) BEFORE ID OF ABUSE (Ab),NEGLECT (Ng), OR NONORGANIC FAILURE-TO-THRIVE (NOFT)

In a double-blind prospective study 108 mother (M)-infant (I) pairs were observed @ 48 hours (h), 1 & 3 months (m) postpartum. After MIA observation, 11 I's were found Ab, 31 Ng & 23 had NOFT. The other 43 were randomly selected normals (RS). Prenatally groups differed @ p Ng/NOFT/RS). MIA data were examined for probability of transition @ 5 sec. intervals between 4 dyadic states of interaction: both (B), infant (I), mother (M), or neither (N) responding. Differences in response transition (RT) probabilities between groups reliable @ < .10 or less were found by ANOVA. At 48 h Ab M's more often stopped interacting (B→I) than Ng/NOFT/RS & more often ceased (M→N) than RS. At 1 m NOFT/Ng/RS did not differ, but Ab & RS did in that: Ab less often continued (B→B); abrupt RT (B→N, I→M) were more prevalent in Ab; Ab M's more often ceased (M→N); & Ab I's less often joined (M→B). At 3 m Ab less often continued (B→B) than NOFT/Ng/RS. Ab/Ng M's more often ceased (M→N) than RS. Ab/NOFT I's less often joined (M→B) than RS. Ab/NOFT/Ng M's more often failed to respond (I→I) than RS. Ab more often abruptly stopped (B→N) & Ab M's more often dropped out (B→I) than RS. Ab @ 1 m & NOFT/Ng/Ab @ 3 m spent less total time coacting (B) & more time quiescent (N) than RS. MIA prior to maltreatment ID occurs less often & less responsively than normal, especially for Ab.
Nitrous Oxide and Air-filled Balloon-tipped Catheters

The differential solubilities of gases permit nitrous oxide (N2O) diffusion into air-filled body cavities, increasing their size and/or pressure. An air-filled balloon-tipped catheter represents a body cavity that may be affected by the diffusion of N2O, and could account for the authors' clinical observation that more gas was aspirated than injected during insertion of Swan-Ganz (S-G) catheters in patients receiving N2O anesthesia. An accompanying increase in balloon diameter could conceivably account for difficulties in floating the tip into the pulmonary outflow tract. To help substantiate these observations, balloon volumes of three S-G catheters were measured at 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 20, and 30 min in various N2O and oxygen mixtures, and the diameters of the balloon were compared with published diameters of pulmonary outflow tracts. The volume changes were near maximum between 5-10 min, increasing to 30 to 150 per cent depending on the N2O concentration. The increases in balloon diameter, when compared to pediatric pulmonary outflow tract diameters, could account for difficulties in passage of the catheter tip through the pulmonary outflow tract. These findings suggest that manipulation of S-G catheters under N2O anesthesia sould be done with intermittent deflation of the balloon every few minutes.
Intracytoplasmic lumina in bladder carcinomas

Intracytoplasmic lumina were identified in neoplastic cells from four human and three canine "spontaneous" bladder carcinomas. They were also found in N-[4-(5-nitro-2-furyl)-2-thiazoly] formamide induced bladder carcinomas in rats as well as in cultured tumor cell lines derived from these experimental tumors. Intracytoplasmic lumina were readily recognized in 5 micrometer. paraffin embedded and 1 micrometer. epoxy embedded sections. Histochemically, intracytoplasmic lumina were strongly positive with PAS and alcian blue-PAS; mucicarmine stain was positive as unevenly distributed droplets. Ultrastructurally lumina were defined by a symmetric unit membrane; they displayed abundant pleomorphic microvilli, which contained prominent cytoskeletal elements. Step section electron microscopic study revealed continuity between intracytoplasmic lumina and the extracellular space in only one case of experimental bladder carcinoma; otherwise they appeared to be entirely encompassed within the cytoplasm. No instance of exocytosis in relation to intracytoplasmic lumina was found. Our observations suggest that intracytoplasmic lumina may be rather frequent in several forms of urothelial carcinoma. They appear to be predominantly but not invariably intracytoplasmic. The mechanism that may determine the development of continuity between intracytoplasmic lumina and the extracellular space and the adduced relationship between intracytoplasmic lumina and the process of secretion remain undetermined.
Translation regulatory factor RBM3 is a proto-oncogene that prevents mitotic catastrophe

RNA-binding proteins play a key role in post-transcriptional regulation of mRNA stability and translation. We have identified that RBM3, a translation regulatory protein, is significantly upregulated in human tumors, including a stage-dependent increase in colorectal tumors. Forced RBM3 overexpression in NIH3T3 mouse fibroblasts and SW480 human colon epithelial cells increases cell proliferation and development of compact multicellular spheroids in soft agar suggesting the ability to induce anchorage-independent growth. In contrast, downregulating RBM3 in HCT116 colon cancer cells with specific siRNA decreases cell growth in culture, which was partially overcome when treated with prostaglandin E2, a product of cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 enzyme activity. Knockdown also resulted in the growth arrest of tumor xenografts. We have also identified that RBM3 knockdown increases caspase-mediated apoptosis coupled with nuclear cyclin B1, and phosphorylated Cdc25c, Chk1 and Chk2 kinases, implying that under conditions of RBM3 downregulation, cells undergo mitotic catastrophe. RBM3 enhances COX-2, IL-8 and VEGF mRNA stability and translation. Conversely, RBM3 knockdown results in loss in the translation of these transcripts. These data demonstrate that the RNA stabilizing and translation regulatory protein RBM3 is a novel proto-oncogene that induces transformation when overexpressed and is essential for cells to progress through mitosis.
Wavelet-based secure image coding using channel-optimized trellis-coded quantization

This paper presents a wavelet-based image coder optimized for transmission over binary symmetric channels (BSC). The proposed coder uses a robust channel-optimized trellis-coded quantization (COTCQ) stage that is designed to optimize the image coding based on channel characteristics. This optimization is performed only at the level of the source encoder, and does not include any channel coding for error protection. The robust nature of the coder increases the security level of the encoded bit stream and provides a much more visually pleasant rendition of the decoded image. Consequently, the proposed robust channel-optimized image coder is especially suitable for wireless transmission due to its reduced complexity, its robustness to non-stationary signals and channels, and its increased security level.
Variables in an Assay of Soluble Human Transplantation Antigens

The data demonstrate that an assay for soluble human transplantation antigen, based on the inhibition of a two-stage lymphocytotoxicity reaction, is (A) affected by platelet contamination of the target lymphocyte suspension; (B) more sensitive to low antigen concentration if antisera are diluted to titer using AB serum; (C) responsive to the particular antiserum-target cell combination used; (D) relatively insensitive to the solvent of the protein solution; (E) markedly affected by the concentration of the protein solution being tested; (F) maximally sensitive to low antigen concentration with the following conditions: (1) a one-hour incubation of antigen and antiserum at room temperature, (2) a 40-minute incubation at room temperature for the interaction of the antigen-antiserum and cells, and (3) incubation with complement for 20 minutes at 37° C; (G) more sensitive to rabbit complement than an equal mixture of rabbit and human complement, for the sera studied.
Fear of seizures and behavioral functioning in adults with epilepsy

Abstract The incidence of seizure-related fears and concerns and its relationship to behavioral functioning was assessed in a sample of 96 adults with epilepsy. In addition, the potential influence of subject demographic characteristics (e.g., age, educational level) and clinical seizure variables (e.g., seizure control, duration of disorder, seizure type) was also examined. Findings indicated that such seizure-related fears and concerns are indeed significantly related to measures of behavioral adjustment, even when the effects of demographic and clinical seizure variables are considered. The overall incidence of these concerns in this sample is significantly lower than found in previous reports, and the specific nature of reported concerns is also different. Possible reasons for these differences are discussed as well as potential directions for future research.
Long bone structure and strength depend on BMP2 from osteoblasts and osteocytes, but not vascular endothelial cells.

The importance of bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) in the skeleton is well known. BMP2 is expressed in a variety of tissues during development, growth and healing. In this study we sought to better identify the role of tissue-specific BMP2 during post-natal growth and to determine if BMP2 knockout affects the ability of terminally differentiated cells to create high quality bone material. We targeted BMP2 knockout to two differentiated cell types known to express BMP2 during growth and healing, early-stage osteoblasts and their progeny (osterix promoted Cre) and vascular endothelial cells (vascular-endothelial-cadherin promoted Cre). Our objectives were to assess post-natal bone growth, structure and strength. We hypothesized that removal of BMP2 from osteogenic and vascular cells (separately) would result in smaller skeletons with inferior bone material properties. At 12 and 24 weeks of age the osteoblast knockout of BMP2 reduced body weight by 20%, but the vascular knockout had no effect. Analysis of bone in the tibia revealed reductions in cortical and cancellous bone size and volume in the osteoblast knockout, but not in the vascular endothelial knockout. Furthermore, forelimb strength testing revealed a 30% reduction in ultimate force at both 12 and 24 weeks in the osteoblast knockout of BMP2, but no change in the vascular endothelial knockout. Moreover, mechanical strength testing of femurs from osteoblast knockout mice demonstrated an increased Young’s modulus (greater than 35%) but decreased post-yield displacement (greater than 50%) at both 12 and 24 weeks of age. In summary, the osteoblast knockout of BMP2 reduced bone size and altered mechanical properties at the whole-bone and material levels. Osteoblast-derived BMP2 has an important role in post-natal skeletal growth, structure and strength, while vascular endothelial-derived BMP2 does not.
Can the rho parameter allow for the existence of a nondegenerate fourth family

The question of mass splitting within a doublet of heavy fermions, in particular a fourth generation of quarks and leptons, is reexamined with emphasis on the contribution of possible heavy-fermion ``vector-meson'' bound states to the \ensuremath{\rho} parameter. The heavy-fermion bound states are formed by the exchange of the Higgs boson. We have found that, in the minimal model, the constraint on mass splitting which now also depends on the Higgs boson mass gives rise to some interesting phenomena, including the possibility of having a top-quark mass greater than 180 GeV.
Estradiol binding in cytosol from epididymides of immature rabbits

Abstract A highly specific, high affinity binding protein for estradiol-17β (E2) is present in cytosol prepared from the epididymides of immature (21–53 day old) rabbits. This binding moiety sediments on sucrose gradients as an 8S species under low ionic strength conditions and as a 4S species under conditions of high ionic strength (0.3 M KCl). The relative binding affinities of estrogens for the binding protein was E2 > estrone > estriol. Neither 5α-dihydrotestosterone (5αDHT), progesterone, nor cortisol were able to inhibit binding of [3H]E2 to epididymal binding sites. An 8S binding moiety for E2 was present in testicular cytosol but not in muscle. An apparently non-specific binding component for E2 was present in plasma which sedimented in the 4S region of low ionic strength gradients. The epididymal E2 binding moiety was distinct from a 4S androgen binding protein of testicular origin which is detectable in cytosol prepared from epididymides of rabbits at certain stages development. We were unable to detect a specific E2 binding protein in epididymal cytosol from mature intact or 4-day castrated rabbits. The E2 binding component in the cytosol of immature rabbits had an Kd ≅ 2–10 × 10−10 M and the concentration of binding sites was in the order of 1–4 × 10−13 moles /mg of protein. The binding component was thermo-labile and pronase, but not nuclease, sensitive.
Contributions of teacher–child relationships to positive school adjustment during elementary school

The current study examined the extent to which teacher–child relationship contributed to school adjustment among 1310 elementary school-aged students and the degree to which this relationship was moderated by significant child characteristics. The results suggest a consistent and comparable effect for children across grades, gender, and types of school outcomes. Children experiencing behavioral or learning problems showed poorer school outcomes and were less able to benefit from a close teacher relationship when compared to peers without such problems. However, a protective effect was noted, such that children with developmental vulnerabilities and a close teacher relationship were significantly advantaged relative to similarly affected peers who lacked such relationships. The results are discussed in light of research and theory, and applications are made to school-based practices.
Trichomonas gallinae Persistence in Four Water Treatments

Trichomonas gallinae is a protozo- an parasite commonly found in columbids, passerines, and several raptor species. Although T. gallinae is thought to spread between individuals and across species through shared water sources, little research has been con- ducted regarding the persistence of T. gallinae in the environment. To determine the persis- tence of T. gallinae in various communal water sources, we inoculated 1310 6 trichomonads into 500 mL samples of distilled water, quarry water, bird bath water, and rain barrel water in two replicates. Aliquots of 0.5 mL were collected from each source at 21, 0, 15, 30, and 60 min; aliquots were incubated at 37 C and examined for trichomonads by light mi- croscopy for five consecutive days. Live tricho- monads were observed in all samples and at all sampling times except prior to inoculation (21 min). The pH of water sources ranged from an average of 5.9 to 7.4 postsampling. Our findings indicate that T. gallinae can persist for up to 60 min in various water treatments and thus be infectious for birds drinking T. gallinae-con- taminated water.
Ozonolysis of mixed oleic acid/n-docosane particles: the roles of phase, morphology, and metastable states.

The reaction kinetics of ozone with oleic acid (OA) in submicron particles containing n-docosane has been studied using aerosol CIMS (chemical ionization mass spectrometry) to monitor changes in particle composition. Internally mixed particles with XOA > 0.72 were found to exist as supercooled droplets when cooled to room temperature. Partial reaction of the oleic acid was seen to completely inhibit further reaction and was attributed to the formation of a metastable solid rotator phase of the n-docosane at the surface. This reaction-induced phase change is believed to prevent further reaction by slowing ozone diffusion into the particle. When these particles were cooled to 0 °C before reaction, they reacted to a further extent and did not demonstrate such an inhibition. This shift in reactivity upon cooling is attributed to the formation of the thermodynamically stable form of n-docosane, the triclinic solid. This transition was accompanied by an increase in the n-docosane density, which led to the devel...
Nanoscale Imaging of Whole Cells Using a Liquid Enclosure and a Scanning Transmission Electron Microscope

Nanoscale imaging techniques are needed to investigate cellular function at the level of individual proteins and to study the interaction of nanomaterials with biological systems. We imaged whole fixed cells in liquid state with a scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM) using a micrometer-sized liquid enclosure with electron transparent windows providing a wet specimen environment. Wet-STEM images were obtained of fixed E. coli bacteria labeled with gold nanoparticles attached to surface membrane proteins. Mammalian cells (COS7) were incubated with gold-tagged epidermal growth factor and fixed. STEM imaging of these cells resulted in a resolution of 3 nm for the gold nanoparticles. The wet-STEM method has several advantages over conventional imaging techniques. Most important is the capability to image whole fixed cells in a wet environment with nanometer resolution, which can be used, e.g., to map individual protein distributions in/on whole cells. The sample preparation is compatible with that used for fluorescent microscopy on fixed cells for experiments involving nanoparticles. Thirdly, the system is rather simple and involves only minimal new equipment in an electron microscopy (EM) laboratory.
Pole placement and order reduction in two-time-scale control systems through Riccati iteration

Abstract A transformation of variables taken from singular perturbations may be applied to two-time-scale linear systems in state space form to reduce the system to block-diagonal form with slow and fast modes decoupled. The transformation is easily computed by applying the new “Riccati Iteration.” The iteration yields a solution to the nonsymmetric algebraic Riccati equation obtained by partitioning the original system matrix A. The numerical procedure is initiated with the trivial iterate L0 = 0, and is globally convergent to the desired unique time scale decoupling solution. After transformation, the decoupled system may be used in controller design to achieve exact closed-loop pole placement in the slow subsystem without altering the poles of the fast subsystem. The decoupled form may also be used to reduce system order by setting a small parameter to zero. Provided the fast subsystem is stable, the order reduction can be expected to yield a good approximation to the original system. These methods are demonstrated using the 16th order linear model of a turbofan engine.
Role of molecular oxygen in the dissolution of siderite and rhodochrosite

Abstract The dissolution of siderite (FeCO3) and rhodochrosite (MnCO3) under oxic and anoxic conditions is investigated at 298 K. The anoxic dissolution rate of siderite is 10−8.65 mol m−2 s−1 for 5.5 4 to pits elongated at one vertex for pH 10.3, the oxic dissolution rate is as high as 10−7.5 mol m−2 s−1, which is greater than under the corresponding anoxic conditions. A fast electron transfer reaction between solution O2 or [Fe3+(OH)4]− species and surficial >FeII hydroxyl groups is hypothesized to explain the dissolution kinetics. AFM micrographs do not show precipitation under these conditions. Anoxic dissolution of rhodochrosite is physically observed as rhombohedral pit expansion for 3.7 7.7 under oxic conditions, the dissolution rate decreases from 10−8.45 to 10−9.0 mol m−2 s−1. Flattened hillock precipitates grow across the entire surface without apparent morphological influence by the underlying rhodochrosite surface. XPS spectra and thermodynamic calculations implicate the precipitate as bixbyite for 5.8 7.7.
Some comments on observability and related topics

Some of the problems involved in finding a set of state variables for a dynamical system are formulated. Particular attention is given to the definition of topologies in which these presumptive state variables become jointly continuous, or in which a particular system dynamics is continuous. These ideas are illustrated in a number of particular examples with a bearing also on recursive function theory and on pattern recognition.
The nature of the oxide phases formed during progressive oxidation of the rhodium (111) surface

Abstract The progressive oxidation of the Rh(111) surface was studied by low-energy electron diffraction (LEED), Auger electron spectroscopy (AES), and temperature-programmed desorption (TPD). When the Rh(111) surface was oxidized in 1Torr O2 for 10 min, the AES O Rh ratio increased with increasing temperature and reached a maximum value at ∼ 800 K. The oxide grown at this temperature had an average stoichiometry of RhO, and the LEED pattern consisted of a broadened hexagonal array of spots contracted 13% with respect to those from the Rh(111) surface. Oxidation at higher temperatures led to a decrease in the O Rh ratio as the onset of oxide decomposition was reached. Consequently, the oxide grown at 973 K and 1 Torr had an average stoichiometry indicative of a surface suboxide with a composition near RhO0.5. This oxide yielded a well-ordered LEED pattern with approximately (8 × 8) superperiod. None of the LEED patterns observed in this study are consistent with the growth of Rh2O3(001) on the Rh surface.
The determinants of contractility in the heart

Abstract The contraction-relaxation cycle of the heart represents the combined action of a variety of different components of the myocytes. For many years an ‘index’ of contractility has been sought as a means of describing and integrating the large amount of information available from the studies of heart muscle contraction. This review will undertake to show that dF/dt, recorded from the whole heart, and dT/dt, recorded in isometric studies of isolated heart muscle preparations, should not be considered as the ‘index’ of contractility. Examples will be presented in which an increasing dT/dt is paradoxically accompanied by a lower tension, while a decreasing dT/dt can occur concomitantly with an increased contractile tension. Arguments are further presented in support of the concept that Ca2+, in conjunction with troponin C, is the main determinant of cardiac contractility and that dT/dt reflects a dynamic equilibrium between free and troponin-bound Ca2+. Peak tension is thus the net result of overlapping events competing for Ca2+ during the latter part of contraction, that is, during Phase II of contraction as defined below. These suggestions are based upon the following considerations: (a) The Ca2+ pumps are active even during rest and serve to maintain low cytosolic Ca2+ levels, (b) As cytosolic Ca2+ concentration increases, Ca2+ pump activity also increases, (c) In addition, the Na+Ca2+ exchange is activated by elevated Ca2+ concentrations and serves to decrease cytosolic Ca2+ levels, (d) The net result is a decline in free Ca2+ concentration during Phase II and a reduction in the rate of cross-bridge formation until peak tension is reached. Thus, the Ca2+ handling elements of the myocyte serve as a finely tuned feedback device, regulating troponin C-Ca2+ interactions controlling the Ca2+ concentration of the cytosol and as a result, the actin and myosin interaction. Factors which influence the function of these elements will change the contractility of the heart.
Crystallization sequences of Ca-Al-rich inclusions from Allende - The effects of cooling rate and maximum temperature

We have studied the crystallization sequences, mineral chemistries, and textures that develop when an average Type B Ca-Al-rich inclusion composition is cooled in air from 1275–1580° C to below 1000°C at rates between 0.5 and 1000°C/hr. Crystallization sequences, the textures of all the major phases, pyroxene chemistry, and melilite zoning patterns are functions of both the cooling rate and the temperature from which cooling begins. Determination of the order of pyroxene and plagioclase crystallization has been identified as an important goal for petrographic studies of CAIs because it can be used to set constraints on the cooling rate experienced by an individual inclusion. Overall textures plus melilite zoning patterns and pyroxene chemistry can give important clues as to whether pyroxene or plagioclase began to crystallize first. Melilite texture and chemistry appear to yield the most valuable information on the maximum temperature to which an inclusion was raised prior to cooling. Comparison of our experimental results with petrographic observations of Type B CAIs suggests that most inclusions were partially melted and then cooled at rates on the order of a few tenths to tens of degrees per hour. Maximum temperatures of about 1400°C appear most likely for intermediate Type B Allende inclusions. Our results do not support the suggestion that the textures observed in these inclusions formed by crystallization of supercooled, metastable melt droplets condensed from nebular gas. The slow cooling rates we infer for CAIs are difficult to reconcile with models for their origin that imply simple radiative cooling of individual molten or partially molten droplets in a cold, low density environment. On the other hand, cooling rates of the nebular cloud are believed to have been much slower than those we have inferred for Type B CAIs. Scenarios that could be reconciled with the thermal history that we have inferred include drag heating of particles falling through nebular gas, heating by intense radiation (e.g., via flares) from the early sun, heating in nebular shock fronts, or other thermal heterogeneities in the early nebula allowing time scales for cooling (and heating) of CAIs much shorter than those for the nebular cloud as a whole. Successful models for the origin of Type B CAIs must account for the fact that most Type B CAIs cooled relatively slowly from a partially molten state.
Morphometric Distinctness of an Isolated Population of Percina peltata (Shield Darter) on the Atlantic Coastal Plain of Maryland, USA

Morphological variation among populations of Percina peltata (Shield Darter) from streams in Maryland and Pennsylvania was examined, with particular emphasis on comparing a geographically isolated, lowland population on the eastern shore of the Chesapeake Bay (Choptank River basin) that has been excluded from previous systematic works on other upland populations of this species from west and north of the Chesapeake Bay. Statistically significant morphometric differences were observed between the isolated population and other populations examined, with measurements of eye diameter and the distance between the posterior of the first dorsal fin and the anterior and posterior bases of the anal fin explaining the most variation between populations. No differences in meristics were found. The morphological distinctness and geographic isolation of the Choptank River population of P. peltata, in conjunction with the threatened status of the species in Maryland, suggest special emphasis should be given to conservi...
an improved evaluation model for steam-drive projects

Abstract Preliminary screening is critical for proper application of enhanced oil recovery processes. Initial project performance and economics estimates are based on preliminary evaluation calculations; these in turn establish the advisability of additional project investment. For steam-drive projects, this design work requires models which accurately predict primary performance parameters such as oil production schedules and oil/steam ratios. Previous studies reveal that the predictive capability of commonly used steam-drive models is inadequate and that a better model is needed. This paper presents an improved evaluation model. The new model was based in part on other models, reservoir characteristics, and operating conditions of several field-scale projects. Correlations describing process efficiency, maximum production rate and post-breakthrough production rate decline are also included in the model. The proposed model shows considerable improvement over older models through evaluating with fifteen field scale steam drive projects.
Differential distribution of neuropeptides and serotonin in pig adrenal glands

Abstract A differential distribution of vasoactive neuropeptides and serotonin in chromaffin cells and nerve fibers within the adrenal glands of the pig ( Sus scrofa ) was found using immunohistochemical methods. Met- and leu-enkephalins, present at high levels in the medulla (measured by radioimmunoassay), occurred in adrenaline storing cells, some of which contained calcitonin gene-related peptide. Islets of chromaffin cells beneath the capsule also contained enkephalins and calcitonin gene-related peptide. Nerve fibers with enkephalin-like immunoreactivity were sparse, but many varicose fibers in the inner cortex and medulla showed calcitonin gene-related peptide immunofluorescence in a pattern similar to vasoactive intestinal polypeptide. Neuropeptide Y was mainly associated with perivascular fibers and neither neuropeptide Y nor vasoactive intestinal polypeptide immunoreactive chromaffin cells were detected. In contrast to the neuropeptides, most serotonin-like immunoreactivity coincided with noradrenaline histofluorescence. It is concluded that the distribution of nerve fibers with calcitonin gene-related peptide and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide would allow interactions between chromaffin and inner cortical cells. Stimuli activating noradrenaline chromaffin cells could release serotonin while stimulation of adrenaline storage cells would release enkephalin and, to a lesser extent, calcitonin gene-related peptide. Met-enkephalin, which occurs 3–4:1 over leu-enkephalin, is the most likely of the co-released peptides to reach distant receptors via the venous outflow.
Hybrid inorganic/organic interpenetrating polymer networks based on zeolite 13x and polystyrene

A hybrid inorganic/organic interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) of a three-dimensional network structure zeolite crystal (13X, powder) and crosslinked or linear polystyrene (PS) was prepared and characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), solid-state13C-NMR, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The size and shape of the crystalline zeolite particles were revealed on SEM micrographs in both the pure zeolite and the IPNs. Solubility tests and the results of DSC with solid-state 13C-NMR confirm that some organic PS chains are incorporated within the internal three-dimensional channels of the zeolite particles. We speculate that the internal PS chains may adopt an extended “one-dimensional” conformation and exhibit no bulk polymer glass transition. These novel hybrid inorganic/organic IPNs are a new kind of IPN structure. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Mass spectrometry for genotyping: an emerging tool for molecular medicine

Recent technological innovations have made proteins and nucleic acids accessible to mass spectrometric analysis. As a result of their inherently high specificity, accuracy and throughput, there is considerable interest in developing mass spectrometric methods for genotype analysis in clinical diagnostic and research applications. This review outlines some of the most promising genotyping methods developed using electrospray and matrix-assisted laser-desorption-ionization mass spectrometry.
Flax Pond ecosystem study: Exchanges of phosphorus between a salt marsh and the coastal waters of Long Island Sound

The exchanges of phosphorus between the Flax Pond, a tidal Spartina alterniflora marsh on the north shore of Long Island (USA) and Long Island Sound were measured over 18 months. Phosphate was exported from the marsh from May through December and imported during the remainder of the year. Organic phosphorus appears to be accumulated in all seasons, but the yearly phosphorus budget of the marsh is approximately balanced despite the accumulation of about 6 mm of sediment annually.
Self-Assembly of VPS41 Promotes Sorting Required for Biogenesis of the Regulated Secretory Pathway

The regulated release of polypeptides has a central role in physiology, behavior, and development, but the mechanisms responsible for production of the large dense core vesicles (LDCVs) capable of regulated release have remained poorly understood. Recent work has implicated cytosolic adaptor protein AP-3 in the recruitment of LDCV membrane proteins that confer regulated release. However, AP-3 in mammals has been considered to function in the endolysosomal pathway and in the biosynthetic pathway only in yeast. We now find that the mammalian homolog of yeast VPS41, a member of the homotypic fusion and vacuole protein sorting (HOPS) complex that delivers biosynthetic cargo to the endocytic pathway in yeast, promotes LDCV formation through a common mechanism with AP-3, indicating a conserved role for these proteins in the biosynthetic pathway. VPS41 also self-assembles into a lattice, suggesting that it acts as a coat protein for AP-3 in formation of the regulated secretory pathway.