cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Proteomic analysis of the testa from developing soybean seeds.

Abstract Soybean ( Glycine max (L.) Merr. cv Jack) seed development was separated into nine defined stages (S1 to S9). Testa (seed coats) were removed from developing seeds at stages S2, 4, 6, 8, and 9, and subjected to shotgun proteomic profiling. For each stage “total proteins” were isolated from 150 mg dry weight of seed coat using a phenol-based method, then reduced, alkylated, and digested with trypsin. The tryptic peptides were separated using a C18-reversed phase matrix, then analyzed using an LTQ Orbitrap Mass Spectrometer. Spectra were searched against the Phytozome G. max DB using the Sorcerer 2 IDA Sequest-based search algorithm. Identities were verified using Scaffold 3. A total of 306 (S2), 328 (S4), 273 (S6), 193 (S8), and 272 (S9) proteins were identified in three out of three biological replicates, and sorted into 11 functional groups: Primary Metabolism, Secondary Metabolism, Cellular Structure, Stress Responses, Nucleic Acid metabolism, Protein Synthesis, Protein Folding, Protein Targeting, Hormones and Signaling, Seed Storage Proteins, and Proteins of Unknown Function. In selected instances, individual seed coat proteins were quantified by spectral counting. The number of proteins involved in intermediary metabolism, flavonoid biosynthesis, protein folding and degradation are discussed as they relate to seed coat function. Biological significance Most previous analyses of seed coats have either targeted individual enzymes or used the results from high-throughput transcript profiling to infer biological function. Because there is seldom a linear correlation between transcript and protein levels, we have undertaken a shotgun proteomics-based description of soybean ( G. max (L.) Merr. cv Jack) seed coats, as a function of development, in order to bridge this gap and to establish the baseline for a more comprehensive understanding of seed biology.
A method for purification of mercurated nucleic acid hybrids on ether-linked sulfhydryl-agarose

Abstract Purification of a polynucleotide by hybridization to its mercurated complementary sequence and subsequent chromatography on sulfhydryl-agarose (SH-agarose) was found to be unsatisfactory, due to the instability of SH-agarose prepared by the conventional cyanogen bromide technique. The purification procedure was improved by the use of SH-agarose in which the sulfhydryl group is attached to the agarose through a stable ether linkage. In addition, a method was developed whereby hybridized RNA or DNA could be recovered from the SH-agarose column separately from the mercurated probe. This methodology can be applied to the purification of nucleic acid sequences from mixtures in which the sequence of interest represents only a small fraction of the sample.
The NEAR Mission Operations System

Abstract Successful completion of the Near Earth Asteroid Rendezvous (NEAR) mission demands not only cost effective spacecraft design and development, but also cost effective mission operations system development and implementation. To control mission operations costs, several steps have been taken. Engineering of the mission operations system is concurrent with engineering of the spacecraft to trade off spacecraft capability with ground system capability. A single integrated system is being developed to support both spacecraft integration and test (I&T) operations and mission operations. Development of this system, which emphasizes the use of Commercial-Off-The-Shelf (COTS) components, is the responsibility of one development team. The mission operations team will be trained by supporting spacecraft I&T operations and will be cross-trained to fill any team position on-orbit. In this paper, status and plans in these areas will be discussed, as well as aspects of the concept of operations that afford cost efficient operations.
Intracardiac Knotting of the Catheter during Right Heart Catheterization

A complication of right heart catheterization is reported in which the catheter became knotted and entangled in the chordae tendineae of the tricuspid valve. Removal required open cardiotomy with hypothermia and temporary inflow occlusion.
Spontaneous Lorentz violation and nonpolynomial interactions

Gauge-noninvariant vector field theories with superficially nonrenormalizable nonpolynomial interactions are studied. We show that nontrivial relevant and stable theories have spontaneous Lorentz violation, and we present a large class of asymptotically free theories. The Nambu–Goldstone modes of these theories can be identified with the photon, with potential experimental implications.
Clinical evaluation for aneurysm in patients with third cranial nerve palsy

A patient presenting with a third nerve palsy might be harboring a life-threatening aneurysm. The diagnostic evaluation of third nerve palsy has evolved in the last few years because newer, relatively noninvasive, safe, specific and sensitive neuroimaging studies have been developed that can detect an aneurysm without a traditional catheter-based angiogram. In many centers, computed tomography (CT) angiography (CTA) is rapidly becoming the initial imaging study of choice for patients with third nerve palsy in order to rule out aneurysm. Unfortunately, MRI remains superior to CT scan for the evaluation of nonaneurismal etiologies of third nerve palsy. Whether the clinician selects CT/CTA or MRI with magnetic resonance angiography as the initial study, followed by the other modality if this study is negative, remains an individual clinical decision but many centers prefer CTA first. The clinician should be confident in the capability, availability and reliability of the interpreting neuroradiologist and the...
Computer Assisted Learning in Psychiatric Rehabilitation

Abstract Psychiatric rehabilitation models are increasingly acknowledging the importance of cognitive remediation to improve basic cognitive processes like attention, memory and reasoning skills. Computers are an important tool in the cognitive rehabilitation process, and have been linked to positive treatment outcomes. This paper reviews studies on the effectiveness of computer based remediation techniques with individuals with psychiatric illness, and presents a theoretically based model for treatment that can be used in clinical and research settings.
Analogue States in Isobaric Nuclei

It is shown that certain nuclear energy levels, which can be identified through (p,d) reactions, are closely related to isobaric-spin analog states, and the energy difference between the appropriately identified level and the analog state is interpretable as an isobaric-spin splitting of a single particle resonance. Since the identification of the appropriate levels in the (p,d) energy spectra depends on shellmodel arguments, the case of Zr/sup 90/(p,d)Zr/sup 89/ is chosen as an example since Zr/sup 90/ is a good approximation to a closedshell nucleus, and the states created by (p,d) reactions can be interpreted as simple neutron hole states. (C.E.S.)
Photoemission spectrum for hydrogen chemisorbed on Ni

Abstract Recent Xα-SW cluster calculations, which indicate the relative importance of the sp-bands compared to the d-bands for hydrogen chemisorption on Ni are used to parameterize a model Hamiltonian. The adsorbate Green's function is calculated and yields the experimental width of the extra peak seen in photoemission. It is shown that in the equilibrium geometry the qualitative changes in the spectrum due to many body effects are too small to be seen experimentally.
Effect of methscopolamine, physostigmine, and neostigmine on neuron activity in the midbrain, the hippocampus, and the hypothalamus in the behaving rat.

Abstract The effect of systemic injection of physostigmine (0.1 mg/kg) on spontaneous and evoked neuronal activity and on behavior has been examined in the freely moving rat. There was a decrease in the frequency of firing of hippocampal neurons in a large majority of cases. There was a smaller but significant decrease in the frequency of firing of midbrain neurons, although in a few cases increases were observed. There were either no changes or small increases in the frequency of discharge of hypothalamic neurons. Parkinsonian-type tremors recorded as increases in movements were observed in all animals after methscopolamine, physostigmine, and neostigmine. Decreases in the rate of neuronal discharges in the hippocampus and the midbrain occurred after methscopolamine; increases were observed in the hypothalamus. Neostigmine caused large increases in behavior, but no increases in the frequency of discharge of neurons. The results show that the hippocampus contains a large number of neurons whose rate of firing was modified by cholinergic agents which cross the blood-brain barrier; the midbrain contains a smaller number of such neurons, whereas the hypothalamus contains neurons responsive to cholinergic agents acting at the periphery.
Urinary excretion of methylthioadenosine in immunodeficient children.

Abstract A procedure is described for the separation and determination of methylthioadenosine in human urine. The procedure has been applied to urine from normal children, children with severe combined immunodeficiency and to children with other immunodeficiencies. Methylthioadenosine excretion in normal children was 0.16 ± 0.03 nmol/μmol creatinine. Elevated urinary excretion was noted in six of seven children with severe combined immunodeficiency (0.41–5.2 nmol/μmol creatinine). A low excretion level (0.046 nmol/μmol creatinine) was noted in a child with severe combined immunodeficiency who was germ-free.
The New Environmental Paradigm Scale: A Reexamination

Abstract To examine and measure the paradigmatic shifts in the public's orientation toward the physical environment, Dunlap and Van Liere developed the New Environmental Paradigm Scale. This study examines the dimensionality of the NEP scale. The scale was tested in three different settings to assess its stability. Using confirmatory factor analysis we were unable to confirm any of the previous configurations of the scale's dimensionality. We were, however, able to confirm the dimensionality of a three-factor model using nine of the items from the original scale. Further, the extracted factor pattern for our model closely resembles the findings reported by Albrecht et al.
Isolationism, exceptionalism, and acculturation: the internationalisation of Mormon education in Mexico

Faiths have long used education as a means to preserve and transmit cultural values from one generation to the next. However, they have also employed education to unite people of different cultures and proselytise others to their worldview. Over the last two centuries, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Latter-day Saint, LDS, or Mormon) has exercised these same patterns in its educational programmes, especially internationally, as it has sought to expand around the world. Using Mormonism's Juarez Academy in northern Mexico as a historical case study, our paper demonstrates how transnationally governed religion-led school systems can confront the challenge of exceptionalism by embracing local culture and customs while maintaining the heritage of their faith tradition. The study advances the field of international education, highlighting the issues of globalisation, cultural transfer, and transnational educational governance.
Endogenous International Technology Spillovers and Biased Technical Change in Agriculture

This paper analyzes trade-related knowledge flows from an innovating country to other countries. It is assumed that knowledge is embodied in commodities traded between countries and that the potential productivity of this knowledge is determined by the local usability of foreign technologies. The usability of foreign knowledge is dependent on the local absorption capacity (such as knowledge infrastructure and human capital) and on structural differences (factor endowments or climate) between countries. In agriculture, a large portion of the knowledge is embodied in inputs which cause factor-biased technical change in the receiving sectors. Trade-related knowledge transmission is introduced in an applied multi-region general equilibrium model (GTAP) to study the macro-economic and sectoral impacts of knowledge spillovers and of trade policies. Endogenous embodied technology spillovers bear some important implications for trade policy, because protective measures preclude countries not only from cheaper imp...
Comparison of three 18F-labeled butyrophenone neuroleptic drugs in the baboon using positron emission tomography.

: The butyrophenone neuroleptics spiroperidol, benperidol, and haloperidol were radiolabeled with fluorine-18 and studied in baboon brain using positron emission transaxial tomography (PETT). Pretreatment of the baboon with a high pharmacological dose of (+)-butaclamol reduced the specifically bound component of radioactivity distribution in the striatum to approximately the radioactivity distribution found in the cerebellum. Comparative studies of brain distribution kinetics over a 4-h period indicated that either [18F]spiroperidol or [18F]benperidol may be suitable for specific labeling of neuroleptic receptors. In an 8-h study with [18F]spiroperidol, striatal radioactivity did not decline, suggesting that spiroperidol either has a very slow dissociation rate or that it binds irreversibly to these receptors in vivo. [18F]Haloperidol may not be suitable for in vivo PETT studies, because of a relatively high component of nonspecific distribution and a faster dissociation from the receptor. Analysis of 18F in plasma after injection of [18F]spiroperidol indicated rapid metabolism to polar and acidic metabolites, with only 40% of the total radioactivity being present as unchanged drug after 30 min. Analysis of the metabolic stability of the radioactively labeled compound in rat striatum indicated that greater than 95% of [18F]spiroperidol remains unchanged after 4 h.
The role of cavity sites in surface-enhanced Raman scattering

Abstract Thermal desorption spectra (TDS) of pyridine from silver films deposited in ultra high vacuum are reported. Marked differences in the TDS are seen depending on the deposition conditions and the thermal history of the films, which have been correlated with surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). These results as well as some of the observations in electrochemical systems are discussed in light of the recent Xe probe analysis carried out by Albano et al.
Superlattice formation in titanium diselenide

Experimental results are presented on the interesting $2{a}_{0}$ by $2{c}_{0}$ superlattice which forms in ${\mathrm{Ti}}_{1+x}{\mathrm{Se}}_{2}$ at low temperature. A second-order phase transition has been found at ${T}_{c}\ensuremath{\cong}150$\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K in crystals grown by iodine vapor transport at \ensuremath{\sim}800\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C. This transition has been studied by electron and x-ray diffraction, magnetic susceptibility, resistivity, and infrared reflectivity. It appears to be a normal to lock-in transition with instability and strong diffuse scattering above ${T}_{c}$. It is suggested that the instability is Fermi-surface driven and that strong electron scattering occurs involving a zone-boundary phonon. A far-infrared lattice mode is observed which breaks up into several additional modes below the phase transition.
Regional Impact of Commuter Wage Taxes

This paper presents a model of interurban and intraurban location that is used to consider the impact of wage taxes on housing and labor markets in a metropolitan area. The focus of the paper is to examine the differences in the regional impact of commuter wage taxes (source-based wage taxes) and residents-only wage taxes (residence-based wage taxes). The model illustrates that suburban land rent and wages can be affected in equilibrium by central city policies and that the mix of public goods (that is, whether they benefit households or firms) as well as those who bear the burden of financing them has implications regarding land values and shifts in relative population and production. Understanding such linkages is important in the creation and analysis of regional economic policy.
Percutaneous Salvage of a Failing Rex Shunt

Creation of a mesenterico–left portal vein (PV) shunt with use of autologous internal jugular vein (ie, Rex shunt) is a surgical option for the treatment of symptomatic extrahepatic PV occlusion. Herein a patient is described who underwent angioplasty and stent placement across a shunt stenosis by ultrasound (US)–guided percutaneous transhepatic portal access. Follow-up US has demonstrated continued shunt patency.
Propagation of intercellular calcium waves in C6 glioma cells transfected with connexins 43 or 32.

In this study, gap junction-deficient C6 glioma cells, transfected with either connexin 43 (Cx43) or 32 (Cx32), have been used to evaluate the ability of these connexins to pass intercellular Ca2+ waves. Ca2+ waves, observed with fluorescence imaging using fura-2 or fluo-3, were initiated by mechanical stimulation in the presence of a supra-perfusion of the extracellular fluid or by the non-contact technique of flash photolysis of intracellular caged-IP3. Following manual mechanical stimulation, the parental C6 glioma cells and cells expressing Cx43 and Cx32 gap junctions all propagated intercellular Ca2+ waves. Ca2+ waves in cells expressing Cx43 traveled approximately twice the distance as compared to waves in cells expressing Cx32 or parental cells. The cells expressing Cx43 were also about twice as sensitive to ATP as cells expressing Cx32. In the presence of a supra-perfusion of extracellular fluid, the Ca2+ waves in parental cells were almost abolished while the mechanically induced Ca2+ waves in the cells expressing Cx43 and Cx32 propagate similar but limited distances of several cells in a direction opposite to the fluid flow. The photolytic release of IP3, but not Ca2+, in cells expressing Cx43 or Cx32 resulted in the propagation of Ca2+ waves that traveled distances similar to those observed in the presence of supra-perfusion. Parental C6 glioma cells did not initiate intercellular Ca2+ waves when stimulated by photolysis. From these studies we conclude that (1) both Cx43 and Cx32 based gap junctions are permeable to IP3 and can serve to communicate Ca2+ waves, (2) that Ca2+ wave propagation via gap junctions was dependent on the diffusion of IP3 but not Ca2+, (3) that an extracellular messenger capable of communicating waves is released from only the stimulated cell, and (4) that simultaneous intracellular and extracellular signaling can occur to enhance the propagation of intercellular Ca2+ waves. Microsc. Res. Tech. 52:289–300, 2001. © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Real Property Taxes and Farm Real Estate Values: Incidence and Implications

ROPERTY tax relief has surfaced as a central political issue of the 1970's. The local property tax has been attacked by nonfarm as well as farm interests. Some of the pressure, especially by nonfarm interests, has emanated from the role of the property tax in financing local schools. Much pressure has also been exerted by farm interests to reduce the level of property taxes on agricultural real estate, especially in rapidly urbanizing areas. Little information is available, however, concerning the potential impact of "property tax relief" for farmers vis-d-vis other property owners.
The systematic construction of liapunov functionals in the linear stability of conservative steady flows

Abstract The linearized equations of motion for small perturbations about a state of steady flow of a conservative dynamical system, when expressed in appropriate variables, admit a class of explicit constants of motion. The construction of Liapunov functionals from these constants of motion is discussed, with applications to plane parallel flow of an inviscid incompressible fluid and plane parallel flow of an inviscid, compressible, electrically charged fluid. Bounds on the L 2 - norms of certain system variables are obtained.
Use of the metabolic syndrome in pediatrics: a blessing and a curse

The clustering of traditional cardiovascular disease risk factors is known as the metabolic syndrome. The metabolic syndrome was first characterized as a distinct entity by Dr. Gerald Reaven in 1988. The intent was to identify individuals at greatest risk for cardiovascular disease mortality and those in urgent need of lifestyle intervention. Since then the metabolic syndrome has evolved into a diagnosable entity recognized by the National Cholesterol Education Program, Adult Treatment Panel III, World Health Organization, and the International Diabetes Foundation. However, the metabolic syndrome as a diagnosis faces considerable controversy, particularly when applied to the pediatric population. Due to the changes in growth and development, the adult criteria for the metabolic syndrome cannot be applied to children and adolescents. In fact, currently no all-inclusive definition for the metabolic syndrome exists for pediatrics. Despite its controversies, the identification of the metabolic syndrome and its component disorders in childhood and adolescence offers important information about risk for cardiovascular disease. Emerging evidence points to the presence of early functional and morphologic changes to the heart and blood vessels among obese children with the metabolic syndrome phenotype. Yet, the plasticity of the cardiovascular system during childhood and adolescence allows for the reversal of cardiovascular damage, but only if risks are identified early and treated aggressively. Recent national recommendations and screening directives offer pediatricians a comprehensive guide to risk prevention, assessment, and treatment.
Purification of sitosterol

Sitosterol and stigmastanol are obtained from the Raney nickel catalyzed hydrogenation of stigmasterol. The sitosterol was separated from stigmastanol by silica gel column chromatography of its dibromide. Sitosterol was also obtained from the steam deodorizer distillate of crude cottonseed oil and purified by manifold recrystallizations of the free sterol from isopropanol and its acetate from alcohol-acetic acid mixtures at a low temperature.
Childhood pemphigus foliaceus: case report and review of the literature

Childhood pemphigus foliaceus typically causes erythema and scaling of the scalp. Sometimes, blisters and oozing are present, which often are misdiagnosed as either impetigo or seborrheic dermatitis. The eruption may progress to involve the trunk and limbs, the lesions often having an arcuate pattern. The diagnosis can be established by histologic and immunologic evaluation. In children, the disease seems to be less severe than pemphigus vulgaris, as is the case with adults, and we recommend a trial of topical steroids before embarking on systemic therapy.
Chemical components of single particles measured with Particle Analysis by Laser Mass Spectrometry (PALMS) during the Atlanta SuperSite Project: Focus on organic/sulfate, lead, soot, and mineral particles

[1] Using a Particle Analysis by Laser Mass Spectrometery (PALMS) instrument, we have measured the chemical components of 0.35–2.5 μm in aerodynamic diameter aerosols during the Atlanta SuperSite Project in August 1999. During the whole campaign period, over a half million single-particle mass spectra were obtained, and about 380,000 spectra were selected for our data analysis. This paper describes the results for organic/sulfate, lead, soot, and mineral dust particles. The most common feature of the Atlanta single particles was the internal mixture of organic compounds and sulfate: 70–99% of the total spectra contained ions characteristic of organic species, and 90–98% contained sulfate ions. These organic/sulfate particles often contained other chemical components such as nitrate, ammonium, halogens, metals, soot/hydrocarbons, and aluminosilicates. Various metals and metal oxides were also observed in Atlanta particles, including Li, B, Na, Mg, K, Ca, Fe, Cu, Zn, V, Sn, and Pb. In particular, small amounts of lead were observed in nearly half of the mass spectra with high signal-to-noise ratio. Many soot/hydrocarbon particles in Atlanta had water-soluble species such as sulfate, nitrate, and oxidized organic components in addition to metals. Mineral particles were detected as large aluminosilicates that also often contained sulfate and nitrate. More than 50 different elements were observed in single particles in Atlanta, which might be an issue for human health effects. Many aerosol components were not strongly dependent on wind direction, indicating that these aerosols were characteristic of the metropolitan area. The mass spectra observed in Atlanta were further compared with our previous results from Idaho Hill, Colorado (relatively remote continental air). These combined results show that the internal mixture of organic components and sulfate can be a general characteristic of tropospheric aerosols in the continental region.
Blood pressure‐lowering effect of melatonin in type 1 diabetes

Our long-term goal is to determine the utility of melatonin in prevention of hypertension in type 1 diabetes. We recently reported that 5 mg melatonin taken at bedtime increases the nocturnal drop of diastolic blood pressure (BP) in adolescents with type 1 diabetes. The present study tested the hypothesis that a higher dose of melatonin, 10 mg, lowers both systolic and diastolic BP in these patients. The design was an open-label trial of 10 mg melatonin taken at bedtime daily for 7 days. Nine normotensive adolescents with type 1 diabetes, 16.2 +/- 0.3 yr old, and eight healthy controls, 16.6 +/- 0.6 yr old participated. BP was measured every 20 min by ambulatory monitoring device for 24 hr before treatment onset and on the last treatment day; sleep was monitored by diary and wrist actigraphy. Outcome measures were BP during wake, sleep and over a 24-hr period. Sleep duration and number of awakenings were used as covariates. Significance for this pilot study was set at P < 0.10. In patients with diabetes the mean BP during sleep was lower on melatonin than before treatment: systolic 104.0 +/- 2.4 and 108.4 +/- 2.4 mmHg (P = 0.085) and diastolic, 57.1 +/- 1.9 and 59.3 +/- 1.9 mmHg (P = 0.079), respectively. In controls there was no significant effect of melatonin on BP. There was no significant effect of sleep duration or number of awakenings on the BP responses. We conclude that the present results justify phase III therapeutic trials to determine the utility of melatonin in prevention of hypertension and cardiovascular complications in type 1 diabetes.
The Advanced Low-Emissions Catalytic-Combustor Program: Phase I — Description and Status

The Advanced Low-Emissions Catalytic-Combustor Program is an ongoing three-phase contract effort with the primary objective of evolving the technology required for incorporating catalytic combustors into advanced aircraft gas-turbine engines. Phase I is currently in progress. At the present time, analytical evaluation is being conducted on advanced catalytic-combustor concepts, including variable geometry, with their known inherent potential advantages of low-level pollutant emissions, widened combustion stability limits, and reduced pattern factor for longer turbine life. Phases II and III will consist of experimental evaluation of the most promising concepts.
Occupational exposures to noise resulting from the workplace use of personal media players at a manufacturing facility.

This study examined the contribution of noise exposures from personal media player (PMP) use in the workplace to overall employee noise exposures at a Colorado manufacturing facility. A total of 24 workers’ PMP and background noise exposures were measured. Twelve PMP users worked in high-background-noise exposure (HBNE) areas, and 12 worked in low-background-noise exposure (LBNE) areas. The self-selected PMP listening level of each worker was measured using an ear simulator, and the background noise of each employee workstation was measured using a sound level meter. Workers’ self-reported PMP duration of use, PMP listening exposure levels, and background noise levels were used to estimate the daily occupational noise exposures. Measured background noise levels averaged 81 dBA for HBNE workers and 59 dBA for LBNE workers. Measured, free-field equivalent listening exposure levels were significantly greater for HBNE workers (85 dBA) compared with LBNE workers (75 dBA) (p = 0.0006). Estimated mean daily nois...
The cerebral hemodynamic response to the xanthine compound, parephyllin (diethyl-aminoethyl theophylline hydrochloride).

Abstract A minophylline has been observed to decrease cerebral blood flow in normotensive control subjects, 1 patients with heart failure, 2 and patients with hypertension associated with severe headache. 3 At least in the latter group of patients, the cerebrospinal fluid pressure decrease concurrently with the reduction in cerebral blood flow. Recently a xanthine compound (Parephyllin) (Soluphylline or R-3588) ∗ ∗Supplied through the courtesy of Riker Laboratories, Inc. has been introduced which has gained widespread use in France 4,5 under the trade name Soluphylline. It produces less gastric irritation than aminophylline and, therefore, it can be given in large doses orally. In addition, it is not irritating by the intramuscular route of administration. Because of these qualities, it seemed worthwhile to study the pharmacodynamics of this drug and to compare it with aminophylline. The current study is concerned with an evaluation of the cerebrovascular hemodynamic response to this compound (Parephyllin).
On the use of asymptotic solutions to predict the performance of fouled catalyst pellets

Abstract The desirability of using the limiting pore mouth and core models to calculate the activity of fouled and poisoned catalysts in place of using the more exact representations in terms of parallel, series and impurity models is well known for reasons of economy of computing time. This paper shows that these limiting models do not approximate the more exact models very well in general and that their use leads to substantial errors in the overall reaction rates owing primarily to the sensitivity of the overall reaction rate to the distribution as well as the amount of foulant. It was also found that the limiting models do not accurately predict the time required to reach a given overall activity level. One model, based upon a uniform distribution of foulant represents well the more exact solutions for series fouling.
Adaptive significance of the mega-billed form in the polymorphic Black-bellied Seedcracker Pyrenestes ostrinus

The polymorphic African estrildid finch, the Black-bellied Seedcracker Pyrenestes ostrinus, exhibits extreme large-billed variants in transition zones between forest and savanna. Using field data collected between 1983 and 1995 at six sites in Cameroon, I examined the adaptive significance of bill size in this mega-billed form. In comparison with small and large morphs, body size increased more rapidly in the mega-billed form, a trend that is consistent with some other species of finches subject to avian predators in open habitats and that suggests aerodynamic constraints imposed by larger bills are compensated by increased body size. Although additional research is required, preliminary results indicate mega-billed birds may interbreed with other bill morphs and may therefore represent a third distinct morph rather than a distinct species.
Isolation, characterization, and magnesium‐induced self‐association kinetics of discrete aggregates of RecA protein from Escherichia coli

Dynamic and static intensity light scattering techniques were employed to identify conditions allowing preparation of homogeneous solutions of distinct oligomeric states of RecA protein. These hydrodynamically distinguishable oligomer populations of RecA protein were obtained in homogeneous pure quantities sufficient for physical studies. Results indicate two fairly narrow distributions of RecA oligomers comprised on average of 42 +/- 3 and 18 +/- 1 RecA monomers. These structures, denoted RecA42 and RecA18, respectively, could be obtained reproducibly in milligram quantities and were stable for at least one week. This enabled reliable characterizations of their hydrodynamic properties by dynamic and total intensity light scattering. These measurements revealed RecA42 had an average translational diffusion coefficient, D20(L) = 8 +/- 2 x 10(-8) cm2/s, molecular weight, M(r) = 1.6 +/- 0.1 x 10(6), and radius of gyration, RG = 465 +/- 29 A. The smaller aggregate, RecA18, had D20(S) = 20.5 +/- 2.5 x 10(-8) cm2/s, M(r) = 7.0 +/- 0.4 x 10(5), and RG = 300 +/- 20 A. Heating RecA18 at 37 degrees C overnight resulted in conversion to a species with hydrodynamic properties indistinguishable from RecA42, called RecA18/42. Conversion of RecA42 to RecA18 occurred almost instantaneously by 50% dilution at 38 degrees C or very slowly with incubation at 4 degrees C for at least 39 days. Self-association reactions of the three starting oligomeric states (RecA18, RecA42, and RecA18/42) induced by MgCl2 were monitored at several temperatures by dynamic light scattering. Results of these experiments provided evaluations of kinetic activation parameters of the self-association reactions. The activation parameters found for each starting oligomeric state of the protein were significantly different, revealing the variable influence of MgCl2 on the activation barriers to RecA self-association. Highly aggregated equilibrium solutions that ultimately form in solutions of each starting oligomeric species, incubated in MgCl2 at 38 degrees C for four days, were characterized by total intensity light scattering. Interpretations of these data in terms of characteristic behavior of random polymers suggests the surface morphologies of these highly associated equilibrium states formed from RecA42 and RecA18/42 are similar but contrast with that of RecA18. Calculated values of the translational diffusion coefficient D0 were obtained for oligomeric structures modeled as helical arrays of connected monomer spheres. Best agreement with experimentally determined diffusion coefficients required that constituent monomer spheres of RecA42 have radii 33-40% larger than the monomer spheres of RecA18. Results suggest the hydrodynamically distinct oligomeric forms of RecA may reside in conformational states with different surface exposure of hydrophobic residues, which results in substantial differences in local solvation/hydration.
A protein microbolometer for focal plane arrays

Conventional forward-looking infrared (FLIR) devices made of a cooled platinum silicide, cooled mercury-cadmium-telluride, or indium antimonide are costly, in part, because they require an initial cool-down period and need additional power for a cooling pump. Using proteins and DNAs in an uncooled microbolometer will significantly improve the performance of the current technology.
Hydrogen Transfer in 7-Azaindole

Ab initio calculations are reported on 7-azaindole and the 1:1 complexes between 7-azaindole and water and methanol. Geometry optimizations using restricted Hartree−Fock wavefunctions and a double ζ plus polarization basis set were performed on the tautomeric minima and the transition states connecting these minima. Energetics were predicted using second-order perturbation theory. The ground state activation energy for tautomerization is predicted to decrease from nearly 60 kcal/mol in 7-azaindole to about 20 kcal/mol for the 1:1 complexes. Vertical excitation of the 1:1 complex with water, qualitatively estimated using singly excited configuration interaction, is predicted to reverse the order of stability of the two tautomers.
Distributed Fiber-Optic Hot-Spot Sensors

This paper describes recent developments in hot-spot detection using distributed fiber-optic sensing systems (DFOSS) and special sensitized polymeric coatings. The work has particular relevance to the electrical power industry for monitoring stator bars, transformers and overhead/underground high-voltage transmission lines. Two types of material are discussed which show interesting optical switching properties. The materials so far investigated are more applicable to hot-spot sensing. However, further work is required to extend the dynamic range so that temperatures may be sensed.
Vulnerability to distress: Cognitive and emotional reactivity in chronically self-focused individuals

Self-focused attention has been related to a number of both normal and dysfunctional processes. Several recent studies have suggested that the dispositional equivalent of self-focused attention, private self-consciousness, may serve as a vulnerability factor for emotional distress. To test this proposition, two studies were conducted. In the first, individuals high and low in chronic self-focus were provided with either success or failure feedback, and reactions to this feedback on several cognitive and affective variables were assessed. Results indicated that chronically self-focused individuals responded with significantly more negative affect, dysfunctional negative thoughts, and less self-deception. In the second study, a naturalistic experiment was conducted where chronically self-focused subjects were assessed weekly over a 10-week period to determine if they encountered more negative affect than a non-self-focused comparison group. Although self-focused and non-self-focused subjects started out with equal levels of negative emotion, self-focused subjects reported reliably higher levels of negative affect during the last two-thirds of the assessment period. Results from both studies are discussed in terms of implications of the vulnerability of individuals who are typically high in internal attention.
The margination propensity of ellipsoidal micro/nanoparticles to the endothelium in human blood flow

Particle shape is becoming increasingly recognized as an important parameter for the development of vascular-targeted carriers (VTCs) for disease treatment and diagnosis. However, limited research exists that investigates how particle shape coupled with hemodynamics affects VTC margination (localization and adhesion). In this study, we investigate the effects of particle shape parameters (volume, aspect ratio, axis length) on the margination efficacy of targeted spheres and prolate ellipsoids (rods) to an inflamed endothelial wall from human blood flow in an in vitro model of human vasculature. Overall, particles with 2 μm equivalent spherical diameters (ESD) display higher margination than particles with either 1 μm or 500 nm ESDs. Interestingly, rod-shaped microparticles (1 μm or 2 μm ESD) with high aspect ratios display significantly improved margination compared to spheres of equal volume, particularly under high shear rates and disturbed flow profiles. Nanorods (500 nm ESD), even with high aspect ratio, do not display enhanced margination compared to that of equivalent spheres, which suggests that nanorods, like nanospheres, display minimal margination due to their inability to effectively localize to the vessel wall in the presence of RBCs.
Leadership through followership

N 'o t long ago, we posed a question to a group of officers, most of whom were on the West Point faculty, and many of whom were themselves graduates of the Academy. "Since developing leadership is what this place is all about ," we asked, "how do you go about doing that task?" Their answer surprised us. "We begin by teaching them to be followers." This insight prompted us to undertake a study, not of the nature of leadership (a subject which has been widely discussed), but of the notion that leadership may be chiefly an achievement of followers--that able leaders may emerge only from the ranks of able followers. Because of the genesis of our idea, we call it the West Point Thesis. Our concern is the developmental question of how leaders emerge and, particularly, how the mastery of followership may prepare and qualify one for leadership. Contemporary authors seem to say little or nothing about what leaders must have done yesterday to become leaders today. Yet the ground of leadership can lie only in the leader's personal history. Much earlier writers seem to have realized this. Plato's Republic analyzes what the king must do from his earliest years to become the sovereign. In the Politics, Aristotle laments the rarity of virtue among aspirants to statemanship, and insists that only by training from youth may subjects grow to leadership. Much later, the philosopher Hegel required of the mature leader the most intimate understanding of his followers, achievable only by passage through the experience of servitude. In his Phenornenology of Mind, Hegel so strongly affirms the mastery of followership as the sine qua non of leadership-our "West Point Thes i s " tha t an outline of his ideas is critical here.
The preparation of palladium for cold fusion experiments

Techniques have been established to prepare palladium specimens for cold fusion experiments using an ultra-high-vacuum, allmetal, high-temperature furnace to melt palladium metal in high purity alumina molds having a test tube shape. To date 6-mm and 15-mm cylinders have been fabricated, the latter being used to fabricate a sphere 12.5-mm in diameter. Techniques and facilities used for palladium-hydrogen isotope pressure-volume-temperature measurements1–4 have been used to anneal these palladium specimens after machining and, in some cases, to charge these specimens with deuterium to PdD0.63 stoichiometry prior to their use in electrochemical cells. The modeling of palladium-hydrogen isotope pressure-composition-temperature curves is described wherein existing data5,6 is used to derive models that accurately describe the existing data and that extrapolate to high compositions. Experiments for reacting6LiD with Pd rods at 700°C to 800°C, in an attempt to precharge6Li into the Pd rods, are being prepared.
Responsive Periodic Mesoporous Polydiacetylene/Silica Nanocomposites

Responsive PMO materials have been synthesized through co-assembly of bridged diacetylenic silsesquioxane and surfactant. The spatially defined polydiacetylenic component, mesoporous network, and the covalent proximity of polydiacetylene to silica endow the PMO with mechanical robustness, reversible chromatic responses, improved thermal stability, and faster responses to chemical stimuli. This research also provides an efficient molecular design and assembly paradigm to fabricate a family of conjugated optoelectronic materials, creating novel platforms for sensors, actuators, and other device applications.
Long-term follow-up of patients with fulminant Clostridium difficile colitis.

The purpose of this study was to determine the long-term survival rate, rate of gastrointestinal continuity restoration, and rate of recurrence following an attack of fulminant Clostridium difficile colitis. Fulminant C. difficile colitis was defined as any patient who had a bout of C. difficile colitis and required surgical intervention after failing medical therapy. These patients were found through a pathological database search. Follow-up phone calls were made to any patient who survived at least 30 days after being discharged from the hospital following surgical intervention (long-term survivor group). A total of 49 patients were involved in the study. The 30-day mortality rate was 57% (28/49), with an in-hospital mortality rate of 49%. The 5-year survival rate for the long-term survival group was 38% (8/21) and 16.3% for all patients. Gastrointestinal continuity was restored in 20% of the patients. There was one documented recurrence of C. difficile colitis Patients who have a bout of fulminant C. difficile colitis have a poor prognosis of surviving longer than 5 years. Restoring gastrointestinal continuity is uncommon and usually reserved for patients with few co-morbidities. Recurrent C. difficile colitis after surgical resection is a rare occurrence
Cutaneous Mast Cell Tumor and Mastocytosis in a Black-masked Lovebird (Agapornis personata)

A 12-year-old female black-masked lovebird (Agapornis personata) with a cobalt color mutation was presented for self-mutilation of a mass located on the right lateral neck. Cytologic evaluation of the soft tissue mass revealed a predominance of poorly stained mast cells with metachromatic intracytoplasmic granules. The presumptive diagnosis was cutaneous mast cell tumor. Clinical evaluation, results of a complete blood cell count and biochemical analysis, and radiographs did not reveal systemic manifestation of mast cell disease. The mass was surgically resected, but surgical margins were limited because of the location of the mass and the small size of the patient. The lovebird died the day after surgery. Gross postmortem examination revealed splenomegaly, multifocal pinpoint white nodules throughout the liver parenchyma, severe thickening and yellow coloration of the great vessels, and pale pink swelling of the caudal right kidney. Histopathologic analysis of the resected mass revealed sheets of round cells that contain metachromatic granules, defined as neoplastic mast cells, within a fine fibrovascular stroma. Similar neoplastic cells were seen in the right kidney, hepatic sinusoids, splenic pulp, periovarian connective tissue, and bone marrow. The histopathologic diagnosis was a cutaneous mast cell tumor and disseminated mast cell disease, or mastocytosis. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first reported case of a cutaneous mast cell tumor and mastocytosis in a psittacine bird.
Stereotypes of Older Lesbians and Gay Men

This study examined stereotypes of older lesbians and gay men. Key findings are that older lesbians and gay men were perceived as similar to older heterosexual women and men with regard to aging stereotypes, such as being judicious. At the same time, sexual minorities were targets of unique stereotypes. Consistent with the implicit inversion theory, lesbians were conceived as similar to heterosexual men, and gay men similar to heterosexual women with regard to gender-stereotypic traits, and regardless of age. These findings suggest the persistence into late adulthood of the belief that lesbians and gay men are inverted females and males.
Diabetic autoimmune markers in children and adolescents with type 2 diabetes.

Background. There is an increase in the incidence of type 2 diabetes in children and adolescents. Absence of known diabetes autoimmune markers is sometimes required to confirm the diagnosis. Objective. To identify clinical and autoimmune characteristics of type 2 diabetes in a pediatric population. Method. We report an analysis of 48 children and adolescents with type 2 diabetes, compared with 39 randomly selected children with type 1 diabetes, diagnosed and followed at the Loma Linda University Pediatric Diabetes Center. Ethnic, familial, seasonal, and autoimmune marker characteristics are outlined. To determine the reliability of antibody testing in confirming the type of diabetes at diagnosis, we studied the incidence of positive islet cell antibodies (ICAs), glutamic acid decarboxylase antibodies (GADs), and insulin autoantibodies (IAAs) at diagnosis in both groups. ICA512, GADs, and IAAs were measured by radioimmunoassay. Results. The cohort with type 2 diabetes had a similar gender distribution as the group with type 1 diabetes but a significantly higher age at diagnosis. Ethnic background was significantly different between the 2 groups, predominantly Hispanic in type 2 and white in type 1. Body mass index was significantly higher in type 2 diabetes (mean = 31.24 kg/m 2 ). Among the patients with type 2 diabetes, 33% presented in diabetic ketoacidosis, random blood glucose at diagnosis ranged from 11.4 to 22.25 mmol/L (228–445 mg/dL), fasting C-peptide levels ranged from 0.89 to 2.7 nmol/L (2.7–8.2 ng/mL; normal: 1C was 10.8 ± 3.5% (normal: Conclusion. Absence of diabetes autoimmune markers is not a prerequisite for the diagnosis of type 2 diabetes in children and adolescents.