cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mechanically durable, superomniphobic coatings prepared by layer-by-layer technique for self-cleaning and anti-smudge

Abstract Superomniphobic surfaces are of interest for anti-fouling, self-cleaning, anti-smudge and low-drag applications. Many bioinspired surfaces developed previously are of limited use due to a lack of mechanical durability. From a previously developed technique, an adapted layer-by-layer approach involving charged species with electrostatic interactions between layers is combined with an uncharged fluorosilane layer to result in a durable, superomniphobic coating. This technique can provide the flexibility needed to improve adhesion to the substrate with the addition of a low surface tension coating at the air interface. In this work, polyelectrolyte binder, SiO 2 nanoparticles, and fluorosilane layers are deposited, providing the combination of surface roughness and low surface tension to result in a superomniphobic coating with droplets of liquids with surface tensions from 72 to 21 mN m −1 displaying contact angles exceeding 155° with low tilt angles. The durability of these coatings was examined through the use of micro- and macrowear experiments. These coatings currently display levels of transparency acceptable for automotive applications. Fabrication via this novel combination of techniques results in durable, superomniphobic coatings displaying improved performance compared to existing work where either the durability or the repellency is compromised.
Full-length tobacco mosaic virus RNAs and defective RNAs have different 3' replication signals.

Abstract The viral replicase complex of positive-stranded RNA viruses interacts with cis -acting elements that are usually located at the termini of the viral RNAs. On comparison of the replication requirement of a tobacco mosaic virus (TMV)-based defective RNA (dRNA) and its helper virus, we found different requirements for replication of TMV RNAs in cis and in trans. The level of replication of full-length TMV RNA decreased substantially in the absence of pseudoknot (pk) 1 and/or 2, whereas identical deletions in dRNAs did not affect their replication. However, pk3 was required for replication of both full-length TMV RNAs and dRNAs. The requirements for homologous sequences were greater for dRNA replication than for replication of full-length TMV RNAs. Defective RNAs with heterologous 3′ nontranslated regions (NTRs) failed to be replicated or replicated minimally, whereas replication of similarly mutated full-length RNAs was much less affected. Increasing amounts of contiguous heterologous sequences in the dRNAs compensated for the impaired interactions between the replicase and 3′ NTR. The precision requirement appeared to involve the terminal 28 nucleotides, specifically the pseudoknot in the aminoacyl acceptor arm of the tRNA like structure, which was important in replication of both dRNAs and full-length TMV RNAs.
The Effect of Excited State Energy Transfer on the Circularly Polarized Luminescence from Sol−Gels Containing Racemic Complexes of Eu(III): Theory and Experiment

Excited state energy transfer between enantiomers in concentrated samples will diminish the differential excited state concentrations of a photoenriched racemic mixture, and this phenomenon will be reflected in a decrease in the observed circularly polarized luminescence as compared to low concentration samples where this energy transfer process can be neglected. Such a decrease is reported here for complexes of Eu(III) with 2,6-pyridine-dicarboxylate and 2,2‘-bipyridine-N,N‘-dioxide = bpyO2 ligands. This work represents the first experimental observation of this phenomenon for samples prepared in high concentration by incorporation into high-quality strain-free sol−gels. These results are fit to a theoretical model appropriate for randomly oriented and dispersed solute chromophores, and the Forster critical transfer distance is obtained. Limitations of the model and other experimental difficulties are described.
On the effect of local boundary condition details on the natural frequencies of simply-supported beams: Eccentric pin supports

Abstract Pinned supports, or simple supports, are boundary conditions frequently encountered in the analysis of beams, plates, and shells. Simply supported boundary conditions can be modeled as restricting the lateral motion of the structure but freely allowing rotation at the boundaries. The literature to date has treated simple supports as though they are solely pinned at the mid-plane of the structure; however, the present study investigates the effects of eccentric pinned supports on the natural frequencies of beam structures. A COMSOL finite element model is created to investigate the changes in the natural frequencies of a beam structure with respect to the through-thickness location of the pin supports. Through this study it is found that the natural frequencies are significantly influenced by pin support eccentricity. For the beams considered in this article, it is seen that moving the pin supports from the mid-plane to the bottom edge raises the first natural frequencies by over 55%, regardless of beam length. To verify the COMSOL finite element model results, a Rayleigh–Ritz approximate solution for the natural frequencies is also obtained. To capture pin eccentricity, a novel cross-sectional geometry is proposed that incorporates fictitious material through the beam thickness. This fictitious material approach is completely compatible with the existing literature pertaining to the analysis of thin beams. The natural frequencies are confirmed to be strong functions of pin eccentricity, with the Rayleigh–Ritz results matching the COMSOL results to well within 4%. From this study it can be concluded that the through-thickness location of pin supports are significant and must be specified.
OBSERVATIONS ON THE BROOKLYN INJECTION GNEISS AND RELATED FORMATIONS

The bedrock under the western end of Long Island, N. Y. has been known as the Brooklyn Injection Gneiss, and regarded as the Fordham Gneiss mixed with various amounts of intrusive Ravenswood Granodiorite. A water tunnel constructed in this bedrock encountered gneiss of Fordham type, gneissoid granodiorite, laminated mica schist, and interbedded limestones (impure marbles). Except for cross-cutting dikes of amphibolite and of pegmatite, contacts between the different rock types are conformable and gradational, as well as conformable with the banding of the Inwood and Manhattan formations farther north. These observations lead to the conclusion that all the metamorphic rock formations in the New York City area originated as one great sedimentary sequence, interrupted by only local unconformities. The work of others suggests that the entire sequence may range in age from Late Precambrian to Ordovician. The Ravenswood Granodiorite may not be igneous but may represent merely certain sedimentary strata having a composition slightly different from that of the rest of the Fordham Gneiss. As some of the interbedded limestones are lenticular, even the Inwood Marble may have been a lenticular deposit, which may explain its variation in thickness and its absence in the east Bronx. The laminated mica schist occurs associated with the Inwood Marble at Rikers Island, but it also occurs extensively in Brooklyn without marble. Numerous cross-cutting amphibolite dikes are present in Brooklyn, although they are not found in the normal Fordham, Inwood, and Manhattan formations in this area.
Involvement of inflammatory mediators in the airway responses to trimellitic anhydride in sensitized guinea‐pigs

1. We examined the effect of various pharmacological agents on the acute bronchoconstrictor response and airway microvascular leakage in a model of guinea-pig sensitization to trimellitic anhydride (TMA) a cause of low molecular weight occupational asthma in man. 2. Guinea-pigs were given intradermal injections of 0.1 ml of 0.3% TMA in corn oil; 21-28 days later, anaesthetized guinea-pigs were challenged with TMA conjugated to guinea-pig albumin by tracheal instillation. Changes in lung resistance were measured and airway microvascular leakage was quantified by measuring the extravasation of Evans blue dye into the airway tissue. 3. Sensitized guinea-pig (n = 9 in each group) were pretreated with chlorpheniramine (2.5 mg kg-1, i.v.), WEB 2086 (10 micrograms kg-1, i.v.), BW 4AC (50 mg kg-1, i.p.), nedocromil sodium (2% aerosol for 60 s) or vehicle alone. 4. Pretreatment with chlorpheniramine inhibited both the acute bronchoconstrictor response and the increase in airway microvascular leakage. WEB 2086 and nedocromil sodium partially inhibited the bronchoconstrictor response but had no significant effect on airway microvascular leakage. BW 4AC caused a non-significant reduction of the bronchoconstrictor response and airway microvascular leakage. 5. These results indicate that both the bronchoconstrictor response and the airway microvascular response in this model of sensitization is mediated to a large extent by histamine. PAF but not 5-lipoxygenase products also partially mediates the bronchoconstrictor response but not the airway microvascular leakage. Nedocromil sodium partially inhibits the bronchoconstrictor response only.
Non-enhancing pilocytic astrocytoma of the spinal cord

Pilocytic astrocytomas are among the most common intramedullary spinal cord tumors in the pediatric age group. The presence of contrast enhancement is a major factor used to distinguish these tumors from other spinal cord lesions. We present a case of histologically proved non-enhancing intramedullary spinal cord pilocytic astrocytoma in a 12-year-old girl. This case represents an exception to the conventional wisdom that pediatric spinal neoplasms enhance with administration of intravenous contrast material.
On Transition to Turbulence and Synthesis of Alternative Approaches

In the study of complex systems, controversial debates often arise among advocates of different schools of thought. In this article, we examine how such controversies should be addressed, with the problem of transition to turbulence as a primary example. It is shown that, in many cases, these controversies may be resolved by first noting that the alternative theories proposed may not be mutually exclusive. Indeed, they may even be mutually complementary, if they were originally developed to address similar issues in different physical contexts. In any case, for the validity of the alternative theories proposed, each should be separately and fully supported from both the theoretical and empirical points of view. Each applies to a specific physical context, and each stands on its own merits and limitations. Synthesis into a broader theory may then be achieved, if commonality is identified among the different alternative theories proposed. To demonstrate this conciliatory approach, we begin with an examination of the move toward resolution of the well-known controversy over the problem of transition to turbulence from the steady laminar flow in the boundary layer over a flat plate. Several other long-standing controversies have been successfully addressed on the basis of this approach. In addition to the problem of transition to turbulence, we considered, in some detail, two additional examples: (1) the global structures of spiral galaxies; and (2) the theory of jet noise. In all three cases, it is shown that the model approach is meritorious despite the limitations. Synthesis, with a conciliatory approach to apparent conflicts, will be recommended in general as a new part of an extended paradigm in applied mathematics. It is an approach appropriate to situations where an ideal theory, with universal applicability, is elusive. Parallel development of several alternative theories is natural, and a final synthesis is needed. In contrast, it should be noted that the same perspective is generally not expected useful if the controversies concern the unique solution of well-defined mathematical issues. The potential success of the application of this conciliatory perception and approach to other areas of science are discussed (see Section 5).
Confirmation of ethos as a confounding element in communication research

(1966). Confirmation of ethos as a confounding element in communication research. Speech Monographs: Vol. 33, No. 4, pp. 464-466.
Use of the holmium: Yttrium aluminum garnet (HO:YAG) laser for cranial nerve decompression: An in vivo study using the rabbit model

A study was designed to evaluate the utility and safety of the holmium:yttrium aluminum garnet (Ho:YAG) laser for precise bony decompression of neural canals. In vivo rabbit studies were performed to measure temperature changes and nerve degeneration which occurred when the facial canal was decompressed with the laser as compared to the diamond burr. Marked temperature elevations were noted with the laser (n = 4), but not with the burr (n = 4). Seven of nine nerves decompressed with the laser revealed moderate to severe degeneration, whereas two control nerves decompressed with the drill demonstrated only minimal degeneration. It is concluded that this laser should not be used for nerve decompression unless better control of temperature elevation can be achieved.
A Novel Subtyping Assay for Detection of Clostridium difficile Virulence Genes

This proof-of-concept study demonstrates the application of a novel nucleic acid detection platform to detect Clostridium difficile in subjects presenting with acute diarrheal symptoms. This method amplifies three genes associated with C. difficile infection, including genes and deletions (cdtB and tcdC) associated with hypervirulence attributed to the NAP1/027/BI strain. Amplification of DNA from the tcdB, tcdC, and cdtB genes was performed using a droplet-based sandwich platform with quantitative real-time PCR in microliter droplets to detect and identify the amplified fragments of DNA. The device and identification system are simple in design and can be integrated as a point-of-care test to help rapidly detect and identify C. difficile strains that pose significant health threats in hospitals and other health-care communities.
The action of steroids and triton X-100 upon phospholipid/cholesterol structures.

Abstract Purified lipids (ovolecithin, cholesterol, dicetylphosphate, in 70:10:20 molar ratios) swell spontaneously in salt solutions to form spherules which behave as saltcontaining compartments limited by discrete membranes. These structures exhibit permeability characteristics for cations, anions, and water which are qualitatively similar to those occurring across natural membranes. After spherules were permitted to form in the presence of 0.145 M H 2 P0 4 − , CrO 4 2− , glucose, or glycine, any excess marker ions or molecules which remained uncaptured in the aqueous phase between lamellae were removed by dialysis against 0.145 M NaCl/KCl. Subsequently, spherules were exposed to steroids (5 mM), Triton X-100, and streptolysin S, agents that affect the membranes of lysosomes, mitochondria, and erythrocytes. Progesterone, desoxycorticosterone (DOC), diethylstilbestrol, and 5 β-H steroids such as etiocholanolone, considerably accelerated the leakage of anions, glucose, and glycine into the surrounding medium, as did Triton and streptolysin. In contrast, cortisone, cortisol, and chloroquine, which protect natural membrane-bounded structures such as lysosomes, retarded leakage of the markers. It was possible to form spherules that contained cortisone preincorporated into the lipid lamellae. At an optimum molar preincorporation of 1 per cent, structures that contained cortisone (but not its inert metabolite tetrahydrocortisone) proved more resistant to leakage induced by other steroids. Negatively stained preparations in the electron microscope showed that the discrete spherules were formed of multiple concentric lamellae which were separated by compartments of approximately 50 A distance. Triton X-100 completely disrupted these structures: only amorphous debris was formed. In contrast, DOC-treated samples showed the emergence of new forms: although small, discrete spherules remained, the predominant forms were a series of elongated, tubular, strand-like structures, loops and whirls of which maintained a lamellar substructure. These studies suggest that steroids interact with artificial lipid spherules to produce changes in their permeability which resemble steroidinduced changes in natural membranes, most likely by provoking a structural rearrangement of lipid layers.
On the stability-equation for flipflops

Abstract A recent paper by Halijak shows that the stable states of flipflops can be determined as solutions of a Boolean stability-equation. The general solutions in Ref. [1] lead to contradictions, however, for some flipflop-types. These contradictions can be removed, and a simpler general solution achieved, by considering the consistency of the stability-equation.
Prediction of Rectal Temperature by the Questemp II Personal Heat Strain Monitor Under Low and Moderate Heat Stress

This study assessed the use of aural canal temperature measured with the Questemp II personal heat strain monitor (Tq) relative to rectal temperature (Tre) during simulated industrial work in three different wet bulb globe temperatures (WBGT). Sixteen subjects performed walking and arm curl exercise at a rate of 300 kcal/hour for 4 hours while wearing Saranex® protective coveralls in 18, 23, and 27°C WBGT environments and wearing the Questemp II. Correlations were determined between Tre and Tq for the three conditions and for all conditions combined. Pearson r values were 0.48 (18°C WBGT), 0.42 (23°C WBGT), 0.38 (27° WBGT), and 0.50 (all trials). Because a major concern is safe maximum core body temperature, means and standard deviations for differences between Tre and Tq were assessed at peak temperatures to determine the predictability of Tre from Tq solely at these points. Large standard deviations in delta values relative to a small overall tolerable temperature range ruled out the use of Tq in this m...
p-VERSION LEAST-SQUARES FINITE-ELEMENT FORMULATION FOR AXISYMMETRIC INCOMPRESSIBLE NEWTONIAN AND NON-NEWTONIAN FLUID FLOW WITH HEAT TRANSFER

Abstract This article presents a p-version least-squares finite-element formulation for axisymmetric incompressible Newtonian and non-Newtonian fluid flow with heat transfer. The dimension-less form of the equations describing the fluid motion and heat transfer are cast into a set of first-order coupled partial differential equations involving non-Newtonian stresses and heat fluxes as auxiliary variables. The pressure, velocities, stresses, and heat fluxes are interpolated using equal-order, C° continuity, p-version hierarchical approximation functions. The least-squares error functional is constructed using the system of coupled first-order nonlinear partial differential equations without linearization, approximations, or assumptions. The minimization of this least-squares error functional results in a solution vector {δ} that makes the partial derivatives of the error functional with respect to {δ} a null vector. This is accomplished by using Newton's method with a line search. The article presents impl...
Accretion and subduction tectonics in the Chugach Mountains and Copper River Basin, Alaska: Initial results of the Trans-Alaska Crustal Transect

Geologic, seismic, gravity, and magnetic data from the northern Chugach Mountains and southern Copper River Basin, Alaska, indicate that the Chugach terrane (CGT) and the composite Peninsular/Wrangellia terrane (PET/WRT) are thin (< 10 km), rootless sheets bounded on the south by north-dipping thrust faults that sole into a shallow, horizontal, low-velocity zone. The CGT has been thrust at least 40 km beneath the PET/WRT along the Border Ranges fault system (BRFS). Adjacent to the BRFS, uplift and erosion of 30-40 km since Jurassic time have exposed blueschist-facies rocks in the CGT and mafic and ultramafic cumulate rocks in the PET/WRT. Four paired north-dipping layers of low and high seismic velocities extend beneath the northern CGT and southern PET/WRT and may be slices of subducted oceanic crust and upper mantle; the upper two pairs may now be joined to the continental plate. 15 references, 5 figures.
Differential solubilization of rat liver σ1 and σ2 receptors: retention of σ2 sites in particulate fractions

Rat liver membranes (crude P2 membranes) were solubilized in 10 mM Tris-HCl, pH 7.4 containing 7 mM 3-[(3-cholamidopropyl)dimethylammonio]-1-propanesulfonate (CHAPS). The soluble fraction was designated the Extract 1. The 105 000 × g pellet was washed once, and then extracted a second time (Extract 2). The various resulting fractions were assayed for sigma (σ) binding characteristics, using [3H](+)-pentazocine to label σ1 sites and [3H]1,3-di-o-tolylguanidine (DTG) in the presence of 1 μM dextrallorphan to label σ2 sites. Both of the extracts and resultant pellets (Pellet 1 and Pellet 2) contained σ1 and σ2 receptors, as indicated by the pharmacological profiles upon competition studies. The Kd and Bmax values for σ1 activity in the original P2 membranes were 8.3 ± 0.73 nM and 5333 ± 572 fmol/mg protein; Kd and Bmax for σ2 activity was 19 ± 0.17 nM and 9190 ± 800 fmol/mg protein. There were no changes in the radioligand Kd values of the two sites in the subsequent soluble and particulate fractions. However, while the σ1 and σ2 Bmax values in extracts and pellets were generally on the same order as those of P2 membranes, the actual σ2 to σ1 Bmax ratio varied markedly across the fractions. The ratio of σ2σ1 binding in Extract 1 and Extract 2 was 0.86 and 0.68, respectively, compared to a ratio of 1.7 in the original P2. However, the ratio in Pellet 2 was 3.8, twice that of the original P2 membranes. Furthermore, the Bmax value for σ1 sites in Pellet 2 did not change, whereas the σ2Bmax increased 1.8 fold relative to the original P2 membranes. The changes in σ2σ1 binding ratio in extracts were observed using two different assay methods for soluble receptors (retention on polyethyleneimine-coated filters and polyethylene glycol precipitation) and is therefore not an artifact of assay procedure. These data suggest that, relative to σ1 receptors, σ2 receptors are more resistant to solubilization and become somewhat enriched in the particulate fractions. This supports the notion that σ1 and σ2 receptors are distinct macromolecules and may indicate different modes of association with the cell membrane.
Business “Not” as Usual: The National Incident Management System, Federalism, and Leadership

Federal, state, and local governments did not work well together to provide an effective response to Hurricane Katrina. Some of this failure can be attributed to the power struggle between the federal and state governments. The National Incident Management System (NIMS) was designed to foster collaboration among governments and their departments and agencies. However, this system largely failed. To overcome this failure, many have proposed centralizing disaster response in the federal government. Centralized control would damage the basic federal structure of our government as the national government appeals to the ever-present dangers of terrorism and natural disaster to gain permanent primacy in the relationship. The current federal system actually can work better than centralization if leadership and organizational transformation are stressed. The National Incident Management System has many elements in place that can make the federal system of disaster response work if the proper stress on organizational transformation and leadership is applied. If we ignore the systemic issues and simply replace people or re-assign responsibilities, we may simply fail again in the not too distant future with a different cast of characters. John R. Harrald, director of the Institute for Crisis, Disaster, and Risk Management, George Washington University U.S. House Committee on Government Reform hearing, September 15, 2005
Forsterite refractories from Shorzhinsk dunites

Using a technology developed by the All-Union Institute of Refractories (VIO), it is possible to use Shorzhinsk dunites to make forsterite brick whose properties are not inferior to those of goods produced industrially. The results of tests on the trial bricks indicate that they can be used in the metallurgical, cement,and glass industries.
Developing a software size model for rule-based systems: a case study

Abstract A model of knowledge-based system size is proposed and empirically tested based on determining the information processing capacity of the system's rule base. Each rule in a knowledge-based system, it is suggested, is written in terms of a number of data objects used to structure each clause within the rule. Counts are proposed of the predicates, constants and variables used to express these data objects. The general form and method by which the model is derived is described and illustrated using data from a set of commercially developed Prolog programs. A ‘hold out’ sample is used to test the stability of the derived model to ensure the model works across data not part of the model building process. The most accurate model accounted for 94% of the variance in the dependent variable, and had an average error of 18% when estimating for particular data points. This model is then converted into a tool by banding the parameters of the regression model. The ‘banding’ effectively abstracts the original regression model to the level of a general description of the system under development. The banded tool partially solves the problem of how the input parameters can be known at the time the estimate is generated. The banded model still managed to maintain a high level of accuracy, with an average error of 20% in estimates. Limitations and areas of further research are also discussed.
Analytic Framework and Measurement Strategy for Investigating Optimal Staffing in Medical Practice

This paper presents the application of a mixed integer linear programming model to the choice of an optimal staff for an ambulatory medical care practice. Instead of adding further institutional and financial constraints to earlier models, this paper describes a strategy for the measurement of the key empirical constructs on which such analysis must rest. The analysis illustrates the use of the model for selecting the optimal staff and shows the relationships of this staff to the types of problems presented to the practice and the scale of activity. The effect of scale and patient mix on average cost per encounter are examined and the dual solution is used to determine the relative costs of producing encounters in the various groups. Finally, the allocation of responsibilities for different types of patient problems among the various members of the medical team is presented as part of the optimal solution.
The effect of ligand affinity on integrins' lateral diffusion in cultured cells.

The role of ligand affinity in altering αPS2CβPS integrins’ lateral mobility was studied using single particle tracking (SPT) with ligand-functionalized quantum dots (QDs) and fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) with fluorescent protein tagged integrins. Integrins are ubiquitous transmembrane proteins that are vital for numerous cellular functions, including bidirectional signaling and cell anchorage. Wild-type and high ligand affinity mutant (αPS2CβPS-V409D) integrins were studied in S2 cells. As measured by SPT, the integrin mobile fraction decreased by 22 % and had a 4× slower diffusion coefficient for αPS2CβPS-V409D compared to wild-type integrins. These differences are partially the result of αPS2CβPS-V409D integrins’ increased clustering. For the wild-type integrins, the average of all diffusion coefficients measured by SPT was statistically similar to the ensemble FRAP results. A 75 % slower average diffusion coefficient was measured by SPT compared to FRAP for αPS2CβPS-V409D integrins, and this may be the result of SPT measuring only ligand-bound integrins, in contrast all ligand-bound and ligand-unbound integrins are averaged in FRAP measurements. Specific binding of the ligand-functionalized QDs was 99 % for integrin expressing cells. The results prove that the ligand binding affinity affects the lateral dynamics of a subset of integrins based on the complementary SPT and FRAP data.
ZIPMAP — A Zero-One Integer Programming Model for Market Segmentation and Product Positioning

An optimization model is proposed to aid marketing managers to search for and develop new product brand ideas. The model, which is founded on individual consumer behaviour constructs, determines a position for a new brand, in the consumers' perceptual space of product attributes, that maximizes company sales. The resulting mathematical model is stated as a large-scale, mixed, zero-one, integer, non-linear mathematical programming problem whose solution is sought through a two-stage optimization approach.
Multiple Ferromagnetic Resonance in Ferrite Spheres

Ferromagnetic resonance experiments have been performed on single crystal spheres of manganese and manganese-zinc ferrites placed in field configurations having large gradients in the rf magnetic field at the sample site. Five major and several minor resonant absorptions are observed extending over a region of 700 oersteds at room temperature. The line spacings are essentially independent of sphere size. The absorptions are shown to be attributable to modes of precession of the bulk magnetization of the sample which are more complicated than the spatially uniform precession contemplated by the usual ferromagnetic resonance theory. The lowest order modes are identified and their dynamical properties shown to be consistent with the prediction of an idealized magnetically-coupled-oscillator model.
Electrochemistry and the Future of the Automobile

Electrification of the automobile provides a means of sustaining personal mobility in the face of petroleum resource limitations and environmental imperatives. Lithium ion (Li ion) batteries and hydrogen fuel cells provide pure-electrification solutions for different mass and usage segments of automotive application. Battery electric vehicles based on current and targeted Li ion battery technology will be limited to small-vehicle low-mileage-per-day applications; this is due to relatively low specific energy (kWh/kg) and long recharge time constraints. We briefly discuss new generations of Li ion positive and negative electrode intercalation compounds that are needed and under development to achieve energy storage density, durability, and cost targets. Lithium−air batteries give promise of extending the range, but scientists and engineers must surmount a plethora of challenges if growing research investments in this area are to prove effective. Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles have demonstrated the required ∼3...
Oxide-Free Phosphate Surface Films on Metals Studied by Core and Valence Band X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy

Phosphate films with thicknesses on the order of the original native metal oxide have been formed on oxide-free aluminum and iron surfaces by electrochemical treatment in 5M phosphoric acid. Electrochemistry was performed under inert atmosphere in a previously described anaerobic cell. The metal phosphate films formed under these conditions were studied by core level and valence band X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) with the valence band spectra interpreted by spectra generated from band structure calculations. Valence band studies showed that the metal surfaces consisted of a metal phosphate film bonded directly to the metal substrate in the absence of any form of metal oxide. An analysis of the inner valence band region around 25 eV indicates considerable difference between oxidized aluminum and iron compounds and the metal phosphates. The phosphate film initially formed on aluminum is compatible with metaphosphate. This unusual surface is stable in atmosphere and may have significant potential ba...
Marital Characteristics and the Sexual Relationships of U.S. Older Adults: An Analysis of National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project Data

We tested several hypotheses regarding the relationship between marital characteristics and sexual outcomes among 1,656 married adults ages 57–85 years from the 2005–2006 National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project. Results showed that individuals in their first marriage had more frequent sex than remarried individuals; marital duration had a curvilinear (U-shaped) relationship with frequency of sex; and a linear relationship between marital duration and frequency of sex varied by gender such that men had more frequent sex than women in younger marriages. We speculate that relationship permanency may drive the greater sexual activity in first marriages and sicker men in younger marriages may drive frequency of sex for women in younger marriages.
Molted feathers indicate low mercury in bald eagles of the Chesapeake Bay, USA

Abstract Mercury is a potent neurotoxin affecting birds and other wildlife worldwide. Bald eagles ( Haliaeetus leucocephalus ) are vulnerable to mercury bioaccumulation because they are high in the food web and associated with aquatic ecosystems prone to mercury methylation. Eagle populations, long endangered in the continental United States by contaminants and persecution, are recovering throughout their range. We used single adult eagle feathers collected near 83 occupied nests to show that mercury levels in the Chesapeake Bay eagle population are the lowest in North America (3.82 ± 5.15 μg/g dry weight). We then used 20 feathers from each of 20 salvaged eagles to calculate a confidence interval around the estimate based on single feathers from nesting eagles. Using an inexpensive and non-invasive method to assess mercury burdens we have demonstrated that few Chesapeake Bay bald eagles were above levels suspected of causing reproductive or survival effects in birds.
A THROMBOCYTOPENIA (T) GIANT PLATELET SYNDROME WITH DEFECTIVE PLATELET AGGREGATION AND A VON WILLEBRAND (VW)-LIKE PLASMA DEFECT

A 17-year old girl with life-long T, unresponsive to splenectomy, was evaluated because of easy bruising, epistaxis, and recurrent hemarthroses. Platelets (P) were reduced in number (50,000-140,000/μl) and their size was greatly increased (3-5 μ in diameter) on peripheral blood smear. Bone marrow contained increased megakaryocytes, and 51chromium-labeled autologous P survival was normal (7.8 days), suggesting ineffective thrombopoiesis as the cause of the T. Bleeding time (BT) was consistently greater than 25 min., and P did not aggregate normally when incubated with collagen or epinephrine but did respond to ristocetin. Although rate of uptake of 3H-serotonin was reduced, P ATP/ADP ratio was normal, excluding a storage-pool defect. The patient's Factor VIII level measured by coagulation assay (VIIIAHF) or by ability of her plasma to support ristocetin-induced aggregation (VIIIVWF) varied from 35-150% and 27-160% respectively, while Factor VIII-related antigen was always normal (over 60%). Transfusions of both cryoprecipitate and P, but neither alone, transiently shortened BT (to 7-9 min.) and controlled bleeding symptoms. Post-transfusion increments in VIIIAHF were consistent with VW disease. Family history and coagulation studies were unremarkable. This patient appears to have a unique combined defect in thrombopoiesis, in-trinsic P function, and in VIIIVWF. Effective therapy has required both normal P and Factor VIII-containing products.
Parenting and Late Adolescent Emotional Adjustment: Mediating Effects of Discipline and Gender

Research suggests that parenting styles are related to the types of discipline parents utilize and that the coupling of parenting styles and discipline techniques are related to child outcomes. Although extant research examines the effects of parenting styles and discipline on child and early adolescent adjustment, less is known about adjustment in late adolescents, also described as emerging adults. Thus, the current study investigated the relationships among parenting styles (e.g., authoritative, authoritarian, permissive), discipline strategies (e.g., non-violent discipline, psychological aggression, physical assault), and emerging adult emotional adjustment (e.g., self-esteem, depression, and anxiety). The sample consisted of 526 participants ranging in age from 18 to 22 years. Results were analyzed with structural equation modeling and suggest that, although perceived parenting styles and discipline are both correlated with emerging adult emotional adjustment, perceived parenting is associated with emerging adult emotional adjustment for females but not males when examined simultaneously with perceived discipline. This finding demonstrates the importance of examining the direct and indirect relationships in the context of gender dyads.
Detecting outliers and influential observations with heteroscedasticity-corrected models

Heteroscedasticity-correction masks signals from standardized residuals, so analysts should examine the residuals to identify outliers and should use likelihood dispersion to identify influential observations. These points are demonstrated with a model that examines the effect of exchange rate volatility on intra-industry trade.
Effects of Interstimulus Interval on Continuous Choice Reaction Time Performance in Brain-Damaged, Alcoholic and Control Patients

Summary The effect of two interstimulus intervals (2.5 and 4.0 secs) upon performance on a continuous choice reaction time test (CRT) was investigated in three groups of male veterans: brain-damaged (N = 24), alcoholic (N = 24), and control (N = 24) patients. Compared to the other two groups, brain damaged had significantly longer RTs and significantly greater differences between RTs for the two interstimulus intervals. Alcoholics did not differ from controls on any performance measure. These results and those of other studies support the conclusion that impaired response initiation may play an important role in CRT deficits in brain damage.
Getting the Picture: The Healing Capacity of Expressive Visual Art

The language of the expressive arts can often be a new point of view that illuminates the shadows of the mind and reveals our deepest thoughts. Oncology patients did relaxation and guided visualization exercises along with either a painting exercise or interacting with visual imagery. A case study of one of these patients is presented showing how these techniques impact therapy. A discussion follows of how imagery is the line of communication between the conscious mind and the body. The combination of relaxation, visualization and creation of artwork is shown to lead to deeper self-knowledge. This work is evaluated with the use of an informal questionnaire,
Multimode dispersion in step-index polymer optical fibers

Pulse broadening in large core step-index optical fibers is dominated by multimode dispersion. The bandwidth of PMMA core polymer optical fiber depends on launch conditions, being substantially greater for collimated input than for mode-filled launching. The dispersion behavior is significantly affected by both mode dependent attenuation and by power coupling between modes. The results of time-domain dispersion measurements performed at 650 nm are presented and examined. The effects of launching conditions and fiber numerical aperture on bandwidth are discussed. Mode conversion is studied by examining far-field output patterns under various launch conditions. Disturbances caused by sharp bends, splices, and couplers can modify the distribution of energy among modes and thus effect the dispersion. Because only the propagation after the disturbance is effected, a given fiber optic link can have different effective bandwidths in the two counter propagating directions. Finally, a method of realizing higher effective bandwidth over a given fiber by mode-selective detection is presented.© (1993) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Dissociation of the Single-Ring Chaperonin GroEL by High Hydrostatic Pressure†

We investigated the dissociation of single-ring heptameric GroEL (SR1) by high hydrostatic pressure in the range of 1-2.5 kbar. The kinetics of the dissociation of SR1 in the absence and presence of Mg2+, KCl, and nucleotides were monitored using light scattering. The major aim of this investigation was to understand the role of the double-ring structure of GroEL by comparing its dissociation with the dissociation of the single ring. At all the pressures that were studied, SR1 dissociates much faster than the GroEL 14mer. As observed with the GroEL 14mer, SR1 also showed biphasic kinetics and the dissociated monomers do not reassociate readily back to the oligomer. Unlike the GroEL 14mer, the observed rates for SR1 dissociation are independent of the concentrations of Mg2+ and KCl in the studied range. The effects of nucleotides on the observed rates, in the absence or presence of Mg2+ and KCl, are not very significant. The heterogeneity induced in the GroEL molecule with the double-ring structure by ligands such as Mg2+, KCl, and nucleotides is not observed in the case of SR1. This indicates that the inter-ring negative cooperativity in the double-ring GroEL has a major role in this regard. The results presented in this investigation demonstrate that the presence of a second ring in the GroEL 14mer is important for its stability in an environment where the functional ligands of the chaperonin are available.
LH release from dispersed bovine pituitary cells in culture: In vitro effects of estradiol and procedural variables

Abstract Procedures for cell dissociation and in vitro culture were validated to investigate secretion of luteinizing hormone (LH) from bovine anterior lobe (AL) pituitary cells. The concentration of trypsin used for dissociation affected cell yield, cell loss during preincubation, LH secretion, and response to gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). Optimum results were obtained with trypsin concentrations of 8–16 μg/mg fresh tissue. Duration of preincubation and of experimental culture markedly affected LH secretion and response to GnRH. Immediately after dissociation, cells contained relatively low quantities of LH, but they were able to release a substantial proportion of this LH. Basal release of LH and GnRH-induced release of LH were highly correlated with total quantities of LH, and all three parameters increased with time of preincubation until 24 hr. Experimental treatments of 2 hr duration were optimal for investigating GnRH stimulation of LH release, whereas longer treatments may be required to investigate effects of agents that inhibit the release of LH. Preincubation of dissociated AL cells with physiological concentrations of estradiol increased all three LH parameters. Progesterone had no effect either alone or in combination with estradiol. In conclusion, the procedures described for cell dissociation and culture of suspended cells provide a useful tool for studying release of LH from the bovine AL cell.
Balloonborne measurements of Pinatubo aerosol during 1991 and 1992 at 41°N: Vertical profiles, size distribution, and volatility

Vertical profiles of aerosol have been measured approximately biweekly since June 1991 at Laramie, Wyoming (41°N). Both the total number concentration and concentration of particles >0.15 to 10.0 µm were measured using balloonborne instruments. The aerosol size distributions were best represented when bimodal lognormal distributions were fit to the data. After an early short-lived intense aerosol layer, the stratospheric maximum surface area and mass (40 µm² cm−3, 160 ppbm) was observed to occur approximately 180 days after the eruption. The aerosol was then observed to remain relatively homogeneous both in altitude and time during 1992, with the maximum surface area and mass remaining relatively constant between 20 to 30 µm² cm−3 and 30 to 60 ppbm.
Mechanism Of Tumor Localization And Therapy By Derivatives Of Hematoporphyrin

The tumor-localizing product HPD (hematoporphyrin derivative) contains both monomer and dimer/oligomer components. The former are potent photosensitizers in cell-free systems and, in some cases, in cell culture. But these porphyrins are poorly retained by neoplastic cells in vivo. Tumor localization derives from the presence, in HPD, of a series of covalently-bound hematoporphyrin dimers and oligomers which are joined by ester and ether linkages. Like many non-localizing porphyrins, these products can bind to circulating low-density lipoprotein and enter cells via LDL receptors. The initial step in tumor localization results from the presence of elevated levels of LDL receptors on the surface of neoplastic cells. But retention of the HP dimer/oligomer fraction results in long-term photosensitization. The preferential dye accumulation in mitochondria cannot be attributed to the presence of specific porphyrin receptors, but may instead result from the ability of the porphyrin dimer/oligomer fraction to undergo a conformational change as a function of its environment. These changes were probed in micellar and pre-micellar systems and the results show the HP dimer/oligomers to have properties not shared by porphyrin monomers.
Conditioned medium alters electrophysiological and transmitter-related properties expressed by rat enteric neurons in cell culture.

Abstract We have previously shown that rat enteric neurons display many of their in vivo phenotypes when they are dissociated and grown in long-term cell culture. To assess the degree of plasticity of these phenotypes we have examined the effect of medium conditioned by rat heart cells because this treatment strongly affects transmitter properties in rat sympathetic neurons in culture. Growth of enteric neurons for 3–4 weeks in conditioned medium caused several changes that are similar to previously described effects of conditioned medium on other neuronal cell types in culture. When compared to cultures grown in control medium, cultures grown in conditioned medium: (i) contained three times as many large (> 25 μm) neurons; (ii) synthesized and stored 3–4 times as much acetylcholine; (iii) contained 4–5 times as many neurons with detectable 5-hydroxytryptamine immunoreactivity; and (iv) contained 10 times as many neurons that fired repetitively during sustained depolarization. Several other changes, which have not been reported in other systems, were also observed. Conditioned medium cultures: (i) contained many fewer neuronal processes with immunohistochemically detectable vasoactive intestinal polypeptide, substance P, somatostatin, and [Met]enkephalin; (ii) contained 70% fewer neuronal cell bodies with vasoactive intestinal polypeptide-like immunoreactivity; and (iii) contained four times as many neurons that had muscarinic responses to acetylcholine. None of the changes in properties described above uniformly affected all enteric neurons, even after 6 weeks of growth in conditioned medium. We conclude that the heterogeneity of enteric neuron phenotypes is established prior to birth and limits the capacity of certain subsets of neurons to respond to exogenous factors in the environment. Nevertheless, the phenotypes of other subsets of neurons displayed considerable plasticity when exposed to conditioned medium.
Surgical revision of the problematic transmetatarsal amputation

Recurrent ulcerations may develop following transmetatarsal amputation in patients with diabetes mellitus. In many cases, these ulcerations require surgical intervention to achieve healing, especially in situations where conservative care has not been effective. These procedures range from the local resection of bone to skin grafting and flap techniques to successfully heal the wound. The ultimate goal of any surgical intervention is to prevent a more proximal amputation.