cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Anxiety Symptoms and Decline in Physical Function over 5 Years in the Health, Aging and Body Composition Study

Anxiety symptoms are common, affecting from 8% to 18% of community-dwelling older adults and up to half of those with depression,1–3 and can be quite debilitating.4 Several studies link depressive symptoms to functional decline,5,6 but despite the strong interrelationship between anxiety and depression, few have examined anxiety symptoms’ unique contribution to functional decline.7,8 Functional decline is an important consequence of increasing frailty in older adults, characterized by decreasing physical performance and increased reliance on others for assistance in mobility and other basic activities of daily living. Such decline represents an important precursor of disability, loss of independence, and death.9,10 Performance-based and self-report measures have been used to measure functional status, and both are strongly associated with disability and mortality. These measures complement one another, and both can be used to describe decline.11 Prior longitudinal studies of anxiety symptoms and disability suggest high co-occurrence of depression and anxiety.7 These studies have used a variety of screening instruments to define anxiety symptoms, including the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, the Speilberger State Trait Anxiety Inventory, and the Hopkins Symptom Checklist,8,12,13 but none have examined the effect of anxiety symptoms on incident disability independent of depressive symptoms. To better understand the relationship between anxiety symptoms and functional decline, longitudinal data from participants in the Health, Aging and Body Composition (Health ABC) Study were analyzed. It was hypothesized that older adults with anxiety symptoms would experience greater declines in self-reported mobility difficulty and performance-based functional decline over 5 years.
Characterization of cytoplasmic and membrane-associated phosphatidylinositol 4,5-biphosphate phospholipase C activities in guinea pig ventricles

The phosphoinositide-specific phospholipase C (PLC) activity present in the soluble and sarcolemmal enriched membrane fraction from guinea pig hearts was characterized using phosphatidyl [3H]inositol 4,5-biphosphate (PIP2) or phosphatidyl [3H]inositol 4-monophosphate (PIP) as substrates. The PLC activities (cytosolic and membrane associated) were specific for polyphosphoinositides (PIP2 and PIP) since no other phospholipids were hydrolyzed at pH 7.0 under various ionic conditions. Both enzymic activities were Ca2+-dependent (half maximal activities were achieved around pCa 5.0). The pH, detergent (deoxycholate), divalent (Ca2+ and Mg2+), and monovalent (Na+ and K+) cation dependencies were very similar between the cytosolic and membrane-associated enzyme activities, using either PIP2 or PIP as substrate. Hydrolysis of the polyphosphoinositides was inhibited in the presence of phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylserine, or phosphatidylcholine.
Increased co-localization of connexin43 and ZO-1 in dissociated adult myocytes.

In the heart, the intercellular geometry of myocyte coupling by Connexin43-gap junctions (Cx43-gjs) is a determinant of normal and abnormal patterns of propagation of electrical excitation. ZO-1 has been suggested to play a role in determining the pattern of intercellular coupling between myocytes. We therefore investigated the co-distribution of Cx43 with ZO-1 in ventricular myocytes of the adult rat using quantitative immunoconfocal microscopy. Our data indicates that low-moderate levels of co-immunolocalization occur between Cx43 and ZO-1 in normal ventricular myocardium. However, rapid and significant increases in relative co-localization occur between Cx43 and ZO-1 following dissociation of myocytes from ventricular myocardium-a treatment inducing internalization of Cx43-gjs. This increased relative co-localization may represent an increase in Cx43-ZO-1 interaction, suggesting a role for ZO-1 in the remodeling of myocardial Cx43-gjs. A more comprehensive study, including immuno-precipitation and immu...
In situ low damage techniques for cleaning silicon surfaces prior to metal deposition

Abstract The reproducible fabrication of ohmic contacts and Schottky barriers requires that silicon surfaces be cleaned thoroughly without introducing any crystallographic damage. In situ techniques for accomplishing this are reviewed. It is concluded that reactive sputter etching under conditions of high gas pressure and low bombarding potential is necessary to accomplish this.
Notes on the origin of the Earth's magnetic and electric fields

No abstract is given for this paper which was presented at the meeting of the Section of Terrestrial Magnetism and Electricity, April 18, 1923, as the gist of it is contained in the address by the author before the second general session of the Union, April 17, 1923 (see pp. 60–68).
Additional sequence characterization of NIST SRM 2391c: PCR-Based DNA Profiling Standard

Abstract The NIST Standard Reference Material (SRM) 2391c: PCR-Based DNA Profiling Standard was designed for use in the standardization of forensic and paternity quality assurance procedures for fragment-based typing short tandem repeat (STR) alleles generated by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Certified genotypes of the 6 components A–F were assigned for 24 autosomal and 17 Y-STR markers plus Amelogenin using concordance testing between commercial kits. Selected Sanger sequencing characterization was performed for the alleles of 11 STR markers when only one PCR primer set was available for fragment-based typing. The goal is to characterize the remaining 30 STR loci in components A–C by Sanger sequencing methods for the STR repeat regions and adjacent flanking regions. Additional characterization of the SRM is intended to support the emerging interest in next-generation sequencing technologies for forensic typing applications. Sanger methods have detected underlying polymorphisms (sequence, insertion-deletion, variation in complex motifs) typically not detected by fragment-based typing. The sequenced regions include the commercial or known PCR binding sites commonly implemented in fragment-based typing.
Interactions Between Cement Minerals and Hydroxycarboxylic‐Acid Retarders: II, Tricalcium Aluminate‐Salicylic Acid Reaction*

Extensive apparent adsorption of salicylic acid from aqueous solution, previously reported to occur on C3A (and on hydrated calcium aluminates and calcium aluminate sulfates as well), is attributed in large part to precipitation of an amorphous hydrolysis product containing salicylic acid. The product is somewhat gelatinous, especially when generated in salicylic acid solutions of intermediate concentration, but measured BET surface areas were not particularly high. The initial product is not stable, but partly decomposes or rearranges on continued shaking, returning some salicylic acid to the solution. Nearly saturated solutions inhibit the hydrolysis of C3A somewhat, but what product is formed seems entirely amorphous. In contrast, solutions of intermediate concentration do not slow hydrolysis and rapidly generate some tetracalcium aluminate hydrate as well as the amorphous product.
Spread-response precoding for communication over fading channels

Interleaving is an important technique for improving the effectiveness of traditional error-correcting codes in data transmission systems that exhibit multipath fading. Such channels often arise in mobile wireless communications. We present an alternative to interleaving for such systems, which we term "spread-response precoding". From the perspective of the coded symbol stream, spread-response precoding effectively transforms an arbitrary Rayleigh fading channel into a nonfading, simple white marginally Gaussian noise channel. Furthermore, spread-response precoding requires no additional power or bandwidth, and is attractive in terms of computational complexity, robustness, and delay considerations.
The Counting Recursive Digital Filter

Analysis of the bit-level operations involved in the convolutions realizing recursive digital filters leads to hardware designs of such filters based on the operation of counting. Various designs realizing both the canonic and "direct" forms are presented with particular emphasis on low-cost low-speed high-flexibility machines.
Implications of "online-to-store" on retailers' pricing strategy and consumers' demand allocation

As internet retailing has become increasingly prevalent, firms have continued to innovate by adopting multi-channel strategies. One of these innovations is the introduction of a distribution channel, commonly known as site-to-store or online-to-store, where consumers can purchase online and pick up in-store. In this project, our focus is on understanding the effects of the site-to-store channel on the retailer's pricing strategy, profitability, and demand realization.
Intestinal absorption, exocrine pancreatic function and response to Vibrio cholerae infection in protein deficient patas monkeys (Erythrocebus patas)

Six patas monkeys (Erythrocebus patas) were fed a protein-free diet. Sixteen animals of the same species received a standard monkey diet. The protein-depleted patas showed reduced absorption of folic acid but not D-xylose, and 5 out of 6 had a decrease in the exocrine pancreatic function. Animals with reduced folic acid absorption and pancreatic enzyme production developed a longer lasting diarrhoea and excreted the microorganisms for a longer time when challenged with Vibrio cholerae.
Influenza A virus utilizes suboptimal splicing to coordinate the timing of infection

Influenza A virus is unique as an RNA virus in that it replicates in the nucleus and undergoes splicing. With only ten major proteins, the virus must gain nuclear access, replicate, assemble progeny virions in the cytoplasm, and then egress. In an effort to elucidate the coordination of these events, we manipulated the transcript levels from the bicistronic nonstructural segment that encodes the spliced virus product responsible for genomic nuclear export. We find that utilization of an erroneous splice site ensures the slow accumulation of the viral nuclear export protein (NEP) while generating excessive levels of an antagonist that inhibits the cellular response to infection. Modulation of this simple transcriptional event results in improperly timed export and loss of virus infection. Together, these data demonstrate that coordination of the influenza A virus life cycle is set by a "molecular timer" that operates on the inefficient splicing of a virus transcript.
Complex Refractive Index Determination for Uniaxial Anisotropy with the Use of Kramers—Kronig Analysis:

Kramers-Kronig analysis of reflection spectra from a single interface with perpendicular ( s ) and parallel ( p ) polarization has been theoretically studied. The reflection spectra have been simulated from the complex refractive indices based on dispersion theory by using Fresnel equations for an anisotropic material whose optical axis is normal to the surface. The errors in anisotropic complex refractive indices obtained from simulated reflection spectra by Kramers-Kronig analysis have been examined for such techniques as external and total internal reflection spectroscopies.
The interaction of acetaldehyde with tubulin.

Acetaldehyde covalently binds to purified tubulin in vitro to form both stable and unstable adducts. The formation of stable adducts can be greatly facilitated by the inclusion of the relatively gentle and Schiff base specific reducing agent, sodium cyanoborohydride. Although the tubulin molecule has multiple lysine resides available to react with acetaldehyde, certain key lysine residues on the alpha-chain appear to be selective targets for adduct formation. The formation of alpha-chain specific stable acetaldehyde-tubulin adducts results in functional impairment of the ability of tubulin to polymerize. Under relatively physiologic conditions where acetaldehyde-to-protein ratios are low, alpha-chain specific binding is prominent. These results, coupled with the studies presented in another report in this volume, raise the possibility that low levels of adduct formation may be detrimental to the structure or function of certain proteins (e.g. tubulin) in the liver. The alteration of this or other biologically important proteins by sustained low levels of adduct formation may contribute to the pathogenesis of alcoholic liver injury.
Nitrogen dioxide formation in gas turbine engines: measurements and measurement methods

Abstract The possibility of significant nitrogen dioxide (NO2 ) formation within a gas turbine engine is a topic of much current discussion. Theoretical studies generally predict the NO2 emissions to be negligible while some experimental studies suggest a large percentage of the total oxides of nitrogen (NO2) is emitted as NO2 at certain engine operating modes. Evidence in the literature supporting both points of view is reviewed and discussed. Methods of NO2 detection are discussed with particular emphasis upon the converter— chemiluminescent and non-dispersive ultraviolet instruments. Sources of substantial measurement error associated with each analyzer are also noted. In addition, errors induced during sample transfer from probe to analyzer are discussed. Results suggest significant NO2 losses should be expected during the sample transport process, and that at the present time it remains unclear as to whether gas turbine engines do or do not emit NO2.
Selenocysteine tRNA[Ser]Sec levels and selenium-dependent glutathione peroxidase activity in mouse embryonic stem cells heterozygous for a targeted mutation in the tRNA[Ser]Sec gene.

To investigate the effect of a reduced level of selenocysteine (Sec) tRNA[Ser]Sec in selenoprotein biosynthesis, two mouse embryonic stem (ES) cell lines heterozygous for the corresponding gene were generated by homologous recombination of the host genome with targeting vectors encoding a deleted or a disrupted tRNA[Ser]Sec gene. The presence of a single functional gene in ES cells afforded us an opportunity to determine directly in the cell line the effect of reduced gene dosage on (1) the levels of the Sec tRNA[Ser]Sec population, (2) the distributions of the isoacceptors within the Sec tRNA population, and (3) selenoprotein biosynthesis. We therefore determined the amounts and distributions of the two major tRNA[Ser]Sec isoacceptors, designated mcm5U and mcm5Um, within the Sec tRNA population and determined the activity of the anti-oxidant, selenium-containing glutathione peroxidase (GPx) in the heterozygotes and in wild type cells grown in media with and without added selenium. The level of the Sec tR...
Vibrational population distribution of ground state BaO formed by the reaction Ba + O2

Abstract The vibrational population distribution of X 1Σ(υ′' = 0 through ν′' = 7) BaO formed in the reaction Ba + O2 at 0.3 torr has been measured by laser induced photoluminescence intensities. On the basis of the assumed similarity between the Ba + O2 and Ba + N2O reactions, these data suggest that a population inversion may exist between A 1Σ(ν′ = 1) and X 1Σ(υn = 7) BaO formed in the latter reaction at ≈ 16 torr.
The effect of context on the perception of music

This study examines the idea that cognitive factors may be significant in determining the nature of musical response, arguing against the long-held notion that the meaning of music is denotative in character, that is, embodied in its own internal arrangements of sound. The effects of context on the perception of a Berg “March” was examined by having three groups of subjects rate the piece on a semantic-differential rating scale. Group 1 read a lighthearted passage of prose, while Group 2 read prose chosen to evoke a grim and foreboding mood before listening to the music. Group 3 was the control and read nothing. This manipulation of context resulted in no significant differences between group reactions to the piece, as indexed by the semantic differential.
Ethical decision making: An investigation of services marketing professionals

This study investigates the relative influences of professional values and selected demographic variables on the ethical perceptions of services marketing professionals. The relationship between ethical perceptions and ethical judgments of service marketers is also examined. The data were obtained from a mail survey of the American Marketing Association's professional members of service industries. The survey results indicate a positive relationship between a service professional's professional values and his/her perceptions of ethical problems. The results also suggest that ethical judgments of a service professional can be partially explained by his/her perceptions of ethical problems. Implications of the research findings were discussed.
Extension of the method of moments of coupled-cluster equations to a multireference wave operator formalism ☆

Abstract The recently proposed method of moments of coupled-cluster equations (MMCC) is extended to a multireference wave operator formalism. After reviewing the single-reference MMCC theory and its performance in calculations of potential energy surfaces involving bond breaking, we introduce the method of moments of the generalized Bloch equation and the method of moments of the state-universal coupled-cluster equations (MM-SUCC). The main idea of the MM-SUCC theory is that of the noniterative energy corrections that, when added to the ground- and excited-state energies obtained in approximate SUCC calculations, recover the exact energies. Approximate variants of the MM-SUCC formalism that may lead to significant improvements in the results of the standard SUCC calculations are discussed.
An empirical reconciliation of the Miller model and the generalized capital structure models

Abstract This paper uses time series techniques to demonstrate the compatibility of Miller's capital structure model (Miller, M.H., 1977, Journal of Finance 32, 261–276) with generalized capital structure models from 1970 through 1985. The Miller model represents a long-run equilibrium because deviations from the Miller equilibrium revert toward a mean close to zero, while transitory shocks to the leverage-related costs of debt and bank borrowing costs explain short-run deviations from the Miller equilibrium. The typical levels of leverage-related costs of debt and bank borrowing costs over the sample period do not cause deviations from the Miller equilibrium.
Characterization of the proteases involved in hydrolyzing paddlefish (Polyodon spathula) myosin

An extract from paddlefish surimi possessed activities of B, L, and H-like cathepsins. The optimal pH was around 5.0 for cathepsins B and L, and was between 6.0-6.5 for the H-like cathepsin. The enzyme activities were not impaired by heating at 40C for 20 min. However, the protease extract lost about 20% of its cathepsin B, 50% B+L, and 90% H-like cathepsin activities after heating at 50C for 20 min. The activity of H-like cathepsin was not inhibited by E-64, suggesting that it did not belong to the known cysteine protease group. The protease extract was capable of hydrolyzing myosin heavy chain, producing a major fragment(s) around 140 kDa. Degradation of myosin by the protease extract was substantially reduced by protease inhibitors including E-64, a protease inhibitor mixture, and bovine plasma powder.
Preventive Wars, Just War Principles, and the United Nations

This paper explores the question of whether the United Nations should engage in preventive military actions. Correlatively, it asks whether UN preventive military actions could satisfy just war principles. Rather than from the standpoint of the individual nation state, the ethics of preventive war is discussed from the standpoint of the UN. For the sake of brevity, only the legitimate authority, just cause, last resort, and proportionality principles are considered. Since there has been disagreement about the specific content of these principles, a third question also is explored: How should they be formulated? Moreover, these questions are addressed in the context of a particular issue: the goals of the non-proliferation and the abolition of weapons of mass destruction.
Real-time acoustic radiation force impulse imaging

Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse (ARFI) imaging uses short duration acoustic pulses to generate and subsequently determine localized displacements in tissue. Time delay estimators, such as normalized cross correlation and phase shift estimation, form the computational basis for ARFI imaging. This paper considers these algorithms and the effects of noise, interpolation, and quadrature demodulation on the accuracy of the time delay estimates. These results are used to implement a real-time ARFI imaging system and in an ex vivo liver ablation study.
Electrical and chemical analysis of zinc oxide interfaces with high dielectric constant barium tantalate and aluminum oxide in metal-insulator-semiconductor structures fabricated at Low temperatures

Abstract Zinc oxide (ZnO) was incorporated into metal-insulator-semiconductor (MIS) structures featuring high dielectric constant (high-κ) barium tantalate (BaTa 2 O 6 )or alumina (Al 2 O 3 )as the insulator, and the structures were electrically evaluated for potential applications in transparent thin film transistors. The ZnO films were deposited by radio-frequency magnetron sputtering at 100 °C whereas the dielectric films were deposited by the same method at room temperature. The leakage currents of both the BaTa 2 O 6 and Al 2 O 3 structures were on the order of 10 −7 A/cm 2 . The trap density and trapped charge concentration at the BaTa 2 O 6 /ZnO interface were determined to be 6.18 × 10 11 eV −1 cm −2 and 5.82 × 10 11 cm −2 from conductance–voltage and capacitance–voltage measurements. At the Al 2 O 3 /ZnO interface the trap density and trapped charge were more than an order of magnitude smaller at 1.09 × 10 10 eV −1 cm −2 and 1.04 × 10 10 cm −2 respectively. The BaTa 2 O 6 structures had significantly larger frequency dispersions due to the larger number of interface traps. Chemical analysis using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy with depth profiling indicates that acceptor type defects associated with a deficiency of oxygen are related to the observed electron trapping in the BaTa 2 O 6 MIS structure. Overall, the results indicate that Al 2 O 3 would be better suited for transparent thin film transistors deposited at low temperature or without substrate heating.
COAGULATION, PROTEIN AND CELLULAR STUDIES ON ARMADILLO BLOOD.

Abstract 1. 1. Blood was obtained by cardiac puncture from four armadillos ( Dasypus novemcinctus ). Cellular elements differed only slightly from their human counterparts; erythrocytes were smaller, platelets more variable in size, and megakaryocytes (bone marrow) contained one multilobed nucleus. 2. 2. Total plasma protein and fibrinogen concentrations were higher than average human levels, but serum electrophoretic patterns were similar. 3. 3. The skin bleeding time was short. The blood clotted effectively but the clot retracted poorly. Blood coagulation factors showed greater activity (or higher concentration) than their human counterparts. 4. 4. Armadillo tissues, especially lung and brain, were far more thromboplastic to armadillo than to human plasma. Spontaneous fibrinolytic activity was absent. Streptokinase in high concentration activated armadillo profibrinolysin, at least in part.
Two-dimensional electrophoretic display of restriction fragments from genomic DNA

We have developed a procedure for the resolution of restriction enzyme digests of mammalian genomic DNA in two dimensions. Fragments from a first digestion are separated on a column of purified agarose containing a second restriction enzyme in the absence of the divalent cation required for enzyme activity. After enzyme activation and digestion, the fragments are resolved on an agarose slab gel. We have digested rat genomic DNA and found in the ethidium-stained pattern a variety of features which have not been described previously.
Paternal investment and the human mating system

Abstract Paternal investment has long been considered responsible for the evolution of predominantly monogamous marriage in humans. However, male–male competition resulting in mate-guarding and male coercion could be equally important. In this review, I use a comparative approach to examine the effect of variation in human paternal investment on our mating system. I conclude paternal investment is important but so too is mate-guarding. I propose a model of our mating system incorporating both factors. Variation in the mating system is explained by variation in male resource control and contribution, resulting in ecologically imposed monogamy or polygyny, as predicted by the polygyny threshold model, as well as variation in male–male competition for status, resulting in socially imposed monogamy or polygyny.
Causes of Death Associated with Alzheimer Disease: Variation by Level of Cognitive Impairment Before Death

OBJECTIVE: To describe causes of death for patients with Alzheimer disease (AD) and other dementing illnesses enrolled in a population-based Alzheimer disease patient registry (ADPR) and to describe the variation in causes by the level of cognitive impairment before death in probable AD cases. SETTING: The ADPR enrolls and diagnoses newly recognized potential dementia cases occurring in a large, stable health maintenance organization. To date, 654 cases have been enrolled and followed annually to monitor cognitive decline and verify initial diagnosis. DESIGN: Longitudinal descriptive study. PATIENTS: ADPR enrollees who have died. MEASUREMENTS: Death certificates were obtained for all who died (total n = 104, probable AD = 55); reported causes of death were reviewed by a physician to determine the underlying cause. AD patients were categorized according to their Mini-Mental State Exam score (cognitive impairment) within 12 months of death as (a) mildly (21+), (b) moderately (15–20), or (c) severely (0–14) impaired, and underlying cause and all reported causes of death for each group were tabulated. MAIN RESULTS: Among probable AD patients, pneumonia and AD were most often recorded on death certificates when cognitive impairment within the year prior to death had reached the severe level; heart disease, stroke, and other common causes of death predominated in AD patients who were less cognitively impaired. CONCLUSIONS: When AD cases were followed from first diagnosis to death, the causes of death varied by level of cognitive impairment. Illnesses potentially amenable to treatment caused death at all levels of disease, but more so early in the course of AD. Cognitive impairment may make patients less able to recognize and report symptoms of medical problems, thereby complicating efforts to intervene.
Impact of device level faults in a digital avionic processor

This study describes an experimental analysis of the impact of gate and device-level faults in the processor of a Bendix BDX-930 flight control system. Via mixed mode simulation, faults were injected at the gate (stuck-at) and at the transistor levels and, their propagation through the chip to the output pins was measured. The results show that there is little correspondence between a stuck-at and a device-level fault model, as far as error activity or detection within a functional unit is concerned. In so far as error activity outside the injected unit and at the output pins are concerned, the stuck-at and device models track each other. The stuck-at model, however, overestimates, by over 100 percent, the probability of fault propagation to the output pins. An evaluation of the Mean Error Durations and the Mean Time Between Errors at the output pins shows that the stuck-at model significantly underestimates (by 62 percent) the impact of an internal chip fault on the output pins. Finally, the study also quantifies the impact of device fault by location, both internally and at the output pins.
Attoliter-scale dispensing in nanofluidic channels.

As fabrication techniques improve, functional fluidic devices with nanometer scale dimensions are rapidly being developed for chemical analysis. Here, we present fluid dispensing in nanochannels with injection volumes ranging from 42 aL to 4.1 fL. Devices with hybrid poly(dimethylsiloxane) and glass nanochannels, 130 nm deep and 580 nm wide or 130 nm deep and 670 nm wide, were used to evaluate two sample dispensing schemes, modified pinched and gated injections. Electrokinetic transport was achieved by applying up to 10 V directly from an analog output board without amplification, producing modest electric field strengths in the nanochannels (0.2−2 kV/cm) and enabling rapid dispensing and analysis (10−100 ms).
Use writing class techniques to create software design documents

Undergraduates in our Software Engineering course were able to code well but they wrote technical documents poorly. We found that using writing class techniques such as the use of graded, instructor commented drafts and template documents will considerably improve the quality of student technical writing projects.
Habituation of responding for food in humans.

Habituation to repeated food stimuli has been demonstrated in various response systems across animals and humans. Patterns of responding to obtain food demonstrate many empirical characteristics of habituation, and the purpose of the present study was to determine whether motivated responding for food in humans follows an habituation pattern. Thirty-five nonobese men were randomized to groups in which they responded to gain access to repeated presentations of the same food or presentations of a variety of isocaloric food. Subjective ratings of food liking and hunger were assessed. Consistent with habituation theory, participants working for one type of food demonstrated a more rapid decrease in responding for food and in ratings of liking of the repeatedly presented food than participants working for varied foods. All participants showed similar reductions of hunger and resumed responding for a novel food stimulus. This study documents that motivated responding for food in human shares characteristics of an habituation process.
Quinoxaline-containing polyfluorenes : Synthesis, photophysics, and stable blue electroluminescence

Six new copolymers of 9,9‘-dioctylfluorene and 2,3-bis(p-phenylene)quinoxaline were synthesized, characterized, and used as blue-emitting materials in light-emitting diodes (LEDs). The glass transition temperature increased from 67 °C in poly(9,9‘-dioctylfluorene) (PFO) to as high as 160 °C in the alternating copolymer. All the copolymers emitted blue light in dilute toluene solution (417−423 nm), with photoluminescence (PL) quantum yields that decreased from 72% to 26% with increasing quinoxaline content, and as thin films (429−439 nm). The PL lifetimes of solutions and thin films were 308−617 ps. Blue electroluminescence with Commission Internationale de L'Eclairage coordinates of (0.16, 0.06) was achieved. Luminances of 240−520 cd/m2 varied with the quinoxaline content. External quantum efficiencies of up to 1% at brightnesses of over 100 cd/m2 were obtained. Enhancement in LED performance by factors of 3−6 compared to that of PFO was achieved in a copolymer containing 5 mol % 2,3-bis(p-phenylene)quino...
Cytosine Methylation Dysregulation in Neonates Following Intrauterine Growth Restriction

Background Perturbations of the intrauterine environment can affect fetal development during critical periods of plasticity, and can increase susceptibility to a number of age-related diseases (e.g., type 2 diabetes mellitus; T2DM), manifesting as late as decades later. We hypothesized that this biological memory is mediated by permanent alterations of the epigenome in stem cell populations, and focused our studies specifically on DNA methylation in CD34+ hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells from cord blood from neonates with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and control subjects.
Inhibition of intestinal transit by resuscitation-induced gut edema is reversed by L-NIL.

Background Post-resuscitation gut edema and associated gut dysfunction is a common and significant clinical problem that occurs after traumatic injury and shock. We have shown previously that gut edema without ischemia/reperfusion injury delays intestinal transit [1]. We hypothesized that gut edema increases expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) protein, and that selective iNOS inhibition using l -NIL reverses the delayed intestinal transit associated with gut edema. Materials and methods One hour prior to laparotomy, rats were pretreated with 10 mg/kg body weight of intraperitoneal l -NIL or saline vehicle and underwent 80 ml/kg body weight of 0.9% saline + superior mesenteric venous pressure elevation (Edema) or sham surgery (Sham). A duodenal catheter was placed to allow injection of a fluorescent dye for the measurement of intestinal transit. At 6 h, the small bowel was divided and the mean geometric center (MGC) of fluorescent dye was measured to determine transit. Ileum was harvested for histological assessment of mucosal injury, evaluation of iNOS protein expression by Western blotting, and MPO activity. Tissue water was determined using the wet-to-dry weight ratio to assess gut edema. Data are expressed as mean ± SEM, n = 3–6 and * = P Results Gut edema, expressed as increased wet-to-dry ratio, was associated with decreased intestinal transit and elevated iNOS protein expression. Pretreatment with l -NIL improved intestinal transit and decreased expression of iNOS protein without decreasing intestinal tissue water compared to edema animals. There was no difference in mucosal injury or MPO activity among groups. Conclusion Gut edema delays intestinal transit via an iNOS-mediated mechanism.
Arab-D Reservoir Monitoring In Ghawar Field of Saudi Arabia: Alternatives to 4-D Seismic

Ghawar, the largest oil field in the world produces oil from Upper Jurassic Arab-D carbonate reservoir (Figure 1). The high rigidity of limestone-dolomite reservoir rock matrix and a small contrast between the elastic properties of pore fluids -oil and water are responsible for the weak 4D seismic effect from oil production. A feasibility study was recently completed to quantify the 4D seismic response of reservoir saturation changes as brine replaced oil. The study consisted of analyzing reservoir rock physics, petro-acoustic data and seismic modeling. Seismic model of flow simulation using fluid substitution concluded that time lapse surface seismic or conventional 4D seismic is unlikely to detect the flood front within the repeatability of surface seismic measurement. Thus, an alternative approach to 4D seismic for reservoir fluid monitoring is proposed. Permanent seismic sensors could be installed in a borehole and on the surface for passive monitoring of microseismic activity from reservoir pore pressure perturbations. Reservoir production and injection operations create these pressure or stress perturbations (Dyer et al. 1999). Reservoir heterogeneities affecting the fluid flow could be mapped by recording the distribution of these microseisms or small earthquakes. The permanent borehole sensors could also record repeated offset-VSP surveys using a surface source at a fixed location to ensure repeatability. The repeated VSP could image the change in reservoir properties with production.
The common user interface in academic libraries: myth or reality?

Academic libraries have long desired one‐stop shopping for their customers and, in this electronic age, their customers are demanding it: a way to search from a single point at any physical location, and retrieve information from the library catalog, citations from journal indexes, and full text information from electronic resources. Academic libraries have explored ways to provide this access, as have library vendors of electronic databases, indexes, and integrated online library systems. The various components for a universal common user interface are in use and available, but have yet to be combined into a single system interface, adaptable enough to include any electronic resource, yet still powerful and versatile enough to provide a powerful and expert search engine. This article discusses the integrated facets as well as the system components that should be built into the ideal electronic library interface, taking into account the information needs of everyone from the newest freshman to the most erudite scholar and their expectations with regard to access, functionality and personalization.
Being Male or Living With a Female Fear for Partners by Sex and Sexual Orientation

While substantial research attention has been paid to the disproportionately high levels of fear of crime among women relative to men, less attention has been paid to the apparent mirror of this: that men have disproportionately more concern for female partners than women do for male partners. The work that does exist on fear for partners has focused exclusively on different-sex partnerships. The present article proposes and explores several explanations for sex differences in fear for partners among different-sex as well as same-sex partnerships. The analysis uses a sample of persons who live with a partner (155 in same-sex and 2,817 in different-sex partnerships) from a Seattle survey that includes measures of altruistic fear, as well as measures of personal, familial, sexual assault, and sexual identity bias victimizations. Results suggest that female partners inspire more fear regardless of the sex of the respondents, that sex differences persist even after perceptions of danger are accounted for, and that personal fears and fears for children are positively associated with fears for partners and do not explain sex differences in such fears. These results are more consistent with explanations rooted in gendered perceptions of vulnerability and the shadow of sexual assault than explanations rooted in the differential gender socialization of men as protectors or of a limited capacity for fear.
Sole survivor of the great trio

Evolution and the Genetics of Populations. Vol. 3: Experimental Results and Evolutionary Deductions. By Sewall Wright. (University of Chicago Press: Chicago and London, 1977.) $44.10; £24.50.
Bacteriochlorophyll-a as photosensitizer for photodynamic treatment of transplantable murine tumors

The photodynarnic effects of bacteriochlorophyll-a (bchl-a) , a sensitizer of high light absorption at long wavelengths, are greatly influenced by its rapid degradation in vivo to also photodynamically active pheophytins and chlorophylls. This can result in overall tumor destruction and direct tumor cell kill over a wide range of different wavelengths, although tumor curability is restricted to the bchl-a wavelength of 780 nm. Tumor cures are also limited to treatment conditions where light follows drug injection after a brief interval (2 hours) . The major mechanism of tumor destruction appears to be vascular. Normal tissue photosensitivity induced by 780 nm light declines rapidly with time after sensitizer injection.
Echocardiographic Measurements in Normal Well Children

Echocardiography is a valuable tool for the diagnosis and management of cardiac problems in children. This technique permits accurate and reproducible measurements of the various cavitv sizes, great vessel dimensions, wall thicknesses, septal thickness, and valve motion.
High performance biomedical time series indexes using salient segmentation

The advent of remote and wearable medical sensing has created a dire need for efficient medical time series databases. Wearable medical sensing devices provide continuous patient monitoring by various types of sensors and have the potential to create massive amounts of data. Therefore, time series databases must utilize highly optimized indexes in order to efficiently search and analyze stored data. This paper presents a highly efficient technique for indexing medical time series signals using Locality Sensitive Hashing (LSH). Unlike previous work, only salient (or interesting) segments are inserted into the index. This technique reduces search times by up to 95% while yielding near identical search results.
Pleistocene molluscan paleoecology and community structure of the Puerto Libertad region, Sonora, Mexico

Abstract An intertidal Pleistocene sandflat community is analyzed in terms of community structure, survivorship, inferred biomass distributions, predation patterns, and trophic structure. The distributions of the first-level consumers was controlled by substrate grain size. The distributions of the predators mirrored the concentrations of their prey. Because of differing burrowing abilities, the Libertad infauna produced a community stratification. This property concentrated large segments of biomass at different levels within the substrate. This mechanism buffered biospace-related competition. When similar interspecific depth habitation zones overlapped, one or the other taxon was density limited. Survivorship curves constructed from size-frequency data and the function D = S 1n ( T +1) demonstrated that Lucina approximata experienced constant mortality; Chione califonniensis had a well-developed bimodality of age distributions and Tagelus californianus had increasing population mortality. These contrasting mortality patterns were related to depth of habitation and substrate stability. The internal volumes displaced by a growth series of selected taxa were used to estimate biomass distributions. In terms of biomass, the dominant community members had largest volumes in juveniles — a characteristic of a stable population. Other accessory taxa had large volumes in adults — a property of stationary populations. Theodoxus lutteofasciatus had constant mortality, Cerithium stercusmuscarum, Nassarius tiarula and Natica chemnitzii had curves similar to Chione . Predation patterns demonstrated that two trophic subwebs existed among the predators. Muricanthus nigritus, Hexaplex erythrostomus and Melongea patula preyed on Ostrea palmula, Megapitaria squalida and Cerithium. Natica consumed the juveniles of Chione, Lucina, Nassarius and Theodoxus . The annelid predators Conus regularis, Acteocina inculta and Bulla gouldiana composed a third subweb, not attacked by any molluscan carnivore. The highest predation rate occurred in Nassarius , the lowest among the deep infauna. Differing food preferences by predators served as a stabilizing mechanism maintaining community homeostasis by providing alternative food reserves. It was shown that bore-hole loci changed through ontogeny in selected taxa. Likewise, borehole patterns differed slightly on right and left valves of the same prey species. In general predation rates declined rapidly with advancing age. Highly localized borehole sites were found in Theodoxus, Natica and Nassarius — the prey of Natica . Cerithum , the prey of Muricanthus , had less localized borehole loci. This suggests the latter's predator was less “sensitive” to prey- “induced” responses for selective manipulation. The Libertad community declined when the substrate closed to recruitment by the accumulation of the shells from previous generations.
A locally controllable spline with tension for interactive curve design

We describe a new type of parametrically defined space curve. The parameters which define these curves allow for the convenient control over local shape attributes while maintaining global second order geometric continuity. The coordinate functions are defined by piecewise segments of rational functions, each segment being the ratio of cubic polynomials and a common quadratic polynomial. Each curve segment is a planar curve and where two segments meet the curvature is zero. This simple mathematical representation permits these curves to be efficiently manipulated and displayed.
Effectiveness of Various Concentrations of an Inert Gas Mixture for Preventing and Suppressing Mining Equipment Cab Fires: Development of a Dual Cab Fire Inerting System

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH/PRL) conducted a series of large-scale experiments to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of various concentrations of an inert gas mixture (CO2, 8%; N2, 50%; Ar, 42%) for preventing and suppressing cab fires. Comparison of concentrations effectiveness in yielding safe times has led to the choice of an optimum gas mixture concentration, discharged in the cab through a muffled nozzle system, for the development of a dual cab fire inerting system. Of note is that safety training programs, including the synchronization of performed tasks, need to accompany this technology to enhance operator’s efficiency and safety during fire emergencies within the safe times yielded by the cab fire inerting system. Cab fires are caused by the ignition of flammable vapors and mists (ball of fire) that penetrate the cab during prolonged hydraulic fluid and fuel fires, and electrical malfunctions involving other cab combustible materials. Often, these fires force the operator to exit the cab under hazardous conditions during a time needed to perform emergency tasks. Hence, it is important to provide the operator, not only with an engine fire suppression system (dry chemical powder), but also with a cab fire protection system, effective both in preventing the ignition of flammable vapors in the cab, and suppressing cab material fires.
The relation of relative hormonal levels and physical development and social-emotional behavior in young adolescents

The study examined the relation between timing of physical maturation and problems of adjustment and peer relations. The participants were 9-14-year-old boys (N=56) and girls (N=52). Assessments of physical maturation consisted of pubertal staging according to Tanner criteria and serum determinations of luteinizing hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, testosterone, estradiol, dehydroepiandrosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, and androstenedione. There was approximately an equal number of boys and girls in each pubertal stage. The psychological measures were the Psychopathology and Emotional Tone subscales from the Offer Self-Image Questionnaire for Adolescents and interview questions to assess interactions with peers. Psychopathology and emotional tone (sad effect) scores were higher for boys with high-for-age adrenal androgens and lower for boys with high-for-age sex steroids. Behavioral manifestations of sexuality, interest in dating, was higher for boys with high-for-age adrenal androgens. Dating and spending time with friends were higher for boys with high-for-age gonadotropins. Psychopathology and emotional tone were higher for girls with high-for-age gonadotropins. The results indicate that high-for-age hormone level or early timing of puberty generally was related to adverse psychological consequences for boys and girls, with relations being stronger for boys than for girls.
The inverse nearest neighbor problem with astrophysical applications

This paper discusses algorithmic improvements to mature astrophysics applications as part of an on-going collaboration with Astrophysicists. We present an efficient algorithm for a variation of the Inverse Nearest Neighbor problem which is a basic computation in an astrophysical N-body simulation. We obtain empirical results demonstrating the improvements, which our algorithm offers to large-scale astrophysical simulations.