cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Monitoring weight loss in an NBS smoke density chamber

The authors have developed a method for simultaneously measuring sample weight loss while detecting light transmission during a smoke test in a National Bureau of Standards smoke density chamber. The method is reported to be of particular value in studying the response and smoking tendency of fire-retarded materials. Language: en
Exercises in molecular computing.

ConspectusThe successes of electronic digital logic have transformed every aspect of human life over the last half-century. The word “computer” now signifies a ubiquitous electronic device, rather than a human occupation. Yet evidently humans, large assemblies of molecules, can compute, and it has been a thrilling challenge to develop smaller, simpler, synthetic assemblies of molecules that can do useful computation. When we say that molecules compute, what we usually mean is that such molecules respond to certain inputs, for example, the presence or absence of other molecules, in a precisely defined but potentially complex fashion. The simplest way for a chemist to think about computing molecules is as sensors that can integrate the presence or absence of multiple analytes into a change in a single reporting property. Here we review several forms of molecular computing developed in our laboratories.When we began our work, combinatorial approaches to using DNA for computing were used to search for solutio...
Genetic and environmental effects on dough mixing characteristics and agronomic performance of diverse hard red winter wheat genotypes

ABSTRACT Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) genotypes with short mixing times usually have low mixing tolerance values, which make them more sensitive to overmixing in commercial bread production. In this study, we evaluated the genotypic and environmental effects on agronomic performance and end-use quality of 27 experimental genotypes (hereafter referred to as mixing tolerant genotypes) which were identified in an initial screen as having short mixing times and good mixing tolerances to 1) determine whether genotypes identified in a preliminary end-use quality screen as lines with usually long tolerances but short mixing times were due to their genotype (G), the environment (E), or G × E; and as these results were unusual, 2) determine whether or not our initial screen predicts end-use quality, and 3) determine the stability of both agronomic and end-use quality traits. The 27 genotypes and five check cultivars were grown in a randomized complete block design with two replicates in nine environments in 1997 a...
Differential regulation of high-affinity agonist binding to muscarinic sites in the rat heart, cerebellum, and cerebral cortex

The muscarinic agonist [3H]cismethyldioxolane ([3H]CD) was used to characterize the effects of regulators upon high-affinity agonist binding sites of the rat heart, cerebral cortex and cerebellum. Comparative studies with sodium ions (Na+), magnesium ions (Mg++), N-ethylmaleimide (NEM) and the guanine nucleotide Gpp(NH)p revealed tissue-specific effects. Mg++ preferentially enhanced while Gpp(NH)p and NEM reduced high-affinity [3H]CD binding in the heart and cerebellum. By comparison NEM enhanced high-affinity agonist binding in the cerebral cortex while Gpp(NH)p and Mg++ had little or no effect. Kinetic studies support an allosteric mechanism for these effects and provide further evidence for muscarinic receptor subtypes in mammalian tissues.
The cusp angles of artificial mandibular first molars.

Abstract Literature relating to the design of posterior teeth was reviewed to establish the relationship of the geometrical concept of occlusion, the articulation of teeth, and occlusal forms of posterior teeth. The cusp angles of artificial mandibular first molars were measured and reported as a guide to posterior tooth selection for dentures.
The Effects of Affect and Inspection Duration on Decision Time and Confidence

A variety of factors modify decision making behavior. The current study examines how affective state and inspection duration impact decision time and decision confidence in a simulated luggage screening paradigm. Participants (N=200), from each of three “affect” groups—primed for anger, fear, or sadness— and a control group were tasked with detecting weapon targets with inspection durations of either two seconds (high time pressured inspection) or six seconds (low time pressured inspection). Results revealed a main effect for inspection duration on decision time, such that participants with more highly time-pressured inspections had longer decision latencies after the luggage image timed out. There were also main effects for inspection duration and affective condition on decision confidence, such that participants in the low time pressure group had greater decision confidence and participants in the fear group had lower decision confidence than those in the control group.
PMMA quantum dots composites fabricated via use of pre-polymerization.

We present a novel method to produce a PMMA-quantum-dot (QD) composite fabricated by pre-polymerization of PMMA and dispersing commercially available colloidal semiconductor QDs. The QDs are stabilized in rapidly formed oligomer matrices, and the complete polymerization of the PMMA-QD composite is achieved by commonly used polymerization. The properties of the PMMA-QD composite are measured and compared with the QDs in colloidal solution. Patterning of the PMMA-QD composite by direct write electron beam shows its promising applications in optoelectronics.
Investigating the Role of Communication in Culturally Diverse Work Groups: A Review and Synthesis

The purpose of the current study is to provide a narrative literature review to synthesize the research investigating the role of communication in culturally diverse work groups. A review of the extant literature revealed 3 predominant roles of communication: (a) communication as affected by cultural and contextual factors, (b) communication as affecting group outcomes, and (c) communication as a constitutive element for group culture. The research for each role is reviewed and summarized in order to identify what we do and do not know about communication in culturally diverse work groups. We conclude the essay by identifying five unanswered questions to guide future research.
Conversion of N-Acyl-2,3-dihydro-4-pyridones to 4-chloro-1,2-dihydropyridines using the Vilsmeier reagent.

Abstract N-Acyl-2,3-dihydro-4-pyridones are converted to 1-acyl-4-chloro-1,2-dihydropyridines in one step using one equivalent of Vilsmeier reagent. This conversion was utilized in an asymmetric synthesis of (−)-coniine.
The effects of different temperature and salinity levels on the acute toxicity of zinc in the Pink Shrimp (Farfantepenaeus paulensis)

The purpose of this study was to measure the acute toxicity of zinc (Zn) on Farfantepenaeus paulensis at different salinities and temperatures by monitoring oxygen consumption. This aspect of the effect of zinc has not been studied in this important commercial species before. First, we examined the acute toxicity of zinc in F. paulensis at 24, 48, 72, and 96 h medium lethal concentration (LC50). One hundred and fifty shrimp were employed for the routine metabolism measurement utilizing sealed respirometers. Ten shrimp were subjected to oxygen consumption measurements in one of the four concentrations of zinc (control, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0 mg L−1) at three salinities (36, 20, and 5) and three temperatures (25°C, 20°C, and 15°C). Zinc was significantly more toxic at a salinity of 5 than at 20 or 36. The oxygen consumption was estimated through experiments performed on each of the 12 possible combinations of three temperatures (25°C, 20°C, and 15°C) and three salinities (36, 20, and 5). The shrimp showed a...
Causes of global temperature changes during the 19th and 20th centuries

During the past two decades there has been considerable discussion about the relative contribution of different factors to the temperature changes observed now over the past 142 years. Among these factors are the “external’ factors of human (anthropogenic) activity, volcanoes and putative variations in the irradiance of the sun, and the “internal” factor of natural variability. Here, by using a simple climate/ocean model to simulate the observed temperature changes for different state-of-the-art radiative-forcing models, we present strong evidence that while the anthropogenic effect has steadily increased in size during the entire 20th century such that it presently is the dominant external forcing of the climate system, there is a residual factor at work within the climate system, whether a natural oscillation or something else as yet unknown. This has an important implication for our expectation of future temperature changes.
From manipulation to communicative gesture

This paper advocates an approach for learning communicative actions and manual skills in the same framework. We exploit a fundamental relationship between the structure of motor skills, intention, and communication. Communicative actions are acquired using the same learning framework and the same primitive states and actions that the robot uses to construct manual behavior for interacting with other objects in the environment. A prospective behavior algorithm is used to acquire modular policies for conveying intention and goals to nearby human beings and recruiting their assistance. The learning framework and a preliminary case study are presented in which a humanoid robot learns expressive communicative behavior incrementally by discovering the manual affordances of human beings. Results from interactions with 16 people provide support for the hypothesized benefits of this approach. Behavior reuse makes learning from relatively few interactions possible. This approach compliments other efforts in the field by grounding social behavior, and proposes a mechanism for negotiating a communicative vocabulary between humans and robots.
Virus and the Heart

Viral infections may overload the heart by altering pulmonary or systemic vascular resistance, may induce congenital malformations, or may invade the mature heart muscle and provoke acute and possibly chronic myocarditis. The nature of the association of myocarditis with known viral infections and the pathophysiologic effects of myocardial involvement are analyzed. Although viral myocarditis of clinical significance is relatively rare, recent advances in diagnosis and therapy warrant greater dissemination and application of existing knowlelge as well as further clinical investigation.
Repetitive thought dimensions, psychological well-being, and perceived growth in older adults: a multilevel, prospective study

Background and Objectives: Forms of repetitive thought (RT) such as worry are clearly related to states such as anxiety and depression. However, the presence of other forms such as reminiscing suggests that RT could also relate to eudaimonic well-being (EWB). Furthermore, a largely overlooked characteristic, total tendency to engage in RT, may associate with a particular kind of EWB, namely, perceived growth (PG). Design: Older adults (N = 150) were interviewed semi-annually for up to 10 waves. Methods: Participants completed a battery of RT measures at baseline and annual assessments of psychological well-being (PWB) and PG. Multilevel models tested the prospective, between-person relationships between baseline RT and future PWB and PG. Results: RT qualities prospectively predicted both PWB and PG: more positive valence best predicted PWB whereas more negative valence and more total RT best predicted PG. Furthermore, RT qualities largely accounted for a negative between-person relationship between PWB an...
Bistatic Vector 3-D Scattering From Layered Rough Surfaces Using Stabilized Extended Boundary Condition Method

A model of 3-D electromagnetic scattering from multiple rough surfaces within homogeneous-layered or vertically inhomogeneous media is developed in this work. This model, aimed at radar remote sensing of surface-to-depth profiles of soil moisture, computes total bistatic radar cross sections from the multilayer structure based on the scattering matrix approach, cascading the scattering matrices of individual rough interfaces and the layer propagation matrices. We have recently developed the single-surface scattering matrix obtained using the stabilized extended boundary condition method (SEBCM) providing both large validity range over the surface roughness and higher computational efficiency compared to fully numerical solutions. In the presence of a vertical dielectric profile, the aggregate scattering matrix of the profile is obtained from the model of stratified homogeneous layers. Results of this multilayer SEBCM model are validated with small perturbation method of up to third order and the method of moments. Additionally, the model is used to perform a sensitivity analysis of the scattering cross section with respect to perturbations in ground parameters such as subsurface layer separation, roughness of surface and subsurface layers, and moisture content of subsurface layers. The multilayer SEBCM model developed in this work presents a realistic and computationally feasible method for solving scattering from multilayer rough surfaces of realistic roughness, providing an accurate and efficient tool for future retrievals of soil moisture profiles.
Hybrid thoracic stent graft repair of a complex type B aortic dissection in a patient who presented three weeks after repair of a type a aortic dissection.

Abstract:Long-term management after repair of a type A aortic dissection includes aggressive medical therapy and routine surveillance with serial imaging to ensure thrombosis of the false lumen. Retained patency of the false lumen can lead to either the development of a false lumen aneurysm with a s
Restoration of sensibility to a thumb by the technique of digital nerve advancement: a new surgical procedure.

A groin flap was used to repair avulsion injuries of the nondominant thumb and index finger in a 13-year-old boy. The patient demonstrated full range of motion in the involved digits but lacked sensibility and a measurable two-point discrimination of the thumb. A two-point discrimination of 3 mm and excellent subjective sensibility were restored by distal advancement of the digital nerves and separation into fascicles across the ulnar palmar aspect of the thumb. A 1 1/2-year follow-up period is recorded.
Palmar‐Plantar Erythrodysesthesia Syndrome Associated with Liposomal Daunorubicin

Daunorubicin and doxorubicin are anthracyclines that have efficacy against malignancies such as breast cancer, lung cancer, lymphoma, and leukemia. Their adverse effects are similar. The most serious is cardiotoxicity, which often limits the total cumulative dose that can be administered. Introduction of a liposomal formulation for both agents allows tumor selectivity by accumulating the drug in tumor tissue, thus increasing the tolerated dose. Liposomal doxorubicin is commonly associated with palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome (PPES), although no reports of PPES were found in the literature related to liposomal daunorubicin (L-DNR). Two patients developed PPES while receiving high-dose L-DNR. The symptoms were self-limiting and resolved within a few weeks.
Laser-induced molecular predissociation by stimulated single-photon or multiphoton absorption or emission of infrared photons

Diatomic or polyatomic molecules in discrete molecular states imbedded in vibrational continuum(s) can be induced by available infrared laser beams to make significant transitions to the continuum(s), leading to predissociation of the molecules. These laser-induced predissociative transitions can be one of three kinds of photoprocesses studied: (i) stimulated single-photon absorption or emission of the laser photons, (ii) stimulated multiphoton absorption or emission of the laser photons, and (iii) stimulated transition without actual absorption or emission of the laser photons. The probability rates and the selection rules for these three processes are given and compared. Type I, II, and III of the above laser-induced molecular predissociation (LIMP) are defined and treated. Spectroscopic applications of these processes, such as deducing unstable electronic potential surfaces, are suggested. One such application is the locations of the potential curves of the unstable $1g(^{3}\ensuremath{\pi})$ and ${0}^{+}g(^{3}\ensuremath{\pi})$ states of diatomic halogens (${\mathrm{I}}_{2}$ or ${\mathrm{Br}}_{2}$), since LIMP of the bound states in the metastable $B{0}^{+}u(^{3}\ensuremath{\pi})$ into these unstable states by process (i) is dominant. As a new mechanism of unimolecular decompositions or reactions, LIMP can open up new channels or selectively enhance particular channels of molecular decomposition with laser-field-dependent rate "constants," leading to new dissociated products or higher product yields. It provides a means of decomposing homonuclear diatoms or polyatoms in infrared-inactive modes, that are already excited in the initial discrete state.
Optical techniques for sparse-aperture, millimeter-wave imaging

To obtain high-angular-resolution (< 1 milliradian) passive millimeter-wave images using traditional imaging techniques requires prohibitively large apertures for most applications. Sparse aperture techniques present a viable alternative by providing large effective aperture without the corresponding cubic increase in imager volume and weight. However, implementing a large field-of-view, high-resolution, sparse-aperture imager presents a number of challenges, namely: (1) the fabrication of a large number of phase-sensitive, ultra-low-noise millimeter-wave detectors, (2) routing and (3) realtime correlation of acquired data across the array, and (4) implementation of true time delays for steering the field-of-view without pronounced fringe-washing effects. In previous work, we have presented optical upconversion techniques as a viable alternative for overcoming these challenges. Converting passive millimeter-wave energy collected at each point in the array into sidebands on a common optical carrier signal allows for (1) recording of broadband complex field values onto the optical carrier, (2) efficient routing of these field values via fiber optics, (3) correlation of the recorded data via optical filtering and simple optics, and (4) implementation of true time delays using fiber optic or integrated optical switches. Herein, we present continued theoretical and experimental progress toward the realization of such optically based sparse arrays for passive millimeter-wave imaging applications.
Effects of introducing a gas into the free-electron laser

The introduction of a gas into the wiggler section of a free electron laser (FEL) alters the phase velocity of the electromagnetic wave, and so changes the synchronism condition relating wavelength to wiggler parameters and beam energy. This provides a means for tuning the frequency of an oscillator, with the addition of 200 torr of hydrogen gas, the wavelength of a FEL operating in the near infrared without gas was reduced by 0.73 microns. The plasma generated from ionization of the hydrogen molecules by collisions with the electron beam diminished the oscillator gain, but this effect was eliminated by the addition of less than 0.1 percent of an electron attachment gas. Gain is also reduced by multiple scattering of the beam electrons, but this effect is not severe for a 1-m wiggler length. When hydrogen is used, a FEL with fixed wiggler parameters and electron energy can be tuned from the near infrared to about 1200 A, and, with helium, the wavelength can be reduced to 600 A.
Protein Synthesis in the Medial Preoptic Area Is Important for the Mating-Induced Decrease in Estrus Duration in Hamsters

Sexual receptivity in female hamsters potentially lasts for about 16 h. However, vaginal cervical stimulation (VCS) from a male during mating eventually reduces receptivity and can shorten the duration of behavioral estrus. The process by which this change in response to the male takes place is unknown. Recently, detection of the Fos protein has indicated that the medial preoptic area (POA) is one of the brain regions particularly responsive to VCS. Additionally, the POA may have an inhibitory effect on sexual receptivity. To determine if protein synthesis in the POA is required to initiate the VCS-induced decrease in estrus duration, a protein synthesis inhibitor (anisomycin, 0.50 μg) or a control substance (cholesterol) was applied bilaterally to the POA of steroid-primed ovariectomized female hamsters. Females were tested with a sexually active male at five time points following the initial test for sexual receptivity (hour 1, 2, 6, 12, and 24). Half of the females tested were allowed to receive VCS from a male, while half were fitted with vaginal masks to prevent penile intromission. Each group receiving VCS showed a significant decrease in lordosis duration evident between hour 2 and hour 6, except the group which received anisomycin in the POA. In this respect the POA anisomycin group was similar to animals which did not receive VCS. Hamsters with vaginal masks and the anisomycin/POA animals allowed to receive VCS exhibited their first decrease in lordosis duration between hour 6 and hour 12. These results indicate that protein synthesis is important for VCS-induced decrease in estrus duration in the POA.
Role of the Vector in Arbovirus Transmission.

Many arboviral diseases are uncontrolled, and the viruses that cause them are globally emerging or reemerging pathogens that produce significant disease throughout the world. The increased spread and prevalence of disease are occurring during a period of substantial scientific growth in the vectorborne disease research community. This growth has been supported by advances in genomics and proteomics, and by the ability to genetically alter disease vectors. For the first time, researchers are elucidating the molecular details of vector host-seeking behavior, the susceptibility of disease vectors to arboviruses, the immunological control of infection in disease vectors, and the determinants that facilitate transmission of arboviruses from a vector to a host. These discoveries are facilitating the development of novel strategies to combat arboviral disease, including the release of transgenic mosquitoes harboring dominant lethal genes, the introduction of arbovirus-blocking microbes into mosquito populations, and the development of acquisition- and transmission-blocking therapeutics. Understanding the role of the vector in arbovirus transmission has provided critical practical and theoretical tools to control arboviral disease.
VHF-UHF propagation performance predictions for low altitude communication links operating over water

The Kerr (MIT Rad Lab Vol. 13) graphical approximation for the height-gain functions used in trans-horizon diffraction propagation field strength computations are modified so as to be valid, assuming wavelengths of 3 meters or less, for all surface media, both polarizations, and low antenna heights down to zero. The modifications are particularly important for VHF-UHF vertically polarized propagation over sea water between low altitude electromagnetic platforms. >
SURVIVAL, STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION OF PITUITARY GRAFTS IN UNTREATED RATS AND IN RATS INJECTED WITH ESTROGEN1212

IT HAS BEEN demonstrated by several investigators that anterior pituitary tissue can be successfully grafted and some information concerning the physiologic activity of such grafts has been obtained (I - I I) Schweiser, Charipper and Haterius (I) found that grafts in the anterior chamber of the eye stimulated follicle growth but not Iuteinition in guinea pigs. Greep (2) observed normal reproductive function in hypophysectomised rats bearing grafts in the sella turcica. May (3) reported similar observations in rats with grafts in the anterior chamber of the eye. These results seem to indicate that the nervous system participates in the production of luteinisation in guinea pigs but not in rats. However, Greep‚s results (2) are open to question because of the site of the grafts, and May (3) described the findings in only 2 animals. Martins (4) and Desclin and Gregoire (5) found that anterior lobe grafts in non hypophysectomized rats injected with estrogen showed histologic changes similar to those observed ...
Swimming against the mainstream: the early years from chilly tributary to transformative mainstream

This article traces the transformative paradigm shift in the theory and practice of personal change. Within a decade, new conceptual models, analytic methodologies and modes of treatment were created. Treatments were altered in the content, locus, and agents of change. This enterprising period also witnessed a sweeping shift in the public acceptance of behaviorally oriented treatments. The present article also analyzes the evolving theorizing and applications of social cognitive theory rooted in modeling, self-regulatory, and self-efficacy mechanisms of psychosocial change. This model of change is implemented from an agentic perspective to promote personal, institutional, and society-wide changes that address some of the most urgent global problems.
A knowledge base for software test refinement

Software testing criteria produce test descriptions that may be viewed as systems of constraints describing desired test cases. Refinement of test descriptions is possible by adding additional constraints to each test description, reducing the solution space and focusing attention upon tests that are more likely to reveal faults. This paper describes the structure of a knowledge base intended to capture potentially useful refinements, based either upon the expert knowledge of a tester or upon the software faults uncovered in prior, related projects. >
Nutrient Addition Prompts Rapid Destabilization of Organic Matter in an Arctic Tundra Ecosystem

Nutrient availability in the arctic is expected to increase in the next century due to accelerated decomposition associated with warming and, to a lesser extent, increased nitrogen deposition. To explore how changes in nutrient availability affect ecosystem carbon (C) cycling, we used radiocarbon to quantify changes in belowground C dynamics associated with long-term fertilization of graminoid-dominated tussock tundra at Toolik Lake, Alaska. Since 1981, yearly fertilization with nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) has resulted in a shift to shrub-dominated vegetation. These combined changes have altered the quantity and quality of litter inputs, the vertical distribution and dynamics of fine roots, and the decomposition rate of soil organic C. The loss of C from the deep organic and mineral soil has more than offset the C accumulation in the litter and upper organic soil horizons. In the litter and upper organic horizons, radiocarbon measurements show that increased inputs resulted in overall C accumulation, despite being offset by increased decomposition in some soil pools. To reconcile radiocarbon observations in the deeper organic and mineral soil layers, where most of the ecosystem C loss occurred, both a decrease in input of new root material and a dramatic increase of decomposition rates in centuries-old soil C pools were required. Therefore, with future increases in nutrient availability, we may expect substantial losses of C which took centuries to accumulate.
Adaptive penalized M-estimation with current status data

Current status data arises when a continuous response is reduced to an indicator of whether the response is greater or less than a random threshold value. In this article we consider adaptive penalized M-estimators (including the penalized least squares estimators and the penalized maximum likelihood estimators) for nonparametric and semiparametric models with current status data, under the assumption that the unknown nonparametric parameters belong to unknown Sobolev spaces. The Cox model is used as a representative of the semiparametric models. It is shown that the modified penalized M-estimators of the nonparametric parameters can achieve adaptive convergence rates, even when the degrees of smoothing are not known in advance. $$\sqrt{n}$$ consistency, asymptotic normality and inference based on the weighted bootstrap for the estimators of the regression parameter in the Cox model are also established. A simulation study is conducted for the Cox model to evaluate the finite sample efficacy of the proposed approach and to compare it with the ordinary maximum likelihood estimator. It is demonstrated that the proposed method is computationally superior.We apply the proposed approach to the California Partner Study analysis.
Platinum and gold inlaid disks ≤5 μm diameter

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the fabrication of disk-shaped platinum (Pt) or gold (Au) microelectrodes of diameter less than 5 μm. During this process a 2-cm long Pt or Au Wollaston wire is inserted into one end of a 1-mm inner diameter glass capillary (Pyrex or soft glass) such that one end of the metal wire is flush with the capillary opening. This end is then dipped into a 50% nitric acid solution to dissolve the silver coating. The quantity of nitric acid solution that fills the capillary by capillary action is controlled by judicial finger placement on the top end of the capillary so that about 3–5 mm of the metal wire is exposed. The nitric acid solution is then removed by placing the end of the capillary filled with nitric acid on a piece of filter paper or on a Kimwipe. The exposed wire must be thoroughly washed with distilled water to assure complete removal of the nitric acid. The glass capillary/wire assembly is then dried in an oven at 100°C for 2 hours. Extreme care must be taken during the dissolution of the silver coating and the washing procedure because the exposed wire is very fragile and easily broken. The wire is secured in position by melting the glass tip of the capillary around the etched wire using a gas/oxygen flame, and then sealed into the glass using a heating coil. It is essential that the junction between the bare and silver-coated section of the wire is sealed to prevent breakage of the wire during the use of the electrode. An alternative procedure for fabricating disk-shaped ultramicroelectrodes (UMEs) less than 5 μm diameter involves pulling metal wires into a glass capillary with the use of a commercial pipette puller.
GABAergic synaptic inputs of locus coeruleus neurons in wild-type and Mecp2-null mice.

Rett syndrome is an autism spectrum disorder resulting from defects in the gene encoding the methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2). Deficiency of the Mecp2 gene causes abnormalities in several syste...
Treatment needs of drug-addicted mothers. Integrated parenting psychotherapy interventions

Substance abuse among women is associated with several negative maternal as well as child outcomes. This article reviews the theoretical and empirical literature on salient domains of risk and vulnerability among addicted mothers, with a view toward identifying critical components of effective intervention programs.
Epidemiology of mental health: a keystone of geriatric psychiatry.

This issue of the Journal focuses on the epidemiology of geriatric psychiatry. Included are seven manuscripts representing an unusually broad subject array with two studies on phobias, three studies on depression, one study on elder abuse, and one manuscript on dementia. This impressive contribution from international colleagues includes research from the US, Canada, Great Britain, the Netherlands, and Austria. Indeed, it is this multicultural cross-country collaboration that represents an important trend in epidemiology research. In addition, several of the studies have included multiracial or multiethnic cohorts. As geriatric psychiatrists, we will increasingly be taking care of elderly patients coming from diverse backgrounds, and we need to enhance our awareness of the effect of cultural differences on presentation, prevalence and management of neuropsychiatric disorders. Epidemiological studies provide one means to inform us about important group difference in illnesses that affect the mental health of older adults. Dr. Hendrie offers insights on cross-cultural studies of dementia based on his work from three studies. 1 Several themes have emerged from this work including the importance of close collaborations or academic partnerships in cultures of interest and the need to engage community spanning from a grassroots to leadership level participation. In addition, the use of culturally sensitive instruments is essential and more work is needed in the development of these tools. Using data from 12,792 participants in the Canadian Community Health Survey-Mental Health and Well-being, McCabe and colleagues determined the prevalence and predictors of agoraphobia. 2 The prevalence for those aged 55 years was 0.61% and was positively associated with younger age, female gender, previously married status and comorbid psychiatric diagnoses including depression and social phobia. Interestingly, there was no association with panic disorder. The other study on phobia included in this issue is from Cohen and colleagues. 3 Using a sophisticated statistical weighting on race and gender, the authors determined the prevalence and associated factors of phobia among 1,074 multiracial older adults. They report that 8.9% of the Brooklyn, NY, census met criteria for prevalent pho
Major depressive disorder in a population of urban, African-American young adults: prevalence, correlates, comorbidity and unmet mental health service need.

Background: The U.S. Surgeon General recently highlighted the relative dearth of research on the mental health of minority populations in the U.S. The present report describes the prevalence of major depressive disorder (MDD) in an epidemiologically-defined population of 1197, predominately poor, African-American 19–22-year-olds, living in the greater Baltimore, MD metropolitan area. Method: The prevalence and correlates of MDD, its comorbidity with other mental and substance disorders, and unmet mental health service need were assessed via a structured clinical interview administered by lay interviewers. Results: Using DSM-IV criteria, the overall prevalence of lifetime MDD for the study population was 9.4%, whereas the last year and last month prevalences were 6.2 and 2.7%, respectively. Females were approximately 1.6 times more likely to report a lifetime episode of MDD than males. MDD was highly comorbid with substance disorders. Just under 10% of those who had experienced an episode of MDD within the last year reported receiving mental health specialty services within the last year. Limitations: A major limitation was the reliance on a single interview conducted by a lay interviewer as opposed to a comprehensive psychiatric assessment carried out by a highly trained clinician, integrating information on symptoms and functioning from multiple sources. Conclusions: The lifetime prevalence of MDD found in the present study suggests that it is a significant mental health problem in the African-American young adults studied, particularly amongst women. Moreover, most episodes of MDD went untreated. D 2003 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Performance capability of a teleoperated vehicle

A reflexive model is presented for the human operator of a teleoperated vehicle. This model is appropriate when the vehicle operates in a spatially cluttered environment subject to discrete, unpredictable changes. It is based on the control theoretic approach to human operator modeling, and is expressed as a set of stochastic differential equations (S.D.E.'s). Both continuous and discontinuous disturbance phenomena can be accommodated. A simulation of the detection portion of the model is presented.
Congenital dislocation of the hip in boys

Fifty-five boys with seventy-eight congenitally dislocated hips were treated between 1965 and 1990. The patients were divided into three groups according to the initial treatment. Group I included thirty hips (twenty-two boys) that had been treated initially with a Pavlik harness. Two hips (7 per cent) had a successful outcome, and twenty-eight (93 per cent) needed additional methods of treatment. Group II included forty-two hips (twenty-nine boys) that had been treated initially with closed reduction and immobilization in a hip-spica cast. After the closed reduction, twenty-nine hips (69 per cent) were considered stable, although fifteen (52 per cent) of them needed a secondary procedure because of residual subluxation or persistent acetabular dysplasia. Thirteen hips (31 per cent) were considered unstable after the closed reduction and subsequently had an open reduction. Group III included six hips (four boys) that had been treated initially with open reduction. Two of these hips redislocated after the open reduction, and they were reduced with an additional open reduction. A pelvic osteotomy was later performed to treat persistent acetabular dysplasia in these two hips. Two hips that had been treated with an open reduction and concomitant pelvic and femoral procedures did not need additional treatment. This study demonstrates that boys who have congenital dislocation of the hip do not always respond well to treatment and constitute a high-risk group.
Correlates of pride in the performance success of United States athletes competing on an international stage

Grounded in social-identity and self-categorization theories and drawing on data gathered in the US General Social Survey (N = 2528), this research examines how demographic and media-use measures associate with national pride, as experienced through the success of US athletes competing internationally. Bivariate tests and analysis of covariance models indicated greater levels of national pride among black males, older respondents, those who classified themselves as republicans and those with lower levels of formal education. Exposure to newspapers and television did not prove statistically significant in multivariate analyses, although bivariate tests revealed that those exposed most frequently to television tended to agree in significantly higher numbers with the statement ‘When my country does well in international sports, it makes me proud to be an American.’ Limitations and recommendations for future research are offered.
Striking New Species of Brachys Dejean, 1833 (Coleoptera: Buprestidae) from New Mexico, Texas, and Mexico

Abstract Recent collections from New Mexico and western Texas yielded striking specimens of the genus Brachys Dejean with largely blue elytra and subapical coppery patches with coppery setae. Two superficially similar species are also known from single specimens collected in Mexico. This study describes the three as Brachys rileyi Hespenheide, new species, Brachys barri Hespenheide, new species, and Brachys consimilis Hespenheide new species.
Open source tool for prediction of genome wide protein-protein interaction network based on ortholog information.

Background Protein-protein interactions are crucially important for cellular processes. Knowledge of these interactions improves the understanding of cell cycle, metabolism, signaling, transport, and secretion. Information about interactions can hint at molecular causes of diseases, and can provide clues for new therapeutic approaches. Several (usually expensive and time consuming) experimental methods can probe protein - protein interactions. Data sets, derived from such experiments make the development of prediction methods feasible, and make the creation of protein-protein interaction network predicting tools possible.
Symmetry breaking for generalized disjunctive programming formulation of the strip packing problem

In this work we present a new generalized disjunctive programming (GDP) formulation for the strip packing problem. The new formulation helps to break some of the symmetry that arises in this problem. The new formulation is further improved for the case in which the heights and lengths of the rectangles are integer numbers. The GDP model can be formulated and solved as a mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) model, using different GDP-to-MILP reformulations. The results show that the MILP reformulations of the new GDP model (and its improvement for rectangles with integer heights and widths) can be solved faster than the previously proposed GDP formulation.
Active tissue stiffness modulation controls valve interstitial cell phenotype and osteogenic potential in 3D culture

Abstract Calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD) progression is a highly dynamic process whereby normally fibroblastic valve interstitial cells (VIC) undergo osteogenic differentiation, maladaptive extracellular matrix (ECM) composition, structural remodeling, and tissue matrix stiffening. However, how VIC with different phenotypes dynamically affect matrix properties and how the altered matrix further affects VIC phenotypes in response to physiological and pathological conditions have not yet been determined. In this study, we develop 3D hydrogels with tunable matrix stiffness to investigate the dynamic interplay between VIC phenotypes and matrix biomechanics. We find that VIC populated within hydrogels with valve leaflet like stiffness differentiate towards myofibroblasts in osteogenic media, but surprisingly undergo osteogenic differentiation when cultured within lower initial stiffness hydrogels. VIC differentiation progressively stiffens the hydrogel microenvironment, which further upregulates both early and late osteogenic markers. These findings identify a dynamic positive feedback loop that governs acceleration of VIC calcification. Temporal stiffening of pathologically lower stiffness matrix back to normal level, or blocking the mechanosensitive RhoA/ROCK signaling pathway, delays the osteogenic differentiation process. Therefore, direct ECM biomechanical modulation can affect VIC phenotypes towards and against osteogenic differentiation in 3D culture. These findings highlight the importance of the homeostatic maintenance of matrix stiffness to restrict pathological VIC differentiation. Statement of Significance We implement 3D hydrogels with tunable matrix stiffness to investigate the dynamic interaction between valve interstitial cells (VIC, major cell population in heart valve) and matrix biomechanics. This work focuses on how human VIC responses to changing 3D culture environments. Our findings identify a dynamic positive feedback loop that governs acceleration of VIC calcification, which is the hallmark of calcific aortic valve disease. Temporal stiffening of pathologically lower stiffness matrix back to normal level, or blocking the mechanosensitive signaling pathway, delays VIC osteogenic differentiation. Our findings provide an improved understanding of VIC-matrix interactions to aid in interpretation of VIC calcification studies in vitro and suggest that ECM disruption resulting in local tissue stiffness decreases may promote calcific aortic valve disease.
Karsten's Type Specimens of Hysteriaceae on Conifers

Certain specimens collected by Karsten have been examined with attention to associated conidial stages as well as features which he described.1 One, Hysterium sphaeriodes Karst., a species which has been collected but once in the United States (White Mountains; on wood of Betula), is discussed in a previous paper (15). Of those with a coniferous substratum several are of particular interest for their occurrence in North America or for their conidial status (Gloniella amnbigua, now referred to Hysterium; Lophium laeviusculumn and L. mytilinum, both of the genus Mytilidion). Karsten treats the Hysteriaceae in three of his general works (6, 7, 9), admirably combining in his descriptions, as Hintikka states (5), detail of diagnostic features with clarity and brevity in exposition. The descriptions of new species in the first are republished by Rabenhorst (16). In general his species for Finland and Lapland have not been reported elsewhere in Europe, or the names as synonyms have received varied or inconsistent treatment. Only recently has American material been so identified, and then usually with some question. As to Mytilidion Karstenii Sacc. (Lophium mytilinum), which is not uncommon on pine wood and bark in New England, it is interesting to note that in the early American compilations Cooke (2) reports no collections suggestive of the species, but Ellis (3) possibly refers some to M. fusisporum (Cooke) Sacc.
Relative Susceptibility of a Summer-Planted Dent and Tropical Flint Corn Variety to Whorl Stage Damage by the Fall Armyworm (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

The production of a second seasonal crop of corn is possible in south Georgia and probably across the gulf South with insecticidal protection of critical leaf stages of the whorl against larvae of Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith). Naturally established fall armyworm larvae were eliminated from a range of leaf stages of a dent or tropical flint corn variety with methomyl (1.46 kg of AI/ha), thus permitting the identification of those stages on which grain yields were most critically dependent. Grain yields of 65 + q/ha were achieved with methomyl applications at leaf stages 4 and 6 of ‘Pioneer X304C,’ leaf stages 4, 6, and 14 of ‘Pioneer 3369A,’ and methomyl (0.84 kg of AI/ha) protection of the ear stages of both varieties.
Business Diplomacy: Pursuing Public and Private Benefits and Promoting Dispute Resolution

Multinational enterprises (MNEs) are sometimes drawn into foreign civil and political events where firms have had to make in-the-moment decisions about how to diplomatically handle potential disput...
How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bots

This articles inquires about the consequences of social bots for the study and understanding of social media.
Factors Influencing U.S. Homebuilders' Adoption of Green Homebuilding Products

While many researchers have analyzed the obstacles to the diffusion of innovation in building construction, little empirical evidence has been gathered about the factors associated with U.S. homebuilders' adoption of innovative building products. In this paper, we develop a theory-driven diffusion of innovation conceptual model of homebuilders' adoption of high performance building product innovations. We are among the first to operationalize a regression model to demonstrate an application of the model using a large dataset from the National Association of Homebuilders. Model results indicate that builders' selections of high performance products are influenced by internal or firm attributes, external attributes, as well as the attributes of the high performance innovations. These results suggest that the adoption rates of future innovative building products will likely be influenced by product and climate and have the potential to be amplified by bandwagon effects.
A nanosecond pulsed laser heating system for studying liquid and supercooled liquid films in ultrahigh vacuum

A pulsed laser heating system has been developed that enables investigations of the dynamics and kinetics of nanoscale liquid films and liquid/solid interfaces on the nanosecond time scale in ultrahigh vacuum (UHV). Details of the design, implementation, and characterization of a nanosecond pulsed laser system for transiently heating nanoscale films are described. Nanosecond pulses from a Nd:YAG laser are used to rapidly heat thin films of adsorbed water or other volatile materials on a clean, well-characterized Pt(111) crystal in UHV. Heating rates of ∼1010 K/s for temperature increases of ∼100–200 K are obtained. Subsequent rapid cooling (∼5 × 109 K/s) quenches the film, permitting in-situ, post-heating analysis using a variety of surface science techniques. Lateral variations in the laser pulse energy are ∼±2.7% leading to a temperature uncertainty of ∼±4.4 K for a temperature jump of 200 K. Initial experiments with the apparatus demonstrate that crystalline ice films initially held at 90 K can be rapi...