cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Compositional changes of minerals associated with dynamic recrystallizatin

The rate of compositional and isotopic exchange between minerals may be enhanced significantly if the rock is deformed simultaneously. The enhanced exchange rate may result from a reduction in grain size (shorter distance for volume diffusion), dissolution and growth of grains by diffusion creep (pressure solution), or the movement of high-angle grain boundaries through strained grains during recrystallization in the dislocation creep regime. The migration of high-angle grain boundaries provides high diffusivity paths for the rapid exchange of components during recrystallization. The operation of the latter process has been demonstrated by deforming aggregates consisting of two plagioclases (An1 and An79) at 900°C, 1 GPa confining pressure, and a strain rate of ∼2x10-6s-1. The polygonal, recrystallized grains were analyzed using an analytical transmission electron microscope and have a variable but often intermediate composition. At the conditions of these experiments, the volume interdiffusion rate of NaSi/CaAl is too slow to produce any observable chemical change, and microstructural-chemical relations indicate that the contribution from diffusion creep was insignificant except for initially fine-grained (2–10 μm) aggregates. These results indicate that strain-induced recrystallization can be an effective mechanism for enhancing the kinetics of metamorphic reactions and for resetting the isotope systematics of minerals such as feldspars, pyroxenes, and amphiboles.
Deep-tow studies of the structure of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge crest near lat 37°N

A detailed study of the structure of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge median valley and rift mountains near lat 37°N (FAMOUS) was conducted using a deep-tow instrument package. The median valley may have either a very narrow inner floor (1 to 4 km) and well-developed terraces or a wide inner floor (10 to 14 km) and narrow or no terraces. The terraces appear to be non–steady-state features of the rift valley. The entire depth and gross morphology of the median valley may be accounted for by normal faulting, while volcanic relief contributes to the short-wavelength topography (<2 km). Most faults dip toward the valley axis an average of 50°, and the blocks are tilted back 2° to 3°. Fault dip is asymmetric about the valley axis. Active crustal extension in the inner floor and inner walls has the same sense of asymmetry as the local spreading rates, reaching a maximum of 18 percent. Thus, asymmetric spreading appears to be accomplished by asymmetric crustal extension on a fine scale as well as by asymmetric crustal accretion. Spreading is 17° oblique to the transform faults and shows no indication of readjusting to an orthogonal system, even on a fine scale. Eighty percent of the decay or transformation of median-valley relief into rift-mountain topography is accomplished by normal faults that dip away from the valley axis. Most of the outward-facing faulting occurs near the median-valley–rift-mountain boundary. Tilting of crustal blocks accounts for only 20 percent of the decay of median-valley relief. Most long-wavelength topography in the rift mountains has a faulted origin. As in the median valley, volcanic relief is short wavelength (<2 km) and appears to be fossil, originating in the median-valley inner floor. Bending of large faulted blocks toward nearby fracture zones suggests that spreading-center tectonics is affected by fracture-zone tectonics throughout the length of the rift in the FAMOUS area. Both the crustal accretion zone and transform fault zone are narrow, only 1 to 2 km wide, over short periods of time. In the course of millions of years, however, they apparently migrate over a zone 10 to 20 km wide.
Foreign-Trade Agreements: A New Federal Partner?

The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GAIT) shift power away from state and local government in the federal system. They impose new rules on the exercise of state and local powers over procurement and the regulation offood, environmental, health, product and service standards, investments, services, financial services, economic development, and land transportation. States will have to comply with various reporting and registration requirements, and may be subject to stricter nondiscrimination obligations toward imported goods and services than under the commerce clause of the U.S. Constitution. State and local governments will be judged by international panels, whose judgments the United States must enforce or suffer trade sanctionsfrom aggrieved tradingpartners. Yet, states have not strongly opposed NAFTA and GATT. The greatest state opposition has been to automatic preemption, which the Clinton administration promised to avoid as much as possible. Nevertheless, increased power overfederalism has moved to the executive branch, business, and trade-dispute panels, with less power for state and local governments.
Effect of bedside needle disposal units on needle recapping frequency and needlestick injury

Needle recapping has been shown to be one of the leading causes of needlestick injuries. Frequency of recapping has not been reported. This study was designed to determine the frequency of needle recapping by nursing personnel and the effect of bedside needle disposal units on the frequency of recapping and needlesticks. Seventy-four nurses carrying out 312 activities involving use of needles were observed. The subjects were not aware of the nature of the study. The recapping frequency was 93.9%. The study was repeated after educational programs and following installation of a hospital-wide bedside needle disposal system. Fifty-three nurses performing 151 activities with needles were observed. Frequency of recapping was 94%. There was no significant difference in the rate of recapping or needlestick injuries after installation of the new needle disposal system. Educational programs regarding recapping, a very common practice, may be ineffective. Alternate methods for preventing needlesticks may be necessary.
Using El Nino/Southern Oscillation climate data to improve food policy planning in Indonesia

Despite the impact of El Nino–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events on climate in the Indo-Pacific region, models linking ENSO-based climate variability to Indonesian cereal production are not well developed. This study measures connections among sea-surface temperature anomalies (SSTAs), rainfall, and Indonesian rice and corn production from 1971 to 1998. Year-to-year August SSTA fluctuations explain about half the interannual variance in paddy production during the main (wet) season. These effects are cumulative for rice: during strong El Nino years, wet season production shortfalls are not made up subsequently. For corn, the cumulative area sown is actually higher in El Nino years than La Nina years. Indonesia’s paddy production varies on average by 1.4 million tons for every 1˚C change in August SSTAs. The paper illustrates how an SSTA model might assist policy makers with budgetary processes, and private sector cereal traders with framing production expectations.
Protection Against Esophageal Cancer in Rodents With Lyophilized Berries: Potential Mechanisms

For several years, our laboratory has been evaluating the ability of lyophilized (freeze-dried) black raspberries (Rubus occidentalis, BRBs), blackberries (R. fructicosus, BBs), and strawberries (Fragaria ananasia, STRWs) to inhibit carcinogen-induced cancer in the rodent esophagus. To assure "standardized" berry preparations for study, each berry type is of the same cultivar, picked at about the same degree of ripeness, washed and frozen within 2-4 h of the time of picking, and freeze-dried under conditions that preserve the components in the berries. Some of the known chemopreventive agents in berries include vitamins A, C, and E and folic acid; calcium and selenium; beta-carotene, alpha-carotene, and lutein; polyphenols such as ellagic acid, ferulic acid, p-coumaric acid, quercetin, and several anthocyanins; and phytosterols such as beta-sitosterol, stigmasterol, and kaempferol. In initial bioassays, freeze-dried STRW, BRB, and BB powders were mixed into AIN-76A synthetic diet at concentrations of 5% and 10% and fed to Fischer 344 rats before, during, and after treatment with the esophageal carcinogen N-nitrosomethylbenzylamine (NMBA). At 25 wk of the bioassay, all three berry types were found to inhibit the number of esophageal tumors (papillomas) in NMBA-treated animals by 24-56% relative to NMBA controls. This inhibition correlated with reductions in the formation of the NMBA-induced O6-methylguanine adduct in esophageal DNA, suggesting that the berries influenced the metabolism of NMBA leading to reduced DNA damage. Studies are ongoing to determine the mechanisms by which berries influence NMBA metabolism and DNA adduct formation. BRBs and STRWs were also tested in a postinitiation scheme and were found to inhibit NMBA-induced esophageal tumorigenesis by 31-64% when administered in the diet following treatment of the animals with NMBA. Berries, therefore, inhibit tumor promotion and progression events as well as tumor initiation. In vivo mechanistic studies with BRBs indicate that they reduce the growth rate of premalignant esophageal cells, in part, through down-regulation of cyclooxygenase-2 leading to reduced prostaglandin production and of inducible nitric oxide synthase leading to reduced nitrate/nitrite levels in the esophagus. Based upon the preclinical data on rodents, we have initiated prevention trials in humans to determine if berries might exhibit chemopreventive effects in the esophagus.
Observer-Based Output Feedback Control of Nonlinear Systems Non-Affine in the Unmeasured States

The presented work addresses the output feedback control problem for a large class of nonlinear systems. The control strategy shares similarities to separation-based algorithms commonly found in the literature, in the sense that the control problem is solved using an observer-predictor, in conjunction with a state feedback control law. The approach however distinguishes itself in significant ways. In particular, the control algorithm is not designed to control the actual system’s output, as is usually the case in separation-based approaches, but it is rather designed to control the output of the observer-predictor. The latter is designed to ensure that, for any admissible control signal, its output converges to a neighborhood of the corresponding output of the real system. The observer-predictor is thus used to indirectly control the real system. Results of numerical simulations are provided to illustrate performance of the obtained control algorithm.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Off-pump obtuse marginal grafting with local stabilization: thoracotomy approach in reoperations.

Abstract Background . Redo coronary surgery in patients with patent internal mammary artery (IMA) grafts may be hazardous. A thoracotomy approach has been used to graft the circumflex branches to avoid injury from sternal re-entry. Combining this approach with off-pump revascularization techniques may be useful. Methods . Seven consecutive patients who had undergone prior coronary revascularization developed symptoms attributable to lateral wall ischemia. Five of them had patent IMA grafts. These patients underwent off-pump obtuse marginal grafting using local immobilization techniques via a thoracotomy approach. Inflow was from the descending aorta in 6 patients and splenic artery in 1. Results . Obtuse marginal grafting was successfully performed in all cases without need for cardiopulmonary bypass. Conclusions . Off-pump obtuse marginal grafting via the thoracotomy route may be useful in redo coronary surgery, particularly in instances of patent IMA grafts.
Oxygen insensitivity of photosynthesis by waterlogged Apios americana

Abstract Apios americana, a tuber-producing viny legume, occurs naturally in areas which experience episodic soil waterlogging. In a 2-year study, plants were grown under well-drained or waterlogged soil conditions. Tuber production did occur in the waterlogged situation, but yield was substantially depressed. Specific leaf weight increased by a factor of 40% compared to the well-drained controls. Likewise, increases in soluble carbohydrate and starch were observed in leaf tissue under waterlogged conditions. Because of the increase in carbohydrate content in the foliage with waterlogging, plants were probed for feedback limitations on photosynthesis. Net assimilation rates of single leaves measured under ambient conditions were not different between well-drained and waterlogged treatments. However, oxygen insensitivity of photosynthesis was observed under waterlogged conditions, particularly in one genetic line which had high mortality in the waterlogged treatment. Well-drained plants demonstrated similar stimulations of photosynthesis by 2% oxygen regardless of genetic background. No interaction was observed between drainage and oxygen content of the assay gas in determining stomatal conductance values. Oxygen insensitivity of photosynthesis may be an indication of poor adaptation to rootzone waterlogging.
Towards a theory of compositional learning and encoding of objects

This paper develops a theory for learning compositional models of objects. It gives a theoretical basis for explaining the effectiveness of recent learning algorithms which exploit compositionality in order to perform structure induction of graphical models. It describes how compositional learning can be considered as learning either probability models or efficient codes for objects.
Liquid-quenched Ag-Ge alloys; formation and evolution of metastable phases

The formation and decomposition behaviour of metastable structures in liquid-quenched (LQ) Ag-Ge alloys was studied with X-ray diffraction, resistivity measurements and TEM techniques. Pure Ag and alloys containing 7, 10, 15, 20 and 22.5 at. % Ge were studied. Upon LQ, pure Ag and 7 and 10 at. % Ge alloys yield a single f cc phase; 15 and 20 at. % Ge alloys give a mixture of two metastable phases (f cc and h cp); and the Ag-22.5 at. % Ge alloy gives a metastable h cp phase. Also, the first evidence of an amorphous phase in as-LQ Ag-22.5 at. % Ge alloy is presented. It is shown that Ag-rich f cc phase can retain up to ∼ 20at. % Ge in solid solution. Furthermore, stacking faults play an important role in the formation and decomposition of metastable phases in the Ag-Ge system.
Effects of dizocilpine in Withdrawal Seizure-Prone (WSP) and Withdrawal Seizure-Resistant (WSR) mice

Abstract Mice selectively bred to be Withdrawal Seizure-Prone (WSP) or Seizure-Resistant (WSR) after chronic ethanol administration have been reported to be differentially sensitive to the anticonvulsant and proconvulsant effects on alcohol withdrawal of drugs interacting with glutamate receptors. Several behavioral effects of the noncompetitive glutamate receptor antagonist, dizocilpine, were determined in WSP and WSR mice to see whether their differential sensitivity generalized to effects unrelated to seizures, and to see whether it was only apparent during ethanol withdrawal. Dizocilpine potentiated the loss of righting reflex induced by ethanol, and dose-dependently stimulated habituated and nonhabituated open field activity. WSP and WSR mice were equally sensitive to these effects of dizocilpine. Pretreatment with dizocilpine increased the transcorneal amperage necessary to produce maximal electroshock seizures: WSR mice were more sensitive than WSP to this effect. Ethanol withdrawal (i.e., testing 6 h after a 24-h exposure to ethanol vapor) and dizocilpine had several effects on mice tested in the hole-in-wall apparatus. Several differences between WSP and WSR mice were also found, but in no case did dizocilpine differentially affect ethanol-withdrawing WSP and WSR mice. Across these experiments, differences between WSP and WSR mice in response to dizocilpine were rather specific. For some responses, WSP and WSR mice were equally sensitive, but only in the seizure-related measure assessed were naive WSR mice more sensitive than WSP. Since naive WSR mice are also more sensitive to NMDA-induced convulsions than WSP, these data are consistent with the hypothesis that alterations in the function of excitatory amino acid-gated ion channels are important for the convulsions accompanying withdrawal from ethanol dependence.
Diverging roles of bacterial siderophores during infection

Siderophores are low molecular weight, high affinity iron chelating molecules that are essential virulence factors in many Gram-negative bacterial pathogens. Whereas the chemical structure of siderophores is extremely variable, the function of siderophores has been narrowly defined as the chelation and delivery of iron to bacteria for proliferation. The discovery of the host protein Lipocalin 2, capable of specifically sequestering the siderophore Enterobactin but not its glycosylated-derivative Salmochelin, indicated that diversity in structure could be an immune evasion mechanism that provides functional redundancy during infection. However, there is growing evidence that siderophores are specialized in their iron-acquisition functions, can perturb iron homeostasis in their hosts, and even bind non-iron metals to promote bacterial fitness. The combination of siderophores produced by a pathogen can enable inter-bacterial competition, modulate host cellular pathways, and determine the bacterial “replicative niche” during infection. This review will examine both classical and novel functions of siderophores to address the concept that siderophores are non-redundant virulence factors used to enhance bacterial pathogenesis.
Predation of Eggs and Recently Hatched Larvae of Endemic Ringed Salamanders (Ambystoma annulatum) by Native and Introduced Aquatic Predators

Abstract: Predation is a key determinant of pond community structure, yet not all predators are equally effective and not all life stages of potential prey are similarly susceptible. Understanding the effects of native and introduced species is essential to informing management strategies, especially for endemic and species of conservation concern. We examined the effects of five common predators (three native: Central Newts [Notophthalmus viridescens louisianensis], aeshnid dragonfly naiads [Aeshnidae], and Southern Leopard Frog tadpoles [Lithobates sphenocephalus]; and two introduced: Fathead Minnows [Pimephales promelas] and Mosquitofish [Gambusia affinis]) on survival of eggs and recently hatched larvae of Ringed Salamanders (Ambystoma annulatum). We also examined the effect of supplemental food or cover availability on survival at each stage. Predators primarily showed a binary response to eggs, consuming all or none of them. Supplemental food did not influence whether eggs or larvae were consumed. ...
Assessment of CHP System Performance With Commercial Building Benchmark Models in Different U.S. Climate Zones

Combined Cooling, Heating, and Power (CHP) systems have been widely recognized as an alternative for electric and thermal energy generation because of their outstanding energy efficiency, reduced environmental emissions, and relative independence from centralized power grids. The performance of CHP systems depends on the type of buildings and climate conditions. Recently the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has developed a set of standard benchmark building models. According to the DOE [1], these models cover approximately 70% of the commercial building energy use. This paper evaluates and discusses the simulations of the performance of CHP systems for several commercial building benchmark models in 16 locations representing the U.S. climate zones described in the DOE report. The evaluation has been carried out using an optimal energy dispatch algorithm. The performance index for the optimization process is varied in order to investigate the impact of optimizing operational cost, primary energy consumption, and carbon dioxide emission. The results of this simulation can be used as a guideline to end-users when deciding on energy alternatives for their buildings or by policy makers deciding on regulations for cost, primary energy, or carbon dioxide emissions.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Design of a modalized observer with eigenvalue sensitivity reduction

References ^raig, R. R., Structural Dynamics—An Introduction to Computer Methods, Wiley, New York, 1981. Thomson, W. T., Theory of Vibration with Applications, Prentice-Hall, Englewood Cliffs, NJ, 1981. Anderson, R. A., Fundamentals of Vibration, MacMillan, New York, 1967. modalized observers is based on minimizing a cost function, which depends on the norm of the observer modal matrix, the condition number of this modal matrix, and directional information about the initial condition mismatch. We compare this new modalized observer design method with the approach described in Ref . 1 to show the advantages of the hew method.
The response of two-degree-of-freedom systems with quadratic non-linearities to a parametric excitation

The method of multiple scales is used to analyze the response of two-degree-of-freedom systems with quadratic non-linearities to a parametric harmonic excitation having the frequency Ω. Four ordinary differential equations are derived to describe the modulation of the amplitudes and the phases when ω2 ≈ 2ω1 and either Ω ≈ 2ω1 or Ω ≈ 2ω2, where ω1 and ω2 are the linear undamped natural frequencies of the system. Two critical values ζ1 and ζ2 of the amplitude F of the excitation are identified in the analysis. When F >ζ2, the amplitude of the directly excited mode grows exponentially with time according to the linear analysis, whereas the amplitudes of both modes achieve steady state constant values, irrespective of the initial amplitudes, according to the non-linear analysis. When F < ζ1, the motion decays to zero according to both the linear and non-linear analyses. When ζ1 ⩽ F ⩽ ζ2, the motion decays to zero according to the linear analysis, whereas it achieves a periodic steady state or decays to zero depending on the initial amplitudes according to the non-linear analysis. This is an example of subcritical instability. When Ω ≈ 2ω2, the steady state value of the higher mode, which is directly excited, is a constant that is independent of the excitation of amplitude F, whereas the amplitude of the lower mode, which is indirectly excited through internal resonance, grows with the excitation amplitude F. This is another example of saturation.
A Close Examination of Trait Reactance and Issue Involvement as Moderators of Psychological Reactance Theory

This study used psychological reactance theory (PRT) to investigate (a) the effectiveness of 2 message features (freedom-threatening language and character frame) and (b) the role of trait reactance and issue involvement as moderators of a perceived freedom threat. Within the context of organ donation, the results indicated no differences for character frame among the donor, recipient, or waiting list narratives. However, freedom-threatening language was positively associated with a perceived freedom threat. In turn, a perceived freedom threat was positively associated with state reactance, which was inversely, albeit nonsignificantly, associated with organ donation attitudes. Attitudes predicted intentions to be an organ donor. Results also revealed that trait reactance was positively associated with a perceived freedom threat. Although not associated with a freedom threat, issue involvement was positively associated with organ donation attitudes and intent to be a donor. Additionally, a trait reactance ...
The Influence of Oxygen Defect States on the Surface Charge of Alkali Halides

The sign of the surface charge for alkali halides in their saturated brines has been established from nonequilibrium electrophoresis measurements, and on this basis the flotation response of alkali halides was explained based on the adsorption of oppositely charged collector colloids by heterocoagulation. These surface charge results for alkali halides are generally as expected from simplified lattice ion hydration theory with some exceptions, specifically LiF, KCl, NaCl, KBr, RbBr, KI, and RbI. The presence of natural oxygen defect states in the crystal lattice and the inaccuracies involved in the gaseous ion hydration free energy values used appear, in the past, to be responsible for these deviations. The presence of natural oxygen defect states in KCl, KBr, RbBr, and RbI, as characterized by UV/Vis absorption, was found to account for their anomalous surface charge. Further, other positively charged alkali halides, LiF, NaCl, and KI, were found to be free of oxygen defect states. Nevertheless, oxygen defects can be created in these alkali halides to make them negatively charged, and this has been demonstrated for NaCl. Such negatively charged NaCl can be readily floated with positively charged amine collector colloids, thus confirming the surface charge/collector colloid adsorption theory.
Mechanochemical synthesis and thermoelectric properties of high quality magnesium silicide

Magnesium silicide and related alloys are attractive for thermoelectric applications due to their low toxicity, thermal stability, low density, relative abundance and low cost of production. Earlier work on the synthesis of Mg2Siviahigh energy ball milling resulted in incomplete product formation, oxide impurities, and contamination from milling media. Here we present an improved solid-state synthesis of n-type magnesium silicide using the mechanochemical technique of high energy ball milling of the elements followed by high pressure sintering using hot uniaxial compaction. This robust synthetic method permits a detailed investigation of thermoelectric properties as a function of Bi doping. The thermoelectric properties of Mg2Si1−xBix (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.021) samples are characterized from 300 K to 775 K. These results are analyzed within a single parabolic band (SPB) model to determine the effective conduction band parameters and identify regimes of non-SPB behavior.
Monocular estimate method retinoscopy: central tendency measures and relationship to refractive status and heterophoria.

ABSTRACT:Background.Monocular estimate (estimation) method (MEM) is a widely used clinical test of accommodative response. Normative data for MEM are available based on the central tendency measures from a population of schoolchildren but not a clinical population. Also, the relationship of accommod
Cross-reactive and unique grass group I antigenic determinants defined by monoclonal antibodies

Abstract As part of a study to probe the immunochemical basis for allergenic cross-reactivity among grass pollens, a series of useful reagents has been prepared. The major grass-pollen allergen, designated group I (GpI), was isolated from five grass pollens (meadow fescue, June grass, sweet vernal grass, redtop grass, and perennial ryegrass). The purified GpI antigens were used to immunize individual groups of BALB/c mice. A total of 123 hybridoma-derived anti-GpI monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) was produced. These mAbs were used to evaluate the antigenk relationship among the GpI antigens by means of two types of ELISA. The experiments revealed a high level of epitope diversity and demonstrated a wide range of antibody specificities. A cross-reactivity ELISA was used to identify and compare antigenic determinants on the GpI molecules, and it was possible to define mAbs with specificities unique for the immunizing allergen and other mAbs that cross-reacted with one or more other members of the test panel of allergens. These murine mAbs reflect the range of specificities present in sera from grass-allergic individuals.
Genetic disruption of USP9X sensitizes colorectal cancer cells to 5-fluorouracil

The X-linked deubiquitinase USP9X affects the stability and activity of numerous regulatory proteins that influence cell survival. Recent studies suggest that decreased USP9X expression can confer a selective advantage onto developing cancer cells and thereby promotes disease progression. To examine the effect of USP9X on the cellular responses to anticancer therapies, we derived cancer cell lines in which the USP9X locus was disrupted by homologous recombination. The resulting USP9X-deficient cancer cells exhibited increased activation of apoptotic pathways and markedly decreased clonogenic survival in response to 5-fluorouracil, a chemotherapeutic drug that is widely used for treatment of gastrointestinal malignancies. These unexpected results suggest that cancers with low USP9X expression might be specifically sensitized to some conventional therapeutic agents.
Estrogen-regulated non-reproductive behaviors and breast cancer risk: Animal models and human studies

The possible role of personality patterns and psychosocial factors in breast cancer has been studied extensively, through both human and animal experiments. The data are conflicting, and the conclusions controversial. This review will serve two purposes. First, we present evidence that behavioral patterns most commonly linked to breast cancer risk are at least partly regulated by estrogens. This section will suggest that some estrogen-regulated behaviors may be markers of increased breast cancer risk. Second, we will briefly review recent findings in animals connecting psychosocial factors to cancer. We also will address the plausible biological mechanisms. The literature suggests that estrogens, particularly when exposure occurs during the critical developmental periods, such as in utero, puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, influence affective behaviors and increase breast cancer risk. The affective behaviors include depression, aggression, and alcohol intake. Thus, psychosocial and personality factors do not necessarily have a direct impact on breast cancer risk; instead, estrogens have a dual effect on behavior and on the breast.
Echocardiographic assessment of right and left ventricular function after single-lung transplantation

To evaluate the impact of single-lung transplantation on right and left ventricular performance and to identify potential preoperative characteristics that could predict postoperative outcome, a large group of patients were retrospectively evaluated by means of serial Doppler echocardiography. Twenty-six of 57 consecutive single-lung transplant patients had satisfactory Doppler echocardiographic studies before and after surgery. A significant reduction in right ventricular diastolic and systolic areas and an increase in right ventricular fractional area were noted after transplantation. The left ventricular contractility remained unchanged. In addition, significant reduction in right atrial area, right ventricular free wall thickness, and tricuspid regurgitation were also seen. Paradoxical septal motion present in eight patients before the procedure resolved in all of them after single-lung transplantation. Transthoracic echocardiography is a useful technique to document improvement in right ventricular function in 63% of patients following single-lung transplantation. Preoperative paradoxical septal motion identifies single-lung transplant recipients who have the largest postoperative right ventricular area reduction and fractional area increase. Alternative imaging modalities should be sought for single-lung transplant candidates in whom conventional transthoracic echocardiography is suboptimal.
Standoff detection of chemical traces with high specificity using mode-selective CARS

A shaped femtosecond laser can selectively excite a coherence in a particular Raman mode. This concept is used to produce chemical images of an explosive simulant in a polymer background in a standoff configuration.
The perovskite structure—a review of its role in ceramic science and technology

Starting with the history of the fundamental science of the relation of structure to composition delineated completely by Goldschmidt, we use the perovskite structure to illustrate the enormous pow...
Implementing a Cost Recovery System for Printing

The advent of Internet access, full‐text online databases, and graphic user interfaces has vastly increased the amount of hard‐copy information being supplied by today’s libraries. Individuals in both academic and non‐academic libraries are retrieving ever‐increasing amounts of online information. While the majority of libraries have been able to provide some form of electronic information, few libraries are prepared for the volume of printing that accompanies this new form of information access. Individuals without personal computers have little choice other than to print out what they find of interest online. Can a library’s decision to institute a fee for printing present a barrier to information? How does an institution implement a system to recover printing costs? In this article, the authors demonstrate one library’s attempt to provide solutions to these pressing issues.
Increased ALZ-50-Reactive Neurons in the Brains of SIDS Infants: An Indicator of Greater Neuronal Death?:

Brain tissue from 15 infants who had died from sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and 15 age-matched control infants was investigated for the presence of degenerating neurons using ALZ-50 immunocytochemical methods. Significantly increased numbers (P < .0001) of ALZ-50-reactive neurons were found in SIDS infants compared to infants dying of known causes. The location and appearance of such ALZ-50-reactive neurons in SIDS may indicate that the initial degeneration of the central nervous system occurs early in the development of affected infants. (J Child Neurol 1991;6:123-127).
Contradictory Literacy Practices of Mexican-Background Students: An Ethnography From the Rural Midwest

Abstract This ethnographic study explores the contradictory literacy practices of 10 high school students of Mexican background from the rural Midwest. The author uses the term Mexican background to encompass both settled Mexican Americans and recent-immigrant Mexicanos. Literacy is investigated through English and Spanish in a sociocultural context. Findings reveal how Mexican-background students demonstrate different literacy practices in their homes and communities than those acknowledged at school. Educators in the school setting did not recognize Mexican-background students' linguistic proficiency. In school, Mexican-background students were viewed in terms of their limited-English status and were mostly enrolled in low academic tracks. At home, Spanish-speaking parents relied on their children's sophisticated translation abilities. Results indicate that the lost opportunities for effective literacy learning at school ignored the realistic responsibilities and potential of the Mexican-background stud...
Primacy of the Renin-Angiotensin System in Mediating the Aldosterone Response to Sodium Restriction*

The primacy of angiotensin II as the mediator of the adrenal's response to sodium restriction is controversial. We administered the oral converting enzyme inhibitor, captopril (SQ 14225), to test whether reduction of angiotensin II generation for 26 h in sodium-restricted subjects would lower plasma aldosterone levels to values observed in subjects on a high sodium intake. Accordingly, plasma angiotensin II and aldosterone levels were measured in nine recumbent normal subjects on high (200 meq) and low (10 meq) sodium intakes and low sodium intake with captopril (12.5–25 mg four times a day for 26 h). Captopril reduced the sodium-restricted angiotensin II levels from 31 ± 6 to 13 ± 2 pg/ml, which was indistinguishable from that measured on the high sodium intake (11 ± 2 pg/ml). Concomitantly, aldosterone levels were reduced from 25 ± 4 to 7 ± 1 ng/dl, which was similar to the high sodium value (8 ± 1 ng/dl). There were no significant changes in serum sodium, cortisol, or potassium at the three sampling ti...
Endothelial glycocalyx disruption after cardiac surgery in infants

The endothelial glycocalyx (EGX) modulates vascular permeability and inflammation. It is disrupted by ischaemia-reperfusion. We hypothesised that cardiopulmonary bypass would elevate markers of EGX shedding, which would be associated with increased postoperative inflammation.
A Test of Mist-Net Configurations in Capturing Bats Over Stream Corridors

Most surveys for bats are conducted using mist nets in riparian areas along stream corridors. Various methods exist for deploying mist nets, but success of using different configurations has not been assessed. We tested efficiency of three configurations of mist nets during summers of 2000 and 2001 at the Milan Army Ammunition Plant (Carroll and Gibson counties) in western Tennessee. Configurations of mist nets included: I (one net placed transverse to stream), T (one net placed transverse to stream, and one net positioned perpendicular to first net in midstream), and Z (two nets positioned parallel to stream, and a center net positioned diagonally between the two nets). The study consisted of 347 net nights and 220 captures of bats (85 I, 62 T, 73 Z). Four species were captured including: 133 Lasiurus borealis, 63 Perimyotis subflavus, 15 Nycticeius humeralis, and nine Myotis austroriparius. Sex-ratios for adults were female biased, while juvenile sex-ratios were near equal. Netting results suggest that ...
DEALER BID-ASK SPREADS AND OPTIONS TRADING ON OVER-THE-COUNTER STOCKS

In this study the impact of option listings on bid-ask spreads for over-the-counter stocks is examined. Option listings are hypothesized to impact spreads by affecting the inventory-holding cost and/or the informed risk component of spreads. Univariate tests reveal that the commencement of options trading is accompanied by a statistically significant decline in percentage spreads. In addition, it is found that there is a significant rise in the average daily stock trading volume in the post-option-listing period, while there is no significant change in variance of the underlying stock returns in the short term. Regression results indicate that some stocks experience a decline in spreads even after controlling for changes in inventory-holding costs. The univariate and regression results taken in conjunction indicate a favorable impact of option listings on both the inventory-holding cost and informed-trading risk components of spread determinants. The combined evidence suggests that initiation of options trading enhances the overall liquidity of the underlying stock.
Growth in a restricted solid-on-solid model.

Extensive simulations of growth in a stochastic ballistic deposition model on a (d-1)-dimensional substrate with a constraint on neighboring interface heights are described. The interface width obeys scaling even for small systems and grows as ${t}^{\ensuremath{\beta}}$ with \ensuremath{\beta}=1/(d+1). Generalizations to include irrevelant effects such as noise reduction are discussed as are possible reasons for the discrepancies in earlier results.
Survival signaling in resting B cells.

Abstract The survival of mature resting B cells in the periphery depends on signaling from the B-cell receptor (BCR) and the B-cell activating factor of the TNF family receptor (BAFF-R). Engagement of both receptors promotes NF-κB activity, which contributes to B-cell survival through different pathways. BCR signaling leads to activation of the inhibitor of NF-κB kinase (IKK) complex via Carma1, Bcl10 and MALT1, whereas BAFF-R engagement promotes processing of NF-κB2 protein p100, which is dependent on NF-κB-inducing kinase (NIK) and IKKα. Proximal signaling intermediates are potentially common to both pathways. We suggest that BCR and BAFF-R survival signaling are mutually dependent. In addition, we propose that BAFF-R signaling enhances the expression of survival genes through direct chromatin modifications in NF-κB target gene promoters.
InGaN/GaN Quantum Dot Red $(\lambda=630~{\rm nm})$ Laser

Lasers emitting in the 600 nm wavelength range have gained attention for a number of important applications, including optical information processing, plastic fiber communication systems, optical storage, and full color (RGB) laser displays and laser projectors. Visible lasers are currently realized with GaN-based heterostructures having InGaN/GaN quantum wells as the gain media. The performance of these devices, particularly at longer wavelengths, is limited by materials inhomogeneity and effects related to a large strain-induced polarization in the quantum wells. A laser emitting in the red (λ ~ 630 nm) has not been realized. Here, we demonstrate lasers which emit at 630 nm, the longest wavelength achieved with the nitride system, by incorporating InGaN/GaN self-organized quantum dots as the gain media. Strain relaxation during dot formation results in reduced polarization fields and consequently low threshold current density, Jth=2.5 kA/cm2, small blue shift of the emission peak, very weak temperature dependenc eof Jth (T0=236 K), and linearly TE polarized output.
For Severe Carotid Stenosis Found on Ultrasound, Further Arterial Evaluation Is Unnecessary

The objective of performing carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is to reduce the risk of stroke. CEA can be justified only if the stroke morbidity and mortality from operation is significantly less than with alternative methods of management. Complications associated with preoperative invasive diagnostic procedures must be counted against the risk of operation because the invasive diagnosis would likely not be performed if surgery were not contemplated. Intra-arterial contrast angiography carries several risks including the risk of stroke and death. These risks are increased in patients with severe cerebrovascular occlusive disease as opposed to the risk in patients with indications for angiography other than carotid bifurcation disease. The benefits of carotid endarterectomy become more compelling to the extent that morbidity and mortality related to all aspects of perioperative management can be reduced. Clinical investigation, experience, and surgeon competence have combined to bring the risk of operation close to …
Molecular Dynamics and Free Energy Studies on the Wild-type and Double Mutant HIV-1 Protease Complexed with Amprenavir and Two Amprenavir-Related Inhibitors: Mechanism for Binding and Drug Resistance

The V82F/I84V double mutation is considered as the key residue mutation of the HIV-1 protease drug resistance because it can significantly lower the binding affinity of protease inhibitors in clinical uses. In the current work, the binding of amprenavir to both of the wild-type and the drug-resistant V82F/I84V mutant of the HIV-1 protease was investigated by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and was compared to those of two inhibitors in development, TMC126 and TMC114. Absolute binding free energies were calculated by molecular mechanics/Poisson−Boltzmann surface area (MM/ PBSA) methodology. The predicted binding affinities give a good explanation of structure−affinity relationship (SAR) of three studied inhibitors. Furthermore, in the 18 ns MD simulations on the free wild-type and the mutated proteases, we observed that the free mutated protease shows similar dynamic characteristics of the flap opening and a little higher structural stability than the free wild-type protease. This suggests that the eff...
From Social Psychology: What?

Decades ago, Kurt Lewin and his students conceived of dynamic interpersonal (between people) processes to account for behavior. This work initiated the field of group dynamics and indeed much of social psychology, and inspired the initial extrapolations to counseling, conceived of as a process that occurred between counselors and clients. Mainstream social psychology has shifted to a focus on intrapersonal (within people) processes. Thus, as is apparent in the papers in this special issue, translations of currently popular social psychological concepts do not address interpersonal counseling processes. Developments akin to Lewin 's work that address the interpersonal processes of counseling are occurring at the fringe, not in the mainstream, of social psychology.
Acne Keloidalis: A Review

Acne keloidalis is a chronic scarring folliculitis located on the posterior neck of young black men. It is manifest clinically by follicular papules that coalesce into firm plaques and nodules. Examination of early lesions shows that inflammation begins at the deep infundibular and isthmic levels of the hair follicle and is accompanied by absence of sebaceous glands. The etiology of acne keloidalis is uncertain, but centers around anatomic, infectious, and autoimmune theories. Successful surgical therapy of advanced cases can be carried out using a number of methods as long as subfollicular destruction of the process is achieved.
Effects of Chronic Buspirone Treatment on Cocaine Self-Administration

Cocaine abuse and dependence is a major public health problem that continues to challenge medication-based treatment. Buspirone (Buspar) is a clinically available, non-benzodiazepine anxiolytic medication that acts on both serotonin and dopamine systems. In recent preclinical studies, acute buspirone treatment reduced cocaine self-administration at doses that did not also decrease food-reinforced behavior in rhesus monkeys (Bergman et al, 2012). The present study evaluated the effectiveness of chronic buspirone treatment on self-administration of cocaine and food. Five adult rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta) were trained to self-administer cocaine and food during four 1-h daily sessions under a second-order schedule of reinforcement (FR2 [VR 16:S]). Buspirone (0.32 and 0.56 mg/kg/h) was administered intravenously through one lumen of a double-lumen catheter every 20 min for 23 h each day for 7–10 consecutive days. Each buspirone treatment period was followed by saline control treatment until drug- and food-maintained responding returned to baseline levels. Buspirone significantly reduced responding maintained by cocaine, and shifted the dose–effect curve downwards. Buspirone had minimal effects on food-maintained responding. In cocaine discrimination studies, buspirone (0.1–0.32 mg/kg, IM) did not antagonize the discriminative stimulus and rate-altering effects of cocaine in four of six monkeys. These findings indicate that buspirone selectively attenuates the reinforcing effects of cocaine in a nonhuman primate model of cocaine self-administration, and has variable effects on cocaine discrimination.
New Insights into the Interfacial Activation of Secreted Phospholipase A2

Despite numerous studies towards elucidation of the structural basis of activation of secreted PLA2s upon membrane binding (interfacial activation), no consistent or clear picture has emerged thus far. Previously we have reported significant changes in the secondary and dynamic structures of human group IB and IIA PLA2s, as well as changes in their mode of membrane binding during activation. Here we have conducted atomic resolution NMR studies on free and phospholipid micelle-bound human group IIA PLA2 (hIIAPLA2) to detect more detailed molecular events underlying interfacial activation. Two-dimensional 1H,15N-HSQC spectra have been obtained at 600 MHz on Ca2+-free and Ca2+-loaded hIIAPLA2 in the presence of dodecylphosphocholine (DPC) micelles. Upon complex formation with the micelles, signals from arginine side chain -NH2 groups of Ca2+-loaded hIIAPLA2 are observed, whereas for Ca2+-free PLA2 these signals are absent because of fast H/D exchange with the solvent. This suggests that the Ca2+-loaded hIIAPLA2 tightly binds to the micelles so these groups are sequestered at the PLA2-micellar interface and shielded from the solvent, or that they are otherwise stabilized by strong hydrogen bonding in the micelle-bound state. TROSY experiments (900 MHz) on Ca2+-loaded, 15N,13C-labeled hIIAPLA2 in the absence and presence of DPC micelles (1:600 protein-to-DPC molar ratio) identify substantial conformational changes in PLA2 upon binding to the micelles. Based on the assigned chemical shifts, important structural changes occur throughout the protein. The molecular mechanism of the strong increase in activity of hIIAPLA2 upon phospholipid surface binding is likely to involve a widening of the substrate binding pocket, mediated by a rigid-body movement of the N-terminal helix via interactions of the cationic residues (e.g., Arg7) with lipid phosphate groups. This mechanism will be tested in further studies and may be shared by other secreted PLA2 isoforms.