cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Screening for familial pancreatic cancer: is doing something better than doing nothing?

It is a frustrating and emotional issue for patient and doctor alike when an individual with a family history of pancreatic cancer (PC) seeks counselling on how best to prevent or detect this disease at a curable stage. Uniformly, these individuals have had first-hand experience of the death of a relative from PC—often within a period of months. Thus, doctors have a vulnerable patient population who would readily consider therapies ranging from blood tests to invasive procedures and even to prophylactic pancreatectomy.1 Unlike colon or breast cancer, there are no established screening or surveillance PC guidelines to assist practitioners. Due to a paucity of conclusive data, guidelines for individuals at risk for PC do not exist; however, based on opinion and limited study results, recognised experts in PC created practice recommendations for counselling high-risk individuals (HRIs) including potential surveillance and preventive measures.2 In this issue ( see page 1410 ), Langer and colleagues publish the results of a 5-year, prospective screening study of 76 HRIs from 34 of the available 110 familial PC families (mainly defined in their registry as two or more first-degree relatives affected with PC) using the German National Case Collection for Familial Pancreatic Cancer.3 Their surveillance algorithm proposed yearly …
Protein kinase C isotypes required for phorbol‐ester induction of stromelysin‐1 in rat fibroblasts

The phorbol-ester tumor promoter 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) is a potent inducer of the metalloproteinase stromelysin in fibroblasts in vivo and in several cultured cell lines. Rat-1 and Rat-2 fibroblasts, however, do not respond to TPA stimulation by induction of stromelysin gene activity, although collagenase promoter-mediated activity is induced threefold by TPA treatment in these cells. We determined that rat fibroblasts expressed protein kinase C(PKC)alpha, PKCdelta, PKCepsilon, and PKCzeta but neither the mRNA nor the protein for PKCbeta. When Rat-2 fibroblasts were stably transfected with an expression vector producing PKCbeta, however, TPA treatment of these variants resulted in a 3.1-fold induction of stromelysin promoter-mediated luciferase activity compared with a 1.3-fold induction in parental Rat-2 cells (P<0.002). Transient transfection of PKCepsilon produced a small but significant increase in TPA-stimulation of both stromelysin- and collagenase-mediated gene expression. These results suggest that there are PKC isotype-specific signaling pathways that can differentially regulate matrix metalloproteinase gene expression.
Contraction rate of rat cardiac cells in culture: responses to prolonged perfusion.

Abstract Rat cardiac muscle cells In culture were subjected to perfusion under constant conditions for periods of 8–16 hours. Capillary tubes were used as perfusion chambers to avoid the disadvantages for kinetic studies inherent in most other perfusion chambers. The contraction rates of these cells displayed a temporal response to perfusion which correlated with the age of the cells in culture. After prolonged perfusion with fresh medium, a peaked response in the contraction rate was observed when the perfusion medium was abruptly changed to medium that had been used to support the growth of a dense culture of cardiac cells for 5 days (conditioned medium).
An Exploration of Student Internet Use in India: The Technology Acceptance Model and the Theory of Planned Behaviour.

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore behavioral processes involved in internet technology acceptance and use with a sample in India, a developing country that can potentially benefit from greater participation in the web economy.Design/methodology/approach – User experience was incorporated into the technology acceptance model (TAM) and the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) to predict intentions to use the internet as well as self‐reported usage. Data were collected from 269 college students with a questionnaire methodology. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis was applied to test each theory, as well as user experience, and the variables' interactive effects on the criterion of internet usage intentions.Findings – Both TAM and TPB were supported in their predictions of internet use intentions and usage. Although a main effect for user experience did not emerge, it did significantly interact with components of both theoretical models, suggesting that it has a complex influence on interne...
A critical evaluation of x-ray small angle scattering parameters by transmission electron microscopy: GP zones in Al alloys

Abstract The relation of x-ray small angle scattering parameters to transmission electron microscopy results for spherical GP zones is investigated. The Guinier radius is found experimentally to equal (R 7/R 5)½ and the Porod radius to equal R 3/R 2. This result had been theoretically predicted by Baur and Gerold (1964). It was further found that a log normal distribution closely fits the experimental data. The use of this distribution allowed the size distribution curve of spherical GP zones to be constructed from the x-ray parameters and a knowledge of the metastable miscibility gap. This result is used to follow the evolution of size distribution in both Al-Ag and Al-Zn alloys. The application of this approach to nucleation and growth as well as redistribution processes is discussed.
The persistence of dichotomies in the study of behavioral development

The inadequacies of dichotomous views of behavioral development that oppose learned and innate behavior, or genetic and environmental determinants of behavior, have long been recognized. However, they continue to exert a powerful influence on current thinking about development, often by way of metaphors that simply recast these old ideas in a more modern technical vocabulary. The idea that the information for behavior can be attributed to either genetic or environmental sources was originated by Lorenz and provides the basis for many current dichotomous accounts of behavioral development. Lorenz's "sources of information" metaphor for development is fundamentally flawed, however, as are those more recent accounts that are based on it. The alternative interactionist account of development, most clearly articulated by Lehrman, is a far more powerful and coherent theoretical framework for development, but it has not been broadly assimilated into psychology and continues to be widely misunderstood. In particular, the interactionist account does not involve a radical environmenta-lism, does not attribute all behavior to the effects of learning, and does not interpret development as a gene-environment interaction. The attractive simplicity of dichotomous thinking encourages its continued application to the study of development despite the fact that it is clearly inadequate to the complexities of developmental analysis.
Organizational Downsizing During an Economic Crisis: Survivors' and Victims' Perspectives

The recession that began in 2007 resulted in organizational retrenchment strategies focused on workforce reductions. In order to successfully emerge from this crisis and sustain long-term viability for their organizations, managers needed to reengage surviving employees and minimize the potential for retaliatory behavior by the victims of the downsizing activities. An understanding of the perceptions of both survivors and victims is critical when managers implement downsizing and recovery strategies. The psychological contract and attribution theory were used to examine employee perceptions post downsizing. The variables of interest in this study include employee perceptions related to organizational communication; understanding and agreement with organizational strategy; local management's involvement in downsizing decisions; management responsiveness to employee needs; perceived fairness; optimism about the future of the company; and job security. A survey of 540 adults registered in an accelerated bach...
A framework for assessing resiliency of maritime transportation systems

Resiliency can be defined as the ability of the system to bounce back after a shock and return to its normal value delivery levels. In maritime transportation systems (MTS), manmade and natural disruptions reduce the capacity of ports to send and receive goods, which can result in significant negative socio-economic impacts. Implementing resiliency in these systems improves their ability to cope with disruptions hence minimising losses. This paper proposes several schemes that improve resiliency by reducing the system's vulnerability and increasing its adaptive capacity. The impact of the schemes on the system's resiliency metrics are evaluated by applying the methodology of the Networked Infrastructure Resiliency Assessment framework. The framework consists of three stages in which a network model is extracted from the physical network, the resiliency metrics are identified and the system is modelled using network optimisation techniques and a system dynamics model. The disruptions are modelled by reduci...
The function of fin rays as proprioceptive sensors in fish

The sensation of movement and position of the limbs is critical for normal behaviours in tetrapods. In the bony fishes it is unclear what proprioceptive feedback is provided from the paired fins, the piscine homologues of the tetrapod limbs. Here we test mechanosensory abilities of afferent nerves in the pectoral fin rays, limb structures used by many fish species in propulsion and manoeuvreing. We examine the bluegill sunfish, a fish that uses its pectoral fins extensively in locomotion. We find that the activity of fin ray nerve fibres reflects the amplitude and velocity of fin ray bending. Spike sorting analyses demonstrate the presence of both slowly and rapidly adapting afferent nerve fibres. The fin sensory abilities we describe substantially expand the diversity of known vertebrate proprioceptive capabilities, and suggest that the pectoral fins need to be considered as possible proprioceptive sensors in studies of their functional morphology, movement and evolution.
Sustained recovery of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy after treatment with IL-2

Currently, most patients diagnosed with progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) are infected with HIV; highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has prolonged the median survival of these patients from 3 months to 1 year.1 Despite encouraging initial case reports, other therapies, including cytosine arabinoside and alpha INF, have been disappointing for both HIV and non-HIV patients with PML.2–4 In addition to the lack of convincing evidence that these treatments alter the natural course of PML, there are concerns of toxicity in patients with low blood counts. Because a plausible biologic basis exists for a role for recombinant interleukin-2 (rIL-2) in the reconstitution of impaired antiviral immune functions, this immunotherapy was administered previously in a patient with PML with apparent success.5 Based on this report, we chose rIL-2 as initial therapy for a patient with myelodysplasia who developed PML. A 58-year-old woman with a 20-year history of myelodysplastic syndrome presented in March 2000 with dysarthria and right hand clumsiness, which developed …
A two-level architecture for a large data base

A two-level architecture is being proposed for extending third generation computer systems such as the S/370. By attaching a DASD processor to each DASD, performance in large data base applications can be improved. This improvement is achievable without modifying existing data base organization. The DASD processor is very simple and can be implemented using commercially available microprocessors.
Physician as patient: lessons to learn.

I lost my vision when I awoke on the morning of the anniversary of my wife's death from disseminated breast cancer. As a physician, I had rarely given much credence to “stress” as a factor in illne...
Relative purity of thrombin-based hemostatic agents used in surgery.

Abstract Background Hemostatic agents used in surgery contain thrombin isolated from either a bovine or human source. The use of thrombin derived from a bovine source has been associated with the development of an abnormal immune response, but a study of the immunoreactivity of the various commercially available thrombin preparations has not been conducted. This study determined the relative purity of commercially available thrombin preparations, if humans have natural antibodies that recognize these preparations, and if elicited antibodies against bovine thrombin cross-react with other bovine or human hemostatic agents. Study design The purity of hemostatic agents was determined by protein and substrate assays, electrophoresis, and immunoblotting. The natural antigenicity and cross-reactivity of elicited antibodies were measured by ELISA using serum samples from 82 donors from the Red Cross and serum collected from patients exposed to bovine thrombin, respectively. Results All of the bovine thrombin preparations were found to contain the xenogeneic carbohydrate galactoseα1-3galactose. The natural antigenicity of the bovine thrombin preparations was greater than that of a human thrombin preparation and similar to that of porcine aortic endothelial cells. Antibodies elicited against bovine thrombin were found to cross-react with other bovine preparations and other xenoantigens but not with human hemostatic preparations. Conclusions All patients have antibovine thrombin antibodies, even before exposure to bovine thrombin–containing hemostatic agents. The cross-reactivity of elicited antibovine thrombin antibodies indicates that if a patient has been sensitized to a bovine product, it is likely safer to use a human-derived product in lieu of a bovine product.
The Hydra Electron Beam Generator

The Hydra electron beam generator was designed to simrultaneously produce two 1 MV, 0.5 MA, 80 nanosecond electron beams that could be combined to form a single beam. The machine, undergoing final developmental tests, has generated a 0.5 MA, 1 MV peak electron beam from each line. This accelerator consists of a low-inductance Marx generator, two water-dielectric pulse-forming (PF) and impedance-transforming transmission lines and two low-inductance, high-current diodes. A description of the generator is presented along with developmental studies and initial testing data. The Hydra machine is based on accelerator principles described in the literature. The Marx generator is submerged in transformer oil and separated from the transmission line water by a lucite interface. The Marx charges each coaxial PF transmission line which is deionized water insulated to 3 MV in 0.9 microseconds. At peak voltage, a 3 MV SF6 spark gap electrically connects the 4 ohm PF line to the impedance transforming (4 ohm to 2 ohm) transmission line. The pulse is transmitted through this line to the single radial insulator diode. A 30 kilojoule, 100 nanosecond duration electron beam is formed by a cold cathode in each diode.
Subcutaneous insulin therapy in the hospital setting: issues, concerns, and implementation.

ABSTRACT Objective To summarize issues and recommendations regarding subcutaneous insulin therapy in various clinical settings in the hospital. Results The inpatient insulin regimen must be tailored to the specific clinical circumstance of the individual patient. Because nutritional intake is not necessarily provided as discrete meals in the hospital, the insulin dose requirement can be subclassified into “basal” and “nutritional” needs. In addition, the insulin requirement is generally increased in the presence of acute illness and stress. Thus, components of the insulin requirement are divided into basal, nutritional, and correction insulin. When the physician writes insulin orders, the basal and nutritional components are written as programmed or scheduled insulin, and the correction-dose insulin is written as an algorithm to supplement the scheduled insulin. Total insulin requirements may vary widely. Practical guidelines and suggestions are presented for selection of appropriate insulins, the delivery route, and the logical apportionment to programmed and correction insulin doses for hospitalized patients who are eating or not eating. Moreover, the role of bedside blood glucose monitoring in the hospital setting is discussed. Conclusion Strict glycemic management in hospitalized patients has been shown to improve outcomes. Development and implementation of specific strategies for insulin delivery and improved methods for blood glucose monitoring should help to achieve target blood glucose levels safely. (Endocr Pract. 2004;10[Suppl 2]:81-88)
Bulk FinFET junction isolation by heavy species and thermal implants

One of the challenges for bulk-Si FinFET is forming the junction isolation at the 14nm node and beyond. As the fins are scaled, source-drain punch-through can occur, which causes large leakage currents. A punch-through stop (PTS) layer/structure at the bottom of the fin is introduced to suppress this sub-fin leakage current. However, the introduction of PTS may result in dopant back diffusion into the active fin region from the PTS implant(s). This may result in device shift and variability. In this paper, we investigated novel approaches to reduce dopant back diffusion into the active fin region. Specifically, we studied the impact of (1) Carbon co-implants to block the dopant up-diffusion into the active fin region, (2) implants with heavy species at room temperature, and (3) thermal implants with heavy species. Results show that a lower channel concentration is achieved with antimony. These approaches can be extended to develop junction isolation for bulk FinFETs for 10nm and beyond.
The use of intravenous opioids to provide analgesia in critically ill, premature neonates: A research critique

The intravenous (i.v.) administration of opioids to neonates is a common method of providing analgesia in the intensive care setting. This paper reviews and critiques the studies that have investigated this intervention. The studies are grouped into four major areas: pharmacokinetic studies; i.v. opioids for anesthesia; i.v. opioids for sedation or analgesia in mechanically ventilated neonates; and cardiorespiratory effects of i.v. opioids. An attempt is made to synthesize current knowledge about the analgesic effects and side effects associated with the use of i.v. opioids in neonates. The intent is to stimulate additional research on the management of neonatal pain using opioid analgesics.
On certain timelike symmetry properties and the evolution of matter field space-times that admit them

This paper treats matter field space-times admitting timelike conformai motions and timelike members of the family of contracted Ricci collineations (FCRC). The physical properties of these timelike symmetries in relation to the time development of relativistic matter field space-times are developed in terms of a number of specific theorems. Insofar as possible, the similarities and differences of the timelike conformal motions and the FCRC are discussed in some detail. Special applications are given that illustrate the possible value of the present considerations and related conservation expressions in relation to the Cauchy problem of matter field space-times admitting timelike symmetry properties.
Improved modeling of magnetic impedance sensing system for damage detection

Magnetic transducers have been applied in a number of diverse fields including non-contact measurement, active damping and non-destructive evaluation. Recently, due to the magneto-mechanical coupling characteristics between a magnetic transducer and the underneath metallic structure, such type of transducers is employed in impedance-based damage detection schemes, which can facilitate damage detection in a non-contact manner, and have potential advantages in monitoring structures with complicated geometries and boundaries. In this research, we formulate detailed first-principle-based modeling of the magnetic impedance transducer. In particular, we focus on accurately modeling the coupling between the impedance of the magnetic transducer and the electrical and structural impedance of the host metallic structure. The modeling and analysis are validated by experimental studies.
Selective predation by a sculpin and a stonefly on two chironomids in laboratory feeding trials

Sculpin and stonefly predators fed selectively on the larvae of the chironomids Paratendipes over Cricotopus in laboratory stream microcosms. In these experiments, Cricotopus were usually tube-dwelling, whereas Paratendipes were usually free-living. Paratendipes were also bright red, which may have influenced selectivity by visual feeding sculpin, but tactile feeding stoneflies were most likely influenced only by the difference in tube-dwelling behavior of the two prey types. Both chironomids were abundant in the field, but exhibited discrete microhabitat distributions. Field collected sculpin ate mostly Cricotopus, probably because Cricotopus occurred in a more accessible microhabitat.
An inverse-free technique for attitude control of spacecraft using CMGs

Abstract This paper presents a technique for CMG-based attitude control of spacecraft that does not require calculating the pseudo-inverse of the CMG Jacobian matrix. In order to obtain a steering law, the transpose of the Jacobian matrix is used rather than its pseudo-inverse. The transpose-based method alleviates some of the problems inherent in the existing steering laws that use the pseudo-inverse, such as high gimbal rates near singularities. The proposed method provides viable rates for the CMGs even when the gimbals pass through a singular configuration. The validity of the steering law is demonstrated using Liapunov's stability theorem, and it is shown that the method provides superior results when compared with conventional steering laws that use the pseudo-inverse of the CMG Jacobian Matrix. In addition, the redundant feature of the 4-gimbal CMG system is exploited to force the gimbals to attain certain specified angles while the spacecraft's attitude is being controlled. This is done by adding appropriate null motion to the CMGs. The specified angles for the gimbals can be arbitrary as long as their net momentum is consistent with the requirements of the spacecraft.
An Integer-Programming-Based Approach to the Close-Enough Traveling Salesman Problem

We address a variant of the Euclidean traveling salesman problem known as the close-enough traveling salesman problem (CETSP), where the traveler visits a node if it enters a compact neighborhood set of that node. We formulate a mixed-integer programming model based on a discretization scheme for the problem. Both lower and upper bounds on the optimal CETSP tour length can be derived from the solution of this model, and the quality of the bounds obtained depends on the granularity of the discretization scheme. Our approach first develops valid inequalities that enhance the bound and solvability of this formulation. We then provide two alternative formulations, one that yields an improved lower bound on the optimal CETSP tour length, and one that greatly improves the solvability of the original formulation by recasting it as a two-stage problem amenable to decomposition. Computational results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed methods.
LOW RESOLUTION OPTICAL SPECTROSCOPY OF RETINYL POLYENES: LOW LYING ELECTRONIC LEVELS AND SPECTRAL BROADNESS*

— Optical absorption and emission spectra of retinal, axerophtene, anhydrovitamin A, and 2,10-dimethylundecapentaene in rigid glass matrixes at 77°K are presented. An interpretation of the observed spectra which provides a rationalization on the basis of electronic structure for the diffuse nature of the retinal spectrum is discussed. For the undecapentaene a weakly absorbing 1Ag state was found 3250 cm-1 lower in energy than the level responsible for the strong visible absorption.
Potential public health hazards of biosynthetic milk hormones.

The use of biosynthetic milk hormones raises fundamental ethical, social, and economic considerations, including the continued viability of the small family dairy farm and adverse veterinary effects. The past and expanding use of synthetic bovine growth hormone manufactured by the Agricultural Chemicals Division of Elanco (Eli Lilly and Co.) in conjunction with Dow Chemical Co. and Upjohn Co., and its methionyl analog, manufactured by American Cyanamid Co. and Monsanto Co., also poses significant potential public health hazards which have not so far been investigated. These concerns are exacerbated by the domination of synthetic hormone research by industry and its indentured academics, by failure of the industries concerned to disclose their unpublished data, by their manipulation of published data, and by refusal to label milk and meat from cows treated with biosynthetic hormones, and by denial of consumers' rights to know. These concerns are further exacerbated by the abdication of regulatory responsibility by the Food and Drug Administration and U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Aprepitant for the prevention of nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy and postoperative recovery

Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) and postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) can negatively impact patient quality of life, functional performance and activities of daily living. Although the development of serotonin receptor antagonists has greatly improved the control of acute emesis, delayed CINV remains a significant clinical issue. Aprepitant (Emend(®)) is the first commercially available drug from a new class of agents, the neurokinin-1 receptor antagonists. Elucidation of its mechanism of action has produced a greater understanding of the pathophysiology of nausea and vomiting. Oral aprepitant, in combination with a selective serotonin (5-HT3) receptor antagonist and corticosteroids, is indicated for the prevention of acute and delayed nausea and vomiting associated with highly and moderately emetogenic chemotherapy in adults. Aprepitant alone or in combination only with dexamethasone does not optimally control acute emesis compared with triple combination therapy. By contrast, aprepitant as monotherapy is indicated for the prevention of PONV. Aprepitant represents an emerging class of agents and its addition to standard therapy provides an advanced benefit in the prevention and treatment of CINV and PONV. Investigations of aprepitant for other indications are ongoing.
Feasibility of biohydrogen production at low temperatures in unbuffered reactors

Abstract Feasibility of biohydrogen production by dark fermentation at two temperatures (22 °C and 37 °C) in unbuffered batch reactors was evaluated using heat-treated compost as inocula and sucrose as substrate, without any initial pH adjustment or inorganic nutrient supplements. Gas production was quantified by two different pressure release methods – intermittent pressure release (IPR) and continuous pressure release (CPR). Hydrogen production (47.2 mL/g COD/L) and sucrose-to-hydrogen conversion efficiency (53%) were both found to be highest at the lower temperature and IPR conditions. Hydrogen production was higher at the lower temperature irrespective of the pressure release condition. The high yield of 4.3 mol of hydrogen/mole of sucrose obtained in this study under IPR conditions at 22 °C is equivalent to or better than the literature values reported for buffered reactors. Even though literature reports have implied potential inhibition of hydrogen production at high hydrogen partial pressures resulting from IPR conditions, our results did not show any negative effects at hydrogen partial pressures exceeding 5.0 × 10 4 Pa. While our findings are contrary to literature reports, they make a strong case for cost-effective hydrogen production by dark fermentation.
Empowerment for the year 2000 and beyond

Analyzes recent thought relating to the forced restructuring of businesses. In general, businesses are unable to compete in the new global environment in their present state because of worldwide competition; national changes involving mergers, bank failures and company takeovers. Companies which can incorporate a team philosophy into their organizations will have a better chance of surviving in the year 2000. Details the new and more stringent requirements that are placed on leadership and the empowerment of teams through leadership. Focuses on information as to how to choose the right leadership and teams. Uses significant examples of businesses which have successfully restructured to illustrate the importance of fostering a leadership style which will advocate teamwork.
An alternative approach to the problem of assessing stabilization energies in cyclic conjugated hydrocarbons

Reactions are described that provide an alternative basis for evaluating stabilization energies of cyclic conjugated hydrocarbons. These reactions involve no changes in hybridization of carbon atoms and minimal changes in the nature of the carbon-hydrogen bonds. Such reactions exemplify those structural features that lead to stabilization. Theoretical and experimental molecular indices are introduced as a measure of these stabilizing effects. Calculated values of these indices are compared to experimental results.
Limb deficiency and splenogonadal fusion

We report a 10-year-old boy with tetramelic limb deficiencies, splenogonadal fusion, and mild mandibular and oral abnormalities. This patient is quite typical of 14 reported cases with this combination of findings. This association must be nosologically closely related to the Hanhart syndrome and other syndromes of limb deficiency and orofacial abnormalities. Recent experience does not support the idea that limb reduction with splenogonadal fusion is an invariably lethal dominant disorder.
Honeymoon Vacation: Sexual-Orientation Prejudice and Inconsistent Behavioral Responses

Majority group members often hold inconsistent attitudes and behave inconsistently toward minority group members (LaPiere, 1934). We conceptually replicated LaPiere (1934) to examine discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in two studies. As predicted, randomly selected bed-and-breakfasts were more likely to discriminate against gay male individuals when impersonally contacted (Study 1) than when personally contacted (Study 2), suggesting an attitude–behavior discrepancy. We reason that establishments were more likely to discriminate when they did not have the motivation to appear nonprejudicial, and we discuss the results in terms of the MODE model of attitude–behavioral processes.
Tetrahydro-β-carbolines: Affinities for tryptamine and serotonergic binding sites

The affinities of four tetrahydro-beta-carbolines at [3H]tryptamine, [3H]5-HT (5-HT1), and [3H]spiperone (5-HT2) binding sites in rat cerebral cortex were investigated. The unsubstituted tetrahydro-beta-carboline was the most potent of the four compounds at all three binding sites, but was 200-400 times more potent at the tryptamine site than at either of the serotonin sites.
A stable silicon anode based on the uniform dispersion of quantum dots in a polymer matrix

Abstract We propose a novel approach to the fabrication of silicon-containing anodes for lithium-ion batteries. Our approach is based on a liquid dispersion comprising of silicon quantum dots, carbon nanotubes and polyvinylpirrolidone (PVP) as a polymer additive. Coating of this dispersion onto copper foil followed by annealing in inert atmosphere allows the realization of a structure with good electrical conductivity, high specific surface area and with a carbon-based coating preventing the direct contact between the silicon particles and the electrolyte. This structure maintains a specific charge capacity of approximately 1000 mAh g −1 for 200 cycles and reaches a coulombic efficiency of 99.8%. The addition of PVP is a simple and scalable way of realizing, after annealing, a carbon-based matrix which surrounds the silicon particles and which greatly enhances the stability of the battery. The proposed process is based on commercially available carbon nanotubes, on silicon quantum dots which are produced using a scalable plasma-enhanced chemical vapour deposition technique, and is compatible with large area coating and processing techniques. The fabrication protocol described in this contribution represents a step towards the successful commercial utilization of silicon-based nanomaterials for energy storage applications.
The effects of choice of anion (X=C1−, SCN−, NO3−) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) chain length on the local and supramolecular structures of LnX3/PEG complexes

We have structurally characterized many LnCl3, Ln(SCN)3 and Ln(NO3)3 complexes of triethylene through heptaethylene glycols. The chain length typically controls the primary coordination sphere and the number of additional inner-sphere ligands (anions, water or solvent molecules) present. Of the three anions studied, the nitrate anion, with its preference for bidentate coordination and its hard oxygen donors, has the greatest effect on the PEG conformations. A third aspect of these complexes which has typically been overlooked is the nature of the supramolecular structures generated by hydrogen bonding of the PEG alcoholic termini and water molecules. In this presentation we review the several different structural series and discuss subtle trends that are apparent from small differences in the observed inner and outer-sphere coordination as a function of anion type, PEG chain length, and metal ionic radius.
Brefeldin A (BFA) disrupts the organization of the microtubule and the actin cytoskeletons

Previous inquiries into the effects of Brefeldin A (BFA) have largely concentrated on dynamics of ER-Golgi membrane traffic, predominantly after relatively short treatments with the drug. We have now analyzed the effects of long BFA treatment on overall cell morphology, behavior of resident and cycling Golgi proteins, and microtubular and actin cytoskeletons organization. Prolonged (15 h or 40 h) treatment of normal rat kidney (NRK) cells with BFA caused dramatic swelling of the Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) and shifted its localization to the periphery of the cells. The Golgi complex was disassembled and Golgi proteins redistributed and persisted in partially distinct compartments. Prolonged BFA treatment resulted in marked disruption of the MT and actin cytoskeleton. Peripheral MT were absent and tubulin staining was concentrated in short astral MT emanating from the microtubule organizing center (MTOC). Actin stress fibers were largely absent and actin staining was concentrated within a perinuclear area. Within this region, actin localization overlapped that of the membrane transport factor p115. BFA effects on Golgi structure and on MT and actin organization showed the same threshold -- all could be partially reversed after 30 min and 15 h BFA treatment but were irreversible after 40h incubation with the drug. The observed effects were not induced by signaling pathways involved in apoptotic phenomena or in ER stress response pathways. These results suggest that BFA inhibits the activity of key molecules that regulate MT and actin cytoskeleton dynamics. The findings can be used as the basis for elucidating the molecular mechanism of BFA action on the cytoskeleton.
[Comment on “Keep Religion out of National Space Policy”] Guidelines for writing about science and religion

When scientists write about the relation between science and religion, I suggest they follow four principles: (1) Be accurate in statements of fact and in the use of terminology; (2) use examples that are germane to the issue at hand; (3) provide conclusions that follow logically from the given premises and discussion; and (4) acknowledge that the practice of science has its own dogma. Scientists routinely follow the first three principles when writing their science reports. But a recent Eos article on science and religion [Carter, 2006] violated these three principles. It is important to discuss how scientists sometimes err in statements on religion because nonscientists will detect any errors and will conclude that scientists cannot make a rational case for their position.
Classical Calculation of Differential Cross Section for Scattering from a Coulomb Potential with Exponential Screening

The potential energy function considered is $V=(\frac{{Z}_{1}{Z}_{2}{e}^{2}}{r})\mathrm{exp}(\ensuremath{-}\frac{r}{a})$, which approximately represents the potential between two atoms in collision taking into account the screening of the atomic electrons. Here the first factor is the Coulomb potential and the exponential factor contains a screening length $a$. It is shown first that a classical orbital calculation should give valid results under certain conditions in problems where ions with energies of many thousands of electron volts scatter from atoms. Calculated values of the impact parameters and differential cross sections are presented for all angles of scattering. These quantities are tabulated for a wide range of parameters corresponding to various degrees of screening.
A Deeper Look at the Social Support Index: A Multi-Dimensional Assessment

The role of social support is an important factor in building resilience within families. While robust definitions of social support exist, few assessments parallel these conceptual frameworks. This study tested the psychometric properties of one commonly used measure of social support (SSI) with 651 low income families through a local public housing program. Results of this study show that the SSI can approach a more robust assessment of social support when the measure is used as a multi-dimensional tool. Conclusions offer a subscale scoring system for this assessment which can be used in both research and clinical practice.
Attitudinal effects of stress and justification: A replication and extension

Abstract The effects of stress, justification, and timing of justification on liking for a dull task were investigated in a 2 × 2 × 2 factorial design. The results under Low Fear replicated an earlier study by Freedman: when justification was given before performing the task, the lower the justification, the greater the liking for the task; but when justification was given after completing the labor, the less the justification, the less the enjoyment of the task. Under High Fear, no significant effects for either justification or timing of justification were found. However, High-Fear subjects found the task significantly more enjoyable than those under Low Fear, supporting a view that dissonance aroused by commitment to an unpleasant, forthcoming experience was reduced by positively evaluating the experimental task.
Energy use efficiency in U.S. manufacturing: A nonparametric analysis

This study approaches the measurement of energy use efficiency in the U.S. manufacturing sector from a production theoretic perspective. The method of Data Envelopment Analysis is utilized to analyze the energy efficiency for the aggregate manufacturing sector as well as for the six highest energy consuming 2-digit sectors for the period 1970–2001, and several alternative models are proposed. The new measures of energy efficiency suggested in this study do provide some additional insights and could be helpful if used alongside the traditional measure of energy efficiency based on energy intensity.
Evaluation of an empirical model of coastal bermudagrass production

Abstract An empirical simulation model is presented. In this analysis, data from three independent field studies are used to evaluate the model. Regression equations are used to relate each of the three model parameters to nitrogen level. Exponential dependence of mean time and time spread upon nitrogen is shown, while total yield follows the logistic equation. Example estimates of cumulative yield over time and of seasonal yield for a selected nitrogen level for the three locations are illustrated.
The Occupational Transmission Genogram: Exploring Family Scripts Affecting Rolesof Work and Career in Couple and Family Dynamics

With the significant changes in attitude and application regarding career versus lifestyle within the past 50 years, the importance of addressing these issues in the counseling session has become one of greater relevance. Specifically in couples counseling, the influence of career choice, success, and financial security is often overlooked instead of explored, and the active application of these details toward the understanding of larger scale themes within the relationship is underutilized. The Occupational Transmission genogram is designed to help the clinician explore personal scripts and attitudes developed in the family of origin that have been transmitted through generations, directly affecting career choices of individuals and ultimately influencing patterns of interactional process within couple relationships.
Nystagmus and postural instability after headshake in patients with vestibular dysfunction

Nystagmus after rapid head-shaking (post-headshake nystagmus) is often seen in patients with vestibulopathy. Post-headshake nystagmus is transient and is frequently associated with symptoms of dizziness, dysequilibrium, or vertigo. The phenomenon presumably reflects headshake-induced asymmetry in vestibulo-ocular reflex pathways, which persists after head-shaking stops. We postulated that the same vestibular imbalance that underlies post-headshake nystagmus might produce an equivalent in postural instability. To test this hypothesis, we investigated the effect of headshake on postural control and eye movements in patients who exhibited post-headshake nystagmus, vestibulopathy, or both. Postural instability was quantified with a dynamic platform device, whereas eye movements were recorded with electrooculography. Ten normal controls and 21 patients with a history of post-headshake nystagmus or unilateral vestibulopathy were evaluated. Subjects were tested for 20 seconds before and immediately after passive horizontal headshake (+/- 30-degree amplitude) at 2 Hz for 20 seconds. Postural stability was assessed while subjects stood with eyes closed, and the floor was modulated proportionally with sway. The difference in normalized peak-to-peak sway (equilibrium score) before and after headshake was assessed in all subjects and compared between groups. Post-headshake nystagmus was documented by electro-oculography recorded during posturography. Results for normal controls and vestibulopathic subjects without post-headshake nystagmus showed only a small transient decline in postural stability after headshake. Those with post-headshake nystagmus (regardless of caloric asymmetry) showed a robust decline in postural stability.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Effects of prenatal ethanol exposure on juvenile play-fighting and postpubertal aggression in rats.

The effects of prenatal ethanol exposure on juvenile play-fighting and postpubetal aggressive behavior in rats were longitudinally assessed in the context of more conventionally applied physical and behavioral measures. Pregnant animals were treated with either 2 gm/kg/day ethanol or isocaloric sucrose over gestation Days 6—19. Reproduction and somatic variables included maternal weight over gestation, offspring weight over Days 1—90, and age at eye opening and incisor eruption. Behavioral variables consisted of negative geotaxis, olfactory discrimination, activity, juvenile play-fighting, and postpubetal aggression. Ethanol offspring had lower birth weights, but there was no significant prenatal treatment effect on subsequent offspring weights or on any other reproductive or somatic variable. Both male and female ethanol-exposed offspring exhibited more play-fighting responses when paired with same-sex controls. Postpubertal aggression levels were assessed in males only. Ethanol-exposed offspring were mo...
An Examination of the Effect of Reynolds Number on Airfoil Performance

The standard of living throughout the world has increased dramatically over the last 30 years and is projected to continue to rise. This growth leads to an increased demand on conventional energy sources, such as fossil fuels. However, these are finite resources. Thus, there is an increasing demand for alternative energy sources, such as wind energy. Much of current wind turbine research focuses on large-scale (>1 MW), technologically-complex wind turbines installed in areas of high average wind speed (>20 mph). An alternative approach is to focus on small-scale (1–10kW), technologically-simple wind turbines built to produce power in low wind regions. While these turbines may not be as efficient as the large-scale systems, they require less industrial support and a less complicated electrical grid since the power can be generated at the consumer’s location. To pursue this approach, a design methodology for small-scale wind turbines must be developed and validated. This paper addresses one element of this methodology, airfoil performance prediction. In the traditional design process, an airfoil is selected and published lift and drag curves are used to optimize the blade twist and predict performance. These published curves are typically generated using either experimental testing or a numeric code, such as PROFIL (the Eppler Airfoil Design and Analysis Code) or XFOIL. However, the published curves often represent performance over a different range of Reynolds numbers than the actual design conditions. Wind turbines are typically designed from 2-D airfoil data, so having accurate airfoil data for the design conditions is critical. This is particularly crucial for small-scale, fixed-pitched wind turbines, which typically operate at low Reynolds numbers (<500,000) where airfoil performance can change significantly with Reynolds number. From a simple 2-D approach, the ideal operating condition for an airfoil to produce torque is the angle of attack at which lift is maximized and drag is minimized, so prediction of this angle will be compared using experimental and simulated data. Theoretical simulations in XFOIL of the E387 airfoil, designed for low Reynolds numbers, suggest that this optimum angle for design is Reynolds number dependent, predicting a difference of 2.25° over a Reynolds number range of 460,000 to 60,000. Published experimental data for the E387 airfoil demonstrate a difference of 2.0° over this same Reynolds number range. Data taken in the Baylor University Subsonic Wind Tunnel for the S823 airfoil shows a similar trend. This paper examines data for the E387 and S823 airfoils at low Reynolds numbers (75,000, 150,000, and 200,000 for the S823) and compares the experimental data with XFOIL predictions and published PROFIL predictions.© 2011 ASME
Synthesis and monoamine transporter binding properties of 3beta-(3',4'-disubstituted phenyl)tropane-2beta-carboxylic acid methyl esters.

3β-(3‘-Methyl-4‘-chlorophenyl)tropane-2-carboxylic acid methyl ester (3b, RTI-112) is a 3-phenyltropane analogue that has high affinity for both the dopamine and serotonin transporters (DAT and 5-HTT, respectively). Compound 3b shows significant reduction of cocaine self-administration in rhesus monkeys, yet fails to maintain robust drug self-administration. PET studies revealed that unlike more DAT selective analogues such as GBR 12 909 and 3-(4-chlorophenyl)tropane-2-carboxylic acid phenyl ester (RTI-113), 3b shows no detectible DAT occupancy when dosed at its ED50 for reduction of cocaine self-administration. In contrast, it highly occupies the 5-HTT at this dose. In this study, we report the synthesis and monoamine transporter binding potency of several new 3-(3‘,4‘-disubstituted phenyl)tropane-2-carboxylic acid methyl esters (3c−k), which have binding properties very similar to 3b. With the exception of the 3‘,4‘-dimethyl analogue 3k, all of the compounds possess subnanomolar IC50 and Ki values at th...