cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Morphology-dependent activity of Pt nanocatalysts for ethanol oxidation in acidic media: Nanowires versus nanoparticles

a b s t r a c t The morphology of nanostructured Pt catalysts is known to affect significantly the kinetics of various reactions. Herein, we report on a pronounced morphology effect in the electrooxidation of ethanol and carbon monoxide (CO) on Pt nanowires and nanoparticles in an acidic solution. The high resolution trans- mission electron microscopy analysis showed the inherent morphology difference between these two nanostructured catalysts. Voltammetric and chronoamperometric studies of the ethanol electrooxida- tion revealed that these nanowires had a higher catalytic activity by a factor of two relative to these nanoparticles. The rate for CO monolayer oxidation exhibits similar morphology-dependent behavior with a markedly enhanced rate on the Pt nanowires. In situ infrared reflection-absorption spectroscopy measurements revealed a different trend for chemisorbed CO formation and CO2-to-acetic acid reaction product ratios on these two nanostructures. The morphology-induced change in catalytic activity and selectivity in ethanol electrocatalysis is discussed in detail. © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Parametric shortest path algorithms with an application to cyclic staffing

Abstract Let G=(V, E) be a digraph with n vertices including a special vertex s. Let E′ ⊆ E be a designated subset of edges. For each e ϵ E there is an associated real number ƒ 1 (e) . Furthermore, let ƒ 2 (e)=1 if e ϵ E′ and ƒ 2 (e)=0 if e ϵ E − E′. The length of edge e is ƒ 1 (e)− λƒ 2 (e) , where λ is a parameter that takes on real values. Thus the length varies additively in λ for each edge of E′. We shall present two algorithms for computing the shortest path from s to each vertex υ ϵ V parametrically in the parameter λ, with respective running times O(n3) and O(n|E|log n). For dense digraphs the running time of the former algorithm is comparable to the fastest (non-parametric) shortest path algorithm known. This work generalizes the results of Karp [2] concerning the minimum cycle mean of a digraph, which reduces to the case that E′=E. Furthermore, the second parametric algorithm may be used in conjunction with a transformation given by Bartholdi, Orlin, and Ratliff [1] to give an O(n2 log n) algorithm for the cyclic staffing problem.
Internal tide generation by arbitrary two-dimensional topography

To date, analytical models of internal tide generation by two-dimensional ridges have considered only idealized shapes. Here, we advance the Green function approach to address the generation of internal tides by two-dimensional topography of arbitrary shape, employing the Wentzel-Kramers-Brillouin (WKB) approximation to consider the impact of non-uniform stratifications. This allows for a more accurate analytical estimation of tidal conversion rates. Studies of single and double ridges reveal that the conversion rate and the nature of the radiated internal tide can be sensitive to the topographic shape, particularly around criticality and when there is interference between wave fields generated by neighbouring ridges. The method is then applied to the study of two important internal tide generation sites, the Hawaiian and Luzon Ridges, where it captures key features of the generation process.
“Naked” Gold Nanoparticles: Synthesis, Characterization, Catalytic Hydrogen Evolution, and SERS

We describe the synthesis of gold nanoparticles upon reduction of Au2O3 by molecular hydrogen. The reaction generates particles that contain no foreign stabilizer other than gold or water species. The reaction readily proceeds at slightly elevated temperatures and somewhat higher than atmospheric pressure of H2, and these two parameters control the size of the particles produced. The suspensions of particles were analyzed for particle size, size distribution, residual ions, and metal-atom concentrations using TEM, dynamic light scattering, electrophoretic mobility, pH, conductivity, ICP, and UV−vis spectra. The particles were shown to be highly active redox catalysts in the conversion of strongly reducing radicals to hydrogen from water in basic solutions. Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectra of a probe molecule, p-aminothiphenol, adsorbed on the particles surface was determined, and the effects of pH, electron injection, and Au(III) ions on the SERS spectra were measured. These effects are co...
Pulmonary Adverse Events of Anti-Tumor Necrosis Factor-α Antibody Therapy

Abstract It is well established that anti-tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα) antibody is an efficacious disease-modifying drug for rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn's disease. Unfortunately, its long-term use can be associated with ominous pulmonary adverse events, most notably mycobacterial and fungal lung infections. To this end, reactivation of latent tuberculosis infection represents a serious concern of anti-TNFα antibody therapy. Given the anticipated increase in the approved indications for these drugs, community-based physicians should be made aware of these events for implementation of better patient selection for anti-TNFα antibody therapy and initiation of appropriate measures once these adverse events are observed. This review will address this issue by outlining: 1) the role of TNFα in host inflammatory response to injury, particularly during mycobacterial and fungal infections; 2) the salutary effects of anti-TNFα antibody therapy in human diseases; and 3) the ominous pulmonary adverse events associated with these drugs.
Preparing members for “Here-and-Now” group counseling

Abstract This article supports the literature that recommends preparation of group members for “here-and-now” group counseling and offers a pretraining guide for participants
Initiation of chromosomal DNA synthesis in vitro.

An in vitro complementation assay for initiation of chromosomal DNA replication is described. The initiation reaction is dependent upon extract from either of two hybrid-plasmid containing strains. Each hybrid plasmid carries a suppressor of dnaA-ts mutations. The in vitro DNA synthesis is heavily biased toward the origin region, and the origin of replication (oriC) is replicated as determined by DNA-DNA hybridizations.
Design of Cationic Conjugated Polyelectrolytes for DNA Concentration Determination

Cationic conjugated polyelectrolytes poly110 and poly120 were designed, synthesized, and characterized with the anticipation of function in the determination of double-stranded DNA concentration [dsDNA]. Their structures contain a π-delocalized optically active backbone composed of phenylene−fluorene segments copolymerized with 2,1,3-benzothiadiazole (BT) units and charged pendant groups that allow excellent solubility in water. The subscript in poly1x refers to the molar percent of BT units in the chain. Addition of dsDNA to poly110 or poly120 results in a change in the color of emission from blue to green. These spectral changes can be treated to obtain the parameter δ, which can be used to generate calibration curves that indicate [dsDNA]. Analysis of photoluminescence spectra reveals that dsDNA addition gives rise to more efficient FRET from blue emitting segments to the BT sites, an increase in the BT emission quantum yield, and partial quenching of the phenylene−fluorene segments. Studies were also ...
The effects of grain-refining precipitates on the development of toughness in 4340 steel

Grain-refining precipitates have been identified as microstructural features that adversely affect the toughness of grain-refined, high-strength steels. For the case of an air-melt, aluminum-killed 4340 steel processed in a conventional manner, the presence of coarse A1N and TiN precipitates is shown to have a deleterious effect on both room-temperature impact toughness and fracture toughness. Coarse A1N precipitates, which evolve during the primary and secondary breakdown of the steel, are largely responsible for the development of quasicleavage fracture at ambient temperatures and the formation of fine-scale microvoids at upper-shelf temperatures. The refinement of grain-refining precipitates provides substantial increases in both lower-shelf and upper-shelf toughness for conditions associated with a critical damage mechanism of fracture. Improvements in upper-shelf toughness specifically result from a change in the species of grain-refining precipitate that nucleates secondary microvoids during the latter stages of fracture, viz. a refinement-induced transition from A1N to smaller TiN precipitates in the microstructure. This refinement-based mechanism of toughening is operative over a broad range of strength, although improvements in the transverse toughness of 4340 steel diminish with increases in sulfur content above 0.01 wt pct.
Challenges of Ascertaining National Trends in the Incidence of Coronary Heart Disease in the United States

Despite major therapeutic advances, the public health burden associated with coronary heart disease (CHD) remains enormous with approximately 525 000 people predicted to have a new myocardial infarction (MI) in 2013, ≈15.4 million estimated to be living with CHD in 2013, and ≈1 346 000 people
The 1920–1945 Shift in US Foreign Policy Orientation: Theory, Grand Strategies, and System Leader Ascents

Grand strategy change analyses exhibit problems in balancing the interaction among ideas, external structures and developments, and domestic politics. An alternative theory is constructed that combines the correspondence between external problems and capability, shocks, political entrepreneurship, domestic politics, and reinforcement. The essence of the theory is that strategic shifts are more probable and likely to persist to the extent that more of these components involve significant changes. The 1920–1945 system leader puzzle – why the United States abstained from ascending to the system leader position in 1920 but not in 1945 – is used as an illustration of the theory's explanatory utility.
Consequences of Nonergodicity in Aqueous Binary PEO-PB Micellar Dispersions

Aqueous micellar dispersions of poly(ethylene oxide)−poly(butadiene) (PEO−PB) diblock copolymers were investigated using cryogenic transmission electron microscopy (cryo-TEM). A variety of binary blends were prepared by premixing (before dispersion) and postmixing (after dispersion) diblocks with varying composition and molecular weight. Cryo-TEM results establish there is no perceptible exchange of macromolecules between aggregates resulting in a nonergodic state, where overall equilibrium is never achieved. However, analysis of many microscopic images leads to the conclusion that these nonergodic micelles relax to a state of local equilibrium through the redistribution of block copolymers within the topological framework established during dispersion. Different average compositions and molecular weights exhibit varying degrees of structural complexity, which appears to peak in the vicinity of network formation. Away from this condition the micelle morphology is relatively insensitive to core or corona p...
Melting behavior of high-temperature polymers

The melting behavior of three representative semirigid polymers, poly(aryl ether ether ketone), poly(ethylene terephthalate), and poly(ethylene naphthalenate), has been studied. Analysis of experimental results indicates that the melting process is morphologically the reverse of the isothermal crystallization process with respect to primary and secondary structural elements. On this basis, it is hypothesized that melting of all three polymers occurs in three distinct steps, assuming that spherulites are composed of dominant lamellae and subsidiary branches. The latter might have originated either from material rejected from the dominant lamellae or from noncrystalline molecular sections in the vicinity of the dominant lamellae. Experimental results emerging from differential scanning calorimetry, polarized optical microscopy, and small-angle X-ray scattering can be explained in terms of such a morphology, for which two possible models are suggested.
SU-FF-J-155: The Influence of Material Assignment On Monte Carlo Dose Calculations for Kilovoltage Small Animal Radiotherapy

Purpose: To investigate the sensitivity of tissue assignment for Monte Carlo (MC)dose calculations using a kilovoltage beam for small animal radiotherapy, and to test the feasibility of dual energy microCT (DEmCT) imaging for material determination. Method and Materials: MCdose calculations for 34 ICRU‐44 tissue types were performed in the EGSnrc/DOSXYZnrc code, using a 120kVp x‐ray beam. Each tissue type was modeled as a 5mm diameter spherical inhomogeneity in a soft tissue cylindrical phantom and a treatment plan with five 5mm diameter isocentric beams was simulated. The mean absorbed dose as a function of tissue density (r) and atomic number (Z) was studied. Two phantoms with five known materials were scanned with 70kVp and 120kVp beams and the r and Z of these materials were extracted. DEmCT tissue segmentation was also applied on 70kVp and 120kVp CTimages of a euthanized mouse. Results: The MC simulations demonstrate that inaccurate tissue segmentation can result in large dose calculation errors, up to 40% if adipose is assigned as soft tissue. The MC simulations also show a strong correlation between the Z of a tissue and the dose to the tissue. Preliminary results indicate that DEmCT material extraction using a microCT scanner is feasible; the mean error on the r and Z extraction of the five materials was 2.5% and 3.4%, respectively. The mouse DEmCT extracted tissues follow the data of ICRU‐44 tissues.Conclusions: It was demonstrated that tissue segmentation is one of the key steps in Monte Carlo treatment planning for small animal radiotherapy using a microCT scanner. Preliminary results indicate that dual energy microCT extraction has the potential to increase the accuracy of the conventional tissue segmentation scheme.
The Efficacy of Subgingival Calculus Removal With Endoscopy-Aided Scaling and Root Planing: A Study on Multirooted Teeth

Background: The dental endoscope was developed to facilitate visualization of the subgingival environment as an aid in diagnosis and non-surgical root debridement. The purpose of this study was to determine whether endoscopy-aided scaling and root planing (SRP) resulted in a greater reduction of residual calculus compared to SRP alone in multirooted teeth.Methods: Twenty-four patients were enrolled and contributed 35 tooth pairs (70 teeth in total). Each tooth per pair was randomly assigned to receive endoscopy-aided SRP (test) or SRP alone (control). Both teeth were extracted immediately after treatment, washed with water, and stained with methylene blue. The percentage of residual calculus was determined via stereomicroscopy and digital image software by a single masked examiner.Results: Overall, there was 1.16% (P = 0.097) less residual calculus at test versus control sites. At interproximal surfaces, test roots had 2.63% less residual calculus than control roots (P = 0.003), whereas test roots had sli...
A Consensus RNA Signal That Directs Germ Layer Determinants to the Vegetal Cortex of Xenopus Oocytes

RNA localization is an important mechanism for generating cellular diversity and polarity in the early embryo. In Xenopus, the correct localization of the RNA encoding the T-box transcription factor VegT is essential for the correct spatial organization and identity of endoderm and mesoderm. Although localization signals in the 3' UTR have been identified for many localized RNAs, insight into what constitutes an RNA localization signal remains elusive. To investigate possible common features between signals that direct different RNAs to the same subcellular region, we carried out a detailed analysis of the uncharacterized VegT RNA localization signal and compared it with the well-studied Vg1 localization signal. Both RNAs localize to the vegetal cortex during the same period of oogenesis. Our results suggest a common RNA localization signal at the level of clustered redundant protein-binding motifs and trans-acting factors. We propose that what characterizes RNA localization signals in general is not the nucleotide sequence or secondary structure per se, but the critical clustering of specific redundant protein-binding motifs.
Classroom-based English exposure and English Language Learners’ expressive language skills

Abstract This study examined the relation between Spanish-speaking English Language Learners’ (ELLs; 6.12 years; n = 101) expressive language skills in English and their classroom-based English exposure. Using audio-recorded observations of Transitional Bilingual Education classrooms (n = 21), measures were obtained of the quantity (number of words) and quality (lexical diversity, structural complexity) of teachers’ and students’ speech during English Language Development (ELD) instruction (blocked or integrated). Results showed that ELD-blocked instruction positively predicted ELLs’ language gains. Moreover, within ELD-blocked classrooms, the structural complexity and lexical diversity of teachers’ speech was positively related to ELLs’ language gains, as was the lexical diversity of students’ speech. Follow-up analyses revealed that a higher ratio of teacher-to-student words was associated with smaller language gains. These findings suggest that exposure to high-quality classroom-based English, together with opportunities for language interactions among teachers and students, promotes ELLs’ English development.
Helicity asymmetry of optically pumped NMR spectra in GaAs

Department of Chemical Engineering, University of California, Berkeley; Berkeley, CA 94720(Dated: May 9, 2008)The origin of ˙ asymmetries in the optically-pumped NMR signal and hyper ne shift in GaAs isderived analytically and tested experimentally. The ratio of the optically-pumped to the equilibriumelectron polarizations is a key parameter in determining both asymmetries. Variations in asymmetrywith photon energy and laser power reect variations in the local temperature and the electronspin polarization, and these two quantities are extracted from the asymmetry through a simplemethodology. Other contributions to the asymmetry are considered.
Brain-machine interfaces: an overview

Brain-machine interfaces (BMIs) hold promise to treat neurological disabilities by linking intact brain circuitry to assistive devices, such as limb prostheses, wheelchairs, artificial sensors, and computers. BMIs have experienced very rapid development in recent years, facilitated by advances in neural recordings, computer technologies and robots. BMIs are commonly classified into three types: sensory, motor and bidirectional, which subserve motor, sensory and sensorimotor functions, respectively. Additionally, cognitive BMIs have emerged in the domain of higher brain functions. BMIs are also classified as noninvasive or invasive according to the degree of their interference with the biological tissue. Although noninvasive BMIs are safe and easy to implement, their information bandwidth is limited. Invasive BMIs hold promise to improve the bandwidth by utilizing multichannel recordings from ensembles of brain neurons. BMIs have a broad range of clinical goals, as well as the goal to enhance normal brain functions.
Treadmilling, diffusional exchange and cytoplasmic structures.

Microfilaments and microtubules exchange monomers from solution by at least two mechanisms; treadmilling and diffusional exchange. Refined kinetic analysis of both mechanisms shows that this exchange may be nonlinear under certain conditions. The two mechanisms of exchange differ in some of their predictions for the behaviour of cytoplasmic structures. Studies of assembly of cytoplasmic structuresin vivo suggest that diffusional exchange is probably predominant for steady-state structures and further suggest that additional mechanisms may be operating in the cell.
Use of an imperfect neutral diluent and outer vesicle layer scooting mode hydrolysis to analyze the interfacial kinetics, inhibition, and substrate preferences of bee venom phospholipase A2

Interfacial catalytic constants for bee venom phospholipase A2 (bvPLA2) have been obtained for its action on vesicles of the anionic phospholipid 1,2-dimyristoylphosphatidylmethanol (DMPM) in the highly processive scooting mode. Spectroscopic measurements which directly measure transbilayer movement of membrane components show that this exchange does not occur in anionic vesicles that have undergone complete bvPLA2-catalyzed hydrolysis of all phospholipids in the outer vesicle monolayer. 3-Hexadecyl-sn-glycero-1-phosphocholine (D-LPC) is an adequate neutral diluent for bvPLA2, which is defined as an amphiphile that forms an aggregate to which enzyme binds but neutral diluent molecules bind weakly in the enzyme's active site. D-LPC has weak affinity for the active site of bvPLA2, and theory and protocols are developed that allow its use to determine equilibrium dissociation constants for competing active site ligands. Some of the properties of bvPLA2 are shared by other 14 kDa PLA2s. (1) Ca2+ is required for binding of ligands to the active site but not for the binding of enzyme to the interface. (2) bvPLA2 does not significantly discriminate between phospholipids with different polar head groups or acyl chains. (3) bvPLA2 does not bind to phosphatidylcholine vesicles, and binding occurs if anionic amphiphiles are present in the vesicle. Novel features of bvPLA2 include the following: (1) Neutral diluents for other 14 kDa phospholipases A2 are not neutral diluents for bvPLA2. (2) Saturation of the active site with a variety of different ligands does not completely prevent histidine alkylation by 2-bromo-4'-nitroacetophenone, and Ca2+ binding does not change the rate of histidine alkylation. Finally, the carbohydrate portion of bvPLA2 does not alter the interfacial catalytic properties of the enzyme. Kinetic analysis of bvPLA2 in the scooting mode together with previous studies with other 14 kDa PLA2s provides a paradigm for the quantitative analysis of interfacial catalysis.
Advances in the manufacturing, types, and applications of biosensors

In recent years, there have been significant technological advancements in the manufacturing, types, and applications of biosensors. Applications include clinical and non-clinical diagnostics for home, bio-defense, bio-remediation, environment, agriculture, and the food industry. Biosensors have progressed beyond the detection of biological threats such as anthrax and are finding use in a number of non-biological applications. Emerging biosensor technologies such as lab-on-a-chip have revolutionized the integration approaches for a very flexible, innovative, and user-friendly platform. An overview of the fundamentals, types, applications, and manufacturers, as well as the market trends of biosensors is presented here. Two case studies are discussed: one focused on a characterization technique—patch clamping and dielectric spectroscopy as a biological sensor—and the other about lithium phthalocyanine, a material that is being developed for in-vivo oxymetry.
Joint Transform Correlation Using An Amorphous Silicon Ferroelectric Liquid Crystal Spatial Light Modulator

A joint transform correlator is demonstrated that utilizes a high-speed optically addressed spatial light modulator in the Fourier plane consisting of an hydrogenated amorphous silicon photodiode and a ferroelectric liquid crystal modulator. Results are shown for binary-amplitude modulation using a smectic C* ferroelectric liquid crystal operating at 4600frame/s, 20:1 contrast ratio, and 38lp/mm.
Colonialism, Past and Present, in New Mexico

San Jose de las Huertas was established as a land grant community by the Spanish crown in 1765 and occupied for about 60 years. Many of its residents returned to the area after a brief respite, to found the village of Placitas, which exists today. Archaeological excavation at Las Huertas, documentary research and oral history from descendants of the original settlers reveal the shifting impact of different colonialisms, each accompanied by an image of modernity. Spanish demands were attenuated by distance and waning power. American impositions are more problematic, involving a new political economy, conflicts over land and water, as Placitas converts to a bedroom suburb of Albuquerque.
On the Importance of the Reaction CH2+N2 →HCN+NH as a Precursor for Prompt NO Formation

Abstract The rate of the reaction CH2+N2 is modeled by transition state (RRKM) theory in order to evaluate its importance as a candidate precursor for so-called “prompt” NO formation in flame fronts. The transition state parameters are based on the best available thermochemical and kinetic data, assuming a “tight” complex. The rate constant predicted by the model for the triplet ground state has the form k = 8 × 10−12: exp(− 18,000/T) cm3/molecule-sec. Nearly identical results were obtained for the singlet first excited state, assuming a zero activation energy for the addition of CH2 to N2. These rate constants are a factor of 675-85 smaller than the experimental values reported for the reaction CH + N2 in the temperature range 1500-2000 K. Thus the reaction of CH2 with N2 is unlikely to be an important precursor of prompt NO formation.
Effect of vibrissae deprivation on follicle innervation, neuropeptide synthesis in the trigeminal ganglion, and S1 barrel cortex plasticity

Deprivation of vibrissae from an early age causes plasticity in S1 barrel cortex. This method of deprivation is most likely to induce plasticity by altering the balance of primary afferent activity from the deprived and spared vibrissae. To study whether or not induction or expression of this type of plasticity might be affected by follicle nerve injury caused by the deprivation technique, three different methods of detecting nerve injury were used: counting axon numbers in the distal follicle nerve, quantifying morphological changes in axons, and measuring neuropeptide expression in the trigeminal ganglion cells. First, nerves innervating follicles chronically deprived of vibrissae from birth had the same number of myelinated and unmyelinated axons as nerves from normally reared animals. Second, axons innervating deprived follicles showed no morphological changes in myelination or mitochondria characteristic of damaged nerves. Third, the corresponding nerve cell bodies in the trigeminal ganglion did not show upregulation of galanin or neuropeptide Y expression. In contrast, animals receiving mild injury of the follicle nerve endings (by cauterization of the follicle) showed profound changes in axonal myelination and mitochondria and increases in neuropeptide expression. These results imply that vibrissae deprivation does not act by inducing injury of the follicular nerve, suggesting that changes in the balance of follicle nerve activity are the cause of cortical plasticity. Consistent with this notion, a fourth experiment demonstrated that trimming the vibrissae induces cortical plasticity comparable to that induced by complete vibrissae removal. © 1995 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Primary Ki-1 (CD 30)-positive, large cell, anaplastic lymphoma of the esophagus.

The authors describe a case of a 73-year-old man who had been treated with corticosteroids and azathioprine for 3 years for the Lambert–Eaton (myasthenic myopathic) syndrome, who had a primary esophageal Ki-1–positive large cell anaplastic lymphoma.
Electron Flux Spectra and Radiation Yields in Solids Irradiated by Beta Rays Invited Paper

During the last few years a program has been under way at Oak Ridge National Laboratory to measure the electron flux in an irradiated medium. A typical source consists of several curies of beta radioactivity uniformly dispersed in a metal, the whole approximating a homogeneous, uniformly and isotropically irradiated medium. The electron flux escaping from a cavity within the medium is measured over the energy range from about 50 keV down to 1 eV. At the higher energies the flux observed is due entirely to the beta rays from the source, whereas below 10 keV the flux rises by as many as five orders of magnitude, this rise being due to the generation of secondary, tertiary, quarternary and higher generations of electrons. The measurements are in approximate agreement with the Spencer-Fano theory of electron slowing down above ten keV, but tend to indicate that the theory underestimates the flux below this energy by as much as a factor of four. Theoretical ionization and plasmon cross sections for aluminum have been combined with our flux data to calculate the probability of occurrence of a given type of event from a beta ray from a copper-64 or gold-198 source. Calculations show that most K-ionizations (~3) are caused by the primary beta ray whereas L-shell ionizations and plasmon excitations tend to come from the secondary electrons (~300 for the former and ~20,000 for the latter).
A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial of Pregnenolone for Bipolar Depression

Depression in bipolar disorder (BPD) is challenging to treat. Therefore, additional medication options are needed. In the current report, the effect of the neurosteroid pregnenolone on depressive symptoms in BPD was examined. Adults (n=80) with BPD, depressed mood state, were randomized to pregnenolone (titrated to 500 mg/day) or placebo, as add-on therapy, for 12 weeks. Outcome measures included the 17-item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HRSD), Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology—Self-Report (IDS-SR), Hamilton Rating Scale for Anxiety (HRSA), and Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS). Serum neurosteroid levels were assessed at baseline and week 12. Data were analyzed using a mixed model ANCOVA with a between factor of treatment assignment, a within factor (repeated) of visit, and the baseline value, as well as age and gender, as covariates. In participants with at least one postbaseline visit (n=73), a significant treatment by week interaction for the HRSD (F(5,288)=2.61, p=0.025), but not IDS-SR, was observed. Depression remission rates were greater in the pregnenolone group (61%) compared with the placebo group (37%), as assessed by the IDS-SR (χ2(1)=3.99, p=0.046), but not the HRSD. Large baseline-to-exit changes in neurosteroid levels were observed in the pregnenolone group but not in the placebo group. In the pregnenolone group, baseline-to-exit change in the HRSA correlated negatively with changes in allopregnanolone (r(22)=−0.43, p=0.036) and pregNANolone (r(22)=−0.48, p=0.019) levels. Pregnenolone was well tolerated. The results suggest that pregnenolone may improve depressive symptoms in patients with BPD and can be safely administered.
An apparatus for measuring Thomson scattering from an inductively coupled plasma

Abstract An experimental arrangement is presented which has been proven capable of measuring Thomson scattering from an inductively coupled plasma (ICP). This system has been shown to reject stray light to a sufficient extent that useful scattering signals can be measured as near as 0.3 nm from the incident laser wavelength. In this paper, design considerations are discussed and a viable experimental system is described. Preliminary Thomson scattering results are presented.
Crystallization and preliminary X-ray diffraction studies of the GhKCH2 motor domain: alteration of pH significantly improved the quality of the crystals.

GhKCH2, a member of the kinesin superfamily, is a plant-specific microtubule-dependent motor protein from cotton with the ability to bind to both microtubules and microfilaments. Here, the motor domain of GhKCH2 (GhKCH2MD; amino acids 371–748) was overexpressed in Escherichia coli, purified and crystallized using the sitting-drop vapour-diffusion method. The pH of the crystallization buffer was shown to have a significant effect on the crystal morphology and diffraction quality. The crystals belonged to space group P212121, with unit-cell parameters a = 60.7, b = 78.6, c = 162.8 A, α = β = γ = 90°. The Matthews coefficient and solvent content were calculated as 2.27 A3 Da−1 and 45.87%, respectively. X-ray diffraction data for GhKCH2MD were collected on beamline BL17U1 at Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility and processed to 2.8 A resolution.
Evaluation of a Thin CaF2(Eu) Scintillator for Detecting Tritium

The primary objective of this project was to investigate the feasibility of using a CaF2(Eu) scintillator for detecting low-energy beta particles from tritium. A proof-of-principle detector was designed to flow tritium-spiked nitrogen gas across the surface of a thin scintillator, which was optically coupled between two low-noise photomultiplier tubes. Electronics for operating two photomultiplier tubes in coincidence eliminated most of the tube noise pulses and allowed detection of small pulses from the low-energy tritium beta particles.
The cope rearrangement of cis-2-phenylvinylcyclopropane

Nach bekannten Verfahren werden cis- und trans-2-Phenyl-vinyl-cyclopropan (I) und (II) hergestellt, die bei 150°C ineinander umlagern und bei 180°C in 4-Phenyl-cyclopenten (III) ubergefuhrt werden.
Patterns of drug use among young adults.

The present study assessed patterns of multiple drug use among a sample of university employees and students who had been identified as having moderately high drug use habits. Use of eleven categories of legal and illegal drugs was tested and subjects reported how much of each drug they currently and habitually used. Factor analysis yielded three factors of drug use. Four of the items in the first factor (hallucinogens, cocaine, marijuana, alcohol) exhibited moderately strong and positive intercorrelations, suggesting that this particular pattern of drug use was the most common and/or reliable among young adult drug users. Sedatives and opiates were the highest loading items on the second factor, suggesting a pattern of drug use motivated by the desire for relaxation and stress avoidance. The third factor identified a pattern of legal stimulant use involving two of the three food-like categories of items employed in the present study (i.e., caffeinated cola beverages and chocolate, but not coffee). The results provided only mixed support for the hypothesis that categories of drugs with similar pharmacological properties define patterns of multiple drug use.
Network-level implementation of URMS : A graphical urban roadway management system

The preservation of existing roads and streets has become a major activity for all levels of government. Deteriorating urban roads and reduced funding are major problems for local governments. Funds designated for pavements therefore must be used as effectively as possible. For the most efficient management of urban roadway networks, regulations calling for the involvement of metropolitan planning organizations in the development and implementation of pavement management systems (PMSs) were established by the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991. Considerable effort is now under way at state and local government levels for developing and implementing PMSs. The Urban Roadway Management System (URMS) was developed at the University of Texas at Austin. URMS provides small to medium-sized cities with a simple, flexible, and user-friendly PMS. Implementation of such a system can save money for both the agency and the user and improve not only the efficiency, but also the effectiveness of decision making involved in managing pavements. A research study was conducted at the University of Texas to demonstrate the use of URMS through its implementation in small to medium-sized cities. The implementation was carried out at two levels. At the first level, the city of Lampasas, Texas, was directly assisted in the implementation. At the second level, the city of Terrell, Texas, was assisted over the telephone. The strategy and process of URMS implementation are documented.
Assessment of ventricular function by combined noninvasive measures: factors accounting for methodologic disparities

We studied the predictive accuracy and disparities among cineventriculographic ejection fraction, pre-ejection period over left ventricular ejection time (PEP/LVET) obtained from the systolic time intervals and the percent shortening of the internal echocardiographic diameter (% delta D) in assessing left ventricular performance in 453 consecutive patients without valvular heart disease. In 308 patients all three tests were normal, and in 78 patients all three tests were abnormal. Overall agreement (predictive accuracy) among ejection fraction (normal greater than or equal to 57), % delta D (normal greater than or equal to 28%) and PEP/LVET (normal less than or equal to 0.42) was 85%. In 67 patients disparities among the tests as measures of global left ventricular performance were found. The major mechanisms accounting for such disparities were: (a) large segmental contraction abnormalities which selectively distort the % delta D and ejection fraction and (b) diminished isovolumic pressure (less than 45 mmHg) which distorts PEP/LVET. When patients with segmental contraction abnormalities and low isovolumic pressure were excluded the agreement between PEP/LVET and ejection fraction was 97%, ejection fraction and % delta D 98% and PEP/LVET and % delta D 97%. The combined uses of systolic time intervals and echocardiogram minimizes error due to segmental contraction abnormalities and isovolumic pressure. If both PEP/LVET and % delta D are concordant the agreement with ejection fraction is 94% for normal and 99% for abnormal left ventricular function.
Solutions of the magnetic Eliashberg equations for heavy-fermion superconductors.

Recently, a method was put forth to evaluate quantitatively gap functions and transition temperatures for heavy-fermion superconductors. This formalism involves a modification of the Eliashberg spin-fluctuation equations of Berk and Schrieffer, with the modification being the replacement of the Lindhard susceptibility by the experimentally derived susceptibility. In the case of ${\mathrm{UPt}}_{3}$, it was shown that both the mass renormalization and superconducting-transition temperature could be explained by this method. The purpose here is to discuss the results of the solutions to these equations in depth for the cases of ${\mathrm{UPt}}_{3}$ and ${\mathrm{UBe}}_{13}$, as well as some preliminary thoughts on other heavy-fermion metals.
Outcome of High-risk Neonates with Ventriculomegaly

SUMMARY The authors evaluated 89 infants who had had computed tomography of the head and who were followed-up for a minimum of one year. In a large proportion with moderate ventriculomegaly spontaneous stabilization or regression occurred, with normal developmental outcome in a high percentage of cases. However, there was a statistically significant trend toward lower developmental scores as ventricular size increased. Many infants with ventricular enlargement will not develop progressive hydrocephalus, but their cognitive and psychomotor development may be affected. RESUME Devenir des nouveaux-nes a haut risque avec ventriculomegalie 89 nourrissons ayant beneficie d'un scanner de la tete ont ete suivis au moins un an dans un service de suite. Un nombre important d'enfants qui presentaient une ventriculomegalie moderee ont evolue spontanement vers la stabilisation ou la regression de la ventriculo-megalie avec generalement un developpement normal ulterieur. Cependant, il a ete observe une correlation statistiquement significative entre des scores developpement plus bas et le degre de dilatation ventriculaire. Nous en concluons que de nombreux enfants presentant une dilatation ventriculaire n'evoluent pas vers une hydrocephalie progressive mais peuvent avoir un developpement cognitif et psycho-moteur compromis. ZUSAMMENFASSUNG Ergebnis bei Risikoneugeborenen mit Ventrikulomegalie 89 Saulinge, bei denen ein Computertomogramm des Kopfes gemacht worden war, wurden mindestens ein Jahr in einer Nachsorgeklinik kontrolliert. Viele der Sauglinge mit masiger Ventrikulomegalie zeigten eine spontane Stabilisation oder einen Ruckgang der Ventrikulomegalie mit weitgehend normaler Entwicklung. Bei zunehmender Ventrikel-grose jedoch fand ein signifikant schlechteres Ergebnis beim Entwicklungstest zugrunde gelegt wurden. Wir schliesen daraus, das viele Sauglinge mit einer Ventrikelerweiterung keinen progressiven Hydrocephalus entwickeln, eventuell aber eine eingeschrankte kognitive und psychomotorische Entwicklung haben. RESUMEN Curso posterior de recien nacidos con alto riesgo con ventriculomegalia 89 ninos explorados con tomografia computarizada de la cabeza, fueron seguidos durante un minimo de un ano en la Clinica de Seguimiento. Un gran numero de ninos con ventriculomegalia moderada experimento una estabilizacion o regresion espontanea de la ventriculomegalia, con un desarrollo posterior normal en un alto porcentaje. Sin embargo habia una tendencia estadisticamente significativa hacia unos puntajes de desarrollo mas bajos a medida que aumentaba el tamano ventricular. Se concluye que muchos ninos con agrandamiento ventricular, no desarrollaran una hidrocefalia progresiva, pero si pueden tener dificultades en el desarrollo cognitivo y psicomotor.
Responses during exhaustive exercise at critical power determined from the 3-min all-out test

Abstract The purpose of the present study was to examine oxygen consumption rate ([Vdot] ), heart rate (HR), and ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) responses, as well as time to exhaustion (Tlim) values during continuous rides at critical power (CP) determined from the 3-min all-out test. Eighteen participants (mean ± s: 23.6 ± 3.5 years; 72.7 ± 18.2 kg) performed an incremental cycle ergometer test to exhaustion to determine peak oxygen consumption rate ([Vdot] peak) and HR peak. Critical power was determined from the 3-min all-out test. Metabolic responses ([Vdot] and heart rate), RPE, and Tlim were recorded during continuous rides to exhaustion at CP. Linear regression and t-tests were used to compare [Vdot] , heart rate, and RPE responses during the continuous rides to exhaustion. The Tlim at CP was 12.5 ± 6.5 min. There were significant increases in [Vdot] , HR, and RPE during the continuous rides at CP and 15 of the 18 participants reached [Vdot] peak at exhaustion. Therefore, the [Vdot] , heart ra...
The Effect of Passage Number on Fibroblast Cellular Senescence in Patients with Chronic Venous Insufficiency with and without Ulcer

Abstract Background: Fibroblasts (fb) cultured from venous ulcer patients and patients with venous reflux disease without ulcer demonstrate characteristics of cellular senescence, such as increased fibronectin level and senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA β-gal) positive cells. Cellular senescence is an in vitro event characterized by the progressive loss of proliferative capacity with increased passage number, and has been associated with impaired healing in vivo. This report examines progressive stages of cellular senescence in fb from the distal area (du-fb) and proximal fb (pu-fb) of patients with venous ulcer, as well as in distal fb (dr-fb) and proximal fb (pr-fb) from patients with venous reflux without ulcer, by comparing the population doubling time (T) and percent SA β-gal expression. Results: The mean value of T over 6 passages for fb in the ulcer group was 132.5 ± 29.0 hours for pu-fb and 492.9 ± 146.2 hours for du-fb (P = 0.0009). For fb in the reflux group the mean value of T over 5 passages was 79.3 ± 12.8 hours for pr-fb and 94.2 ± 16.8 hours for dr-fb (P = 0.8). Comparing ulcer and reflux fb, no difference in T was observed between pu-fb and pr-fb (P = 0.6), but a difference was noted between du-fb and dr-fb (P = 0.0004). The mean percent SA β-gal activity for fb in the ulcer group was 11.2% ± 3.1% for pu-fb and 63.8% ± 8.9% for du-fb (P = 0.0001). Individual passages demonstrated significant difference (P Conclusions: The in vitro passage of du-fb and pu-fb in chronic venous ulcer patients has an effect on T and cellular senescence as measured by SA β-gal activity. Our data further suggest that du-fb are at a more progressive stage of cellular senescence when compared with pu-fb, and more importantly with fb cultured from patients with venous reflux without ulcer. These findings are consistent with impaired wound healing of venous stasis ulcer. The accumulation of senescent fb and a more advanced stage of cellular senescence of du-fb may explain why repeated episodes of venous ulceration are resistant to conservative treatment and require more aggressive measures of therapy.
Performance of the Mortality in Emergency Department Sepsis score for predicting hospital mortality among patients with severe sepsis and septic shock.

Objective The aim of the study was to test if the Mortality in Emergency Department Sepsis (MEDS) score accurately predicts death among emergency department (ED) patients with severe sepsis and septic shock.
The Relation of Birth Order, Social Class, and Need Achievement to Independent Judgment

Summary One hundred twenty-eight fifth- and sixth-grade girls were randomly assigned to eight experimental groups according to birth order, social class, and level of achievement arousal. In a simulated-group social-influence situation, half of the girls performed a metronome counting task under low achievement arousal and half under high achievement arousal. Significant differences in mean independent judgment were found only among the middle-class groups, with firstborns making fewer independent judgments than later borns under low achievement arousal and more under high achievement arousal. Birth order does not appear to have the same impact on social behavior in different social classes.
Feedback Complexity and Self-Direction in Programmed Instruction

Explicit feedback in an instructional program on set theory was compared with feedback that required interpretation and generalization. No difference in criterion performance was found for the “complex” and simple feedback groups. Another comparison was made between Ss given a choice of feedback characteristics and study method and Ss restricted to a given form of feedback and study procedure. No differences in learning were found in these groups. Reasons for the failure of complex feedback to produce superior learning are discussed and extensions of the present research are suggested.
Laser heating of uncoated optics in a convective medium

Powerful, long-pulse lasers have a variety of applications. In many applications, optical elements are employed to direct, focus, or collimate the beam. Typically the optic is suspended in a gaseous environment (e.g., air) and can cool by convection. The variation of the optic temperature with time is obtained by combining the effects of laser heating, thermal conduction, and convective loss. Characteristics of the solutions in terms of the properties of the optic material, laser beam parameters, and the environment are discussed and compared with measurements at the Naval Research Laboratory, employing kW-class, 1 µm wavelength, continuous wave lasers and optical elements made of fused silica or BK7 glass. The calculated results are in good agreement with the measurements, given the approximations in the analysis and the expected variation in the absorption coefficients of the glasses used in the experiments.
THE METABOLISM OF PROPIONATE BY WHEAT STEM RUST UREDOSPORES

When uredospores of wheat stem rust were shaken for 3 hours with phosphate buffer (pH 6.2) containing propionate-1-C14, -2-C14, or -3-C14, about 55% of the carbon-14 was removed from the solution. ...