cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Interplay Between Sulfur Adsorption and Carbon Deposition on Cobalt Catalysts

Abstract Sulfur is present as an impurity in various industrial feedstocks and is generally regarded as a catalyst poison; however, controlled poisoning of metals by sulfur can improve both reactivity and selectivity. We have attempted to develop an understanding of the interplay between sulfur adsorption and carbon deposition reactions by monitoring not only the gas-phase products but also the amount of filamentous carbon deposited from the interaction of sulfur-contaminated cobalt particles with ethylene/hydrogen mixtures. Pretreatment of cobalt in low levels (4-100 ppm) of H2S was found to dramatically increase the weight percentage of carbon filaments produced during the reaction, from 4.5 (without sulfur treatment) to 70%. In contrast, when the metal was pretreated at higher H2S levels (>500 ppm) or when the sulfide was added continuously in the hydrocarbon feed at concentrations of >60 ppm the catalytic activity was completely suppressed. Carbon filaments produced on uncontaminated cobalt particles were found to be highly graphitic in nature, and this degree of structural perfection decreased as sulfur was added to the system. In addition, it was apparent that sulfur could induce fragmentation of the powdered catalyst, a feature which may provide some new insights into the understanding of redispersion phenomena of sintered metal particles.
More realistic, flexible, and expressive social crowds using transactional analysis

Recent algorithms have been able to simulate “social crowds” that allow agents to interact socially as opposed to only treating other agents as obstacles. Unfortunately, past social crowd algorithms lack realism and flexibility because they do not allow agents to move in and out of different and repeated social interactions, are built around a specific obstacle avoidance algorithm, or are tuned only for a specific social setting and do not allow for artist directed changes. We propose a new, simplified social crowd algorithm that focuses on the evolving social needs of agents and allows each agent to join and leave different encounters as desired. Our algorithm is based on the psychology research area of transactional analysis, does not require a specific obstacle avoidance algorithm, and allows for easy artist direction for determining the precise social environment being simulated. Our algorithm runs in real-time with 3,000 to 4,000 agents without the restrictions of previous research.
The Drug Dependence Syndrome and Related Disabilities

Summary While the dependence syndrome has been extensively studied in alcohol patients, much less information is available about this syndrome in drugs other than alcohol. Since the core symptoms of the dependence syndrome have been defined as comprising a dimension of disability distinct from social, health and other consequences of substance abuse, we examined the relationships of dependence syndrome symptoms and related problems for drugs. We included cannabis, stimulants, barbiturates, tranquilizers, cocaine, opiates and hallucinogens in our analyses. Results showed high clustering of dependence symptoms with each other and with health, social and emotional problems attributed to drug use. This supports the syndrome concept for the core dependence symptoms, but not the concept that the symptoms form distinct dimensions from associated problems.
Functional characterization of circulating tumor cells with a prostate-cancer-specific microfluidic device

Cancer metastasis accounts for the majority of cancer-related deaths owing to poor response to anticancer therapies. Molecular understanding of metastasis-associated drug resistance remains elusive due to the scarcity of available tumor tissue. Isolation of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) from the peripheral blood of patients has emerged as a valid alternative source of tumor tissue that can be subjected to molecular characterization. However, issues with low purity and sensitivity have impeded adoption to clinical practice. Here we report a novel method to capture and molecularly characterize CTCs isolated from castrate-resistant prostate cancer patients (CRPC) receiving taxane chemotherapy. We have developed a geometrically enhanced differential immunocapture (GEDI) microfluidic device that combines an anti-prostate specific membrane antigen (PSMA) antibody with a 3D geometry that captures CTCs while minimizing nonspecific leukocyte adhesion. Enumeration of GEDI-captured CTCs (defined as intact, nucleated PSMA+/CD45− cells) revealed a median of 54 cells per ml identified in CRPC patients versus 3 in healthy donors. Direct comparison with the commercially available CellSearch® revealed a 2–400 fold higher sensitivity achieved with the GEDI device. Confocal microscopy of patient-derived GEDI-captured CTCs identified the TMPRSS2:ERG fusion protein, while sequencing identified specific androgen receptor point mutation (T868A) in blood samples spiked with only 50 PC C4-2 cells. On-chip treatment of patient-derived CTCs with docetaxel and paclitaxel allowed monitoring of drug-target engagement by means of microtubule bundling. CTCs isolated from docetaxel-resistant CRPC patients did not show any evidence of drug activity. These measurements constitute the first functional assays of drug-target engagement in living circulating tumor cells and therefore have the potential to enable longitudinal monitoring of target response and inform the development of new anticancer agents.
RECENT FIRE HISTORY OF THE NORTHERN GREAT PLAINS

-The fire history of the northern Great Plains has been largely reconstructed from the historical record. To clarify this history, segments of 1-m cores from four lakes in North and South Dakota and northeastern Montana were examined for charcoal fragments. The cores spanned a time interval of 172 to 380 yr. Samples integrating 5-10 yr of deposition were taken from 2-cm sections along each core and sieved. Charcoal concentrations ranged from 6-14,799 fragments/gram of sediment, and mean charcoal abundance was negatively correlated with longitude. Results suggest periods of increased fire from A.D. 1700-1740 and A.D. 1850-1900. These peaks were broadly synchronous across the region and ranged in duration from 20-40 yr. Postsettlement patterns of charcoal deposition were highly variable but generally much lower than presettlement intervals.
Externalizing and Internalizing Problems in Low-Income Latino Early Adolescents Risk, Resource, and Protective Factors

The current investigation examined the role of cumulative risk, family routines, maternal monitoring, mother-child relationship quality, and youth socioemotional competence in adjustment outcomes o...
Kinetic study of 2‐propanol and benzyl alcohol oxidation by alkaline hexacyanoferrate(III) catalyzed by a terpyridyl ruthenium complex

The complex (Trpy)RuCl3 (Trpy = 2,2′:6′,2″-terpyridine) reacts with alkaline hexacyanoferrate(III) to form a terpyridyl ruthenium(IV)-oxo complex that catalyzes the oxidation of 2-propanol and benzyl alcohol by alkaline hexacyanoferrate(III). The reaction kinetics of this catalytic oxidation have been studied photometrically. The reaction rate shows a first-order dependence on [RU(IV)], a zero-order dependence on [hexacyanoferrate(III)], a fractional order in [substrate], and a fractional inverse order in [HO−]. The kinetic data suggest a reaction mechanism in which the catalytic species and its protonated form oxidize the uncoordinated alcohol in parallel slow steps. Isotope effects, substituent effects, and product studies suggest that both species oxidize alcohol through similar pericyclic processes. The reduced catalytic intermediates react rapidly with hexacyanoferrate(III) and hydroxide to reform the unprotonated catalytic species. © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 32: 760–770, 2000
The relative importance of types of information in the foreign market selection process

Abstract Guided by classic decision making theory, this paper presents the results of an empirical study designed to investigate export decision making. It specifically examines the relative importance of foreign market information used by international managers when choosing export markets. The authors identify three levels of export market selection information (primary environmental dimensions, subsidiary export dimensions and specific decision variables). Findings indicate practicing, experienced export managers consider numerous pieces of information to be important. In particular, information related to market potential (i.e. foreign buyers' ability to pay for imported products, and the nature of competition in export markets), and legal environment (i.e. non-tariff and tariff barriers) was rated most important when selecting export markets. Somewhat counter intuitive (given its recognized importance in the literature), information related to the cultural environment was rated as least important. Discussion of findings offer insights to explain these results and call for extended research.
Dynamic programming for spatial allocation of advertising expenditure

Abstract The paper deals with optimal allocation of a given amount of advertising expenditure among various sales districts. It applies dynamic programming to arrive at the optimal policy regarding such allocation. The basic model is that of Zentler and Ryde which heretofore has been solved using a graphical method. The optimal solution is illustrated with an example.
A microplate assay to assess chemical effects on RBL-2H3 mast cell degranulation: effects of triclosan without use of an organic solvent.

Mast cells play important roles in allergic disease and immune defense against parasites. Once activated (e.g. by an allergen), they degranulate, a process that results in the exocytosis of allergic mediators. Modulation of mast cell degranulation by drugs and toxicants may have positive or adverse effects on human health. Mast cell function has been dissected in detail with the use of rat basophilic leukemia mast cells (RBL-2H3), a widely accepted model of human mucosal mast cells3-5. Mast cell granule component and the allergic mediator β-hexosaminidase, which is released linearly in tandem with histamine from mast cells6, can easily and reliably be measured through reaction with a fluorogenic substrate, yielding measurable fluorescence intensity in a microplate assay that is amenable to high-throughput studies1. Originally published by Naal et al.1, we have adapted this degranulation assay for the screening of drugs and toxicants and demonstrate its use here. Triclosan is a broad-spectrum antibacterial agent that is present in many consumer products and has been found to be a therapeutic aid in human allergic skin disease7-11, although the mechanism for this effect is unknown. Here we demonstrate an assay for the effect of triclosan on mast cell degranulation. We recently showed that triclosan strongly affects mast cell function2. In an effort to avoid use of an organic solvent, triclosan is dissolved directly into aqueous buffer with heat and stirring, and resultant concentration is confirmed using UV-Vis spectrophotometry (using e280 = 4,200 L/M/cm)12. This protocol has the potential to be used with a variety of chemicals to determine their effects on mast cell degranulation, and more broadly, their allergic potential.
Effects of grazing practices and fossorial rodents on a winter avian community in Chihuahua, Mexico

Chihuahuan Desert grasslands are important wintering grounds for grassland and shrub-adapted birds. Many species belonging to these assemblages are currently exhibiting population declines. One area recognized for its importance to biological diversity, including grassland birds, is the Janos-Nuevo Casas Grandes black-tailed prairie dog (Cynomys ludovicianus) complex in northwestern Chihuahua, Mexico, an area containing 58 colonies with 30,000 ha of prairie dogs. This is one of the largest remaining prairie dog complexes and the only intact complex in the Chihuahuan Desert. In its current condition, a large percentage of this complex is of reduced value to wildlife. Overgrazing on communal (ejido) lands has resulted in areas being comprised of annual grasses and forbs. The density of active prairie dog burrows and banner-tailed kangaroo rat (Dipodomys spectabilis) mounds as well as avian diversity and abundance were lower on ejido lands than an adjacent private ranchland with and without prairie dogs. Few avian species used overgrazed portions of the prairie dog colony. Community similarity among plot types was low due to different management practices and differences on and off colony. To retain, and in many instances restore the biological diversity of this important region it is essential to work with local ejidos on grazing management.
The youngest record of Carcharopsis (Chondrichthyes) from the Pennsylvanian of Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, China

Abstract A chondrichthyan tooth having a serrated edge, from the Late Pennsylvanian of Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, China, was identified as Edestus sp. [Cheng, Z., Lucas, S.G., Zidek, J., 1996. Neues Jahrbuch fur Geologie und Palaontologie, Monatshefte 1996 (11), 701-707]. Because of the lack of bilateral symmetry, the tooth does not belong to Edestus or any other known edestoid. It is too incomplete for a definite identification, but its features are consistent with Carcharopsis , which also has serrated teeth, and not with any other described late Paleozoic chondrichthyan genus. If it is Carcharopsis , it is the latest occurrence of the genus, which was previously known only from the Mississippian and the Early Pennsylvanian.
Localization of the gene for human heart fatty acid binding protein to chromosome 1p32-1p33

Heart fatty acid binding protein (hFABP) is an abundant 14-kDa cytosolic protein thought to be involved in trafficking of fatty acids from the plasma membrane to sites of β-oxidation in mitochondria and peroxisomes and to the endoplasmic reticulum for lipid synthesis. A human hFABP cDNA isolated by polymerase chain reaction was used as a probe for in situ hybridization to metaphase chromosomes. A fragment of the gene for human hFABP was used as a probe for fluorescence in situ hybridization to metaphase chromosomes. The cDNA and genomic probes both localized the gene for human hFABP to chromosome 1p32-1p33.
Heuristic search in a cognitive model of human parsing

We present a cognitive process model of human sentence comprehension based on generalized left-corner parsing. A search heuristic based upon previously-parsed corpora derives garden path effects, garden path paradoxes, and the local coherence effect.
Rat hippocampal NMDA receptor binding as a function of chronic lead exposure level

Abstract Chronic developmental lead (Pb) exposure is known to impair cognitive ability in children and young animals. These findings have led to research examining exposure effects on long-term potentiation (LTP), a model of synaptic plasticity, and on NMDA receptor function. This study determined the changes occurring in hippocampal 3 H-MK-801 binding as a function of exposure level for comparison to changes in LTP previously reported from this laboratory. Dams were exposed to 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.5% and 1.0% Pb in the drinking water beginning at parturition, and male offspring were weaned to the same solutions as their dams and maintained on these regimens until assessment as adults. A crude membrane fraction was prepared from hippocampal tissue, and Scatchard analysis conducted in the presence of saturating concentrations of glutamate and glycine. NMDA receptor density was elevated as a result of Pb exposure with significant increases in the 0.2% (38%) and 0.5% (30%) groups compared to control group values. No changes were observed in the 0.1% and 1.0% animals, thus constituting a biphasic dose–effect relationship. These findings are an approximate reflection of analogous relationships reported for hippocampal LTP and glutamate release, suggesting that the diminished glutamate release is one cause of the receptor up-regulation. However, since increases in receptor number were uncovered, it is unlikely that changes in NMDA receptor density constitute a primary mechanism whereby Pb impairs hippocampal LTP.
Effect of reproductive states on lipid mobilization and linoleic acid metabolism in mammary glands

Effects of pregnancy and lactation on lipid metabolism in mouse mammary fat pads and nonmammary adipose tissues have been studied. In order to address the question whether the influence of hormonal milieu on lipid metabolism in mammary epithelial cells during pregnancy and lactation is the same as in fat cells, we have studied the mobilization of lipids and metabolism of fatty acids in the intact mammary glands, parenchyma-free mammary fat pads and in the perimetrial fat tissues of virgin, pregnant and lactating mice. Compared to parenchyma-free mammary fat pads, the perimetrial adipose tissues accumulated 5-fold higher levels of triglycerides during pregnancy. Mammary fat cells maintained overall lipid levels during pregnancy and lactation (16–20 μg/fat pad). In contrast, lactation depleted total lipid stores from 108 ± 5 to 24 ± 4.5 μg/fat pad in perimetrial fat pads. Results of comparative analysis of fatty acid composition of mammary fat pads, with and without epithelial tissue, from virgin and lactating mice showed stimulation of 18∶2ω6 metabolism leading to 130% increase in the ratio 20∶4ω6 to 18∶2ω6 in the epithelial compartment. Pregnancy and lactation resulted in the elevation of 20∶4ω6 levels probably due to a 4-fold increase in Δ5 desaturase activity and a decrease in oxidative degradation of 18∶2ω6. These results suggest that, unlike other adipose tissues, the metabolic pathways in mammary fat cells are not dedicated to sequestration and accumulation of dietary lipids during pregnancy. Lactation favors mammary epithelial cell-stimulated production of precursors of eicosanoids which are known to have agonist-like effect on mammary epithelial cells.
Medicare patients' use of overpriced procedures before and after the omnibus budget reconciliation act of 1987

OBJECTIVES. Under the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1987, Medicare reduced physician fees for 12 procedures identified as overprices. This paper describes trends in the use of these procedures and other physician services by Medicare patients during the 4-year period surrounding the implementation of the 1987 budget act. METHODS. Medicare physician claims files were used to develop trends in physician-services use from 1986 to 1989. Services were grouped into four categories: overpriced procedures, other surgery, medical care, and ancillary tests. RESULTS. Growth in the volume of overpriced procedures slowed substantially after the 1987 budget act was implemented. Moreover, the reduction in the rate of volume growth for these procedures differed little among specialities or areas. In comparison, the rate of volume growth fell modestly for other surgery, was unchanged for medical care, and increased for ancillary tests. CONCLUSIONS. Increases do not necessarily occur in the volume of surgical proced...
Optimal control and feedback design of state-constrained parabolic systems in uncertainty conditions

This article concerns minimax control problems for linear multidimensional parabolic systems with distributed uncertain perturbations and control functions acting in the Dirichlet boundary conditions. The underlying parabolic control system is functioning under hard/pointwise constraints on control and state variables. The main goal is to design a feedback control regulator that ensures the required state performance and robust stability under any feasible perturbations and minimize an energy-type functional under the worst perturbations from the given area. We develop a constructive approach to the minimax control design of constrained parabolic systems that is based on certain characteristic features of the parabolic dynamics, including the transient monotonicity with respect to both controls and perturbations and the turnpike asymptotic behaviour on the infinite horizon. In this way, solving a number of associated open-loop control and optimization problems, we justify an easily implementable three-pos...
Activatable Oligomerizable Imaging Agents for Photoacoustic Imaging of Furin-Like Activity in Living Subjects

Photoacoustic (PA) imaging is continuing to be applied for physiological imaging and more recently for molecular imaging of living subjects. Owing to its high spatial resolution in deep tissues, PA imaging holds great potential for biomedical applications and molecular diagnostics. There is however a lack of probes for targeted PA imaging, especially in the area of enzyme-activatable probes. Here we introduce a molecular probe, which upon proteolytic processing is retained at the site of enzyme activity and provides PA contrast. The probe oligomerizes via a condensation reaction and accumulates in cells and tumors that express the protease. We demonstrate that this probe reports furin and furin-like activity in cells and tumor models by generating a significantly higher PA signal relative to furin-deficient and nontarget controls. This probe could report enzyme activity in living subjects at depths significantly greater than fluorescence imaging probes and has potential for molecular imaging in deep tumors.
Influence of Balloon Distention of Duodeno-Jejunal Loops on Volume of Combined Digestive Secretions.

Conclusions(1) Distention of an isolated loop of bowel to the point of strangulation, when caused either by the spontaneous accumulation of fluids therein, or by the distending of an indwelling balloon, produces an early temporary suppression of the combined digestive secretions. (2) The suppression of secretion does not occur when the loop has been denervated. (3) The similarity of the changes produced by balloon distention with those seen in spontaneous loop distention would seem to argue against the hypothesis that strangulation intestinal obstruction is associated with hyper-secretion of the digestive juices.
Polarizabilities, charge states, and vibrational modes of isolated fullerene molecules.

We have used our local-orbital cluster codes to perform detailed density-functional-based calculations on isolated ${\mathrm{C}}_{60}$ molecules. We present first- and second-electron affinities, which include all effects due to spin polarization and charge-induced geometrical relaxation. The effects due to the generalized gradient approximation are reported as well. The two ${\mathit{A}}_{\mathit{g}}$ and single ${\mathit{A}}_{\mathit{u}}$ vibrational modes are presented and frequency shifts due to charging are estimated. By placing the fullerene molecules in a static electric field of variable strength, the molecular static polarizabilities are obtained. In comparison to isolated carbon atoms, we find enhancements in the linear polarizabilities due to the delocalized electrons at the Fermi level, but do not observe any large nonlinear static contributions. By including effects due to charge transfer, on-site geometric relaxation, and fullerene polarization, we introduce a simple potential that accounts for long-range interactions and predict Hubbard parameters as a function of alkali-dopant concentration.
Valuation and the American Evaluation Association: Helping 100 flowers bloom, or at least be understood?

The author explores the challenges encountered when organizations attempt to facilitate evaluation and improvement through policy statements of professional associations. The American Evaluation Association (AEA) is used as an example. Various AEA statements are described as general and avoiding particular value preferences. The author concludes there is more that professional associations can do if valuation engagement is desirable, and offers modest recommendations that would facilitate that engagement. © Wiley Periodicals, Inc., and the American Evaluation Association.
The Band Spectrum of Caesium

Measurements of five distinct band systems of ${\mathrm{Cs}}_{2}$ have been made, in absorption with high and low dispersion, in magnetic rotation, and in fluorescence. Three of these systems, with maxima at 6250A, 7200A, and 7667A, have been reported before, but not analyzed. The fourth with a maximum at 4800A and the fifth, extending from 8950A to limit of sensitivity of the plate, are new. Quantum numbers have been assigned to some 218 bands in the system at 7667A. The upper and lower vibrational frequencies are 34.28 and 41.99 ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$, and an extrapolation yields 0.45 volt as the energy of dissociation of the ground state. This system, and the one beyond 8950A, apparently correspond to the green and red systems of sodium, respectively. The origin of the fifth system lies beyond the region of sensitivity of even the new Eastman $Q$ plates. Some regularities in the other systems have been found, but no complete analysis could be made, though a fluorescence spectrum was obtained in the 6250 system which showed the lower state to be the same as in the 7667A system. This 6250A system is extraordinarily complex and appears to contain some bands degraded to the red, some to the blue and some narrow regions of absorption bounded by edges on both sides. No magnetic rotation spectrum was found.
Combination torsion and axial compression tests of conical shells.

The purpose of these experiments J was to determine the shape of the interaction curve for axial buckling vs torsional buckling of conical shells. In this type of combined loading situation a large number of specimens is required to explore the numerous parameters involved. This problem was overcome through the use of Mylar conical shells that could withstand repeated buckling tests without permanent damage. The data collected from these tests were compared with the various theories of failure for axial and torsional buckling loads acting alone. The combined loading curves for conical shells were shown to be similar to those that have been proposed for cylindrical shells. The amount of scatter in the data was within the bounds suggested by a correction factor that considers the initial imperfections in the shell. This correction factor proved to be a lower bound for all data accumulated in these tests.
STRUCTURAL CHARACTERISTICS OF FUZZY MEASURE ON S-COMPACT SPACES

In systems research, the fuzzy measures we encounter most often are finite and established on S-compact spaces, which contain finite and infinitely countable measurable spaces. The structural characteristics of set function, such as null-additivity, autocontinuity, and uniform autocontinuity, are very important for the researches in fuzzy integral. For a fuzzy measure, the null-additivity is a quite weak requirement added on it, but the autocontinuity and the uniform autocontinuity are very powerful properties. In this paper, we prove that the null-additivity is equivalent to the uniform autocontinuity for the finite fuzzy measures on S-compact spaces.
PREDATION BY CALOSOMA SYCOPHANTA L. (COLEOPTERA: CARABIDAE): EVIDENCE FOR A LARGE IMPACT ON GYPSY MOTH, LYMANTRIA DISPAR L. (LEPIDOPTERA: LYMANTRIIDAE), PUPAE

The impact of predation by Calosoma sycophanta L. on an increasing prey population was assessed by recapturing marked adult beetles, periodically observing tagged gypsy moth pupae, and examining gypsy moth pupal remains in different microhabitats. Adult beetles dispersed in random directions but many tended to remain near the trap at which they were originally caught, suggesting a low dispersal potential. About 75% of the adult beetles present in the plot on one day were still present the next day. Capture–recapture estimates suggested that there were at most about 250 male beetles and half as many females/ha in the plot. Calosoma larvae destroyed 70% of tagged gypsy moth pupae under burlap bands on tree trunks near ground level, which was much more than any other mortality factor. Although this percentage was the same when mortality was assessed by looking at pupal remains within 5 m of the ground on tree trunks, pupae higher in trees and on leaves were not attacked as frequently. On average, about 40% of the pupae present in the entire study area were destroyed by Calosoma larvae. Each female beetle in the site would have had to produce about 30 progeny to have this effect. These data suggest that a relatively low number of adult beetles can have a substantial impact on gypsy moth populations.
xFITOM: a generic GUI tool to search for transcription factor binding sites.

Locating transcription factor binding sites in genomic sequences is a key step in deciphering transcription networks. Currently available software for site search is mostly server-based, limiting the range and flexibility of this type of analysis. xFITOM is a fully customizable program for locating binding sites in genomic sequences written in C++. Through an easy-to-use interface, xFITOM that allows users an unprecedented degree of flexibility in site search. Among other features,it enables users to define motifs by mixing real sites and IUPAC consensus sequences,to search the annotated sequences of unfinished genomes and to choose among 11 different search algorithms. Availability xFITOM is available for download at: http://research.umbc.edu/˜erill
Error estimates for a Galerkin method for a class of model equations for long waves

The Galerkin method, together with a second order time discretization, is applied to the periodic initial value problem for $$\frac{\partial }{{\partial t}}(u - (a(x)u_x )_x ) + (f(x,u))_x = 0$$ . Heref(x, ·) may be highly nonlinear, but a certain cancellation effect is assumed for?f(x, u) x u. Optimal order error estimates inL 2,H 1, andL ? are derived for a general class of piecewise polynomial spaces.
Catalysis of the Electroreduction of O2 to H2O by Vanadium−salen Complexes in Acidified Dichloromethane

Addition of stoichiometric quantities of trifluoromethanesulfonic (triflic) acid to solutions of V(IV)O(salen) (H(2)salen = N,N '-ethylenebis(salicylideneamine)) in dichloromethane produces the m-oxo dinuclear vanadium(IV) complex [(salen)V(IV)OV(IV)(salen)](2+) ([V(IV)OV(IV)](2+)). Addition of significant excesses of triflic acid converts the dimer into [V(IV)(salen)](2+). In dichloromethane solutions containing 0.1 M tetrabutylammonium tetrafluoroborate, the [V(IV)OV(IV)](2+) complex undergoes disproportionation and dissociation reactions to produce a solution containing an equimolar mixture of V(IV)O(salen), [V(III)(salen)](+), and [V(IV)OV(V)](3+). The oxophilic [V(III)(salen)](+) complex reacts with O(2) to accomplish a four-electron reduction of O(2): 2[V(III)(salen)](+) + O(2) --> 2[V(V)O(salen)](+). These reactions can be exploited to carry out catalytic electroreductions of O(2) to H(2)O in acidified dichloromethane solutions of V(IV)O(salen) at unusually positive potentials.
Tau Polymerization: Role of the Amino Terminus†

The abnormal polymerization of the tau molecule into insoluble filaments is a seminal event in the neurodegenerative process underlying Alzheimer's disease. Previous experimentation has shown that the microtubule-binding repeat region of the molecule is vital for its ability to polymerize in vitro into filaments similar to those found in Alzheimer's disease. However, it is becoming clear that regions outside the microtubule-binding repeat, such as exons 2 and 3 and the carboxy-terminal tail, can greatly influence its polymerization. Since it has been previously postulated that the amino terminus of tau could be involved in generating pathological conformations in the disease state, its role in the polymerization process was investigated. This report demonstrates that the removal of the amino terminus greatly inhibits the polymerization of the tau molecule, reducing both the rate and extent of polymerization. These results support the hypothesis that the ability of tau to form specific conformations involv...
High electron mobility germanium MOSFETs: Effect of n-type channel implants and ozone surface passivation

Germanium n-channel de vices have historically shown poor performance due to an asymmetric distribution of interface states that de grade electrostatic behavior and carrier mobility. In this study we demonstrate two methods for improving the performance of Ge nFETs, ozone surface passivation and n-type ion-implantation. Surface-channel nMOSFETs receiving a combination of O 3 passivation and 1×1012 cm−2 dose As or Sb implants show mobility comparable to the highest reported to date [1] with improved subthreshold slope. Devices showing buried-channel characteristics show even higher peak mobility (higher than Si at low in version densities) illustrating that interface states are still limiting electron mobility in surface-channel Ge devices.
New approaches for inflationary cosmology

“Extended” and “hyperextended” inflationary models of the universe have been developed which avoid the extreme fine-tuning required by all previous approaches. The models also generate a new source of inhomogeneities that affect large-scale structure. The most surprising feature is the role that inflation can play in altering the nature of the gravitational force.
A Symmetric Approach to Axiomatizing Quantifiers and Modalities

We present an axiomatization of several of the basic modal logics, with the idea of giving the two modal operators □ and ◊ equal weight as far as possible. Then we present a parallel axiomatization of classical quantification theory, working our way up through a sequence of rather curious subsystems. It will be clear at the end that the essential difference between quantifiers and modalities is amusing in a vacuous sort of way. Finally we sketch tableau proof systems for the various logics we have introduced along the way. Also, the “natural” model theory for the subsystems of quantification theory that come up is somewhat curious. In a sense, it amounts to a “stretching out” of the Henkin-style completeness proof, severing the maximal consistent part of the construction quite thoroughly from the part of the construction that takes care of existential-quantifier instances.
Genetic and nutritional control of the gametogenic cycle in Mytilus edulis

Individuals of Mytilus edulis were collected from two populations in easterm Long Island Sound, USA, at 6 wk intervals from January 1982 to February 1983, and the hypothesis that nutrient availability controls the timing of gametogenic events in this mussel was tested using genetic variants at the Lap locus. In eastern Long Island Sound, Lap genotypes differ in the net rate of nitrogen accumulation. A highly significant difference in reproductive cycle among genotypes occurred in a population of M. edulis where Lap genotypes differ in nitrogen budget. Genotypes with lower rates of nutrient accumulation delayed the reproductive cycle by approximately six weeks relative to genotypes with high rates of nutrient accumulation. No significant difference in reproductive cycle occurred at a locality where Lap genotypes do not differ in nitrogen budget. These data indicate that nutritional status can exert significant control over the timing of gametogenesis in M. edulis. Differences in reproductive cycle among Lap genotypes provide a mechanism of non-random mating among genotypes which may result in heterozygote deficiencies at this locus.
ATP-dependent chloride transport in plasma membrane vesicles from Aplysia intestine

Abstract A Cl−-stimulated ATPase activity, which is sensitive to both thiocyanate and vanadate, has been localized to the plasma membrane of Aplysia enterocytes. Utilizing plasma membrane vesicles from Aplysia enterocytes, ATP stimulated Cl− uptake to approximately 2.5-times that of control in a Na+, K+ and HCO3−-free medium. This ATP-dependent Cl− uptake was sensitive to both thiocyanate and vanadate. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that the active Cl− absorptive process in Aplysia intestine could be a Cl−-stimulated ATPase found in the enterocyte plasma membrane.
Real Estate Investment Trusts Performance, Recent Findings, and Future Directions

The volume of research specifically directed at lodging real estate investment trusts (REITs) is slender, although numerous studies have been conducted on REITs generally. Studies of REITs generally have found that regulatory requirements disperse ownership and focus management’s attention on its position as the shareholders’ agents. While REITs have carried more uncertainty of results than conventional real estate investments, they remain a vehicle for relatively small investors to participate in large real estate holdings. Despite the presence and apparent success of lodging REITs, no study has specifically addressed which ownership format is most suited to the hotel industry.
Spectroscopy in slit supersonic jet discharges: fine and hyperfine structure calculations for asymmetric top radicals with multiple nuclear spins

The combination of shot-noise-limited direct absorption spectroscopy with long-pathlength slit supersonic discharges has proven a powerful general method for obtaining infrared spectra of jet-cooled radicals at 10–20-fold sub-Doppler resolution. In addition to rovibrational characterization, such spectral resolution also provides a novel infrared window into fine (spin rotation) and hyperfine (Fermi contact, dipole–dipole) structure in doublet asymmetric top radicals. This necessitates a detailed treatment of the rovibrational Hamiltonian to account for the inhomogeneous line contours generated by the manifold of transitions only partially resolved even under slit supersonic jet conditions. The present work describes least squares fitting these lineshapes with a detailed Hamiltonian predictor program that reflects contributions from (i) asymmetric top end over end tumbling (NK a K c), (ii) electron spin rotation interactions (Σϵα N α S α), and (iii) a suite of hyperfine coupling terms (dipole–dipole, Ferm...
Effect of Reduction in the Use of Computed Tomography on Clinical Outcomes of Appendicitis

Importance Advanced diagnostic imaging is commonly used in the evaluation of suspected appendicitis in children. Despite its inferior diagnostic performance, ultrasonography (US) is now preferred to computed tomography (CT) owing to concerns about ionizing radiation exposure. With changes in imaging modalities, the influence on outcomes should be assessed. Objectives To review trends in the use of US and CT for children with appendicitis and to investigate simultaneous changes in the proportions of negative appendectomy, appendiceal perforation, and emergency department (ED) revisits. Design, Setting, and Participants We reviewed the Pediatric Health Information System administrative database for children who presented to the ED with the diagnosis of appendicitis or who underwent an appendectomy in 35 US pediatric institutions from January 1, 2010, through December 31, 2013. Main Outcomes and Measures We studied the use of US and CT for trends and their association with negative appendectomy, appendiceal perforation, and 3-day ED revisits. Results Our investigation included 52 153 children with appendicitis. Use of US increased 46% (from 24.0% in 2010 to 35.3% in 2013; absolute difference, 11.3%; adjusted test for linear trend, P = .02), whereas use of CT decreased 48% (from 21.4% in 2010 to 11.6% in 2013; absolute difference, −9.8%; adjusted test for linear trend, P P = .002), whereas the proportion of perforations (32.3% in 2010 to 31.9% in 2013) and ED revisits (5.6% in 2010 and 2013) did not change (adjusted tests for linear trend, P = .64 and P = .84, respectively). Conclusions and Relevance Among children with suspected appendicitis, the use of US imaging has increased substantially as the use of CT has declined. Despite the increased reliance on the diagnostically inferior US, important condition-specific quality measures, including the frequency of appendiceal perforation and ED revisits, remained stable, and the proportion of negative appendectomy declined slightly.
Semipermeability of the nuclear membrane in the intact cell.

The osmotic properties of nuclei in intact cells were studied by injecting solutions into the cytoplasm of amphibian oocytes. Subsequent changes in nuclear volume were recorded photographically. The injection of solutions containing polyvinylpyrrolidone or bovine serum albumin caused changes in nuclear volume which were related to the colloid osmotic pressure of the solution injected. The concentration in which no significant nuclear volume change occurred (the isotonic range) was 1.0 to 1.5 per cent polyvinylpyrrolidone (2.0 to 3.75 x 10-4 M). 2 per cent bovine serum albumin had no significant effect on nuclear volume, whereas 4 per cent caused a significant decrease. The significance of these findings is discussed in terms of the permeability characteristics of the nuclear membrane.
Properties of Convex Sets: A Glimpse

Convex sets play a very important role in geometry. In this section we state and prove some of the “classics” of convex affine geometry: Caratheodory’s theorem, Radon’s theorem, and Helly’s theorem. These theorems share the property that they are easy to state, but they are deep, and their proof, although rather short, requires a lot of creativity. We will return to convex sets when we study Euclidean geometry.
Early right ventricular fibrosis and reduction in biventricular cardiac reserve in the dystrophin-deficient mdx heart

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a progressive disease of striated muscle deterioration. Respiratory and cardiac muscle dysfunction are particularly clinically relevant because they result in the leading causes of death in DMD patients. Despite the clinical and physiological significance of these systems, little has been done to understand the cardiorespiratory interaction in DMD. We show here that prior to the onset of global cardiac dysfunction, dystrophin-deficient mdx mice have increased cardiac fibrosis with the right ventricle being particularly affected. Using a novel biventricular cardiac catheterization technique coupled with cardiac stress testing, we demonstrate that both the right and left ventricles have significant reductions in both systolic and diastolic function in response to dobutamine. Unstimulated cardiac function is relatively normal except for a significant reduction in the ventricular pressure transient duration compared with controls. These biventricular analyses also reveal the absence of a dobutamine-induced increase in isovolumic relaxation in the right ventricle of control hearts. Simultaneous assessment of biventricular pressure demonstrates a dobutamine-dependent enhancement of coupling between the ventricles in control mice, which is absent in mdx mice. Furthermore, studies probing the passive-extension properties of the left ventricle demonstrate that the mdx heart is significantly more compliant compared with age-matched C57BL/10 hearts, which have an age-dependent stiffening that is completely absent from dystrophic hearts. These new results indicate that right ventricular fibrosis is an early indicator of the development of dystrophic cardiomyopathy, suggesting a mechanism by which respiratory insufficiency may accelerate the development of heart failure in DMD.
An optimal algorithm for area minimization of slicing floorplans

The traditional algorithm of L. Stockmeyer (1983) for area minimization of slicing floorplans has time (and space) complexity O(n/sup 2/) in the worst case, or O(n log n) for balanced slicing. For more than a decade, it is considered the best possible. In this paper, we present a new algorithm of worst-case time (and space) complexity O(n log n), where n is the total number of realizations for the basic blocks, regardless whether the slicing is balanced or not. We also prove /spl Omega/(n log n) is the lower bound and the time complexity of any area minimization algorithm. Therefore, the new algorithm not only finds the optimal realization, but also has an optimal running time.
Species‐specific effects of subdaily temperature fluctuations on consumption, growth and stress responses in two physiologically similar fish species

Fluctuations in water temperature can have important physiological consequences for fishes. Effects of daily thermal cycles are well studied and can be beneficial, increasing prey consumption and growth rates when mean and maximum temperatures of the fluctuations are at or below the species' optimum temperature. While less studied, subdaily temperature fluctuations are also common in many aquatic habitats and can be caused by both natural and anthropogenic processes. We performed laboratory experiments to examine how two fish species (yellow perch, Perca flavescens, and walleye, Sander vitreus) with similar thermal preferences respond to chronic exposure to subdaily temperature variability. We selected temperature treatments that reflected observed thermal variation after examining water temperature data from multiple aquatic systems. We then separately exposed yellow perch and walleye to a stable 23 °C treatment and 12-h cycles of 23 � 2 ° Co r 23� 4 °C for 45 days. Adult yellow perch exposed to fluctuations of 23 � 4 °C over 12 h expressed higher consumption, growth and food conversion efficiency than fish experiencing stable 23 °C. Temperature fluctuations, though, resulted in mortalities and the development of skin ulcers in yellow perch that did not occur under stable temperatures. In contrast, the same 12-h temperature fluctuations did not result in mortalities or stress responses in juvenile walleye. Moreover, unlike yellow perch, growth rates of walleye were lower under 12-h temperature fluctuations compared with the stable 23 °C treatment. Our results indicate that species with similar thermal preferences can respond differently to the same subdaily temperature fluctuations.
Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy: Current Status and Possible Impacts

Abstract Bovine spongiform encephalopathy is an apparently new disease; first recognized in 1985, its pathological distinction was first reported in 1986. Bovine spongiform encephalopathy is a member of a group of transmissible encephalopathies that includes scrapie in sheep and Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease in humans. Early indications of its epidemiology suggested that the disease was transmitted via cattle feed containing meat and bone meals from previously infected animals. The tissues most likely to contain infectious agents were considered to be nervous tissues and offal, and their inclusion in ruminant feed was banned in the United Kingdom in 1989; regulations were tightened in 1992. Subsequent diagnosis has indicated that this ban has been effective and that confirmed cases are predicted to decline from a peak in the United Kingdom of 37,490 in 1992, to 7417 actual cases in 1996, and then to virtual extinction in 2001. Subsequent culling of all nonproductive cattle more than 30 mo of age and culling of cohort animals of confirmed cases is likely to reduce the predicted numbers and times significantly. Current interest is in the means of transmission of bovine spongiform encephalopathy within species and possibly to humans. A new variant of Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease, with 28 cases confirmed, is virtually certain to be bovine spongiform encephalopathy in humans. The outbreak of bovine spongiform encephalopathy has had major impacts on the United Kingdom dairy industry, including the loss of beef from dairy markets, the culling of more than 900,000 dairy bull calves, the removal of all cattle more than 30 mo of age from the human food chain, and now slaughter of cohort animals. Impacts on dairy marketing have yet to be properly assessed. Information and statistics for bovine spongiform encephalopathy can be found on the worldwide web at http://www.maff.gov.uk/maffhome.html .