cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Nomogram Predicting Overall Survival Benefit of Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy for Early-Stage Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer.

Abstract Objectives To develop and validate a nomogram that predicts overall survival (OS) for patients with early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treated with stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) vs. observation. Materials and Methods Adults with biopsy-proven T1-T2N0 NCSLC treated with SABR (30-70 Gy in 1-10 fractions with biologically effective dose ≥100 Gy10) or observation between 2004 and 2015 in the National Cancer Database (NCDB) were identified. Propensity score was used to match SABR and observation cohorts on prognostic demographic and clinicopathologic factors identified by logistic regression. Using backward selection, a multivariable Cox proportional hazard was identified predicting 2- and 5-year OS via a nomogram. Model prediction accuracy was assessed by time-dependent receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and integrated area under the ROC curve (AUC) analysis. Results A total of 22,073 adults met inclusion criteria and 4418 matched pairs (total n = 8836) were identified for nomogram development. The factors most strongly associated with improved OS on multivariable analysis included younger age (HR 0.82 by decade, P Conclusion This nomogram estimates OS at 2 and 5 years based on whether medically inoperable early-stage NSCLC patients receive SABR or elect for observation. Incorporation of other variables not captured within the NCDB may improve the model accuracy.
Divine Freedom

In “Divine Freedom,” I argue that morally significant incompatibilist freedom is a great good. So God possesses morally incompatibilist freedom. So, God can do wrong or at least can do worse than the best action He can do. So, God is not essentially morally perfect. After careful consideration of numerous objections, I conclude that this argument is undefeated.
Redesign of Health Services: First of Two Parts

Part of the syndrome of poverty is an inadequate health care system. The private system has excluded the poor largely on the basis of their inability to pay, whereas the services provided by the public system are often inadequate. Solutions to the problems besetting health care are possible, however. Those proposed here are in the areas of administration, organization and delivery of services, types and functions of personnel, and payment.
The Λ hyperon

The Λ ★★ hyperon was probably discovered in cosmic rays (Rochester 1947) at about the same time as the pion was first seen. Franzinetti and Morpurgo (1957) have given an account of the discovery of the A and other strange particles, and have discussed methods by which the properties of these particles were obtained. A more recent discussion of the strange particles has been given by Adair and Fowler (1963).
Scheitelgleichung der Ellipse

Wie lautet die Gleichung der Ellipse, wenn wir einen Scheitel auf der grosen Achse zum Nullpunkt des Koordinatenkreuzes und die Richtung der grosen Achse als X-Achse wahlen ? — Wir verschieben das Koordinatensystem nach dem Punkte (− a; 0) und mussen daher x in der Achsengleichung ersetzen durch x−a. Die Gleichung lautet daher (Abb. 73) $$\frac{{{{\left( {x - a} \right)}^2}}}{{{a^2}}} + \frac{{{y^2}}}{{{b^2}}} = 1$$ oder $$\frac{{{x^2}}}{{{a^2}}} - 2 \cdot \frac{x}{a} + 1 + \frac{{{y^2}}}{{{b^2}}} = 1$$ oder $${y^2} = 2 \cdot \frac{{{b^2}}}{a} \cdot x - \frac{{{b^2}}}{{{a^2}}}{x^2}.$$
Mediational Processes in the Retarded1

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the mediational process in the retarded. Most prominent among the neurological deficit theories of mental retardation is that proposed by the Russian investigator, Luria. According to Luria, the central deficit in the retarded child is a lack of development in the verbal system, such that a verbal response cannot serve as an adequate regulator or mediator of voluntary behavior. Much of the early mediation research in retardation seems to have originated in an attempt either to support or to refute Luria's deficiency hypothesis. There is little evidence to support a mediation control deficiency in the retarded. When r–s mediators are available during paired-associate (PA) learning tasks, retarded children and adults are generally able to use covert mediators to influence the rate of acquisition. However, most mediational findings indicate a limited production deficiency, especially with lower functioning retarded children. Production deficiencies become more obvious when tasks are designed to assess the transfer of mediational strategies. This is especially true when the mediational strategy has not been sufficiently or consistently formed during training.
Easy Quantification of the Respiratory and Metabolic Impact of Blood O2-CO2 Exchange Interactions in Critical Illness

When blood flows through the lungs, O2 uptake causes unbinding of chemically bound CO2, and contributes by this mechanism to CO2 release from blood into pulmonary alveoli. This O2-linked alveolar CO2 discharge is thus a consequence of the Haldane effect (HE), a relatively well-known phenomenon (Christiansen et al., 1914). However, its magnitude and the relative respiratory implications are not recognized or quantified commonly, due to the lack of easily suitable methods. Our study has been carried out to perform such an assessment over a large group of patients, based on a previously validated model for blood CO2 exchange and CO2-O2 interactions (Giovannini et al., 1993), and to develop new relationships which may ease quantification of the phenomenon in theoretical, experimental and clinical settings.
Binary Fission Studies of Helium-Ion-Induced Fission of Bi-209, Ra-226, and U-238

The kinetic energies of coincident fission fragments were measured for helium-ion-induced fission of ${\mathrm{Bi}}^{209}$, ${\mathrm{Ra}}^{226}$, and ${\mathrm{U}}^{238}$ with gold-surface barrier detectors and an Argonne three-parameter analyzer. The data obtained at each bombarding energy were analyzed to give total kinetic-energy distributions as a function of heavy fragment mass ${M}_{H}$. The mass yield distributions for ${\mathrm{Bi}}^{209}$, ${\mathrm{U}}^{238}$, and ${\mathrm{Ra}}^{226}$ are single, double, and triple humped, respectively. The total kinetic-energy release for ${\mathrm{Bi}}^{209}$ fission decreases smoothly with increasing values of ${M}_{H}$ and its variance remains constant. The total kinetic energy as a function of ${M}_{H}$ for all the bombardments of ${\mathrm{Ra}}^{226}$ and ${\mathrm{U}}^{238}$ show structure with a maximum value at ${M}_{H}=135$, while each bombardment gives a maximum in the variance of the total kinetic energy at ${M}_{H}=131$. This structure in the kinetic energy for ${\mathrm{Ra}}^{226}$ and ${\mathrm{U}}^{238}$ is interpreted in terms of shell structure in the heavy fragment. The larger kinetic energy observed for symmetric fission of heavy elements with energetic particles over that observed for thermal neutron fission is assumed to be due to a smaller effective separation of charge centers at the scission configuration. This effect may possibly result from a temperature-dependent viscosity and tensile strength of the nuclear fluid and leads to the interesting speculation that information on these parameters may be inferred from nuclear fission data. The full width at half-maximum height in the total kinetic-energy distribution for 42-MeV helium-ion-induced fission of ${\mathrm{Bi}}^{209}$ is 16\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}1 MeV (corrected for neutron emission and experimental dispersion) in excellent agreement with a theoretical calculation of Swiatecki and Nix.
How did you find your physician? An exploratory investigation into the types of information sources used to select physicians

Purpose – This paper aims to investigate what sources of information consumers are utilizing when they are selecting physicians, and if there are any differences in the types of sources they evaluate when searching for information for themselves versus searching for someone else (e.g. loved ones).Design/methodology/approach – Focus groups and personal interviews were conducted based on a convenience sampling approach.Findings – Consumers no longer depend on subjective sources such as word of mouth (WOM), but also look at objective internet sources. When searching for information for somebody else, consumers refer to more sources and prefer objective sources of information, such as the internet. When searching for loved ones, consumers spend more time and effort as they want to give the best possible advice.Research limitations/implications – The study focused only on baby‐boomers. Hence, the results may not be extended to other segments. Hospitals and other not‐for‐profit groups providing health care info...
Introducing Linear Regression: An Example Using Basketball Statistics

The intuition behind linear regression can be difficult for students to grasp particularly without a readily accessible context. This paper uses basketball statistics to demonstrate the purpose of linear regression and to explain how to interpret its results. In particular, the student will quickly grasp the meaning of explanatory variables, r-squared, and the statistical significance of estimates of regression coefficients. Even if the student is not a sports fan the examples are easily understood and familiar. The student can easily replicate the procedures in this paper to reinforce learning.
On the Nature of the Spin Coupling between the Iron-Sulfur Clusters in the Eight-Iron Ferredoxins

Abstract Evidence is presented to show that the two four-iron clusters in several 8-iron ferredoxins each have spin S = 1/2 in the reduced state and are spin-coupled to yield the complex EPR signals previously observed in the fully reduced states of these 8-iron ferredoxins.
Spinal Muscular Atrophy: Diagnosis and Management in a New Therapeutic Era

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) describes a group of disorders associated with spinal motor neuron loss. In this review we provide an update regarding the most common form of SMA, proximal or 5q-SMA, and discuss the contemporary approach to diagnosis and treatment. Electromyography and muscle biopsy features of denervation were once the basis for diagnosis, but molecular testing for homozygous deletion or mutation of the SMN1 gene allows efficient and specific diagnosis. In combination with loss of SMN1, patients retain variable numbers of copies of a second similar gene, SMN2, which produces reduced levels of the survival motor neuron (SMN) protein that are insufficient for normal motor neuron function. Despite the fact that understanding of how ubiquitous reduction of SMN protein leads to motor neuron loss remains incomplete, several promising therapeutics are now being tested in early-phase clinical trials.
Vertical interactions across ten parallel, stacked representations in the mammalian retina

The mammalian visual system analyses the world through a set of separate spatio-temporal channels. The organization of these channels begins in the retina, where the precise laminations of both the axon terminals of bipolar cells and the dendritic arborizations of ganglion cells suggests the presence of a vertical stack of neural strata at the inner plexiform layer (IPL). Conversely, many inhibitory amacrine cell classes are multiply or diffusely stratified, indicating that they might convey information between strata. On the basis of the diverse stratification and physiological properties of ganglion cells, it was suggested that the IPL contains a parallel set of representations of the visual world embodied in the strata and conveyed to higher centres by the classes of ganglion cells whose dendrites ramify at that stratum. Here we show that each stratum receives unique and substantively different excitatory and inhibitory neural inputs that are integrated to form at least ten different, parallel space-time spiking outputs. The response properties of these strata are ordered in the time domain. Inhibition through GABAC receptors extracts spatial edges in neural representations and seems to separate the functional properties of the strata. We describe a new form of neuronal interaction that we call 'vertical inhibition' that acts not laterally, but between strata.
Spectroscopy of the CF(4) laser.

The frequencies of 28 lines of the (12)CF(4) (nu(2) + nu(4)) ? nu(2) laser have been measured with an accuracy of +/-0.2 cm(-1) for (12)C(16)O(2) pump lines from P(14) to R(24). The CF(4) pump and laser transitions have been identified and the band origin and rotational constant of the nu(2) level determined to be nu(2) = 435.27 +/- 0.06 cm(-1), B(2) = 0.19143 +/- 0.00007 cm(-1). From these constants the laser frequencies expected from any given pumping frequency can be predicted to within +/-0.2 cm(-1).
Congenital heart disease in maternal PKU

Article history: Received 21 September 2012 Received in revised form 25 September 2012 Accepted 25 September 2012 Available online 12 October 2012 12% or, conversely, what protects the 88% from developing congenital heart disease? In this issue of Molecular Genetics and Metabolism Seagraves and McBride describe studies of cardiac teratogenicity in fetuses from female Pahmice, themousemodel for PKU [3]. The defects observed bore similarities to those noted in the affected fetuses from human maternal PKU [4] as well as to those previously reported by McDonald
Promotion and Evaluation of a Virtual Live Reference Service

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Health Sciences Library began providing virtual live reference service in the fall of 2001. The library was interested in exploring new ways to interact with users accessing electronic resources from outside the library. This article describes the background for starting the service, the methods used to promote the service, and the results of an evaluation conducted after the first seven months of operation. The service was lightly used during these months with only 82 interactions. An analysis of the transcripts examined referring Web pages, types of questions asked, software features used, and user login data. Text of two user surveys is included, with the data from the in-person survey analyzed.
The Renaissance and/of Witchcraft

These lines might well have been written by a denizen of the contemporary counter culture, though he might have respected “Divinity” only by eliminating it for “Government.” The lines can suggest various things. First, that there is an analogy to be made between the Renaissance and the contemporary world. Secondly, that a rejection of conventional learning—we discuss it under the rubric of irrelevance—can be a prelude to a revival of the occult. Thirdly, the utilization of this text can intimate that, for present purposes, the author may owe more to Herodotus than he does to Ranke, that is, more to history as art than to history as science. That, too, may be a sign of the times.
Perceptual style, locus of control and personality variables among East Indians and blacks in Trinidad.

25 black males, 25 East Indian males, 25 black females and 25 East Indian females from the University of the West Indies, Trinidad, were given the Rod-and- frame Test (RFT), the Rotter Internal-External Control Scale (I-E Control Scale), and Edwards' Personal Preference Schedule to ascertain the relationship between these variables, as well as mean differences for males and females of two different subcultures who share the same geographical environment and political entity. Significant sex differences were obtained for the I-E Control Scale scores and for the Edwards' needs of achievement, deference, succorance, dominance and nurtu rance. Ethnic group differences were obtained for the RFT and Edwards' need of order. Interactions of sex and ethnic group were obtained for exhibition, endurance and aggression. No significant correlation was obtained for any group between the RFT and I-E Control Scale. Significant correlations between RFT and Edwards' needs and between I-E Control Scale and Edwards' needs we...
The structural basis of arrestin-mediated regulation of G-protein-coupled receptors

The 4 mammalian arrestins serve as almost universal regulators of the largest known family of signaling proteins, G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). Arrestins terminate receptor interactions with G proteins, redirect the signaling to a variety of alternative pathways, and orchestrate receptor internalization and subsequent intracellular trafficking. The elucidation of the structural basis and fine molecular mechanisms of the arrestin–receptor interaction paved the way to the targeted manipulation of this interaction from both sides to produce very stable or extremely transient complexes that helped to understand the regulation of many biologically important processes initiated by active GPCRs. The elucidation of the structural basis of arrestin interactions with numerous non-receptor-binding partners is long overdue. It will allow the construction of fully functional arrestins in which the ability to interact with individual partners is specifically disrupted or enhanced by targeted mutagenesis. These “custom-designed” arrestin mutants will be valuable tools in defining the role of various interactions in the intricate interplay of multiple signaling pathways in the living cell. The identification of arrestin-binding sites for various signaling molecules will also set the stage for designing molecular tools for therapeutic intervention that may prove useful in numerous disorders associated with congenital or acquired disregulation of GPCR signaling.
MCMC Multilocus Lod Scores: Application of a New Approach

On extended pedigrees with extensive missing data, the calculation of multilocus likelihoods for linkage analysis is often beyond the computational bounds of exact methods. Growing interest therefore
Mode of delivery and postpartum depression: the role of patient preferences

Objective The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between strength of preference for vaginal delivery, delivery mode undergone, and postpartum depression. Study Design We conducted a secondary analysis of data from a longitudinal study of delivery-mode preferences. During an interview between 24-36 weeks of gestation, participants were asked whether they preferred vaginal or cesarean delivery; the strength of this preference was measured by the standard gamble metric. Depression was assessed antepartum and at 8-10 weeks and 6-8 months after delivery by using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). The primary outcome was PHQ-9 score at 8-10 weeks after delivery. We used multivariable regression analysis to assess the effect of strength of preference for vaginal delivery and delivery mode undergone on postpartum depression. Results Of 160 participants, 33.1% were nulliparous, and 30.6% had a previous cesarean delivery. Most of the participants (92.4%) preferred vaginal delivery, but the strength of preference varied substantially. The mean strength-of-preference score (0-1 scale; higher scores denote stronger vaginal delivery preference) was 0.658 (SD, ±0.352). A significant interaction emerged between the effects of delivery mode and vaginal delivery preference score on postpartum PHQ-9 score ( P = .047). Specifically, a stronger preference for vaginal delivery was associated with higher PHQ-9 scores among women who underwent cesarean delivery ( P = .027) but not among women who underwent vaginal delivery ( P = .761). The interaction between delivery mode and vaginal delivery preference score was no longer significant at 6-8 months after delivery. Conclusion Women who have a strong antepartum preference for vaginal delivery and deliver by cesarean may be at increased risk for depression in the early postpartum period.
Tunable photoluminescence and electroluminescence of size-controlled silicon nanocrystals in nanocrystalline-Si/SiO2 superlattices

Abstract We present photoluminescence and electroluminescence of silicon nanocrystals deposited by plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) using nanocrystalline silicon/silicon dioxide (nc-Si/SiO2) superlattice approach. This approach allows us to tune the nanocrystal emission wavelength by varying the thickness of the Si layers. We fabricate light emitting devices (LEDs) with transparent indium tin oxide (ITO) contacts using these superlattice materials. The current–voltage characteristics of the LEDs are measured and compared to Frenkel–Poole and Fowler–Nordheim models for conduction. The EL properties of the superlattice material are studied, and tuning, similar to that of the PL spectra, is shown for the EL spectra. Finally, we observe the output power and calculate the quantum efficiency and power conversion efficiency for each of the devices.
A review of astrophysical results from gravitational lensing

This brief review summarizes what has been learnt from gravitational lensing about galactic structure, galaxy formation and evolution, the bulge and halo of the Milky Way, clusters of galaxies, and cosmological parameters.
Ion transport in the cochlea of guinea pig. II. Chloride transport.

The −CI transport across the endolymph-peri-lymph barrier in guinea pigs was studied by perfusing the perilymphatic space with artificial perilymph containing 36CI and measuring the uptake of 36CI in the endolymph. In normal animals no marked difference in −CI concentration was found between the endolymph and perilymph. The data showed that the uptake of 36CI in the endolymph could be represented by a simple exponential function of the perfusion time, the rate constant being 0.01 min−1. The concentration of 36CI in the endolymph was greater with perfusion of the scala vestibuli than with perfusion of the scala tympani, indicating that Reissner's membrane is more permeable to −CI than the rest of the endolymph-perilymph barrier. Anoxia and local application of ouabain decreased the −CI concentration and 36CI uptake in the endolymph. Our results imply that the endocochlear potential is the principal driving force for unidirectional flux of −CI from perilymph to endolymph.
The Role of the Thermodynamic Factor in Hydrogen Diffusion in Metal and Alloy Membranes

The role of the thermodynamic factor in determining the magnitude of Ficks diffusion constant, DH, for H in metals and alloys is discussed using mainly Pd and its fcc alloys as examples because data are available for some of these systems over a wide range of H contents. Procedures are given for obtaining DH*, the concentration-independent diffusion constant, from DH under permeation conditions where the H concentration varies through the membrane; which is the common situation for H2 purification membranes where pupstream >> pdownstream. The role of the thermodynamic factor in H diffusion through multi-layer membranes will also be discussed.
Signal Peptidase and Oligosaccharyltransferase Interact in a Sequential and Dependent Manner within the Endoplasmic Reticulum

We demonstrate that the signal peptides of prepro-α-factor and preinvertase must be cleaved before Asn-X-Ser/Thr acceptor tripeptides located near the signal peptides of these precursors can be efficiently glycosylated within the endoplasmic reticulum of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The data support a model whereby the interaction of a signal peptide with the membrane prevents an acceptor tripeptide juxtaposed to the signal peptide from accessing the oligosaccharyltransferase active site until the signal peptide is cleaved.
Transforming Growth Factor-β1 Inhibits Non-pathogenic Gramnegative Bacteria-induced NF-κB Recruitment to the Interleukin-6 Gene Promoter in Intestinal Epithelial Cells through Modulation of Histone Acetylation

We have shown that non-pathogenic enteric Gram-negative Bacteroides vulgatus induces RelA phosphorylation, NF-kappaB activation, and proinflammatory gene expression in primary and intestinal epithelial cell (IEC) lines. We now demonstrate the transient induction of nuclear phospho-RelA (day 3) followed by persistent activation of phospho-Smad2 (days 3 and 7) in IEC from mucosal tissue sections of B. vulgatus-monoassociated rats, indicating that both NF-kappaB and transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1) signaling are induced in vivo following bacterial colonization. Interestingly, TGF-beta1 inhibited B. vulgatus- and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced NF-kappaB transcriptional activity as well as interleukin-6 (IL-6) mRNA accumulation and protein secretion in IEC. The inhibitory effect of TGF-beta1 is mediated independently of B. vulgatus/LPS-induced IkappaBalpha, Akt, and RelA phosphorylation as well as NF-kappaB DNA binding activity. Moreover, the specific histone deacetylase inhibitor trichostatin A blocked B. vulgatus/LPS-induced histone acetylation/phosphorylation (Lys-9/Ser-10) and reversed TGF-beta1-mediated inhibition of IL-6 gene expression. Chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis revealed that B. vulgatus/LPS-induced RelA recruitment to the IL-6 promoter is inhibited by TGF-beta1 treatment. Adenoviral delivery of Smad7 and dominant negative Smad3 (SmadDelta3) reversed the TGF-beta1-mediated inhibition of NF-kappaB transcriptional activity and NF-kappaB recruitment to the IL-6 promoter. In addition, TGF-beta1 and Ad5Smad3/4 prevent B. vulgatus/LPS-induced CBP/p300 and p65 nuclear co-association. We concluded that the TGF-beta1/Smad signaling pathway helps maintain normal intestinal homeostasis to commensal luminal enteric bacteria by regulating NF-kappaB signaling in IEC through altered histone acetylation.
Comparative study of the photochemistry of chloroplast membranes and photosystem II particles

A comparative study of the photoreducing potentials of spinach thylakoid membranes and spinach photosystem II particles has been made. Hexachloroplatinate ions have been used as electron acceptors in a Hill-like assay for oxygen evolution measurements with both thylakoid membranes and photosystem II particles. However, unlike other Hill acceptors, such as ferricyanide, hexachloroplatinate can be fully reduced to metallic platinum that is catalytically active for hydrogen evolution. This is experimentally confirmed in the ability of chloroplast membranes to photoprecipitate platinum and photoproduce molecular hydrogen. Although similar experiments with photosystem II particles resulted in hexachloroplatinate-supported oxygen evolution, hydrogen evolution was not observed. Moreover, photosystem II particles coupled to ferredoxin and hydrogenase resulted in neither hydrogen nor oxygen evolution—a distinct contrast to the results obtained with chloroplast membranes.
Electroless Nickel for N-Type Contact on 4H-SiC

An electroless nickel film contains 5-14% by weight of phosphorus. Because of the presence of such a high concentration of phosphorus, electroless nickel can be a useful and convenient source of phosphorus dopant in the fabrication of n-type ohmic contacts for SiC. This paper describes the successful deposition of a Ni:P layer on 4H-SiC through electroless nickel plating followed by a discussion of the results of surface science and electrical measurements. Specific contact resistivity on lightly-doped samples with carrier concentration of 2.5 ´ 1016 cm-3 has been found to be about 4.8 ´ 10-6 Ωcm2 without any need for ion implantation. This metallization technique is especially useful in broad area ohmic contact formation on the back of n-type SiC substrate.
An FT-i.r. study of the decomposition of polyethylene over supported rhodium

Abstract The decomposition of polyethylene over supported rhodium films was investigated using FT-i.r. as an analytical probe. The process was observed to occur at relatively low temperature (190°C) and hydrogen pressure (13–53 kPa). The products detected by i.r. were methane and gaseous lower hydrocarbons. The active catalyst is believed to be Rh metal, rather than the RhCl 3 salt. Larger yields of methane were obtained when Rh/Al 2 O 3 was the catalyst than for Rh/TiO 2 , in contrast to observations for hydrogenation of carbon dioxide. The work demonstrates the utility of FT-i.r. for in situ investigations of polymer decomposition processes.
Cancer to bone: a fatal attraction

When cancer metastasizes to bone, considerable pain and deregulated bone remodelling occurs, greatly diminishing the possibility of cure. Metastasizing tumour cells mobilize and sculpt the bone microenvironment to enhance tumour growth and to promote bone invasion. Understanding the crucial components of the bone microenvironment that influence tumour localization, along with the tumour-derived factors that modulate cellular and protein matrix components of bone to favour tumour expansion and invasion, is central to the pathophysiology of bone metastases. Basic findings of tumour–bone interactions have uncovered numerous therapeutic opportunities that focus on the bone microenvironment to prevent and treat bone metastases.
Synthesis and Photophysical Properties of a Series of Cyclopenta[b]naphthalene Solvatochromic Fluorophores

The synthesis and photophysical properties of a series of naphthalene-containing solvatochromic fluorophores are described within. These novel fluorophores are prepared using a microwave-assisted dehydrogenative Diels–Alder reaction of styrene, followed by a palladium-catalyzed cross coupling reaction to install an electron donating amine group. The new fluorophores are structurally related to Prodan. Photophysical properties of the new fluorophores were studied and intriguing solvatochromic behavior was observed. For most of these fluorophores, high quantum yields (60–99%) were observed in methylene chloride in addition to large Stokes shifts (95–226 nm) in this same solvent. As the solvent polarity increased, so did the observed Stokes shift with one derivative displaying a Stokes shift of ∼300 nm in ethanol. All fluorophore emission maxima, and nearly all absorption maxima were significantly red-shifted when compared to Prodan. Shifting the absorption and emission maxima of a fluorophore into the visib...
Inhibitory effects of ouabain on early heart development and cardiomyogenesis in the chick embryo.

Pericardial cavity formation and epithelialization of the cardiac precursor cell population constitute a critical developmental period that precedes stable cardiac cell commitment and differentiation. These events delineate the myocardial and endocardial precursor population in the embryo. Restriction of Na/K-ATPase (the sodium pump) expression to the pre-cardiomyocyte lateral membranes coincides with these events. Na/K-ATPase has been implicated developmentally in cavitation and in maintaining membrane potential. Experiments were undertaken to determine if the effects of perturbing sodium pump activity will affect pericardial cavity formation and, in turn, whether heart formation and/or cardiac cell commitment will be affected. We incubated whole chick embryos in vitro between stages 5 to 8 in the presence of the highly specific Na/K-ATPase inhibitor ouabain. Exposure of whole embryos to 10 μM ouabain (10−5 M) demonstrated that heart development and precardiomyocyte differentiation are inhibited principally between stage 5 through stage 7. In each stage the degree of inhibition follows a rostrocaudal gradient as development proceeds along the anterior to posterior axis. After stage 8 ouabain no longer affects heart development or cardiomyogenesis. The inhibition is concentration- and developmental stage-dependent. The inhibition is reversible by elevating the outside potassium ion concentration [Ko] in the culture medium or by transferring the embryos into normal medium minus ouabain even after 20 hr of ouabain exposure. The results also suggest that the regulation of the formation of the three-dimensional organ is independent from regulation of myogenesis. ©1995 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Topological techniques for efficient rigorous computation in dynamics

We describe topological methods for the efficient, rigorous computation of dynamical systems. In particular, we indicate how Conley's Fundamental Decomposition Theorem is naturally related to combinatorial approximations of dynamical systems. Furthermore, we show that computations of Morse decompositions and isolating blocks can be performed efficiently. We conclude with examples indicating how these ideas can be applied to finite- and infinite-dimensional discrete and continuous dynamical systems.
The interaction of spatially modulated vortex pairs with free surfaces

Spatially modulated vortex pairs were generated below a free surface by two counter-rotating flaps whose edges approximate a sinusoid. The surface interactions of the vertically approaching vortex pairs were visualized by the shadowgraph technique. Two limiting cases were investigated in detail: the interaction with a surfactant-rich (contaminated) surface and with a surfactant-poor (‘clean’) surface. In the latter case shadowgraph images showed that the underlying vortex core formed a line of circular surface depressions. Subsequent measurements of the temporally evolving velocity fields using digital particle image velocimetry (DPIV) of the vortex pair cross-sections and the subsurface plane confirmed the connection process of the main vortex core with the surface. As a result of the connection the initially modulated vortex tube was broken into a line of U-vortices. In the presence of surfactants this connection could not be observed; rather a Reynolds ridge (or stagnation line) was formed and a very weak connection of the secondary separation vortex could be seen in the shadowgraphs as well as measured with the time-resolved DPIV technique. A prerequisite for connection of the vortex with the surface is that the flow's kinematics force the vortex core, that is, regions of concentrated vorticity, toward the surface. The ensuing locally concentrated viscous flux of surface-parallel vorticity through the surface is balanced by a local surface deceleration. Surface-normal vorticity appears on each side of the decelerated region whose gradually increasing circulation is directly balanced by the loss of circulation of the surface-parallel vortex. However, the shear forces caused by small amounts of surface contamination and its associated subsurface boundary layer inhibit the connection process by preventing the essential viscous flux of parallel vorticity through the surface. Instead, the subsurface boundary layer is associated with a flux of parallel vorticity into the surface which then concentrates into the observable secondary separation vortex.
The problem of time unit in Leslie's population model

The conditions that will allow the lumping together of several age classes in the Leslie model are investigated. We show that if the lumping is to be valid for all population distributions, then the parameters of the model must be periodic. Lumping is valid when the population is in equilibrium, but equilibrium should be tested before the model is lumped.
Thoughts for Peace at a Time of Doubt

In the uncertain times before the United States presidential election, the wretched legacy of the Bush regime calls for transformational leadership. World and national problems make the pursuit of peace with justice especially important and especially difficult.
Update on the Captured Documents in the Former Osoby Archive, Moscow

In the summer of 1992, I was able to return to the Osoby Archive, now the Center for the Preservation of Historical Documentary Collections. At that time, we completed the selection process for microfilming for the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum Archive and reviewed many of the opisi, or finding aids. Consequently, I can report corrections on some errors that inevitably resulted from our first, rushed review and can provide more accurate German-language titles for some of the agencies described obscurely in English in my original report.
Career Success Implications of Political Skill

The authors investigated the individual characteristic of political skill and its relation to 5 different career-related outcomes (total compensation, promotions, career satisfaction, life satisfaction, and perceived external job mobility). They examined data obtained from a sample of 191 employees working a wide range of occupations. The results reveal that political skill is associated with 4 of the 5 outcomes. In addition, they examined the 4 dimensions of political skill and found that the networking ability dimension dominates the relations with the examined outcomes. The authors discuss practical implications, limitations, and directions for future research.
Analysis of optical navigation error during Mars entry

This paper analytically investigates the influence of aerodynamic shock-induced optical error on navigation accuracy when using a terrain scene-matching navigation sensor during a Mars landing. Optical error results from differences in the refraction coefficients of the atmospheric gases in front of and behind the shock wave during spacecraft entry. In turn, this optical error will produce navigation error that can result in a terminal landing error. The optical image error becomes more pronounced during entry vehicle maneuvers away from straight and level flight if the imaging camera is rigidly mounted to the vehicle. A 3 df numerical simulation is used to investigate the optical imaging shock error for a Mars entry at less than hyperbolic speeds. Preliminary analysis shows that the aerodynamic shock wave will produce very little navigation error at Mach numbers less than approximately 8.
3-Nitropropionic acid exacerbates N-methyl-D-aspartate toxicity in striatal culture by multiple mechanisms.

Abstract We examined the effects of 3-nitropropionic acid-induced succinate dehydrogenase inhibition on neuronal ATP content, N -methyl- d -aspartate-induced neuronal death, resting membrane potential, and N -methyl- d -aspartate-induced changes in cytosolic calcium concentration ([Ca 2+ ] c ) in cultured rat striatal neurons. Exposure of cultures to 3 mM 3-nitropropionic acid for 3 h did not cause overt toxicity, but reduced ATP content by 35%. Treatment with 3-nitropropionic, or removal of Mg 2+ from the medium, enhanced subsequent N -methyl- d -aspartate toxicity, reducing the LC 50 from 250 μ M to 12 μ M or 30 μ M, respectively. Even after Mg 2+ removal, enhancement of N -methyl- d -aspartate toxicity by 3-nitropropionic acid remained pronounced, with the LC 50 further decreasing to 3 μ M. The mean resting membrane potential of neurons treated with 3-nitropropionic acid was −37 mV, while that in control neurons was −61 mV. Treatment with 3-nitropropionic did not affect baseline [Ca 2+ ] c as determined by fura-2 microfluorimetry. N -methyl- d -aspartate (30 μ M) caused a rapid rise in [Ca 2+ ] c , the initial magnitude of which was not affected by 3-nitropropionic acid. However, after a 1-h treatment, [Ca 2+ ] c was dramatically higher in 3-nitropropionic acid-treated neurons. This increased calcium load was washed out slowly and only partially, although calcium in control neurons washed out rapidly and almost completely. These results suggest that in striatal neurons, the enhancement of N -methyl- d -aspartate toxicity caused by succinate dehydrogenase inhibition may be due to synergism between partial relief of the Mg 2+ blockade of the N -methyl- d -aspartate receptor and other mechanisms, including disruption of neuronal calcium regulation. This synergism may be relevant to the neuronal death observed in neurodegenerative disorders.
Solution and solid-state NMR characterization of poly(p-phenylene terephthalamide)

NMR spectroscopy has been used to characterize poly(p-phenylene terephthalamide) in the solid state and in solution in sulfuric acid. Solid-state 13C NMR spectra illustrate that the chain structure is highly ordered in the solid state and is of lower symmetry than in solution. Solid-state 13C and 1H NMR results show that only very limited motion takes place over the temperature range of −170 to +200°C. High-resolution NMR spectra can be observed only in very dilute isotropic solutions because it is the overall rotational motion of the polymer, not segmental motion, that averages the nuclear spin interactions to their isotropic values. These results demonstrate that previous solution NMR studies that were interpreted as reflecting the presence of isotropic and anisotropic high-molecular-weight polymer phases over a wide range of concentrations actually are representative of polymer degradation.
The 1984 election as Anthony downs and Stanley Kelley might interpret it

This paper is an analysis of two rational choice theories of elections. Anthony Downs and Stanley Kelley's theories yield complementary interpretations of the 1984 U. S. election. Reagan's victory was based on both prospective and retrospective judgments as well as on candidate and policy considerations. Reagan won that element of an incumbent's reelection that is a referendum on his performance as president. However, people also voted on the basis of domestic and foreign policy preferences for the second term. On these issues voters preferred Mondale as much as Reagan. Reagan's victory owed remarkably little to his conservative agenda and to a warm regard for his personal qualities as a leader. His landslide was deceptive. The two Reagan victories were among the weakest of the six landslides of the postwar period by Kelley's test of decisiveness. The Reagan elections have not set the United States on the course of a long-term conservative agenda in either domestic or foreign affairs.
Toward the formation of a partisan alignment in France

This article investigates the extent to which and the ways in which a basic partisan alignment appeared to be forming in France between 1958 and 1988. During that period, the incidence of party identification rose from abnormally low to normal levels, and the composition of the alignment evolved from indeterminacy, through a left-right standoff, to Socialist party predominance. The basic question asked is how a partisan alignment is createdin the first place. The main elements of the answer suggested are by simplifying, clarifying, and stabilizing the terms of electoral choice. This process is traced closely, with special reference to the incidence of PI and the composition of the alignment by age in 1988, and including a comparison between France in 1968 and the U.S. in 1932. Finally, the fragility of the 1988 alignment is underscored. Comparatively new and shaped mainly by the partisan identifications of the younger citizens, the 1988 alignment was vulnerable to any weakening of the conditions that contributed to creating it. The party with the most to lose was the Socialist party, which had gained the most while the party system stabilized and the incidence of party identification rose.
Taiwan's Arms Procurement Debate and the Demise of the Special Budget Proposal: Domestic Politics in Command

Despite the growing security threat posed by Chinese military modernization, Taiwan still has not completed the purchase of some of the key components of the arms sales package the United States approved in April 2001. The reasons include overconfidence in U.S. security assurances, underestimation of Chinese capabilities and resolve, and highly divisive domestic Taiwanese politics.
Justice towards youth: Investigating the mismatch between current policy and public opinion

Abstract In this article, we present evidence that public perceptions within the United States are not as supportive of the harsh treatment afforded juveniles as public policy would suggest. Based on data from a representative state-wide survey, we used path analysis to investigate whether respondents' understanding and beliefs surrounding child and adolescent development were related to their beliefs surrounding appropriate levels of punishment towards juveniles. We estimated direct and indirect pathways whereby factors such as the age at which a respondent considers a youth responsible for his/her actions and adolescents' cognitive ability were associated with overall attitudes towards punishment. The results indicated respondents' attitudes towards punishment were associated with their beliefs and attitudes concerning different aspects of adolescent development. The results provided support for the premise that deeper knowledge and understanding of adolescent development does make a difference in terms of how individuals view appropriate punishment options. We argue that such evidence can be used as part of a broader advocacy strategy designed to develop more just programs and policies directed at children and youth involved with the justice system.
Cost containment and schizophrenia, patient satisfaction, and medication information

Cost containment and schizophrenia According to Farley,1 “Despite the potential for savings, policy makers should consider carefully the potential adverse consequences that may arise from implementing aggressive cost-containment policies among patient with severe mental illness.” A number of traditional cost-cutting measures were implemented in Mississippi in 2002. The measures included increasing prescription copayments from $1 to $3 per brand, a cap of seven prescriptions per month, a 34-day supply limitation, and a 5% reduction in dispensing fees. A 12-month pre-/posttest longitudinal design was used. Data from Mississippi were compared with data of patients with schizophrenia from Minnesota and Indiana—two states with less restrictive costcontainment strategies. Administrative claims data were used to examine the effect of these policies. Mississippi patients were nearly 5% less adherent and experienced nearly 21% more 90-day antipsychotic treatment gaps than patients in the control states. Also, a 3.7% reduction in outpatient mental health visits and a 4.2% reduction in mental health care payments were observed in Mississippi patients. Implications. Farley’s findings replicate evidence regarding cost-containment measures designed to curb access to medications without concomitant strategies to improve adherence and clinical outcomes.2 The author recommended strategies that could effectively reduce costs while maintaining access to necessary medications through smart therapeutic decisions and the selection of less costly therapeutic alternatives.
An ion-selective microelectrode for bile salts

Abstract The development of a prototype ion-selective microelectrode for bile salts is described. The microelectrodes demonstrated Nernstian response (59 ± 10 mV dec −1 ) with sodium deoxycholate in Tris (0.2 M, pH 9.0, 15–30°C), HEPES (0.13 M, pH 7.5), and bicarbonate buffers (0.1 M, pH 7.5) (25 ± 0.1°C) were stable for several days, and the responses were highly reproducible. The microelectrodes were selective for bile salts over the physiologically important inorganic anions, bicarbonate and chloride. The response to sodium cholate (42 mV dec −1 ) was consistently lower than the ideal response (59 mV dec −1 ). This ion-selective microelectrode may show promise as a useful tool for the determination of intracellular bile salt activity.
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Antagonist Therapy for Retinopathy of Prematurity

In this article, the growing problem of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) worldwide, treatments for severe ROP including standard-of-care laser treatment, and the need for new treatments are discussed. Also discussed are the reasons to consider inhibiting the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling pathway in severe ROP and the concerns about broad VEGF inhibition. Finally, the potential role of VEGF in ROP based on studies in animal models of oxygen-induced retinopathy, the effects of anti-VEGF based on basic research data, and the clinical relevance of these data are covered.
Bleaching and symmetry properties of the v4, center*

Abstract V 4 -centers were formed by exposing KBr crystals to X-rays at 175°K. The partial optical bleaching of the V 4 -band at 80°K and its regeneration caused by raising the temperature of the crystal above 164°K or by exposing the crystal at wavelengths outside the V 4 -band were investigated. The symmetry of the V 4 -center was investigated by making the V 4 absorption band dichroic and it was found that the bleaching and regeneration properties of the center occur because a V 4 -center is excited strongly by radiation polarized along one of the 〈100〉 crystal axes and weakly by radiation in a direction orthogonal to this axis. It is concluded that the available results indicate that the V 4 -center may be the antimorph of the F -center.