cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A term neonate with cyanosis with crying

Congenital short trachea can be associated with bronchial compression with associated symptoms of apnoea, cyanosis, increased work of breathing, and/or respiratory failure in infancy. Operative intervention should be considered in symptomatic cases.https://bit.ly/3gM6Vv9
Design of Host Molecules Capable of Forming Extremely Stable Host-Guest Complexes

Construction of extremely sticky host molecules, those capable of forming extremely stable complexes with suitable guests, is an interesting and important puzzle. The more important “design principles” for this class of compound are summarized: Hydrophobic complexation, as illustrated by the cyclodextrins, is historically the first and “defining” force in host-guest complex stabilization.1 Its great importance to biological systems has caused it to be the subject of intense scrutiny. While originally ascribed to entropie effects2 current thinking is revisionist in ascribing it primarily to enthalpic features of the hydrogen bond and differential solvation of host and guest.3 A particularly illuminating series of papers by Diederich summarizes the arguments for this viewpoint.4 The rather amorphous nature of hydrophobic effects is accented by Dougherty’s work on the importance of ion-dipole effects in several anthracenophane-based hosts. The hydrogen bond has been exploited to great effect in the design of hosts capable of acting primarily in aprotic organic solvents.5 Aromatic-aromatic stacking has been exploited by Rebek, Hamilton and others in building nucleoside binding hosts.6 The “lock and key effect”, refined as Cram’s preorganization concept has received increasing consideration7 recently in the context of immunophilin binding studies. Edge-face aromatic-aromatic interactions have been advanced as a stabilizing force on protein conformations. In favorable cases they exercise a positive effect on complex stability. Ion-ion and ion-dipole effects have proven effective in cases studied by Dougherty8 and others. Computational tools are increasingly important in this area with respect to both the nature of solvophobic interactions and the origins of host-guest interactions.9
Inorganic Fertilizer vs. Cattle Manure as Nitrogen Sources for Maize (Zea Mays L.) in Kakamega, Kenya

Despite worldwide efforts, food security has not improved in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) since 2000 when the United Nations published its Millennium Development Goals. Inconsistent and inefficient soil management by farmers is a major contributing factor. Maize (Zea Mays L.) is a staple foods Kenya, but neither fertilizer nor manure are economically available to farmers in sufficient quantities. The objective of this study was to compare an inorganic fertilizer with an equivalent dry-weight rate of N from cattle manure for maize production in Western Kenya using six maize plots at four farm sites. Results from this study conducted in 2007 showed that inorganic fertilizer produced grain yields 68% higher than that from manure. However, yields were low. Analysis of maize leaves at initial silking stage showed that many nutrients were below the critical levels. Further estimates showed that up to twice the amount of N applied to the field is exiting the field via maize grain and stover, thereby creating a negative nutrient budget. For these reasons, it can be concluded that the recommended N rate of 50 kg/ha is not enough to either sustain crop yields or restore the degraded soil systems.
Definition of a robustness metric for resource allocation

Parallel and distributed systems may operate in an environment that undergoes unpredictable changes causing certain system performance features to degrade. Such systems need robustness to guarantee limited degradation despite fluctuations in the behavior of its component parts or environment. This research investigates the robustness of an allocation of resources to tasks in parallel and distributed systems. The main contributions of this paper are (1) a mathematical description of a metric for the robustness of a resource allocation with respect to desired system performance features against perturbations in system and environmental conditions, and (2) a procedure for deriving a robustness metric for an arbitrary system. For illustration, this procedure is employed to derive robustness metrics for two example distributed systems. Such a metric can help researchers evaluate a given resource allocation for robustness against uncertainties in specified perturbation parameters.
Identification of removable dental prosthesis.

I dentification marks are needed on removable dental prostheses to facilitate the return of dentures that are lost or misplaced, as occurs frequently in hospitals, nursing homes, and other long-term care institutions. Identification is also important for forensic purposes, particularly if the wearer is totally edentulous. To date, nine states have enacted laws that require identification markings on all new removable denture prostheses.’ Various methods of identification have been described.ls4 American Dental Association (ADA) guidelines for identification specify (1) the strength of the prosthesis must not be jeopardized; (2) it must be easy, efficient, and inexpensive to achieve; (3) the markings must be visible and durable; (4) the identification must withstand humidity and fire; (5) the identification marks should be cosmetically acceptable to the wearer; and (6) for forensic purposes the identification marks should be in the place least likely to receive damage, that is, the most posterior lingual portion of the mandibular denture and the lingual aspect of the second molar region in the maxillary denture.’ This article outlines a simple technique for placing
Effect of a High-Fructose Weight-Maintaining Diet on Lipogenesis and Liver Fat

Context: Consumption of high-fructose diets promotes hepatic fatty acid synthesis (de novo lipogenesis [DNL]) and an atherogenic lipid profile. It is unclear whether these effects occur independent of positive energy balance and weight gain. Objectives: We compared the effects of a high-fructose, (25% of energy content) weight-maintaining diet to those of an isocaloric diet with the same macronutrient distribution but in which complex carbohydrate (CCHO) was substituted for fructose. Design, Setting, and Participants: Eight healthy men were studied as inpatients for consecutive 9-day periods. Stable isotope tracers were used to measure fractional hepatic DNL and endogenous glucose production (EGP) and its suppression during a euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamp. Liver fat was measured by magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Results: Weight remained stable. Regardless of the order in which the diets were fed, the high-fructose diet was associated with both higher DNL (average, 18.6 ± 1.4% vs 11.0 ± 1.4% for CCHO...
Number of Spermatozoa in the Different Parts of the Reproductive Tract of the Bull

Summary A study was made of the distribution of spermatozoa in the reproductive tract of the bull. The study was subdivided into three separate phases. In the first phase, the sperm numbers in the ampulla, ductus deferens, and the cauda epididymis were determined. The average values were as follows: (1) 22 ampullae, 418million, (2) 10 ducta deferentia, 340million, (3) 25 cauda epididymides, 8,806million. The number of spermatozoa in the ampullae and the ducta deferentia of a bull is not sufficient for a normal ejaculate, whereas the cauda contains enough spermatozoa for a number of ejaculates. During the second phase, the distribution of spermatozoa within the epididymides of 46 bulls was determined. The cauda epididymis contained 45.42%, corpus, 18.34%, and the caput, 36.24% of the total spermatozoa counted in the epididymides. The relation of testicular and epididymal weights to the sperm contents in the cauda and caput epididymis was studied in the last phase. The correlation coefficients between the following variables were calculated on a between-bull basis: (1) testicle weight and sperm number in the cauda, 0.16, (2) epididymis weight and sperm in the cauda, 0.32, (3) cauda weight and sperm in the cauda, 0.37, (4) caput weight and sperm in the cauda, 0.36, (5) testicle weight and sperm number in the caput, 0.20, (6) epididymis weight and sperm in the caput, 0.27, (7) caput weight and sperm in the caput, 0.34. None of the correlation coefficients was significant.
Giant Macrolactams Based on β-Sheet Peptides

This paper reports the use of natural amino acids, the tripeptide β-strand mimic Hao, and the β-turn mimic δ-linked ornithine to generate water-soluble 54-, 78-, and 102-membered-ring macrolactams. These giant macrocycles were efficiently prepared by synthesis of the corresponding protected linear peptides, followed by solution-phase cyclization and deprotection. The protected linear peptide precursors were synthesized on 2-chlorotrityl chloride resin by conventional Fmoc-based solid-phase peptide synthesis. Macrocyclization was typically performed using HCTU and N,N-diisopropylethylamine in DMF at ca. 0.5 mM concentration. The macrocycles were isolated in 13-45% overall yield after HPLC purification and lyophilization. 1D, 2D TOCSY, and 2D ROESY (1)H NMR studies of the 54- and 78-membered-ring macrolactams establish that these compounds fold to form β-sheet structures in aqueous solutions.
Case study of a large summer flood on the North Slope of Alaska: bedload transport

The relative importance of snowmelt versus rain-generated floods on sediment transport in arctic streams is largely unknown because studies documenting either event-type are rare. An August 2002 precipitation event produced the largest discharge level (snowmelt or rain) over the previous ten-year period of hydrologic and geomorphologic monitoring in the Upper Kuparuk River, Alaska providing an opportunity to document the geomorphologic response to of an arctic stream to an extreme event. in this study we document the geomorphologic response and estimate the bedload transport rate using the virtual velocity method. This flood mobilized virtually the entire bed, with the exception of random boulders greater than 0.5 m. The channel cross-section and water edge survey data illustrate the considerable morphologic response generated by the flood. The magnitude of this response resulted in only a 13% tracer rock recovery rate. The total bedload transport was estimated to be 870 m 3 of bed material through the study cross sections. Channel morphology, and therefore habitat, is maintained by large and infrequent summer rain events. These events, particularly when they occur in the late summer months, when active layer depth is at its greatest, have the potential to generate orders of magnitude more bedload transport than a snowmelt runoff event. It is unclear, however, if the lack of significant bedload transport during snowmelt is due to protection by bedfast ice or if flows are insufficient.
Getting Fathers Involved in Child-Related Therapy.

Abstract Fathers are involved in treatment for child and family problems to a far lesser extent than are mothers. This article reviews the level of fathers’ inclusion in therapy, delineates possible barriers to fathers’ participation in child-related treatment, and discusses factors associated with fathers’ involvement in therapy. Empirically and clinically informed strategies to engage fathers in treatment are offered to help therapists increase fathers’ participation in the therapeutic process. Finally, future directions for clinically informed research in this area are discussed.
Effect of Phenobarbital or 3-methylcholanthrene Pretreatment on Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Lipid Peroxidation in Rat Liver

Abstract The enhancement of carbon tetrachloride hepatotoxicity following phenobarbital pretreatment is associated with an increase in lipid peroxidation in vivo when CCl 4 is administered orally or by inhalation. However, pretreatment with 3-methylcholanthrene did not increase in vivo lipid peroxidation following CCl 4 administration by the oral or inhalation route. CCl 4 stimulated lipid peroxidation, as determined by malonaldehyde formation in vitro , and was increased by phenobarbital pretreatment but not by 3-methylcholanthrene pretreatment. These data support a relationship between microsomal drug metabolizing activity and alterations in hepatic injury and lipid peroxidation following CCl 4 administration.
Borrelia Species in Host-Seeking Ticks and Small Mammals in Northern Florida

The aim of this study was to improve understanding of several factors related to the ecology and environmental risk of Borrelia infection in northern Florida. Small mammals and host-seeking adult ticks were collected at several sites, and specimens were tested for the presence of Borrelia species, primarily by PCR amplification. Tissues from some vertebrates and ticks were initially cultured in BSK-H medium to isolate spirochetes, but none were recovered. However, comparison of partial flagellin (flaB), 66-kDa protein (p66), and outer surface protein A (ospA) gene sequences from DNAs amplified from small mammals and ticks confirmed the presence of several Borrelia species. Borrelia lonestari DNA was detected among lone star ticks (Amblyomma americanum) at four sites. Borrelia burgdorferi sensu stricto strains were detected in all small mammal species tested and in A. americanum, Ixodes affinis, and Ixodes scapularis ticks. Borrelia bissettii was found in a cotton mouse and cotton rats and in I. affinis ticks. The study findings extend the known geographic distributions of B. lonestari in A. americanum and of B. burgdorferi sensu lato in A. americanum, I. affinis, I. scapularis, and small mammals to new sites in Florida. The presence of B. burgdorferi sensu stricto strains in host-seeking lone star ticks at two sites in Florida suggests that A. americanum should still be considered a possible vector of B. burgdorferi sensu lato.
Prehospital and hospital-based health care providers' experience with a human patient simulator

Objectives. To ascertain the level of acceptance of a human patient simulator as a training tool among a diverse group of health care providers. Secondary objectives were to elucidate its most useful aspects for training and find ways to improve upon the simulation experience. Methods. A satisfaction survey was conducted regarding the use of a human patient simulator from July 1999 to February 2000. The survey consisted of five questions with a five-point Likert scale (5 being the most favorable score) and three questions that asked for qualitative written feedback on the simulator experience. The survey was handed to 78 consecutive participants immediately after their experiences and collected immediately after it was filled out to ensure a 100% response rate to the overall survey. Qualitative responses were placed into categories by theme, and a sum was calculated for each category. Results. There was a high level of acceptance for simulation training among this diverse group, with Likert scores for the...
Methotrexate and psoriasis: 2009 National Psoriasis Foundation Consensus Conference

Background Methotrexate remains a valuable option for the treatment of psoriasis. This report will summarize studies regarding the use of methotrexate since the last guidelines were published in 1998. Objective A task force of the National Psoriasis Foundation Medical Board was convened to evaluate treatment options. Our aim was to achieve a consensus on new updated guidelines for the use of methotrexate in the treatment of psoriasis. Methods Reports in the literature were reviewed regarding methotrexate therapy. Results A consensus was achieved on use of methotrexate in psoriasis including specific recommendations on dosing and monitoring. The consensus received unanimous approval from members of the Medical Board of the National Psoriasis Foundation. Limitations There are few evidence-based studies on the treatment of psoriasis with methotrexate. Many of the reviewed reports are for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Conclusions Methotrexate is a safe and effective drug for the treatment of psoriasis. Appropriate patient selection and monitoring will significantly decrease the risks of side effects. In patients without risk factors for hepatic fibrosis, liver biopsies may not be indicated or the frequency of liver biopsies may be markedly reduced.
Exploiting timely demand information to reduce inventories

Abstract Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) and related technologies are making it less expensive to frequently transmit demand information up the supply chain from the point of sale. However, little is known about how the various participants in the supply chain might exploit more timely demand information. This research is intended to be an opening contribution to the analytical study of timely demand information. We study a simple two-level system composed of a supplier (or component plant) and a single customer (or final assembly plant). The two factories use a standard periodic base-stock policy for one particular item, but the equal-length production cycles of the two factories do not necessarily coincide. Both participants hold inventories to buffer the effects of uncertain orders and uncertain deliveries. The supplier is in turn supplied by a source with infinite capacity. Final demand occurs only at the final assembly plant, which communicates demand over its order cycle to the component plant. If the component plant begins a production cycle between orders from the final assembly plant, it is uninformed about some number of days' demand which has been observed at the customer but not yet communicated. Any technology, such as EDI, that makes it cheaper for the customer to communicate demand as it occurs allows the supplier to base its decisions on more accurate information. With more accurate demand information the supplier could reduce inventories, or improve the reliability of its deliveries to its customer, or both. The customer, in turn, could reduce its inventories if its supplier were more reliable. We examine the changes brought about by the exchange of timely demand information in inventories and service levels at both the supplier and customer. Our results show that inventory-related benefits are particularly sensitive to demand variability, the service level provided by the supplier, and the degree to which the order and production cycles are out of phase.
Extended radio emission round core-dominated quasars – constraints on relativistic beaming models

On compare les modeles aux mesures VLA de la structure entourant 135 quasars a spectres plats
Novel Tumor Antigen-Specific Monoclonal Antibody-Based Immunotherapy to Eradicate Both Differentiated Cancer Cells and Cancer-Initiating Cells in Solid Tumors

A growing body of experimental and clinical evidence strongly suggests that the resistance of cancer-initiating cells (CICs) to conventional therapies represents a major obstacle to the successful treatment of a malignant disease. To overcome this limitation a novel combinatorial tumor antigen (TA)-specific monoclonal antibody (mAb) strategy has been developed. In this strategy TA-specific mAbs are combined with chemotherapeutic agents and/or small molecules that inhibit aberrantly activated signaling pathways in cancer cells and especially in CICs. The in vitro results we have obtained indicate that this strategy is very effective in eradicating both differentiated cancer cells and CICs in several types of malignant disease. If the in vitro results have in vivo relevance, the strategy we have designed may have an impact on the treatment of malignant diseases.
Viability of Leptospira Isolates from a Human Outbreak in Thailand in Various Water Types, pH, and Temperature Conditions

Leptospira spp. isolated from patients during a multiyear outbreak in Thailand were genotyped using multilocus sequence typing and a majority were identified as ST34, especially in earlier years. We tested whether ST34 isolates were better adapted to survive in various pH levels, temperatures, and water sources. Motility and growth were monitored over a 12-week period. Early year ST34 isolates did not appear to have a significant fitness advantage over non-ST34, however, this may have been because a majority of the isolates survived to the termination of the study, with the exception being at high temperature (37°C) and/or basic pH (8.65). Failure to detect a significant fitness advantage of ST34 may be a result of the length of the study or the small sample size. Lengthening the study and looking at virulence and maintenance in the host could yield additional information about this outbreak.
Millean Liberty and Sexual Orientation: A Discussion of Edward Stein's The Mismeasure of Desire

Ed Stein has written an impressive book, and one that will advance the public debate about homosexuality and the law. Its rigor and clarity, its wide-ranging and ingenious arguments, and its accessible style make it a paradigm of public philosophizing on this very fraught and divisive topic. Such disagreements and criticisms as I shall express are within the context of that general assessment. Stein's book is primarily about the scientific research program into the putative genetic or otherwise biological origins of sexual orientation. Only briefly in its final chapters does he tackle the difficult ethical and legal issues that arise no matter how we view the scientific debate. I shall make those issues my focus, though they will require me to delve back into Stein's scientific argument. First, then, I shall point to what I think is an unclarity at the heart of Stein's account of natural human kinds and thence of the essen-
Changes in hardware

Hardware, i.e., washing machines and associated dispensers represent a vital part of the clothes’ laundering process. The home laundry process involves more time of the housewife than any other single household activity. Increasing numbers of wash bath additives, plus growth of fabric inventory and associated complexity of washing recipes can increase this involvement with the washing process. Improved dispensers, timers and controls offer means to reduce this involvement and provide truly automatic clothes washing.
Growth retardation and metabolic programming: implications and consequences for adult health and disease risk

, is an excellent example of the research neededto advance the ﬁeld. Still, it is important to place theresults presented within a proper methodological and sci-entiﬁc context for a clear understanding of their impacton nutrition science and policy, as well as on pediatricpractices.Growth retardation severe enough to cause stunting(height for age less than two standard deviations of areference population, HAZ < -2.0) is the primary outcome
The centennial of the einthoven electrocardiogram

Recording of the electrocardiogram by string galvanometer evolved a century ago from wide-ranging advances in physiology, physics, and engineering. Although body surface recordings had been obtained prior to the work of Willem Einthoven, his ingenuity in mathematically correcting capillary electrometer tracings and incorporating recent advances in electromagnetism, recording technology, optics, and quartz chemistry into the new instrument led to a fundamental tool for the investigation of the heart. For his work, Einthoven received the Nobel Prize.
Density matrix model for coherent x‐ray diffraction: Study of experimental factors related to idempotency

Attention is drawn to the importance of including the restrictions of quantum mechanics in a description of x-ray coherent diffraction. A numerical algorithm accomplishing this is presented in the form of iterative density matrix equations. These are analyzed in terms of the number of free parameters required to represent a molecule. Also, it is shown that the common difficulty of correlation of parameters is alleviated in the method herein presented. The standard assumptions for treating temperature effects are discussed.
The Association Between Hypertension and Sleep Apnea in Obese Patients

Strong associations have been demonstrated between hypertension (HTN) and obesity, and obesity and sleep apnea (SA). However, it is unclear whether previously suggested relationships between HTN and SA were based on causal mechanisms, or rather, were confounded by obesity. To investigate whether SA may be an independent predictor of HTN, we measured respiration during sleep and BP in 19 participants in a hospital-based weight control program. Additionally, subjects underwent cephalometry, measurement of weight and hip circumferences, and pulmonary function tests. Studies were repeated in 14 subjects following weight loss. Subjects consisted of 9 men and 10 women, ages 43± 11 years (mean±SD), and weight of 114±20 kg. Hypertension (diastolic BP >95 mm Hg, systolic BP >160 mm Hg, or a report of current use of an antihypertensive medication) was present in 6 (32 percent) subjects. Sleep apnea was more prevalent among the hypertensive (5/6; 83 percent) than normotensive (2/13; 15 percent) subjects (p
Viruses and atopic sensitization in the first years of life.

Reports indicating that in most cases of asthma the first symptoms of bronchial obstruction occur during the first years of life (1) have focused a great deal of attention on the environmental factors that may predispose to or protect against the development of the disease in early life. Because the great majority of wheezing lower respiratory illnesses (LRIs) in infancy and early childhood are associated with microbiological evidence of an acute viral infection (2), it is not surprising that there has been renewed interest in the role of viruses in the inception of asthma. It is now well established, on the other hand, that most cases of childhood asthma in school-age children are associated with evidence of sensitization to local aeroallergens (3). It is still unclear, however, whether sensitization to specific antigens is causally related to the development of asthma. In this article, the role of viral respiratory infections and of sensitization to aeroallergens as predisposing factors for asthma are assessed, with special reference to events occurring during the first years of life.
Measurement of in-plane thermal conductivity and heat capacity of separator in Li-ion cells using a transient DC heating method

Abstract The separator is a critical, multi-functional component of a Li-ion cell that plays a key role in performance and safety during energy conversion and storage processes. Heat flow through the separator is important for minimizing cell temperature and avoiding thermal runaway. Despite the critical nature of thermal conduction through the separator, very little research has been reported on understanding and measuring the thermal conductivity and heat capacity of the separator. This paper presents first-ever measurements of thermal conductivity and heat capacity of the separator material. These measurements are based on thermal response to an imposed DC heating within a time period during which an assumption of a thermally semi-infinite domain is valid. Experimental data are in excellent agreement with the analytical model. Comparison between the two results in measurement of the in-plane thermal conductivity and heat capacity of the separator. Results indicate very low thermal conductivity of the separator. Measurements at an elevated temperature indicate that thermal conductivity and heat capacity do not change much with increasing temperature. Experimental measurements of previously unavailable thermal properties reported here may facilitate a better fundamental understanding of thermal transport in a Li-ion cell, and enhanced safety due to more accurate thermal prediction.
Plasma dopamine-β-hydroxylase in the diagnosis of neuroblastoma

An atypical case of neuroblastoma is described, in which the diagnosis was facilitated by the application of a new biochemical procedure, the assay of plasma dopamine-beta-hydroxylase activity. This laboratory tool is proposed as a useful adjunct to established techniques in the diagnosis of neural crest tumors.
Poly(Vinyl 2‐furylacrylate), a new photosensitive polymer

Poly(vinyl 2-furylacrylate), a new photosensitive polymer, was prepared, and its photosensitivity was investigated. The polymer cannot be synthesized by the usual procedure, condensation of poly(vinyl alcohol) and 2-furylacrylyl chloride in hot pyridine, but is easily prepared by the aqueous alkaline process, regardless of the degree of polymerization. Poly(vinyl 2-furylacrylate) is remarkably highly photosensitive and is spectrally sensitized by aromatic nitro compounds and aromatic carbonyl compounds. The mechanism of photochemical reaction is considered to involve the dimerization of the furylacrylyl group, and the quantum yield appears to be constant.
Low temperature heteroepitaxial growth of Si 1–x Ge x -on-Si by photo-enhanced ultra high vacuum chemical vapor deposition using Si 2 H 6 and Ge 2 H 6

Strained-layer Si1×Gex-on-Si heteroepitaxy has been achieved by photolytic decomposition of disilane (Si2H6) and digermane (G e2H6) in an ultra high vacuum (UHV) chamber at substrate temperatures as low as 275°C. An ArF excimer laser (193 nm) shining parallel to the Si substrate was used as the UV light source to avoid surface damage and substrate heating. The partial pressures of the source gases in the reactor were chosen to vary the Ge mole fraction x from 0.06 to 0.5 in the alloy. The Si2H6 partial pressure was kept at 10 mTorr and the Ge2H6 partial pressure was varied from 0.13 to 2 mTorr with the laser intensity fixed at 2.75 × 1015 photons/cm2·pulse. To fit the Si1−xGex growth rate and Ge mole fraction data, the absorption cross section of Ge2H6 at 193 nm was set to 1 × 10−16 cm2, which is 30 times larger than that of Si2H6 (3.4 × 10−18 cm2). For Si1−xGex alloy growth, the deposition rate of Si increases with Ge mole fraction, resulting in increased Si1−xGex alloy growth rates for higher Ge content. The increase of the Si growth rate was attributed to the enhanced adsorption rate of Si2H6 pyrolytically in the presence of Ge, rather than due to photolytic decomposition reaction. The Ge mole fraction in Si1−xGex alloys can be predicted by a new model for Si and Ge pyrolytic and photolytic growth. The model describes the increased growth rate of Si1−xGex alloys due to a Ge2H6 catalytic effect during photo-enhanced chemical vapor deposition.
Pair Chart Test for an Early Survival Difference

The log-rank test is commonly used in comparing survival distributions between treatment and control groups in clinical trials. However, in many studies, the treatment is only effective at the early stage of the trial. Especially when the two survival curves cross, the log-rank test has a low statistical power to show the survival difference. We propose a test statistic for detecting such an early difference between the two treatment arms. The new test has an intuitive geometric interpretation based on a pair chart and is shown to have more power than the log-rank test when the treatment effect only appears in the early phase of the study. This advantage is evaluated for finite sample sizes in simulation studies. Finally, the proposed method is illustrated with a real data example of patients with gastric cancer.
Sources of elastic deformation in steel frame and framed-tube structures: Part 1: Simplified subassemblage models

Abstract This paper examines the accuracy of a set of equations for computing Displacement Participation Factors (DPFs) for beam–column subassemblages of steel moment resisting frame buildings. These factors allow the analyst to determine how the entire subassemblage or individual components of a subassemblage contribute to a given structural displacement. Additionally, the component’s contribution to displacement may be evaluated in terms of sources of axial, flexural, or shear deformation. When applied to a set of 12 isolated subassemblages, it was shown in Part 1 of the paper that deformations in the beam–column joint are very significant, and that flexural deformation in the joint, which is often ignored, should be considered in all analyses. The total displacement predicted through the use of the DPFs correlates extremely well with the results of detailed three dimensional finite element analyses of the same subassemblages. However, it was also shown that there is considerable uncertainty in the bending moments and moments of inertia that are used to compute joint flexural deformations. The objective of this paper, which is the second part of a two-part paper, is to further investigate the accuracy of the DPF expressions developed in Part 1. This is done by computing DPFs from the results of detailed three dimensional finite element analysis, and comparing these to those computed through the use of the simple expressions. The results of the analysis show that the joint flexural deformations are accurately predicted by the simple DPF expressions, but that this accuracy arises from compensating “errors” in the simplified analysis. It is also shown that the use of beam flange continuity plates has a marginal effect on computed displacements. The paper ends with recommendations for using the simplified expressions for computing subassemblage deformations, and for including such deformations in structural analysis of steel frame and tube structures.
Caribbean Negritos: Ramón Rivero, Blackface, and “Black” Voice in Puerto Rico

This article focuses on Ramon Rivero (Diplo), the most famous blackface and “black”-voice actor in Puerto Rico. Through an examination of Cuba’s Bufo theatre tradition, Ramon Rivero’s appropriation...
A komatiite-like lithic fragment with spinifex texture in the Eva meteorite - Origin from a supercooled impact-melt of chondritic parentage

Abstract A lithic fragment in the Eva ordinary chondrite has a texture and mineral compositions and abundances that differ greatly from those of the host meteorite. The bulk composition, however, is similar to that of the silicate portion of the host. The fragment has spinifex texture, consisting of skeletal olivine of two size categories in high-SiO 2 glass. Olivine is enriched in MgO, CaO, and Cr 2 O 3 contents relative to olivine in the host. The fragment contains 66 vol. % modal olivine but no modal orthopyroxene, yet the norm has 51 mole % olivine and 29 mole % orthopyroxene. This fragment is interpreted as representing impact-melted host (or host-like) material (ol- and opx-rich) from the regolith of a meteorite parent body. Crystallization from a supercooled melt accounts for: (1) the spinifex texture; (2) the high percentage of modal olivine, absence of modal orthopyroxene despite substantial orthopyroxene in the norm, and presence of SiO 2 -rich glass; and (3) olivine richer in Mg than olivine in the source material. This lithic fragment illustrates the compositional modifications that occurred by impact processes in meteoritic parent-body regoliths and provides evidence that fragments seemingly incompatible in texture and mineralogy with their hosts can be genetically related to them.
State transition probabilities in bridge deterioration based on Weibull sojourn times

This paper presents an investigation of the Markov property underlying the stochastic deterioration models for highway bridges, including transition probabilities between the condition states. Using historical data of sojourn times for the ‘decay’ (no improvement intervention) deterioration, hazard functions were developed and ‘instantaneous’ 1 year transition probabilities estimated for the sojourn times in the condition states, for various bridge categories, by type of material and roadway carried. The rate of transition out of each state was found to be not constant relative to time, as assumed for Markov chain models, but rather, increasing with the time spent in the state. Best-fit distributions of the sojourn times were determined to not be exponential (Markov chain), but Weibull, with the parameters established using the maximum likelihood estimate (MLE) method. A semi-Markov model of the bridge deterioration process was formulated and developed, including kernels of transition probabilities and ti...
SELF‐CONSISTENT I‐V CHARACTERISTICS OF ULTRA‐SMALL DEVICES

A method is presented for the incorporation of space‐charge effects into the analysis of one‐dimensional devices. At each bias, solutions of Schrodinger's and Poisson's equations are performed iteratively, until the solutions converge. Some difficulties in the calculation of electron density are noted, and an algorithm is described to insure an accurate computation. Finally, the current‐voltage characteristic of a recently fabricated resonant tunneling device is presented, to stress the importance of space‐charge effects.
A Bite to Whet the Reward Appetite: The Influence of Sampling on Reward-Seeking Behaviors

Abstract In this research, the authors show that sampling a consumption cue (e.g., a flavored beverage) that is high in incentive value (i.e., tastes good) not only enhances subsequent consumption of other similar consumption cues (e.g., Pepsi) but also prompts people to seek anything rewarding (e.g., chocolate, a massage). The authors propose that this phenomenon, which they term “reverse alliesthesia,” occurs as a result of the activation of a general motivational state by cues that are high in incentive value. They test this proposition by showing that the effect is (1) attenuated if the activated motivational state is satiated before the subsequent consumption task and (2) stronger for people who are high rather than low on the behavioral activation system scale. Finally, the authors extend their core findings to nongustatory cues by showing that (un)pleasant odors can also lead to an increase (decrease) in subsequent reward-seeking behaviors.
Permeation of phospholipid membranes by peroxynitrite.

Quantitative kinetic models have been developed for the reaction between peroxynitrite and membrane lipids in vesicles and for transmembrane oxidation of reactants located within their inner aqueous cores. The models were used to analyze TBARS formation and oxidation of entrapped Fe(CN)64- ion in egg lecithin liposomes and several artificial vesicles. The analyses indicate that permeation of the bilayers by ONOOH and NO2•, a radical formed by homolysis of the ONOOH bond, is unusually rapid but that permeation by ONOO- and CO3•-, a radical formed when CO2 is present, is negligible. Bicarbonate protects the vesicles against both membrane and Fe(CN)64- oxidation by rapid competitive CO2-catalyzed isomerization of ONOOH to NO3-; this effect is partially reversed by addition of nitrite ion, which reacts with CO3•- to generate additional NO2•. Under medium conditions mimicking the physiological milieu, a significant fraction of the oxidants escape to inflict damage upon the vesicular assemblies. Rate constants ...
New developments on standoff detection of explosive materials by differential reflectometry

Differential reflectometry (DR) is an effective tool to supplement existing explosives detection systems thus making the combined unit more effective than one tool alone. It is an optical technique in which the investigative light beam emanates from an extended distance onto the substance under investigation, thus rendering it to be a standoff method. The applicable distance still needs to be determined but could be well within the 50 to 100 m range. Specifically, differential reflectometry (also known as Differential reflection spectroscopy) is a surface analytical technique that reveals details about the electron structure. In other words, the instrument allows the measurement of the energies that electrons absorb from photons as they are raised into higher, allowed energy states. Since each material has a specific electron structure the measurement of the characteristic energies for "electron transitions" serves as a means (i.e. a fingerprint) for identifying these substances. The DR device can be made portable, it is fast, safe for the public, does not require human involvement, is cost effective, and most of all, it is a standoff technique which does not require ingestion of a suspicious substance into an instrument.
The current status of medullosan seed ferns

The compression and permineralized fossil record of presumed medullosan plants is reviewed and evaluated. Recent studies of stelar architecture suggest that stems are monostelic rather than polystelic as commonly believed. Imparipinnate fronds are mostly of the Neuralthopteris/Alethopteris type with Myeloxylon anatomy; the affinity between medullosan stems and neuropterid fronds is uncertain. It is suggested that the reproductive organs of the family should be restricted to those pollen organs believed to have produced Monoletes pollen and to ovules, for the most part, of the Trigonocarpus/Pachytesta type. It is doubtful that reproductive organs replaced lateral pinnules; it is more likely that they terminated pinnae or were borne abaxially along the pinna rachis. In some cases they may have been borne directly on penultimate axes or were, as in Codonotheca and Goldenbergia, borne on fertile fronds or fertile portions of vegetative fronds. Recent research involving pollen organs is emphasized and a phylogeny of Monoletespollen organs is proposed. It is suggested that the fossil record of medullosans is best interpreted from a punctuational perspective.
Hyaluronic acid of high molecular weight inhibits proliferation and induces cell death in U937 macrophage cells.

Abstract Hyaluronic acid (HA), a major glycosaminoglycan component of the extracellular matrix, has regulatory influences on cells and cellular activities. To explore the effects of a high concentration (1 mg/mL) of high molecular weight HA (500–730 kD) on U937 macrophage growth dynamics, three factors that influence overall cellular growth, namely proliferation, apoptosis, and cell death, were examined. Cells were cultured with HA and were analyzed by flow cytometry every 24 hours during a 168-hour period for proliferation and the presence of apoptotic and dead cells. These analyses demonstrated that HA inhibits U937 macrophage proliferation in a time-dependent manner. Through the first 72 hours, cells exhibited slowed proliferation. However, no evidence of cell division arrest or reduced cell viability was observed. Thereafter, HA continued to diminish proliferation, but induced apoptosis. This data is consistent with regulatory influences secondary to HA binding to CD44 and/or RHAMM cell surface receptors, both of which were shown to be expressed on U937 macrophages. This study demonstrates that a high concentration of high molecular weight HA greatly inhibits macrophage population growth by the dual actions of impeding cell proliferation and inducing apoptosis.
Open heart surgery in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia

Abstract Background: Chronic leukemia is a disease characterized by the malignant proliferation of immunologically incompetent lymphocytes. The knowledge of open heart surgery in patients with this disorder is limited. Methods: Twelve patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia underwent open heart surgery (nine coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), two aortic valve replacement (AVR), one CABG and AVR) from September 1991 to September 1996. There were nine males and three females with a mean age of 68 years (41–81 years). Staging was assigned according to the Rai Classification. There were seven Stage 0, two Stage I, zero Stage II, one Stage III and two Stage IV patients. Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) was performed using standard techniques of cannulation, moderate hypothermia and antegrade/retrograde cardioplegia. Results: Hospital mortality occurred in two (17%) patients. Both patients died of sepsis. Hospital morbidity occurred in seven (58%) patients. The most common complications were infections. Five patients were found to have other malignancies (basal cell, laryngeal, prostate, bladder and breast cancers). Transfusion of blood products was required in eight (67%) patients. The average length of stay was 15 days (7–50 days). Follow-up was complete. Late mortality occurred in four patients at a mean of 7 months (1–18 months). All deaths were non-cardiac related (ruptured AAA, kidney failure, respiratory failure and sepsis). Six patients remain alive at a mean of 25 months (1–48 months). Conclusion: Hospital mortality and morbidity in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia undergoing open heart surgery are high. Infection is the leading cause of hospital death, as well as the most common complication. The majority of patients receive blood products during the course of their hospitalization. Late mortality is high and non-cardiac related. Based on these findings, a re-definition of the aims, goals and expectations of open heart surgery in patients with chronic leukemia is necessary. Suggestions in management are presented.
Meningeal Carcinomatosis in Metastatic Prostate Cancer: A Case Report

Leptomeningeal involvement of metastatic prostate cancer is a rare clinical entity. We report such a case, along with a summary of three previous cases where detailed clinical information is available. Seven additional cases (for a total of 10 cases) have been reported previously in the literature. It seems that this syndrome is associated with changes in mentation, specifically without cranial nerve findings on physical exam. The physician should be alerted to the possibility of this clinical circumstance in metastatic prostate cancer patients with altered mental status.
THEORETICAL AND PRACTICAL ASPECTS OF SOLAR PRESSURE ATTITUDE CONTROL FOR INTERPLANETARY SPACECRAFT

Spacecraft attitude control system optimization by parametric analysis of the magnitudes and directions of solar pressure torques
Farm-Level Economic Effects of Viral Diseases on Honduran Shrimp Farms

Abstract Taura Syndrome Virus (TSV) and White Spot Syndrome Virus (WSSV) have significantly decreased survival rates of farm-raised penaeid shrimp in Honduras and other shrimp-growing regions of the Western Hemisphere. A dataset of individual records of 1,004 shrimp ponds in Honduras was used to develop a linear programming model to evaluate optimal management strategies if viral disease prevention programs were implemented on shrimp farms. The model selected low and intermediate stocking densities as optimal for most growout cycle alternatives considered, given post-Taura and post-White Spot Syndrome production relationships. Model simulations indicated that the decreased shrimp survival due to viral infections had decreased net farm income by approximately 84% from optimal management plans in the absence of viral diseases. Simulations in which costs of viral disease prevention programs were included resulted in a 47% increase in net farm income above the base scenario. Production activities would need t...