cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and Reactivity of [(C2F5)2MeP]2Pt(Me)X (X = Me, O2CCF3, OTf, OSO2F): A Reactivity Comparison with Chelate Acceptor Analogues

A comparative study of new platinum methyl complexes cis-(dfmp)2Pt(Me)2 and trans-(dfmp)2Pt(Me)X (dfmp = (C2F5)2MeP; X = O2CCF3, OTf, OSO2F) with previously reported acceptor chelate analogues (dfepe)Pt(Me)X (dfepe = (C2F5)2PCH2CH2P(C2F5)2; X = Me, O2CCF3, OTf, OSO2F) is presented. In contrast to (dfepe)Pt(Me)2, which is inert to both H2 and CO addition, cis-(dfmp)2Pt(Me)2 reacts readily to form (dfmp)4Pt and cis-(dfmp)(CO)Pt(Me)2, respectively. Similarly, whereas (dfepe)Pt(Me)2 is stable up to 180 °C, thermolysis of cis-(dfmp)2Pt(Me)2 in benzene-d6 at 80 °C leads to ethane reductive elimination and production of (dfmp)4Pt. Dissolving cis-(dfmp)2Pt(Me)2 in neat trifluoroacetic, triflic, or fluorosulfonic acid at ambient temperature cleanly produces the corresponding trans-(dfmp)2Pt(Me)(X) complexes. Attempted isolation of trans-(dfmp)2Pt(Me)(O2CCF3) resulted in dfmp loss and reversible formation of the crystallographically characterized dimer, [(dfmp)Pt(Me)(μ-O2CCF3)]2. Monitoring the thermolysis of trans...
Factors affecting the acceptance and effectiveness of electronic human resource systems

Abstract Electronic human resource (eHR) systems are being used with increasing frequency in organizations. However, there is relatively little research on factors that influence the degree to which they result in functional versus dysfunctional consequences for individuals and organizations. Thus, the major purposes of this article are to: (a) present a model that relates a number of antecedents to such consequences, (b) describe the impact of individual and eHR system characteristics on four important eHR-related variables (i.e., information flows, social interactions, perceived control, and system acceptance), (c) offer a set of hypotheses that can be used to guide research on eHR systems, and (d) advance recommendations for the design of such systems.
Construction and analysis of plasmids containing the Escherichia coli serB gene

Plasmid pserB59-1 carries the E. coli serB gene on a 5.2 kb BamHI fragment cloned into the BamHI site of plasmid pBR322. The results of genetic and biochemical experiments established that a functional serB gene is contained in the fragment. The location of the serB gene within the insert was determined by restriction endonuclease analysis of plasmids derived from pserB59-1 that carry the Tn5 element at sites that inactivate the serB gene, and by deletions of segments of the 5.2 kb insert that either inactivate or do not inactivate the serB gene. A 38,000 Mr serB+ polypeptide was detected when plasmid pserB59-1 was used as template in a minicell system, but not when the serB gene was inactivated by insertion of a Tn5 element.
The Concurrent Validity of the Primary Self-Concept Scale for a Sample of Third-Grade Children

In addition to estimates of the reliability for the eight factor scales of the 24-item Primary Self-Concept Scale (PSCS) obtained from two administrations to a sample of 83 children in the third grade, concurrent validity coefficients of the eight scales were determined relative to the same eight factors on the Teacher Questionnaire (TQ) designed to reflect teachers' perceptions of children's behaviors in these eight factor categories. Scores on four scales of the PSCS on its first administration and on three scales on its second administration yielded statistically significant validity (phi) coefficients with scores on corresponding factor categories of the TQ.
Supplementation with Vitamin C and/or Vitamin B6 in the Prevention of Depo-Provera Side Effects in Adolescents☆

Abstract Background/Objectives: Depo-Provera–induced menstrual irregularity is believed to be secondary to relative estrogen deficiency. Weight gain associated with this contraceptive method is believed to be due to Depo-Provera's steroid-like appetite stimulation effect and to an altered tryptophan metabolism. We examined whether vitamin C, an important factor in uterine estrogen binding, and vitamin B 6 , a glucocorticoid antagonist and an important coenzyme in the tryptophan-serotonin pathway, might alleviate menstrual irregularities and weight gain associated with Depo-Provera. Methods: Fifty-five adolescent girls (age 16 ± 1 yr, gyn age 4 ± 1 yr, body mass index 25.2 ± 0.9) who decided to initiate Depo-Provera (150 mg intramuscularly every 3 months) were randomly assigned to one of four groups (group 1: vitamin B 6 50 mg plus placebo pill/day; group 2: vitamin C 500 mg plus placebo pill/day; group 3: vitamin B 6 50 mg plus vitamin C 500 mg/day; group 4 (control): 2 placebo pills/day) for 6 months. Participants were assessed by their care providers every 3 months. Setting: Two urban hospital-based adolescent clinics. Results: Number of days of bleeding during the first interval (first 3 months) as well as during the second interval (months 4–6) among groups 1, 2, and 3 did not differ statistically from days of bleeding in control group. There were no significant body mass index (BMI) changes among groups 1–3 (−0.15 ± 0.18, 0.34 ± 0.56, 0.01 ± 0.31) compared with control (−0.38 ± 0.38) during the first interval as well as during the second interval (0.68 ± 0.37, −0.39 ± 0.21, 0.45 ± 0.32, compared with 0.28 ± 0.43). When data from all 55 participants were collapsed, there was no significant change in BMI during the first 6 months of Depo-Provera use. About 48% at 3 months and 44% at 6 months were very or somewhat concerned about menstrual irregularity; 41% at 3 months and 18% at 6 months were very or somewhat concerned about weight changes. More than half (57%) at 3 months and 74% at 6 months reported less tampon/pad use, and 77% at 3 months and 78% at 6 months reported decreased menstrual cramps. Overall, 59% at 3 months and 70% at 6 months were very satisfied with Depo-Provera; 97% at 3 months and 96% at 6 months said that they would recommend Depo-Provera to a friend or a relative. Conclusions: This study does not support a role for vitamin C in the prevention of Depo-Provera–induced menstrual irregularities or for vitamin B 6 in the prevention of weight changes associated with Depo-Provera. The unchanged BMI during the first 6 months of Depo-Provera use in the present study suggests that raising awareness and close follow-up may prevent weight gain among adolescent girls using this contraceptive method.
Permanent pacing in patients with univentricular heart.

Patients with one of several varieties of malformation designated as "univentricular hearts" may be especially challenging when permanent pacing is required. Our objective was to review our experience in this subset of patients that had undergone permanent pacing and thus determine the optimal approach. A retrospective chart review was done of 32 patients with some variety of "univentricular" malformation who had required permanent pacing at our institution. Although technically challenging, permanent pacing in this group of patients can be successful through several approaches. The various approaches, as well as consideration of the differences that exist between patients undergoing septation and those undergoing a Fontan procedure are discussed. Although long-term permanent pacing is possible in this group of patients, before pacing begins, a thorough understanding of the anatomy and prior surgical procedures is necessary. Use of a combined atrial transvenous and ventricular epicardial pacing system may work well for some patients. With the development of newer and more reliable coronary sinus leads, dual chamber transvenous pacing with ventricular stimulation via the coronary sinus could become the approach of choice in some patients with "univentricular hearts."
Tightening the Net: Intellectual property micro-regimes and peer-to-peer practice in higher education networks

This paper examines recent responses by U.S. university administrators to the volume and legal challenges surrounding on-campus and in-residence peer-to-peer (P2P) traffic. Since the earliest days of online P2P activity, universities have served as key flashpoints in the broader file sharing and intellectual property debates. But while there has been considerable attention to the emerging file-sharing case law, and some attention to the shifting legal and political strategies of IP holders most affected by P2P traffic (or most aggressive in asserting their rights), the multiple, varied, and often ambivalent responses of university network administrators have for the most part escaped sustained attention. This paper draws on published survey and original interview data to explore the distinctive and heterogeneous policy sets put together by campus network administrators and decision-makers in dealing with IP issues associated with on-campus file-sharing practice. Such institutional micro-regimes constitute a crucial and understudied border zone between law and culture, functioning as key translation points through which external IP claims get filtered ( e.g. , DMCA take-down notices), and strategic sites at which a substantial amount of real-world IP regulation is effectively accomplished.
The Presidency and the Executive Branch

Books reviewed: John P. Burke, Presidential Transitions: From Politics to Practice. Paul Kengor, Wreath Layer or Policy Player? The Vice President's Role in Foreign Policy. Joel Aberbach and Bert Rockman, In the Web of Politics: Three Decades of the U.S. Federal Executive.
Elevated Levels of Metals and Organic Pollutants in Fish and Clams in the Cape Fear River Watershed

A study was performed in 2003 to 2004 to assess metal and organic contaminant concentrations at three areas in the lower Cape Fear River system, North Carolina, United States. Sites examined were Livingston Creek along the mainstem of the Cape Fear River near Riegelwood, Six Runs Creek in the Black River Basin, and Rockfish Creek in the Northeast Cape Fear River basin. The results of the investigation showed that levels of metals and organic pollutants in the sediments were lower than limits considered harmful to aquatic life. However, results of fish (adult bowfin) tissue analyses showed that concentrations of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), selenium (Se), and now-banned polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and the pesticide dieldrin were higher than levels considered safe for human consumption by the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the North Carolina Health Director’s Office. Fish tissue concentrations of Hg, Se, and PCBs were also higher than concentrations determined by researchers to be detrimental either to the health of the fish themselves or their avian and mammalian predators. Due to the rural nature of two of the sites, increased concentrations of As, Cd, Se, and PCBs in fish tissue were unexpected. The likely reason the levels are increased in fish and some clams but not in sediments is that these pollutants are biomagnified in the food chain. These pollutants will also biomagnify in humans. In these rural areas there is subsistence fishing by low-income families; thus, increased fish tissue metals and toxicant concentrations may present a direct threat to human health.
Synthesis and optoelectronic properties of 2,6-bis(2-anilinoethynyl)pyridine scaffolds

A series of sixteen bisphenylureas based on a 2,6-bis(2-anilinoethynyl)pyridine scaffold have been synthesized for use as potential anion sensors. Prior work with one of these receptors revealed a distinct fluorescence response in the presence of a suitable anion source with specificity towards chloride anion. This study demonstrates that the fluorescent properties of these receptors can be tuned through the systematic variation of the pendant functional groups.
Feeding and Recycling Dried Poultry Waste to Laying Hens

Abstract Two experiments with laying hens were conducted to investigate the effects of feeding and recycling dried poultry waste (DPW). Five levels of DPW were fed–0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 percent. No statistically significant difference was observed between feeding and recycling. Egg production, egg weight, and shell thickness did not vary significantly with treatment, but there was a significant difference in feed consumption. The control group consumed less feed than any of the other groups. Also, differences were found in Haugh units and yolk color between the various treatments.
Rapid Chemical Reactions in Two Dimensions: Spatially Nonlocal Effects†

Using a recent generalization of fluctuation theory that includes spatially nonlocal effects, we examine the influence of nonlocal chemical reactivities on rapid chemical reactions in two dimensions. We focus attention of the irreversible reaction A + A → products at low density, exploring the time dependence of the radial distribution of pairs of reactants, its asymptotic time dependence, and steady states in the presence of inputs. As in the case of three dimensions, we find that the nonlocal theory removes inherent problems with the local theory that occur at short times, gives the expected logarithmic divergence in the absence of inputs, but has well-behaved steady state properties in the presence of inputs. Thus, the nonlocal theory appears to provide a systematic method for treating rapid reactions in membranes and on surfaces at higher densities.
Unrecognized Deferred Taxes: Evidence from the U.K.

We examine whether U.K. managers use the flexibility provided under the partial method for deferred taxes to measure unrecognized deferred taxes opportunistically. We first test whether firm‐specific operational and opportunistic factors are associated with the level of unrecognized deferred taxes. The tests provide evidence certain U.K. managers opportunistically measure deferred taxes to manage leverage, consistent with arguments by commentators that deferred taxes heavily influence leverage indicators that play a prominent role in the U.K. contracting framework. Because the proper identification and measurement of both operational and opportunistic determinants of unrecognized deferred taxes influence our tests, we additionally investigate whether unrecognized taxes relate to future deferred tax reversals and future operating profitability of the firm. These tests show the components of deferred taxes predict both future deferred tax reversals and indicators of future profitability of the firm as predi...
Near-Global Survey of Effective Droplet Radii in Liquid Water Clouds Using ISCCP Data.

A global survey of cloud particle size variations can provide crucial constraints on how cloud processes determine cloud liquid water contents and their variation with temperature, and further, may indicate the magnitude of aerosol effects on clouds. A method, based on a complete radiative transfer model for Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR)-measured radiances, is described for retrieving cloud particle radii in liquid water clouds from satellite data currently available from the International Satellite Cloud Climatology Project. Results of sensitivity tests and validation studies provide error estimates. AVHRR data from NOAA-9 and NOAA-10 have been analyzed for January, April, July and October in 1987 and 1988. The results of this first survey reveal systematic continental and maritime differences and hemispheric contrasts that are indicative of the effects of associated aerosol concentration differences: cloud droplet radii in continental water clouds are about 2-3 micrometers smaller than in marine clouds, and droplet radii are about 1 micrometer smaller in marine clouds of the Northern Hemisphere than in the Southern Hemisphere. The height dependencies of cloud droplet radii in continental and marine clouds are also consistent with differences in the vertical profiles of aerosol concentration. Significant seasonal and diurnal variations of effective droplet radii are also observed, particularly at lower latitudes. Variations of the relationship between cloud optical thickness and droplet radii may indicate variations in cloud microphysical regimes.
Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays for detecting antibodies to Shiga-like toxin I, Shiga-like toxin II, andEscherichia coli O157:H7 lipopolysaccharide in human serum

Shiga-like toxin-producingEscherichia coli O157:H7 are important causes of bloody diarrhea and hemolytic uremic syndrome. To facilitate the epidemiologic study of these organisms, we developed enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) for antibodies to Shiga-like toxin I (SLT I), Shiga-like toxin II (SLT II), andE. coli O157 lipopolysaccharide (LPS). We tested serum samples from 83 patients in two outbreaks ofE. coli O157:H7 diarrhea and from 66 well persons. Forty-three patients (52%) had at least one serum sample positive for anti-O157 LPS antibodies; among 26 culture-confirmed patients, 24 (92%) had at least one positive serum sample. Two (3%) of 66 control sera had positive anti-O157 LPS titers. ELISA results for SLT I and II were compared with those of HeLa cell cytotoxicity neutralization assays on both patient and control sera. Neutralization assays detected anti-SLT I antibodies in at least one serum sample from each of 17 (20%) patients and 7 (10.6%) controls, while 16 (19%) patients and 7 controls had positive titers by anti-SLT I ELISA. Although all serum samples, including control sera, showed nonspecific neutralization of SLT II, no antibody titers to SLT II were detected by either neutralization or ELISA. These results indicate that ELISAs for SLT I and SLT II antibodies are comparable to HeLa cell cytotoxicity neutralization assays. Both the ELISAs and neutralization assays are insensitive in detecting infected patients. However, the ELISA for antibodies toE. coli O157 LPS is both sensitive and specific, and may be more useful than assays for antitoxic antibodies in detecting persons withE. coli O157:H7 infection.
Phase shifting full-field interferometric methods for determination of in-plane tensorial stress

A new method that combines phase shifting photoelasticity and transmission Coherent Gradient Sensing (CGS) is developed to determine the tensorial stress field in thin plates of photoelastic materials. A six step phase shifting photoelasticity method determines principal stress directions and the difference of principal stresses. The transmission CGS method utilizes a standard four step phase shifting method to measure the x and y first derivatives of the sum of principal stresses. These stress derivatives are numerically integrated using a weighted preconditioned conjugate gradient (PCG) algorithm, which is also used for the phase unwrapping of the photoelastic and CGS phases. With full-field measurement of the sum and difference of principal stresses, the principal stresses may be separated, followed by the Cartesian and polar coordinate stresses using the principal stress directions. The method is demonstrated for a compressed polycarbonate plate with a side V-shaped notch. The experimental stress fields compare well with theoretical stress fields derived from Williams solution for a thin plate with an angular corner.
Helmet-Mounted Display For Infantry Applications

A generic sensor/display/soldier interface concept is described for potential application as a helmet or headdress mounted infantry display system. A compact, lightweight infrared camera mounted on a rifle is expected to provide the video image. The objective for the head-mounted display is to increase the soldier's personal safety and functional performance by remotely displaying an image that is generated by a boresighted camera and to reduce eye fatigue.
Determination of the 5' exon structure of the human cardiac α-myosin heavy chain gene

Summary We have deduced the exon structure of the 5′ untranslated region of the human cardiac α-myosin heavy chain gene by cloning a cDNA for this region using the polymerase chain reaction. Comparison of the cDNA and genomic DNA sequences demonstrates that the 5′ non-coding region of the α-myosin heavy chain gene is interupted by two introns of 645 and 337 nucleotides. Secondly we have identified the transcriptional start-site by primer extension, corroborating the previous putative assignment for the α-myosin heavy chain promoter based on comparisons between the rat and human genes.
Effect of intracerebral injections of carbamylcholine and acetylcholine on temperature regulation in the cat

Abstract (1) One μ1 of 0.01 M carbamylcholine, injected into the diencephalon or midbrain of unanesthetized, partially restrained cats produced one of 3 effects: (I) a major increase in colonic temperature, usually preceded by a small decrease; (II) a small decrease in colonic temperature followed by an equally small increase; (III) a major decrease in colonic temperature followed by an increase of variable magnitude. (2) Major decreases in temperature were usually accompanied by vasodilation of the ear pinna and reduced EMG activity. Increases in temperature were accompanied by increased EMG activity and often by vasoconstriction (when the latter was measurable due to a prior decrease in vasomotor tone). (3) Type I (hyperthermic) effects were elicitable by injections into widespread hypothalamic and 2 upper midbrain loci. Type III (hypothermic) responses were obtained by injections only into the rostral hypothalamus and preoptic region. (4) Regardless of the response elicited by 0.01 M carbamylcholine, increasing the dose to 0.03 or 0.10 M usually augmented the initial hypothermic phase, in some instances to such an extent that type I responses were converted to type III responses. Conversely, lowering the dose to 0.003 M in some cases resulted in attenuation of the hypothermic phase so that hyperthermia became the predominant effect. (5) The effects of 0.03 or 0.10 M acetylcholine (mixed with an equal weight of eserine sulfate) were similar to, but of lesser magnitude and duration, than those elicited by carbamylcholine.
Pentoxifylline but not saralasin restores hepatic blood flow after resuscitation from hemorrhagic shock.

Abstract After determining that hepatic blood flow remains impaired after resuscitation from hemorrhagic shock, we used the angiotensin II receptor antagonist saralasin and pentoxifylline to investigate their respective effects on hepatic blood flow responses after resuscitation from hemorrhagic shock. Rats were bled to 50% of baseline blood pressure for 60 min and resuscitated with shed blood and an equal volume of lactated Ringer's solution. Saralasin [10 μg/kg per min ( n = 6)], pentoxifylline [25 mg/kg bolus and 12.5 mg/kg per hr ( n = 7)], or saline ( n = 11) were started with the onset of resuscitation. Total hepatic blood flow measured by ultrasonic transit time flow meter, effective nutrient hepatic blood flow measured by galactose clearance, mean arterial pressure, and cardiac output were recorded at 15-min intervals for 2 hr after resuscitation. Hemorrhage decreased cardiac output 57% below baseline and decreased total hepatic blood flow 64% below baseline. Resuscitation restored cardiac output to baseline levels in all three groups. Despite restoration of cardiac output, total hepatic and effective hepatic blood flow remained significantly below baseline in the saline control and saralasin groups but was restored to baseline levels in the pentoxifylline group. These data indicate that angiotensin II does not contribute significantly to the hepatic blood flow impairment after resuscitation from hemorrhagic shock. Improvement in flow with pentoxifylline implies that hemorrhage and resuscitation impair hepatic microvascular hemorrheology and that addition of pentoxifylline to standard resuscitation corrects the impairment.
A delayed onset of haloperidol effects on learned escape and avoidance behavior.

Abstract The effects of 0.3 mg/kg haloperidol (H) on the acquisition and maintenance of footshock escape behavior of rats in a one meter runway was investigated. In the acquisition phase, a group (N=6) given H before testing (HB) showed severely retarded acquisition and performance of the escape response, as compared with a group (N=6) given H after testing (HA). When the HB and HA treatments were reversed for the groups behavioral performance was initially unaffected. At first, the HA group switched to the HB condition continued to exhibit rapid escape behavior and the HB group switched to the HA treatment continued to have slow escape behavior. Over the course of 8 days of testing, however, the performances of the two groups gradually reversed. After completion of this testing the HB and HA treatments again were switched and the animals were tested for both avoidance and escape behavior. Again, the performance of the animals initially did not change after the treatment switch, but with repeated testing and treatments, the avoidance and escape behavior of the HB group slowed substantially and that of the HA group accelerated markedly. These findings support previous observations that over learned behaviors are much less sensitive to disruption by haloperidol treatment than behaviors which are undergoing learning. The important contribution of the present study was in demonstrating that this insensitivity is a transitional, transient phenomenon and that with chronic treatment and testing, over learned behaviors can be strongly affected by haloperidol. This observation indicates that the study of the effects of haloperidol on over learned behavior may provide a useful animal behavior model to investigate the important clinical issue of delayed onset of efficacy with neuroleptic drugs.
The haemocompatibility of polyurethane–hyaluronic acid copolymers

Despite decades of research into haemocompatible biomaterials, there remain surprisingly few materials that can be used in blood-contacting applications. We have synthesized copolymers of polyurethane (PU) with hyaluronic acid (HA) with the goal of creating materials that incorporate an inherently non-thrombogenic, biological component into the bulk polymer structure. HA was incorporated into the polymer backbone as a chain extender during PU synthesis, and the physical and biological properties of the resulting copolymer were directly controlled by the HA content. Increases in HA content led to a linear increase in hydrophilicity (R(2)=0.993) and corresponding increase in surface energy compared to PU controls. Elastic modulus also increased with HA content (p<0.001), while surface roughness did not significantly differ from PU controls for most PU-HA formulations. Incorporation of HA resulted in negligible platelet adhesion to the PU-HA (p<0.001), representing a 20-fold decrease in platelet adhesion compared to PU. Red blood cell adhesion also decreased with increasing HA content (p<0.001). The PU-HA materials were cytocompatible and supported endothelial cell adhesion and viability. Thus, we have demonstrated the synthesis of a copolymer whose physical and biological properties are easily tailored, and whose potent anti-thrombogenic properties demonstrate its great promise for use in vascular applications.
Toward Reliable Values of Electrochemical Stability Limits for Electrolytes

Electrolyte is an indispensable component of any electrochemical cell. Among the properties of an electrolyte, its inertness toward electrochemically induced electronation (reduction at negatively charged electrode) and de-electronation (oxidation at positively charged electrode) has the most direct influence over the operation of the cell. As an ionic conductor in contact with the electrodes at different potentials, electrolyte in most cases is expected to maintain this inertness against both oxidation and reduction while the desired electrochemical process is in progress at the electrodes. The authors scrutinized the conventional practice of measuring an electrolyte stability window. It is shown that misleading values might be generated by this practice. Thus, the authors recommend that to obtain a real stability window, the working electrode material should simulate the electrodes used in a real device. Further, in applications that have a high-surface-area electrode, a new quantification of a stability window is proposed. The electrochemical stability values of various nonaqueous electrolytes that are derived this way should reflect the actual operation limits of these electrolytes in real-life devices.
A Brief Assessment of Extension Land Use Educational Publications

Land use policy is once again a focus of attention for many agricultural economists. Extension educational programs in this area have produced a large number and variety of publications related to land use. A request for available printed materials on this subject was sent to the fifty extension directors by the authors. The purpose of this paper is to briefly review these publications, assess the strengths and weaknesses of the literature, and offer brief constructive criticism.1 This review of extension's land use publications is appropriate for three reasons: (a) printed media are an important channel of communications between extension professionals and their clientele, and every effort to upgrade and improve publications should be made; (b) cross-fertilization between extension programs improves the total educational effort; and (c) exchange of publications is an important method of communication among extension professionals, and this article hopes to foster this communication.
Intravenous Captopril in Congestive Heart Failure

Hemodynamic and neurohumoral effects of intravenous captopril were studied in ten patients with severe chronic congestive heart failure (NYHA Functional Class III and IV). Incremental bolus doses of captopril, titrated to a maximum cumulative dose of 15 mg, were given at 10-minute intervals. Systemic arterial pressure, mean pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, systemic vascular resistance, mean pulmonary artery pressure, and heart rate decreased (P less than .05). Cardiac index and stroke volume index increased (P less than .05). Maximum hemodynamic effects occurred after cumulative doses of 7 mg and were seen within 30 minutes after initiation of therapy; responses persisted for 30-90 minutes after the last dose. Plasma renin activity increased, and plasma atrial natriuretic factor concentration decreased. No adverse effects were observed with the use of intravenous captopril. Thus, intravenous captopril produces rapid and favorable hemodynamic improvement in advanced heart failure patients.
Surgical intervention for failed percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty

From July 1978 through April 1983, 125 patients underwent attempted PTCA at the Massachusetts General Hospital. The first 25 patients were considered to be surgical candidates after failure of the PTCA attempt regardless of the presence of acute myocardial ischemia (Group I). The subsequent 100 patients (Group II) were considered to be surgical candidates only if acute myocardial ischemia was caused by a failed PTCA attempt. Four of the Group I patients (16%) required urgent operative intervention and 7 of the Group II patients (7%) required urgent operative intervention yielding, a total of 11 patients (8.8%) of the entire group. There were no hospital deaths and only 1 MI, actually documented before cardiopulmonary bypass. Women required urgent operative intervention more frequently than men (14.7% vs 6.6%). Patients with right coronary artery lesions required urgent operative intervention more often than those with left anterior descending lesions (13.0% vs 8.0%). Factors that lead to low operative mortality and myocardial infarction rates include an available operating room and team during the PTCA attempt, systemic arterial and Swan-Ganz pulmonary artery catheter pressure measurements at the time of angioplasty, intraaortic balloon pumping at the first sign of myocardial injury and expeditious surgery.
Hypercube concurrent processor implementation of a position invariant object classifier

A position-invariant fast object classification scheme is described. The grey-level image of objects is converted to binary form and a parallel region growing techniques is employed to detect objects. A 2-D fast Fourier transform (FFT) is applied to each object region after translating the origin of the image co-ordinate system to the object centre and aligning the image co-ordinate axes with the object principal axes. The first five components from the principal lobe of the Fourier spectrum of each object are selected as characteristic features for minimum-distance object classification. For time efficiency, region growing and 2-D FFT computations were performed on a 16-node hypercube processor.
Entangled photon holes

It is shown that the rate of two-photon absorption can be greatly reduced by the generation of entangled photon holes that are analogous to the holes of semiconductor theory.
Sex steroid effects on extrahypothalamic CNS. II. Progesterone, alone and in combination with estrogen, modulates cerebellar responses to amino acid neurotransmitters

In a preliminary report we have shown that both intravenous and local application of progesterone (P) are capable of increasing cerebellar Purkinje cell responsiveness to microiontophoretically applied γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and decreasing responsiveness to glutamate (GLUT) in the urethane-anesthetized, ovariectomized adult rat. In the present study we have examined the time course of effects of several doses of P and different combinations of both E2 and P on responses of individual Purkinje cells to GABA and GLUT. Extracellular activity of single Purkinje neurons was recorded using multibarrel glass micropipets. Spontaneous firing rate and responses of neurons to microiontophoretic pulses (10 s pulses every 40 s) of GABA (10–50 nA) and GLUT (3–40 nA) were examined before and after jugular i.v. administration of P or E2/P combinations to ovariectomized rats. In some cases animals received s.c. injections of E2 (2 μg) at 24 and 48h before the day of recording. This injection schedule results in maximal reproductive effects of P. Within 5–15 min after P administration (5,50 or 500 μg) to ovariectomized rats, Purkinje cell responses to GLUT were decreased by 87%, and inhibitory responses to GABA were increased by 50%, with no associated change in spontaneous firing rate. In addition, the magnitude of the change in amino acid response was directly proportional to the dose of P. In most cases, complete recovery was observed 20–45 min after P administration. E2 pretreatment did not alter these P-induced effects. Combinations of E2 (300 ng/kg) and P (50 or 500 μg) injected simulataneously resulted in effects on GLUT responsiveness which were similar to those seen with P alone, while effects similar to E2 alone were observed with administration of E2 plus P at 5 μg. The administration of a protein synthesis inhibitor, anisomycin (30 mg/kg, i.v.), 20 min before the recording session did not prevent any of the above steroid effects. These results indicate that sex steroids can act to alter neuronal responsiveness to putative neurotransmitters in a CNS region not known to contain steroid receptors and that the particular combination of steroids will determine the neuronal response. These findings further suggest that the observed steroid-induced alterations in Purkinje cell responsiveness do not appear to require genomic mechanisms.
On the values of the Epstein zeta function

Let ζ(s) = σn -s (Res >1) denote the Riemann zeta function; then, as is well known, , where B m denotes the m th Bernoulli number, In this paper we investigate the possibility of similar evaluations of the Epstein zeta function ζ q ( s ) at the rational integers s = k > 2. Let be a positive definite quadratic form and where the summation is over all pairs of integers except (0, 0). In attempting to evaluate ζ q ( k ) we are guided by Kronecker's first limit formula [11] where γ is Euler's constant, is the Dedekind eta-function, and τ is the complex number in the upper half plane, ℋ, associated with Q by the formula On the basis of (1.3) we would expect a formula involving functions of τ. This formula is stated in Theorem 1, (2.13).
Quantitative PCR method for detection of mycoplasma spp. DNA in nasal lavage samples from the desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii).

Abstract Mycoplasma agassizii and M. testudineum have been associated with upper respiratory tract disease (URTD) in the threatened desert tortoise ( Gopherus agassizii ). Because microbiological culture methods have proven difficult to employ in wild desert tortoises, our goal was to develop a sensitive and specific qPCR method for detecting and quantifying mycoplasma DNA in nasal lavage fluid collected in the field. Primers for 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequences specific for M. agassizii and M. testudineum were designed, together with primers that recognize conserved sequences of both microorganisms. Standard curves generated with DNA extracted from known numbers of mycoplasma cells revealed a lower detection limit of approximately 5 fg. The qPCR method did not recognize normal flora DNA, and nasal lavage fluid contained no interfering substances. Nasal lavage samples collected from 20 captive desert tortoises housed at the Desert Tortoise Conservation Center (Clark County, Nevada, USA) revealed the presence of M. agassizii DNA in 100% of the tortoises. Concentrations ranged from a low of 6 pg ml − 1 to a high of 72,962 pg ml − 1 . Only one of the tortoises was positive for M. testudineum . Interestingly, not all of the qPCR positive tortoises showed evidence of seroconversion, suggesting that they were colonized but not infected. This new quantitative method will provide a critical tool for managing threatened populations of the desert tortoise.
Floral constancy in bumble bees: handling efficiency or perceptual conditioning?

Individual bees often prefer flowers of the same species that they are already foraging on, and other individual bees prefer other flowers. This “floral constancy” has classically been explained as a learned behavior by which bees avoid wasting time switching between handling techniques. Choice trails were given to Bombus vagans workers that were freely foraging in mixed and pure fields of Trifolium pratense, T. repens, Viccia cracca, and Prunella vulgaris. Contrary to expectation, (1) bees showed if anything a stronger preference for their flower type in pure fields where they lacked experience than in a mixed field where they had had the opportunity to learn, (2) there was greater constancy in a mixed field of the two morphologically similar Trifolium species than in a mixed field of the morphologically disparate T. pratense and P. vulgaris, and (3) bees were more willing to switch between flowers of distinct morphologies when the colors were similar than between flowers of distinct colors when the morphologies were similar. We suggest that constancy is due to some form of perceptual conditioning whereby individual bees become temporarily sensitized to one or a few floral cues.
Some evidence regarding the kind and quantity of sediment transported by density-currents

Density-currents are of major importance as transporting and sorting agents for fine sediment. Under unusual or extreme conditions they have a part in the distribution of surprisingly coarse material. The magnitude of the work they perform in sedimentation may have been obscured somewhat in recent years because there has been a tendency to think of density-currents almost solely as turbid underflows in bodies of still water, especially in reservoirs that are fed by muddy rivers. Density-currents are not limited to underflows, be they turbid or otherwise. Their occurrence is confined neither to reservoirs in particular nor to bodies of water in general. For example, dust storms usually are true density-currents [see 1 of "References" at end of paper]. The importance of the atmosphere as a transporting and sorting agent is well known, and has been demonstrated clearly by evidence gathered by JOHAN AUGUST UDDEN[2], EDWARD ELWAY FREE[3], and many others. The fact that needs wider recognition is that the atmospheric transportation of sediment is accomplished very largely by density-currents.
Translating the semi-structured assessment for drug dependence and alcoholism in the Western Pacific: rationale, study design and reliability of alcohol dependence.

Aims: The aims of this study were to develop a bilingual version of the Semi-Structured Assessment for Drug Dependence and Alcoholism (SSADDA) in English and Samoan and determine the reliability of assessments of alcohol dependence in American Samoa. Methods: The study consisted of development and reliability-testing phases. In the development phase, the SSADDA alcohol module was translated and the translation was evaluated through cognitive interviews. In the reliability-testing phase, the bilingual SSADDA was administered to 40 ethnic Samoans, including a sub-sample of 26 individuals who were retested. Results: Cognitive interviews indicated the initial translation was culturally and linguistically appropriate except items pertaining to alcohol tolerance, which were modified to reflect Samoan concepts. SSADDA reliability testing indicated diagnoses of DSM-III-R and DSM-IV alcohol dependence were reliable. Reliability varied by language of administration. Conclusion: The English/Samoan version of the SSADDA is appropriate for the diagnosis of DSM-III-R alcohol dependence, which may be useful in advancing research and public health efforts to address alcohol problems in American Samoa and the Western Pacific. The translation methods may inform researchers translating diagnostic and assessment tools into different languages and cultures.
Synthesis of pentacyclic lα,11-(2-oxethano) steroids

Abstract Treatment of a 1α,2α-methyleneandrostan analog (4) with hydrobromic acid/acetic acid gives an apparent intramolecular homoconjugate ring-opening, which serves as the key step in the synthesis of a new type of pentacyclic steroid analogs (2).
Noble gas clusters in model zeolite cavities

Noble gas atoms trapped in the intracrystalline cavities of zeolites may form clusters. A classical-mechanical isoenergetic molecular dynamics simulation is performed to simulate the dynamical behavior of noble gas clusters in zeolite cavities. To implement the simulation, a model is adopted of a homogeneous spherical cavity with Morse interaction between the noble gas atoms and cavity walls. The results for Ar6 clusters indicate that the noble gas clusters in the cavity undergo the same solid/liquid phase changes as in free space, and, at high enough energies, a rapid exchange between atoms adsorbed on the inner surface and thosein the interior of the cavity. Mathematical quenching is used to investigated the multidimensional potential surface of Ar clusters in the cavity.
Constant Temperature Embossing of PEEK Films

A new variant of the hot embossing process has been conducted with amorphous PEEK films as a model material. Constant Temperature Embossing (CTE) utilizes the crystallizing nature of amorphous polymers such as poly (ether ether ketone) (PEEK), poly (ethylene terephthalate) (PET) and poly (ethylene naphthalate) (PEN) when heated above their glass transition temperature to eliminate the thermal cycling. The key process parameters such as embossing temperature and embossing time depend on the thermal behavior of the amorphous PEEK film. Embossing studies were conducted using silicon tools with microchannel arrays of different aspect ratios, and the films were characterized using scanning electron microscopy and optical profilometry. The process enables a simple isothermal embossing process for polymers that have a glass transition temperature well above the room temperature and also with a wide temperature gap between the glass transition temperature and melting point.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
A 0.25- mu m gate-length pseudomorphic HFET with 32-mW output power at 94 GHz

The 94-GHz power performance of a 0.25*75- mu m doped-channel pseudomorphic heterostructure FET (HFET) is reported. A maximum output power of 32 mW, corresponding to a power density of 0.43 W/mm, was obtained with 15% power-added efficiency and 3.0 dB gain. >
Ultralow frequency waves in the magnetotails of the earth and the outer planets

Ultralow frequency waves with periods greater than two minutes are characteristic features of planetary magnetotails. At Jupiter, changes in the wave characteristics across the boundary between the plasma sheet and the lobe have been used to identify this important plasma boundary. In the terrestrial lobes the wave amplitude can be relatively large, especially during intervals of intense geomagnetic activity. The wave power seen in the lobes of the magnetotails of the earth, Jupiter, Saturn and Uranus is evaluated to evaluate a proposal by Smith et al. that the propagating waves generated by the Kelvin-Helmholtz instability on the magnetopause can heat the plasma through a resonant absorption of these waves. The results indicate that the wave power in the lobes is generally small and can be easily understood in the framework of coupled MHD waves generated in the plasma sheet.
Trafficking of major histocompatibility complex class II molecules in human B-lymphoblasts deficient in the AP-3 adaptor complex.

Abstract The major histocompatibility complex class II subunits (MHC-II) α and β assemble with the invariant chain (Ii) in the endoplasmic reticulum and are transported to endosomal–lysosomal organelles known as MHC class II compartments (MIICs). Although it has been shown that two dileucine-based signals in the cytosolic tail of Ii, as well as a dileucine-based signal in the tail of the β chain mediate sorting to MIICs, the molecular mechanisms by which αβIi complexes are sorted have yet to be resolved fully. The AP-3 adaptor complex stands out as a particularly good candidate for mediating this targeting because: (i) it has a proven role in the trafficking of membrane proteins to lysosome-related organelles; and (ii) it has the ability to interact with dileucine-based signals in vitro. To investigate the potential role of AP-3 in transport of MHC-II to MIICs, we have examined MHC-II trafficking in human B-lymphoblast lines from patients with Hermansky–Pudlak syndrome type 2 (HPS-2), which are deficient in the AP-3 complex. Pulse-chase analyses revealed no significant alteration in the kinetics of synthesis and degradation of either MHC-II subunits or Ii. Moreover, we observed neither impairment of the formation of compact SDS-resistant αβ dimers, nor delay in the appearance of a conformational epitope indicative of a mature, Ii-free αβ dimer. Finally, we demonstrated that in HPS-2 patients’ cells, there was no delay in the expression of the αβ dimers on the cell surface. Thus, AP-3 does not seem to be essential for normal trafficking of MHC-II. These findings have important implications for HPS-2 patients, because they suggest that the recurrent bacterial infections suffered by these patients are not likely due to impaired antigen processing and presentation by MHC-II.
Electrochemical Analysis of the Cephalosporin Cefamandole Nafate

The polarographic assays for cefamandole sodium and its formyl ester, cefamandole nafate, are described. Controlled potential coulometry is used as an absolute method for the assignment of purity of these compounds without the need for a reference material. The precision, accuracy, and selectivity of these assays were better than for the microbiological autoturbidimetric and automated iodometric assays. NMR, TLC, GC, and polarography are used to detect and quantitate likely impurities and degradation products.