cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Effects of North Carolina’s Prescription Drug Monitoring Program on the Prescribing Behaviors of the State’s Providers

State-level prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMPs) show promise as a key strategy to respond to the epidemic of the misuse and abuse of controlled substances (CS), particularly opioid analgesics, in the United States. Undocumented concerns have been expressed that these PDMPs may have a "chilling effect" on providers' willingness to prescribe these substances to their patients. Using data from North Carolina's PDMP for the 3-year period from 2009 through 2011, we examined whether rapid increases in (1) the number of providers who queried the system, and (2) the number of days on which they queried it, would be related to their prescribing practices in regards to CS. We hypothesized that neither marker of PDMP utilization would be associated with a decrease in either patients receiving CS prescriptions or CS prescriptions filled. We found no association between either of these variables and the number of patients who filled prescriptions for CS or the number of prescriptions for CS filled. However, we did find a slight positive relationship between the growth in the utilization of the PDMP and the number of prescriptions filled for opioid analgesics. Concerns that PDMPs may constrain prescribing behavior with regards to CS are not supported.
Primary Malignant Mixed Tumors of the Lacrimal Gland: Report of 10 Cases

Ten consecutive cases of malignant mixed tumor (pleomorphic adenocarcinoma) primary in the lacrimal gland were studied for clinical features, pathology, course and prognosis and surgical management. Long-term follow-up data were available on all patients and emphasized the varied nature of the neoplasm. Survival intervals after the initial operation varied and seemed dependent on whether the neoplasm was initially histologically malignant or became malignant during the recurrence of a benign mixed tumor. An en bloc, one-stage removal of neoplasm with attached periorbita and underlying bone is recommended to minimize early dissemination via bone.
Mechanistic Study of the Peroxidase-Catalyzed Polymerization of Sulfonated Phenol†

Peroxidase-catalyzed polymerization of sulfonated phenol was investigated by 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy. The reaction process was monitored by 1H NMR spectroscopy with the incremental addition of H2O2. The variation of the dimer concentration shows three different stages during the reaction: proliferation (I), equilibrium (II), and reduction (III) of the dimer. Conversion of most of the monomer is devoted to the formation of small molecular weight species such as dimers at stage I. A dynamic equilibrium exists between the formation and consumption of the dimer in the reaction system at stage II. The likelihood of formation of high molecular weight products increases at stage III. Structural characterizations of the predominant dimer product and the resulted polymer suggest that C−O−C coupling is dominant in the polymerization, leading to the synthesis of a polymeric material with sulfonated phenylene oxide as the major unit.
The Estrogenic Activity of Residues Obtained from Chickens Treated with Pellets of Diethylstilbestrol

Abstract A REVIEW of the literature concerning the deposition of estrogens in the different body tissues of chickens which had been treated with diethylstilbestrol does not reveal that workers in this area are in agreement. Lorenz (1953) has expressed the opinion that data on the absorption and distribution of diethylstilbestrol and other estrogens are fragmentary in spite of the fact that the estrogens play an important role in the production of meats and foodstuffs. He has criticized the data obtained by the use of various extraction procedures because of the lack of proof of efficiency of these procedures. Bird (1950) has stated that estrogens are widely divergent in their ability to leave active deposits in the depot fats throughout the body of poultry. Bird, Pugsley and Klotz (1947) claimed to have demonstrated the presence of residual estrogen in the tissues of cockerels fed the dimethyl ethers of stilbestrol, hexestrol and dienestrol… .
The acute pressure natriuresis response blunted and the blood pressure response reset in the normal pregnant rat.

Abstract OBJECTIVES: Our purpose was to test the hypothesis that the acute pressure natriuresis curve was reset in pregnancy to facilitate the volume expansion. STUDY DESIGN: Studies were done with 14- to 16-day pregnant ( n = 8) and age-matched virgin female ( n = 6) Sprague-Dawley rats that were under general anesthesia. The left kidney was denervated, and mechanical clamps were placed on the aorta above and below the renal arteries for manipulation of renal perfusion pressure. Rats received intravenous 0.9% sodium chloride (1.5% body weight/h) and a cocktail of vasoactive factors to suppress variation in endogenous hormones. Renal perfusion pressure was varied acutely from 125 to 95 mm Hg, and glomerular filtration rate, renal plasma flow, sodium excretion, and urine flow were measured in both kidneys at each renal perfusion pressure. Data were analyzed by unpaired t test and by homogeneity by slopes. RESULTS: The acute pressure natriuresis curve was blunted in pregnant rats versus virgins, and the renal nerves were not responsible. The blunted natriuretic response in pregnancy was due to loss of tubular epithelial responsiveness to increased blood pressure. CONCLUSION: The pressure natriuretic response is markedly blunted in pregnancy, permitting the cumulative plasma volume expansion to occur. Contrary to nongravid states, blunting of the acute pressure natriuresis curve in pregnancy is not associated with increased blood pressure because of the profound peripheral vasodilation. This suggests an alteration in the mechanism(s) normally linking blood pressure control to the acute pressure natriuresis relationship. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 1998;179:486-91.)
Low-temperature group velocity and elasticity in CaWO4

Abstract The CRESST experiment looks for evidence of dark matter particles colliding with nuclei in CaWO4, using cryogenic bolometers sensitive to energy deposition (∼10 keV) with high accuracy. Calibration of the energy deposited in the phonon system depends upon the details of the evolution of the non-equilibrium energy in the CaWO4 absorber. Phonon images sensitively reveal variations in angular phonon flux in a single-crystal sample and provide accurate data for the group velocity along non-symmetry directions. Our measurements, over a wide range of propagation angles, provide new and precise values for phonon group velocities and uncover significant discrepancies between the experimentally observed transport of non-equilibrium energy and that predicted using values of the low-temperature elastic constants widely cited in the literature.
Modeling of electrical boundary condition and domain switching in piezoelectric materials

The electrical boundary condition along the crack surfaces forms an important aspect in the study of fracture in piezoelectric materials. A finite element is developed to model the dielectric property of the medium that fills the crack cavity in a piezoelectric material and interfaced with the commercial code ABAQUS. The crack cavity permeability effects on the near tip electric fields in a compact tension specimen are investigated. Domain switching near the crack tip causes changes in the stresses and electric fields near the crack tip which in turn affects the fracture behavior. Domain switching in the material causes change in properties owing to the change in the polarization direction of the domains. The constitutive relations reflecting this change in the material property and the finite element solution procedure incorporating the change in material properties and also the strains due to crystal shape change are discussed. An internal energy density criterion is used to model the domain switching. The incremental domain switching solution procedure is also discussed and is used to model an existing compact tension experiment. The near tip stress field and the stress intensity factor are investigated.
High perceived stress is linked to afternoon cortisol levels and greater symptom distress in patients with localized prostate cancer.

BACKGROUND Patients treated with radical prostatectomy (RP) or radiation therapy (RT) for prostate cancer can experience stress and symptoms that impact quality of life. OBJECTIVE The objectives of this study were to describe cortisol levels, perceived stress, symptoms, and symptom distress; compare differences in variables measured between RP and RT; and identify associations among cortisol levels, perceived stress, symptoms, and symptom distress in patients treated for localized prostate cancer. METHODS A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted with 53 patients (RP n = 24, RT n = 29). Data from saliva, questionnaires, and interviews were collected within 3 months of treatment. Saliva samples were collected at 4 times over 2 consecutive days. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlations, and regressions. RESULTS A robust diurnal rhythm of cortisol secretion with heightened levels in the early morning and lowered levels late in the day was found. On average, the entire sample had moderate symptoms and symptom distress for urinary, bowel, and sexual dysfunction. The RP group reported significantly more urinary and sexual dysfunction symptoms and fewer bowel symptoms than did the RT group. Perceived stress was positively correlated with higher afternoon cortisol levels and greater symptom distress. CONCLUSION Moderate symptoms and symptom distress found in our sample indicate the need for interventions to address these outcomes in men treated for prostate cancer. Self-reported perceived stress can be used to assess the stress level and symptom distress in clinic setting. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Patients treated for prostate cancer with RP or RT should be assessed for symptoms and symptom distress and targeted for early symptom management interventions.
Dosimetry and mechanical accuracy of the first rotating gamma system installed in North America.

The purpose of this paper is to present the dosimetry and mechanical accuracy of the first rotating gamma system (RGS) installed in North America for stereotactic radiosurgery. The data were obtained during the installation, acceptance test procedure, and commissioning of the unit. The RGS unit installed at UC Davis Cancer Center ( RGS u ) has modifications on the source and collimator bodies from the earlier version of the Chinese RGS ( RGS c ). The differences between these two RGSs are presented. The absolute dose at the focal point was measured in a 16-cm-diam acrylic phantom using a small volume chamber, which was calibrated at the University of Wisconsin Accredited DosimetryCalibration Laboratory (UW-ADCL). The dose in acrylic was then converted to a dose in water. A collimator output factor from each of the four different collimator sizes ranging from 4, 8, 14, and 18 mm was measured with (1) a smaller volume chamber and (2) approximately 3.0 mm ×3.0 mm ×1.0 mm TLD chips in the same acrylic phantom. The Gafchromic films were used for the dose profile, collimator output factor, and mechanical/radiation field isocentricity measurements. The TLD chips were processed in-house whereas Gafchromic films were processed both at the UW-ADCL and in-house. The timer error, timer accuracy, and timer linearity were also determined. The dose profiles were found to be similar between RGS c and RGS u . The 4 mm collimator output factor of the RGS u was approximately 0.6, similar to that from RGS c , in comparison to 0.8 in the report for a Leksell Model U Gamma-Knife. The mechanical/radiation field isocentricity for RGS c and RGS u is found to be similar and is within 0.3 mm in both X and Y directions. In the Z direction, the beam center of the RGS u is shifted toward the sources by 0.75 mm from the mechanical isocenter whereas no data are available for RGS c . Little dosimetric difference is found between RGS u and RGS c . It is reported that RGS c has the same dosimetric and mechanical characteristics as the Model U Gamma-Knife. Therefore, RGS u should be capable of achieving stereotactic radiosurgery with the same degree of dosimetric and mechanical accuracy as with the Gamma-Knife.
The kinetics of reaction of 4-nitrophenylnitromethane with N’-Propyl-N,N-dipropylbenzimidamide in aprotic solvents. a steric effect on tunneling

Thermodynamic and kinetic parameters have been established for the reaction between the carbon acid, 4-nitrophenylnitromethane, (4-NPNM), and the base N’-n-propyl-N,N-di-n-propylbenzimidamide, (N’PDPBA), in mesitylene and in chlorobenzene. In some cases deuteron transfer from 4-(D2)NPNM to the base has also been studied. In addition, some results for the proton transfer reaction in tetrahydrofuran have been collected. Spectrophotometric methods have been employed to monitor the ion-pair product, which is solvatochromic. In general the solvent dependence of the parameters is as expected, but there is some indication of specific solvation. The kinetic isotope effects of 11 and 8 in mesitylene and chlorobenzene, respectively, are larger than those predicted classically. However, as is discussed the n-propyl group on the secondary nitrogen of the base may serve to reduce the extent of tunneling compared to that in an unsubstituted analogue by a steric effect.
Calculation of spin correlations in two-dimensional Ising systems from one-dimensional kinetic models

Kinetic spin models of the type first introduced by Glauber are considered with the most general choice of transition rates. It is shown that their time evolution operator can be related to the transfer matrices of certain two-dimensional Ising lattices. This allows an exact calculation of spin correlation functions at certain temperatures. Specifically we show that for the triangular antiferromagnet this special temperature corresponds to the disorder point. For the Hamiltonian version of the ANNNI model the corresponding result restricts in an important way the possible structure of the phase diagram.
Fluctuation Simulations and the Calculation of Mechanical Partial Molar Properties

Abstract A method for the direct calculation of partial molar volumes, energies, and enthalpies in multicomponent mixtures in which all species have finite concentrations is presented. The approach, which is based on fluctuation theory, allows the simultaneous determination of the properties of all components in the mixture. The advantages and limitations of the method are illustrated through the (N, U, V) molecular dynamics calculation of the mechanical partial molar properties of two binary Lennard-Jones mixtures.
Need for triangulated methodologies in criminal justice and criminological research: exploring legal techniques as an additional method

Criminal justicians and criminologists use a variety of research techniques when undertaking their investigations. However, most tend to overwhelmingly rely on either one of two types of data colle...
Exploring Cloud-to-Ground Lightning Earth Highpoint Attachment Geography by Peak Current

Abstract This study applied remotely sensed cloud-to-ground (CG) lightning strike location data, a digital elevation model (DEM), and a geographic information system (GIS) to characterize negative polarity peak current CG lightning Earth attachment behavior. It explored the propensity for (i) flashes to favor topographic highpoint attachment and (ii) striking distance (a near-Earth attachment force) to increase with peak current. On a 16 000 km2 10-m DEM covering a section of southeast and south-central Colorado, a GIS extraction method identified approximately 5000 hilltop and outcrop highpoints containing at least 15 m of vertical gain in a 300-m radius neighborhood with a minimum horizontal separation of 600 m. Flashes with peak currents ranging from −20 to −119 kiloamps (kA), collected between February 2005 and May 2009, were subdivided into 10 kA classes and mapped on this modified DEM. Buffers of 100-, 200-, and 300-m radii created around each highpoint were used to assess the hypothesis that striki...
Photodissociation of Cl2O2 in the Spring Antarctic lower stratosphere

The likely photodissociation pathways of chlorine peroxide are examined. Reasoning by analogy between hydrogen peroxide and chlorine peroxide, it is shown that photodissociation of chlorine peroxide at wavelengths longer than 250 nm is not likely to give chlorine atoms as a primary product. Reasoning by analogy with molecules whose visible spectra are known, it is concluded that chlorine peroxide is also likely to photodissociate in the visible to give ClO radicals as primary products.
“Controlled Flight into Terrain (CFIT)” Accidents: System-Induced Errors

Controlled flight into terrain accidents are seen as the result of system-induced errors. The cause of the errors and possible solutions in terms of aircraft, traffic control, and terminals, is discussed. Language: en
Accretion disks around binary black holes: A simple GR-hybrid evolution model

We consider a geometrically thin, Keplerian disk in the orbital plane of a binary black hole (BHBH) consisting of a spinning primary and low-mass secondary (mass ratio $q\ensuremath{\lesssim}1$). To account for the principle effects of general relativity (GR), we propose a modification of the standard Newtonian evolution equation for the (orbit-averaged) time-varying disk surface density. In our modified equation the viscous torque in the disk is treated in full GR, while the tidal torque is handled in the Newtonian limit. Our GR-hybrid treatment is reasonable because the tidal torque is concentrated near the orbital radius of the secondary and is most important prior to binary-disk decoupling, when the orbital separation is large and resides in the weak-field regime. The tidal torque on the disk diminishes during late merger and vanishes altogether following merger. By contrast, the viscous torque drives the flow into the strong-field region and onto the primary during all epochs. Following binary coalescence, the viscous torque alone governs the time-dependent accretion onto the remnant, as well as the temporal behavior, strength and spectrum of the aftermath electromagnetic radiation from the disk. We solve our GR-hybrid equation for a representative BHBH-disk system, identify several observable EM signatures of the merger, and compare results obtained for the gas and EM radiation with those found with the Newtonian prescription.
Leaf anatomy and subgeneric affiliations of C3 and C4 species of Suaeda (Chenopodiaceae) in North America.

The halophytic genus Suaeda (Chenopodiaceae) includes species with the C3 and C4 photosynthetic pathways. North American species of this genus were investigated to determine whether C3 and C4 leaf anatomy are consistent within the two sections of Suaeda, Chenopodina and Limbogermen, present on this continent. All species from section Chenopodina were found to possess C3 anatomy, whereas all species from section Limbogermen were found to be C4 species. Characteristics of leaf anatomy and chloroplast ultrastructure are similar to those reported from C3 and C4 species, respectively, from the Eastern Hemisphere. All species from section Limbogermen have the suaedoid type of leaf anatomy, characterized by differentiation of the mesophyll into palisade parenchyma and a chlorenchymatous sheath surrounding central water-storage tissue, as well as leaf carbon isotope ratios (813C) of above -20. All species from section Chenopodina have austrobassioid leaf anatomy without a chlorenchymatous sheath and 813C values of below -20. According to our literature review, the photosynthetic pathway has now been reported for about half (44) of the Suaeda species worldwide. The C3 and C4 photosynthetic syndromes are with few exceptions distributed along sectional or subsectional lines. These findings throw new light on the infrageneric taxonomy of this genus.
A large photoreactive particle from Chromatium vinosum chromatophores.

Abstract Large photoreactive particles from Chromatium vinosum are obtained pure and in high yield by using a mixture of detergents at high ionic strength to dissociate the chromatophore membrane. The particles contain all of the secondary electron acceptor of the chromatophores and about half of the cytochrome. Their content of ubiquinone is greatly enriched as compared with chromatophores. The individual particles have an estimated molecular weight of between 650 000 and 810 000. Gel electrophoresis of the preparation in sodium dodecylsulfate shows polypeptides with molecular weights of 50–45 000, 30 000, 27 000, 22 000 and 12 000. The 50–45 000 components are cytochromes. The 30 000, 27 000 and 22 000 components may be analogous to the triad of polypeptides present in Rhodopseudomonas spheroides reaction centers. The non-cytochrome components are partly soluble in chloroform/methanol. Aggregates of particles appear in these preparations. Electron microscopy of the aggregates demonstrates rectilinear lattices of isodiametric particles, 120 A in diameter. These sheet-like structures are one unit thick and typically contain 9–16 members. They appear to arise by aggregation during isolation but are probably similar to native aggregates apparent within chromatophores after treatment with detergents at low salt concentration.
The use of ceramic recuperators in soaking pit furnaces

Mixtures of SiC and slag and clinker do not fuse at 1300°C. Articles made of SiC are not penetrated and are scarcely damaged at up to 1500°C by slag or clinker. Mixtures of fireclay-kaolin refractory powders with slag or clinker melt at 1300°C. Fireclay-kaolin crucibles are not penetrated at 1500°C but are damaged by clinker and slag. The mixtures of fireclay-SiC refractory powders, slag and clinker melt at 1300°C. The fireclay-SiC articles are penetrated at 1500°C and partly destroyed by slag and clinker. In soaking pits it is desirable to use SiC recuperators at flue-gas temperatures of 1300–1400°C. The fireclay-SiC recuperators can be used in heating pits at flue-gas temperatures of below 1300°C. At higher temperatures in the heating pits, when the SiC may be strongly oxidized, it is desirable to test fireclay-kaolin recuperators.
Relation of preprocedural assessment of myocardial contractility reserve on outcomes of aortic stenosis patients with impaired left ventricular function undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation.

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is associated with improved left ventricular (LV) function in patients with aortic stenosis (AS) and LV dysfunction; however, the outcome after TAVI of patients with low left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) is unclear. This study aimed to characterize the baseline, procedural, and long-term outcomes of patients with low LVEF undergoing TAVI and to assess the prognostic utility of pre-TAVI balloon aortic valvuloplasty (BAV) and dobutamine stress echocardiography (DSE) to predict TAVI benefits. Consecutive patients with symptomatic severe AS who underwent TAVI from 2007 to 2013 were analyzed. Two groups were compared: normal or near normal LV function (LVEF >45%) and LVEF ≤45% at baseline. In total, 371 patients were analyzed; 272 (73%) had preserved LVEF and 99 (27%) had low LVEF. Patients with low LVEF had higher Society of Thoracic Surgeons score and EuroSCORE. Short- and long-term mortality was similar between groups (1-year rate: 22.2% vs 22.4%, p = 0.79). Of the patients with low LVEF, 24% demonstrated improvement (≥10%) in LVEF at 30 days; patients with improvement had lower mortality at 1 year than those without (8% vs 27%, p = 0.06). Contractile reserve in DSE did not predict LVEF recovery in patients with low LVEF but did predict lower mortality. LVEF recovery after BAV predicted greater LVEF improvement after TAVI. In conclusion, patients with severe AS and impaired LV function benefit from TAVI and have comparable procedural outcomes compared with patients with preserved LVEF. Both DSE and BAV provide complementary data with regard to recovery of LVEF and mortality, both periprocedural and late after TAVI.
Manipulation of Zeeman coherence in solids at room temperature: Ramsey interference in the coherent-population-trapping spectrum of ruby

Coherent population trapping (CPT) in a three-level atomic medium pumped by two subsequent short optical pulses is considered under the condition of negligible population decay from the excited optical state. It is shown that the amount of atomic population transferred to the excited state by the combined action of the pulses strongly depends on the phase of the ground-state coherence excited by the first pulse at the arrival time of the second pulse. Oscillatory behavior of optical excitation efficiency on the time delay between the pulses is predicted. It is also shown that saturating optical pulses can produce population inversion in a resonantly pumped quasi-two-level system. A class of solid materials in which the predicted phenomena can be observed at room temperature is found. It includes some rare-earth and transition-metal doped dielectric crystals where Orbach relaxation between ground-state Zeeman states is suppressed: ruby, alexandrite, and several others. On the basis of the theoretical predictions, experimental observation of Ramsey fringes in CPT spectrum of ruby is reported.
Eighth-year response of Douglas-fir seedlings to area of weed control and herbaceous versus woody weed control

La reponse en termes de croissance de plants de Douglas verts huit ans apres plusieurs modalites de controle de la vegetation adventice a ete etudiee dans deux sites de l'ouest de l'Oregon. Les traitements comprennent 6 surfaces de controle des mauvaises herbes autour d'arbres individuels - 0,0 m 2 , 0,375 m 2 , 1,49 m 2 , 3,35 m 2 , 5,95 m 2 et 9,63 m 2 (controle total de la vegetation (TVC)) -controle de la competition herbacee seulement ou controle de la vegetation ligneuse. Les traitements de controle de la vegetation herbacee ont ete maintenus les 2 premieres annees apres plantation tandis que les traitements de controle de la vegetation ligneuse ont ete maintenus 3 ans. Le plus grand gain de croissance du Douglas avec l'augmentation de la surface de controle a ete observe entre le traitement 0,0 m 2 et 3,75 m 2 . Toutefois la croissance continue a augmenter avec l'accroissement de la surface de controle en dehors d'un controle total des mauvaises herbes. Les traitements 5,95 m 2 et 9,63 m 2 presentent apres 8 annees un accroissement relatif de volume individuel d'un arbre de 260 % (20,9 dm2) et 307 % (24,7 dm 2 ). Alors que le controle de la vegetation herbacee augmente la croissance dans les deux sites d'etude, le controle de la vegetation ligneuse influence la croissance uniquement dans le site qui a une composante d'especes de feuillus ayant un fort potentiel de croissance en hauteur. Les differences de croissance parmi les traitements 8 annees apres la plantation sont discutes en termes de distance de la competition et de modification dans le temps de la competition des herbacees par rapport a la vegetation ligneuse.
Evidence that androgens are the primary steroids produced by Xenopus laevis ovaries and may signal through the classical androgen receptor to promote oocyte maturation.

Steroid-induced maturation of Xenopus oocytes has long served as a model for studying meiosis. Progesterone has been considered the relevant steroid controlling maturation, perhaps through interactions with classical progesterone receptors. In this study, we provide evidence that androgens, rather than progesterone, are the physiologic mediators of Xenopus oocyte maturation. Androgens were equal or more potent activators of maturation in vitro relative to progesterone and were significantly more abundant in the serum and ovaries of β-human chorionic growth hormone-stimulated frogs. Androgen action appeared to be mediated by classical androgen receptors (ARs) expressed in oocytes, as androgen-induced maturation and signaling was specifically attenuated by AR antagonists. Interestingly, we found that progesterone was rapidly converted to the androgen androstenedione in isolated oocytes by the enzyme CYP17, suggesting that androgens may be promoting maturation even under conditions typical for “progesterone-mediated” maturation assays. Androgens are thought to play an important role in ovarian development as well as pathology, and signaling through the AR may prove to be a major regulatory mechanism mediating these processes.
Fluorophore-free luminescent organosilica nanoparticles.

In this paper, we report the preparation and characterization of fluorophore-free luminescent organosilica nanoparticles (NPs) with sizes varying from 50 to 250 nm. These NPs were synthesized by the Stober method by incorporating several organosilanes together with the silicate precursor (tetraethyl orthosilicate, TEOS) to the silica matrix. The calcination of these NPs at high temperatures (600 and 700 °C) led to fluorescent and phosphorescent properties, which proved to be highly dependent on the initial composition of the silanization mixture and the heating temperature. Further characterization of this material in terms of its structural and optical properties is reported. Although the NPs are not very bright, the lifetime measurements revealed values in the millisecond range, which makes these NPs potentially attractive as luminescent materials and for time-resolved optical spectroscopic studies and bioassays.
On the applicability of LCAO‐Xα methods to molecules containing transition metal atoms: The nickel atom and nickel hydride

The LCAO-Xα method is extended to include spin-polarization and thus be applicable to complexes containing transition metals. In studies on the nickel atom and on nickel hydride the method is shown to be reliable and computationally efficient. These results are compared with similar Multiple Scattering Xα, Unrestricted Hartree—Fock, and Generalized Valence Bond calculations.
Percutaneous Absorption in Experimental Epidermal Proliferation

• Essential fatty acid deficiency (EFAD) results in epidermal hyperproliferation with acanthosis and hyperkeratosis. The EFAD hairless mouse has been used to study the percutaneous absorption of a 0.1% solution of 4- 14 C-hydrocortisone. In vitro absorption was increased significantly through EFAD compared with normal hairless mouse skin. This is further evidence for a defective skin barrier function in epidermal hyperproliferation. ( Arch Dermatol 114:1029-1030, 1978)
Combination chemotherapy with methyl-CCNU (NSC-95441), cyclophosphamide (NSC-26271), vincristine (NSC-67574), methotrexate (NSC-740), and bleomycin (NSC-125066) in advanced bronchogenic carcinoma

Forty consecutive eligible patients with advanced bronchogenic carcinoma and no prior chemotherapy were treated with a 5-drug combination of methyl-CCNU, cyclophosphamide, methotrexate, vincristine, and bleomycin. Of the 36 patients who completed at least one 6-week course of treatment and were considered evaluable, 4 (11%) had partial tumor response. Response by cell type was as follows: 2(14%) of 14 patients with squamous cell carcinoma, 2(18%) of 11 with oat cell carcinoma, and none of 11 with adenocarcinoma. Toxicity in the group of 36 evaluable patients consisted of nausea and vomiting in 24 patients (67%), severe leukopenia (white blood cell count less than 1000 cells/-mm3) in 7 patients (19%), severe thrombocytopenia (platelet count less than 100,000 platelets/mm3) in 14 patients (39%), and bleomycin pulmonary toxicity in 2 patients (6%). This combination does not appear to be more effective than single-agent chemotherapy for bronchogenic carcinoma.
Running on empty: The end of dirigisme in French economic leadership

Abstract Since the early 1980s, France has transformed its pattern of economic policy‐making from a state‐led or dirigiste approach to a more market‐oriented one and generated a new set of dynamics between French business and government at regional, national, and European levels. Business has become more independent of the central state as a result of deregulation, privatisation, regional integration, and Europeanisation, more interdependent as a result of cross‐shareholdings, and more international in consequence of cross‐border mergers and acquisitions. State interventionism, where it remains, has become more circumscribed and less directive, targeting firms only in strategic areas or in trouble.
Carbonate Fuel Cell Power Plant Systems

Carbonate fuel cells are an attractive means of developing highly efficient power plants capable of achieving low atmospheric emissions. Because carbonate fuel cells can be used with coal derived fuel gases and their operating temperatures allow the use of turbomachinery bottoming cycles, they are well suited for large installations like central utility stations. Presently, system development activity is directed toward evaluating the readiness of gasifier and fuel processor technology, defining candidate cycle configurations, and calculating projected plant efficiencies.
Abdominal Imaging 2014

This April issue of Abdominal Imaging marks the second issue of 2014 under ‘‘new management.’’ It is an honor to be named the new Editor-in-Chief of the Journal succeeding the esteemed Morton Meyers, MD. The purpose of this communication is to provide the readers with some insight into my vision for the Journal and its future direction. As the official journal of the Society of Abdominal Radiologists (SAR), we want to facilitate a shared vision for the Journal. Addressing all of the professional needs of the abdominal radiologist will be our overarching goal. These needs are challenging, but can be accomplished in concert with the SAR and other abdominal imaging societies. The heart and soul of the Journal will be maintained by promoting and publishing high quality, peer-reviewed research as our number one priority. We intend to continue a global outreach to abdominal imagers. Secondarily, we hope to grow in the following areas: publishing on current practice issues or new standards of care includingprocess quality improvement (PQI) (practice section), preparing for a first time or recertifying examination (review articles), and reaching readers via social media as an alert to articles of special interest.We are likely to de-emphasize case report publications over time. Abdominal imagers are encouraged to submit their best work to the Journal. An all-star cast of associate editors, in various sub-disciplines of abdominal imaging, have been assembled to filter reviewer feedback and mentor authors. These editors depend upon the gracious volunteer effort of countless reviewers. If you are interested in helping us review articles, please contact me or an associate editor (listed on our masthead). We hope over time to provide just the right amount of coaching to create the best scientific publications while respecting author’s time and independent thought. With your help, I look forward to the future growth of the Journal. We will strive to keep the Journal relevant and to meet your professional needs.
The modern “3G” age of archaeal molecular biology

The publication of the genome of Methanocaldococcus jannaschii in 1996 (Bult et al., 1996), just the second-ever complete microbial sequencing feat, marked an exciting beginning for archaeal genomics. In spite of the auspicious start, progress in archaeal genomics has been slow relative to bacteria and viruses, in part due to sequencing funding priorities favoring microbes with clinical relevance. In the last 5 years, the precipitous drop in high throughput sequencing costs and increasingly automated genome annotation has caused the inventory of archaeal genomes to grow exponentially. There is now genome representation in all major phyla of the Archaea, with a number of popular genera (including Halobacterium, Methanocaldococcus, Methanosarcina, Pyrobaculum, Pyrococcus, Sulfolobus, and Thermococcus) represented by multiple species. With these sequence data, comparative genomic studies have played an important role in integrating a broader evolutionary perspective into archaeal research. Experimental genetics now commonly utilize multiple archaeal species in a modern systems approach, coinciding with an increasing upswing in international collaboration. Multilaboratory consortia, such as the SulfoSys community (Albers et al., 2009), have started to break into new systems biology initiatives. At the same time, streamlined genetic approaches in the genera Halobacterium/Haloferax, Methanosarcina, Sulfolobus, and Thermococcus, are leveraging the growing wealth of genomic information in the Archaea. The result has been genome-driven studies of metabolism, DNA replication and repair, transcription and translation, and post-translational processing. This collection of 11 papers attempts to put this quiet maturation in archaeal molecular biology in context with a mix of overview articles (Atomi et al., 2012; Hileman and Santangelo, 2012; Kohler and Metcalf, 2012; Wagner et al., 2012) and original data (Bernick et al., 2012a,b; Iverson and Stedman, 2012; Mao and Grogan, 2012; Schut et al., 2012; Stroud et al., 2012; Szabo and Pohlschroder, 2012) highlighting the expansion of important areas enabled by the 3G's: genomics, genetics, and global collaboration. Research papers highlight the roles of small RNAs, CRISPR action, mechanisms of membrane secretion, hydrogen production, and DNA replication, while excellent technical overviews cover recently developed genetic methods within four major research communities utilizing Haloferax, Sulfolobus, Pyrococcus, or Thermococcus.
Surgical off-loading of the diabetic foot

Surgical intervention for chronic deformities and ulcerations has become an important component in the management of patients with diabetes mellitus. These patients are no longer relegated to wearing cumbersome braces or footwear for deformities that might otherwise be easily corrected. Although surgical intervention in these often high-risk individuals is not without risk, the outcomes are fairly predictable when patients are properly selected and evaluated. In this brief review, we discuss the rationale and indications for diabetic foot surgery, focusing on the surgical decompression of deformities that frequently lead to foot ulcers.
The Business of Fur Hunting in Canada as an Example of an Extractive Industry

(1926). The Business of Fur Hunting in Canada as an Example of an Extractive Industry. Journal of Geography: Vol. 25, No. 8, pp. 303-306.
In utero tobacco smoke exposure alters pulmonary responses of newborn rats to ozone.

Prenatal tobacco smoke (TS) exposure has been implicated in various adverse health outcomes in the offspring, including poor development of lung and immune system, which in turn can alter the response of neonates to environmental challenges. This study was performed to determine whether in utero exposure to TS influences the pulmonary response of newborn rat pups to ozone (O3). Timed pregnant Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were exposed to TS or air for 3 h/d from gestation d 7 through 21. The pulmonary response of pups was assessed following a single 3-h exposure to air or 0.6 ppm O3 on d 13 after birth. In all, 4 exposure groups were evaluated: (1) Air/Air (in utero air and postnatal air), (2) Air/O3 (in utero air and postnatal O3), (3) TS/Air (in utero TS and postnatal air), and (4) TS/O3 (in utero TS and postnatal O3). Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) was performed, and BAL cells and fluid were analyzed. Data revealed a significant increase in polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) and total BALF protein in the Air/...
Transmission electron microscopy of transverse sections through oxide scales on metals

A technique has been developed for the routine preparation of transverse sections of oxide scales and metal-oxide interfaces which are electron transparent for examination in a transmission electron microscope. The method developed is essentially a three-step process: electroforming of Ni onto the oxidized surface, sectioning cross sections with a diamond wafering blade, and ion-thinning until holes appear in the oxide scale. Examples are presented of transverse electron transparent scales of NiO on Ni and Cr2O3 on Fe-Cr obtained by this technique, illustrating that it is now possible to obtain microstructural and microchemical information across oxide scales varying in thickness from 1–10 μ.
Variations in thyroid morphology of mice.

SummaryObservations of thyroid follicle epithelial heights and diameters were analyzed with respect to age and parity in C3H and C57 mice. Epithelial heights decreased and follicle diameters increased with aging and breeding. The presence of tumors in the C3H parous females was associated with decreased epithelial height and increased diameter of the thyroid follicles as compared to non-tumor-bearing mice of corresponding ages. These changes suggest that aging, breeding and the presence of tumor are associated with decreased thyroid function.
Plasma dexamethasone levels in children given the dexamethasone suppression test

To determine whether chi'~dre~ who demonstrate dexamethasone suppression test (DST) nonsuppression have l~¢e~ ~ plasma dexamethasone levels than DST suppressors, we administered the DST to 73 patients ranging in age fiom 5-14 years. Plasma dexamethasone levels and postdexamethasone cortisol levels were measured at 4:00 PM on day 2. We found: (1) DST nonsuppressors had significantly lower plasma dexamethasone levels (p < 0.03) than suppressors; similar trends were observed when the population was divided into depressed and nondepressed patients; (2) mglm 2 dose of de:~amethasone was directly correlated with plasma dexamethasone ( p < 0.003) and inversely correlated with postdexamethasone plasma cortisol levels (p < 0.04); and (3) a statistically significant inverse correlation between plasma dexamethasone levels and postdexamethasone cortisol levels (p < 0.04). Our findings show that plasma dexamethasone levels are important in evaluating DST results in psychiatrically disturbed children and suggest that dexamethasone dosage j r use in the DST in children might be better calculated in terms of body surface area.
Acylation effects on chiral recognition of racemic amines and alchols by new polar and non-polar cyclodextrin derivative gas chromatographic phases

The choice of an acylation reagent can mean the difference between success of failure in obtaining an enantiomeric separation. In addition, an optimal acyl derivative for one CSP may be marginal or poor for another CSP
The effects of practice and instruction on speed and accuracy during resident acquisition of simulated laparoscopic skills.

Abstract Purpose To assess the effects of practice and dynamic instruction on changes in speed and accuracy during acquisition of simulated laparoscopic surgical skills. Methods Fourteen PGY-1 general surgery residents were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 experimental conditions (n = 7 per group), either practice only or practice with instruction, and required to perform 10 trials of each of 2 laparoscopic surgical skills—cannulation and object passing. Practice only subjects were given verbal instructions for each task, and corrective feedback only after trial 1. Practice with instruction subjects were treated the same, but also saw a videotaped demonstration and received dynamic feedback during and between each trial. Performance speed was recorded for each trial and number of errors was recorded for trials 8 to 10 by videotape review. Results Mean speed for subjects in both groups increased significantly for both tasks (p Conclusions Practice, with or without dynamic instruction, results in significant improvement in the speed of performance of simulated laparoscopic surgical skills. The addition of dynamic instruction to simulator-based practice improves the quality and consistency of resident acquisition of laparoscopic surgical skills.
Training groups and professional training for mental health workers.

The authors have briefly delineated the major approaches to training groups which predominate today. Special attention was focused on differing global assumptions, focuses and goals. The unique value of two such approaches was then emphasized vis-a-vis the training of mental health workers.
Voltammetric Detection of Hydrogen Peroxide at Carbon Fiber Microelectrodes

Hydrogen peroxide is a reactive oxygen species that is implicated in a number of neurological disease states and that serves a critical role in normal cell function. It is commonly exploited as a reporter molecule enabling the electrochemical detection of nonelectroactive molecules at electrodes modified with substrate-specific oxidative enzymes. We present the first voltammetric characterization of rapid hydrogen peroxide fluctuations at an uncoated carbon fiber microelectrode, demonstrating unprecedented chemical and spatial resolution. The carbon surface was electrochemically conditioned on the anodic scan and the irreversible oxidation of peroxide was detected on the cathodic scan. The oxidation potential was dependent on scan rate, occurring at +1.2 V versus Ag/AgCl at a scan rate of 400 V.s(-1). The relationship between peak oxidation current and concentration was linear across the physiological range tested, with deviation from linearity above 2 mM and a detection limit of 2 muM. Peroxide was distinguished from multiple interferents, both in vitro and in brain slices. The enzymatic degradation of peroxide was monitored, as was peroxide evolution in response to glucose at a glucose oxidase modified carbon fiber electrode. This novel approach provides the requisite sensitivity, selectivity, spatial and temporal resolution to study dynamic peroxide fluctuations in discrete biological locations.
First-principles study of the mechanisms for the pressure-induced phase transitions in zinc-blende CuBr and CuI

The lattice dynamics of zinc-blende (ZB) CuBr and CuI is studied as a function of pressure using density functional linear-response theory. A pressure-induced soft transverse acoustic (TA) phonon mode is identified for both compounds. Each compound shows a different pressure-induced phonon softening behavior. A TA phonon branch softens along the [\ensuremath{\xi}\ensuremath{\xi} 0] direction in CuBr, resulting in a phase transition from a ZB phase (CuBr-III) to a tetragonal phase (CuBr-IV). A softening TA phonon mode at the zone boundary $L$ point in CuI may induce a phase transition from a ZB phase (CuI-III) to a rhombohedral phase (CuI-IV), although the phonon softening towards zero frequency in CuI is superseded by a first order phase transition occurring at 1.74 GPa. Possible phase transition paths are presented for both compounds.
Floaters, moonlighters, and the underemployed: A national labor market with Chinese characteristics

A national labor market has emerged as one of the most fundamental institutional changes in the PRC. Foreign direct investment has played a direct role. The Chinese national labor market, albeit with noticeable distortions, has provided a stable and abundant supply of cheap unskilled or low‐skilled labor and subsidized skilled labor and professionals, and enhanced labor mobility and autonomy in general. The national labor market has been strongly blessed by Beijing, as it feels it can effectively rely on the hukou (household registration) system to stabilize the massive underemployment at a time of comprehensive dislocations caused by the advancing market economy. The sociopolitical impact of the national labor market, however, is mounting as urban unemployment rises, the numbers of floating laborers grow and become increasingly restless, and the PRC government has become more apparently pro‐employer at the expense of labor.