cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The 'Offset Effect' of Mental Health Treatment on Ambulatory Medical Care Utilization and Charges: Month-by-Month and Grouped-Month Analyses of a Five-Year Study

• The five-year ambulatory medical care experience of 400 patients with mental disorders was studied to test the "offset" hypothesis that patients receiving timely mental health speclallst treatment have lower subsequent utilization of, and charges for, care than patients not receiving such specialist treatment. Speciallst treatment was associated with significant offset savings in utilization and charges for the nonpsychiatric medical care of treated patients with either severe or less severe mental disorders. However, the visits and charges for such specialist treatment boosted the overall (nonpsychiatric plus mental health specialist) care utilization and charges of the specialist-treated patients above those of patients treated solely by their nonpsychiatric physicians; this overall increase was especially pronounced for patients with severe mental disorders. The findings suggest the need for randomized prospective offset studies comparing utilization, cost, and clinical outcomes.
Factors that Impede or Facilitate Post-Conflict Justice Mechanisms?

This article provides an overview of post-conflict justice (PCJ) as well as a detailed analysis of factors that impede or facilitate the implementation of mechanisms to address the atrocities of a conflict. Grounded in an extensive new dataset, developed over the past three years, covering all conflicts in Africa between 1946 and 2009, we extend previous research by including empirical testing of previously untested assumptions and variables impacting PCJ, most notably, the role of power, politics, economics, and geo-strategic interests at the state and international political levels as well as combining previously tested variables amongst and between each other. Further, the aspects of PCJ, including conflicts where mechanisms were not deployed are included in the analysis along with those coded as symbolic in nature. We conclude by discussing the pragmatic issues associated with testing the concept of realpolitik and policy implications based on our analysis.
Recent electric propulsion development activities for NASA science missions

The primary source of electric propulsion development throughout NASA is managed by the In-Space Propulsion Technology Project at the NASA Glenn Research Center for the Science Mission Directorate. The objective of the Electric Propulsion project area is to develop near-term electric propulsion technology to enhance or enable science missions while minimizing risk and cost to the end user. Major hardware tasks include developing NASA's Evolutionary Xenon Thruster (NEXT), developing a long-life High Voltage Hall Accelerator (HIVHAC), developing an advanced feed system, and developing cross-platform components. The objective of the NEXT task is to advance next generation ion propulsion technology readiness. The baseline NEXT system consists of a high-performance, 7-kW ion thruster; a high-efficiency, 7-kW power processor unit (PPU); a highly flexible advanced xenon propellant management system (PMS); a lightweight engine gimbal; and key elements of a digital control interface unit (DCIU) including software algorithms. This design approach was selected to provide future NASA science missions with the greatest value in mission performance benefit at a low total development cost. The objective of the HIVHAC task is to advance the Hall thruster technology readiness for science mission applications. The task seeks to increase specific impulse, throttle-ability and lifetime to make Hall propulsion systems applicable to deep space science missions. The primary application focus for the resulting Hall propulsion system would be cost-capped missions, such as competitively-selected, Discovery-class missions. The objective of the advanced xenon feed system task is to demonstrate novel manufacturing techniques that will significantly reduce mass, volume, and footprint size of xenon feed systems over conventional feed systems. This task has focused on the development of a flow control module, which consists of a three-channel flow system based on a piezo-electrically actuated valve concept, as well as a pressure control module, which will regulate pressure from the propellant tank. Cross-platform component standardization and simplification are being investigated through the Standard Architecture task to reduce first user costs for implementing electric propulsion systems. Progress on current hardware development, recent test activities and future plans are discussed.
Detection of latent coronary stenosis in conscious dogs: regional functional and electrocardiographic responses to isoprenaline

A conscious animal model was developed in which coronary stenosis could be produced while regional myocardial function and local surface electrocardiograms were measured. Responses to isoprenaline stress in the presence of mild (latent) coronary stenosis were then examined. In the absence of coronary stenosis, isoprenaline produced increases in regional function and no change in the surface VCG; at higher doses, increases in the endocardial ST segments occurred. After partial coronary stenosis, which produced no apparent regional dysfunction or electrocardiographic changes, isoprenaline infusion for 3 min (0.02 μg·kg−1·min−1) rapidly produced decreases in percentage wall thickening (average 17 ±4%, mean ± SE, P <0.01) and increases in the mean sum of VCG ST segments by 0.23 ±0.06 mV (P <0.05). 1 min after stopping isoprenaline, most dogs showed further significant deterioration of both measures of ischaemia, but by 5 min there was no significant mean change from control. We conclude that in the presence of latent partial coronary stenosis, stress due to mild sympathomimetic stimulation alone can rapidly induce regional myocardial ischaemia. Deterioration of regional myocardial contractile function during such stress can provide a sensitive means of detecting latent coronary obstruction.
Do Outdoor Leaders Have Careers? An Introduction to the Outdoor Leader Career Development Model

Current literature addresses professional outdoor leader development primarily through competencies or skill development (Martin, Cashel, Wagstaff, & Breunig, 2006; Priest & Gass, 2005; Shooter, Sibthorp, & Paisley, 2009). This theoretical paper builds upon these perspectives by examining outdoor leader development through the lens of career development theory. A number of professions embrace career development models to explain the developmental cycle of practicing professionals (Dall'Alba & Sandberg, 2006). The outdoor leader literature touches on career practices and trends but with no specific foundation to explain the career cycle of professional outdoor leaders (Loeffler, 1996; Marchand, Russell, & Cross, 2009; Medina, 2001). This abstract presents a seminal outdoor leader career development model for consideration. Based on Albert Bandura's (1997) social cognitive theory, the Outdoor Leader Career Development Model (OLCDM) consists of five developmental stages couched within three primary developmental orientations supported by five developmental catalysts that promote career selfefficacy.
An information-theoretic approach to the design of a distributed cascade of sensors

Abstract We consider a new approach to the design of a cascade of distributed sensors for the detection of a target when the individual sensors in the cascade have different measurement reliabilities. To obtain specific results, we consider a Rayleigh scattering target model and independent additive Gaussian noise at each sensor. Because of the intractability of the general solution in the case where we are free to order the sensors in the cascade, we introduce a new, and more analytically tractable, information-theoretic approach to the design of the distributed sensor cascade. We compare the performance of this approach to the classical optimal design for the simple two-stage cascade. We note that although the classical design is more robust to changes in the sensor order in the cascade, if the sensors in the cascade are ordered from least reliable to most reliable, the information-theoretic approach yields performance with only a negligible degradation over the optimal classical approach. The approach holds the potential for providing near optimal designs for large cascades with only a fraction of the design complexity.
What Does History Matter to Philosophy of Science? The Concept of Replication and the Methodology of Experiments

AbstractScientists and philosophers generally agree that the replication of experiments is a key ingredient of good and successful scientific practice. “One-offs” are not significant; experiments must be replicable to be considered valid and important. But the term “replication” has been used in a number of ways, and it is therefore quite difficult to appraise the meaning and significance of replications. I consider how history may help – and has helped – with this task. I propose that: 1) Studies of past scientific episodes in historical context and of recent philosophical contributions to the discussion are heuristic tools for exploring and clarifying the meaning of that concept. 2) The analysis of the development of the methodological imperative of replication sheds light on the significance scientists have attached to it, thereby contributing further to the clarification of the concept. 3) The analysis of the history of philosophical thought about methods and scientific methodology helps understand why philosophers have not paid much attention to the analysis of the concept of replication.
Jasmonic Acid Enhances Plant Cyanogenesis and Resistance to Herbivory in Lima Bean

Jasmonic acid (JA) is a natural plant hormone ubiquitously distributed in plants and centrally involved in the induction of direct and indirect plant defenses. Defenses up-regulated by this hormone include trichomes—a direct, mechanical defense—and alkaloids—a direct chemical defense—as well as two indirect chemical defenses: volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and extrafloral nectar (EFN). Plant cyanogenesis—the release of toxic hydrogen cyanide (HCN) from preformed cyanogenic precursors in fruits, leaves, and seeds of many plants—is recognized as a direct, constitutive plant defensive trait, and is among the most widely distributed of all direct chemical plant defenses. The cyanogenic system in plants is composed of three parameters: The cyanogenic potential (HCNp; concentration of cyanogenic precursors), β-glucosidase activity, and cyanogenic capacity (HCNc; release of gaseous hydrogen cyanide). Here, we demonstrated that experimental application of aqueous solutions of JA ranging from 0.001 to 1.0 mmol L−1, as well as insect herbivory significantly enhanced HCNc via the induction of β-glucosidase activity in wild lima bean (Phaseolus lunatus L.). In choice feeding trials with JA induced and damaged leaves, adult Mexican bean beetles—natural herbivores of lima bean—rejected leaves with enhanced β-glucosidase activity and HCNc. Our findings suggest that jasmonic acid plays a critical role in regulating activity of β-glucosidases, which determines the rate of cyanogenesis, and thus mediates direct plant defense against herbivores.
Generalist and subspecialist physicians' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations for elderly and other high-risk patients: a nationwide survey.

tions to elderly patients in the influenza and pneumococcal vaccination models included female sex of provider, the provider having received an influenza vaccination, the provider’s beliefs about vaccine effectiveness and costeffectiveness, a patient’s risk for illness, and ease of targeting patients. In addition, generalists were more likely than subspecialists to strongly recommend pneumococcal vaccinations to their patients. Patient reminders, special clinics, and standing orders were each used by fewer than 30% of respondents, although generalists were more likely than subspecialists to use such strategies. Conclusions: Nontrivial proportions of generalist and subspecialist physicians fail to strongly recommend influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations to their elderly and high-risk patients. Other effective strategies for promoting vaccine delivery are also used relatively infrequently. These findings suggest areas for improvement if vaccination rates are to reach national goals. Arch Intern Med. 2001;161:2702-2708
Visualizing Vandermonde's Determinant through Nonintersecting Lattice Paths

Abstract We use the Lindstrom–Gessel–Viennot Theorem to count nonintersecting lattice paths in a carefully chosen acyclic weighted digraph to give a visual combinatorial proof of Vandermonde's classic determinant.
Harmful effects of marihuana use: experiences and opinions of current and past marihuana users.

Summary A sample of 530 marihuana users, classified according to five use patterns (trial users, past users, occasional regular and daily current users), were asked their experiences and opinions with respect to eight areas related to the dangers of marihuana use: experienced harmful effects; potential dangers to self; type of harm caused to others; potential dangers to society; reasons for possibly discontinuing use by current users; reasons for having discontinued use by past users; legal dangers; and types of people whom users would not recommend use marihuana.
Coupling of amines to and cross-linking of endogenous cytosol or membrane proteins by hepatic transglutaminase

Abstract Endogenous protein acceptors for rabbit transglutaminase were demonstrated in the cytosol fraction of liver homogenates by the coupling of labeled compounds containing primary amino groups, such as putrescine, and by the apparent cross-linking of proteins, as indicated by a low mobility band observed in gel electrophoresis in 0.1% sodium dodecyl sulfate. When Ca 2+ was omitted or when iodoacetamide was added to either of these reactions, no coupling or cross-linking occurred. Cross-linking of proteins of isolated rabbit liver plasma membranes could be demonstrated in the presence of purified rabbit liver transglutaminase, Ca 2+ , and a reducing agent. A marked diminution of at least two peaks corresponding to proteins of high molecular weight (> 150,000 daltons) was observed in densitometric scans of gels of proteins from membranes or cytosol cross-linked by the enzyme. It is proposed that these proteins participated in the crosslinking reaction. Since cross-linking was inhibited only weakly by relatively high concentrations of various amines, it is probable that a physiological role of hepatic transglutaminase is the catalysis of ϵ(γ-glutamyl) lysine bonds between cellular proteins, a process that might be controlled by the amount of intracellular Ca 2+ available to the enzyme.
Effect of allopurinol on neutrophil superoxide production, chemotaxis, or degranulation☆

Recent studies examining the effect of allopurinol on bacterial killing by leukocytes [Tubaro et al., Biochem. Pharmac. 29, 3018 (1980); Tritsch and Neiswander, Life Sci. 32, 1359 (1983)] have been interpreted by those authors as proof that xanthine oxidase is the major superoxide producing enzyme in activated leukocytes. To test the assertion that xanthine oxidase is involved in the production of superoxide by activated human neutrophils, the xanthine oxidase content of neutrophils was measured, and the effect of allopurinol on neutrophil functions, including superoxide production, was studied. Neutrophils were found to contain a level of xanthine oxidase insufficient to account for the flux of superoxide associated with neutrophil activation. Allopurinol did not inhibit superoxide production induced by opsonized zymosan, phorbol myristic acetate, or formylmethionylleucylphenylalanine. Furthermore, neither chemotaxis nor degranulation was affected by allopurinol. Allopurinol was also found ineffective in blocking superoxide-mediated carrageenan-induced foot edema in the rat. These studies are interpreted as evidence that xanthine oxidase is not a major superoxide-generating system in activated neutrophils as has been suggested by others.
Downregulation of TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL)/Apo2L in Barrett's esophagus with dysplasia and adenocarcinoma

TRAIL/Apo2L is a CD95 ligand-related member of the TNF family that initiates apoptosis in immune and neoplastic cells after binding to specific surface receptors. The authors previously reported a specific topographic pattern of TRAIL expression in the normal colonic mucosa and the loss of TRAIL expression in tubular adenomas as well as in most colon carcinomas. Therefore, they hypothesized that similar changes may occur during the malignant transformation of Barrett's esophagus. The aim of this study was to compare TRAIL/Apo2L expression in normal gastroesophageal (GE) junction, Barrett's esophagus with and without dysplasia, and associated adenocarcinoma. Immunohistochemical evaluation of TRAIL expression was performed on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded sections from 29 GE junction/esophageal biopsies, 20 gastric biopsies, 6 esophagectomies, 2 small bowel resection specimens, and 5 colon biopsies. The expression was graded semiquantitatively on a 4-point scale (0-3). TRAIL was expressed in the foveolar epithelium of the histologically normal GE junctional mucosa and stomach as well as in the normal intestinal epithelium, with maximal expression in the surface epithelium. TRAIL was always detected in Barrett's metaplasia (21/21, 100%), and the overall expression was similar to that of the columnar portion of the normal GE junction (8/8, 100%). TRAIL was rarely and weakly (1+) expressed in Barrett's esophagus with dysplasia (3/18, 16.7%) and adenocarcinoma (1/10, 10.0%) (P<0.001). Similarities in the topographic pattern of TRAIL expression in the normal GE junction, stomach, small intestine, and colon suggest a common function of TRAIL throughout the gastrointestinal tract. These results show that the downregulation of TRAIL is associated with development of dysplasia in Barrett's esophagus. Thus, the immunohistochemically detected downregulation of TRAIL expression appears to be a promising indicator of dysplasia in Barrett's esophagus.
An economic evaluation model for advanced manufacturing systems using activity-based costing

The development of traditional cost accounting (TCA) systems is based on the mass production of a mature product with known characteristics and a stable technology. In particular, the traditional investment decisions in manufacturing are made based on cost accounting data collected for the production setting given, where the cost structure and uncertainty (in demand, actual costs, or delivery times) are assumed exogenous to the system. Recent manufacturing experience suggests, however, that these assumptions—stable product and mass production—are no longer valid for advanced manufacturing systems (AMSs). Thus, manufacturing companies have reduced their dependence on TCA systems by exploring activity-based cost (ABC) systems. Because TCA and ABC systems have different means of handling overhead costs, they may also have differences in their estimates of cash flows with cost accounting data. We will develop costing procedures for various manufacturing activities under ABC systems, and these procedures are incorporated into the proposed multistage investment decision model. Finally, a case study is presented to demonstrate the application of the economic decision model, and we conclude that opportunity costs such as waiting activity and idle activity play more critical roles than the right choice of cost accounting system in justifying investment in an AMS.
Perioperative effects of oral ketorolac and acetaminophen in children undergoing bilateral myringotomy

Prophylactic administration of analgesics before surgery can decrease the intraoperative anaesthetic requirement and decrease pain during the early postoperative period. In a doubleblind, placebocontrolled study involving 90 healthy ASA physical status I or II children undergoing bilateral myringotomy, we compared the postoperative analgesic effects of oral acetaminophen and ketorolac, when administered 30 min before induction of anaesthesia. Patients were randomized to receive saline (0.1 ml · kg−1), acetaminophen (10 mg · kg−1) or ketorolac (1 mg · kg−1) diluted in cherry syrup to a total volume of 5 ml. Anaesthesia was induced and maintained with halothane and nitrous oxide via a face mask. Postoperative pain was assessed by a blinded observer using an objective pain scale. The three study groups were similar with respect to demographic data, duration of anaesthesia and surgery, induction behaviour, oxygen saturation, incidence of postoperative emesis and, recovery times. The ketorolac group had lower postoperative pain scores and required less frequent analgesic therapy in the early postoperative period compared with the acetaminophen and placebo groups. In contrast, there were no differences in pain scores or analgesic requirements between the acetaminophen and the placebo groups. We conclude that the preoperative administration of oral ketorolac, but not acetaminophen, provided better postoperative pain control than placebo in children undergoing bilateral myringotomy.
Epidemic carbon monoxide poisoning following a winter storm

Hospital emergency departments were surveyed to estimate the number of patients treated for carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning after a severe winter storm disrupted electrical service in western Washington State. At least 81 persons were treated. The two main sources of CO were charcoal briquettes (54% of cases) and gasoline-powered electrical generators (40% of cases). Of the 44 persons affected by CO from burning charcoal, 40 (91%) were members of ethnic minority groups; 27 did not speak English. All persons affected by CO from generators were non-Hispanic Whites. This was the largest epidemic of storm-related CO poisoning reported in the United States. This epidemic demonstrated the need to anticipate CO poisoning as a possible consequence of winter storms in cold climates and to make preventive messages understandable to the entire population at risk, including those persons who do not understand written or spoken English.
The Ethical Dilemma of Research and Development Openness Versus Secrecy

In previous research, we have argued that private companies should be more open with their scientific research findings. However, our research assumed, somewhat naively perhaps, that public institutions were quite open. Recent findings have suggested otherwise, and in this paper we explore the dilemma faced by industry, universities, and society in attempting to balance the needs of openness (to rapidly advance the body of knowledge), with secrecy (to protect the economic returns to a new innovation).
Primary Malignant Lymphoma of the Breast: Mammographic and Ultrasonographic Findings.

Malignant lymphoma rarely involves the breast. We describe four cases of primary breast lymphoma encountered in our institution from 1979 through 1996, focusing on mammographic and ultrasonographic findings. The lymphomas were demonstrated by mammography as a well-defined mass in one case, an ill-defined mass in two cases and as diffuse increased opacity in one case. No desmoplastic change or calcification was noted. In 3 cases ultrasonography was used, revealing hypoechoic masses with (1 case) or without (2 case) posterior enhancement. During the past two years, 45 of 197 cancers (23%) were demonstrated as a mass without desmoplastic change or calcification by mammography and ultrasonography at our institution. It can be difficult to distinguish malignant lymphoma from more common diseases of the breast, such as carcinoma, by mammography and ultrasonography.
Art therapy with adult bone marrow transplant patients in isolation: a pilot study.

Psycho-social interventions for cancer patients in isolation for bone marrow transplant (BMT) have been advocated in the recent literature. It is not clear what type of interventions would be most appropriate. This study was conducted at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC), with three aims. (1) To test the feasibility of introducing art therapy as a supportive intervention for adult BMT patients in isolation. Nine patients were seen in art therapy sessions twice a week while in isolation, and were helped to develop free personal images. The three art therapists used the same art therapy program as a model. (2) Toassess how patients would use the program. Forty-two images were made by the nine patients during the art therapy sessions. A thematic analysis of the images showed that the patients used art therapy effectively in three ways: (a) to strengthen their positive feelings, (b) to alleviate their distress, and (c) to clarify their existential/spiritual issues. (3) The third aim was to identify which patients would most benefit from art therapy. Our results suggest that the non-verbal metaphorical modality of art therapy may be especially beneficial for patients who need to deal with emotional conflicts, and with feelings about life and death, in a safe setting. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Induced genome instability as a potential screening test for cancer susceptibility

The variety of mutations associated with carcinogenesis, along with variations in penetrance and environmental factors, complicate the genetic screening for cancer predisposition. It is proposed here that the detection of inherent genome instability as determined by increased mutagen susceptibility may enhance the identification of populations at risk for cancer. In support for this hypothesis, our analysis reveals a strong association between mutagen-induced chromosomal instability in peripheral blood lymphocytes and the propensity for cancers of oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, and lung. DNA instability in response to a variety of mutagens identifies patients with gastrointestinal, brain, endocrine, breast, skin, and hematologic tumors as well as individuals with cancer family syndromes. Induced genome instability therefore appears to be strongly linked to cancer predisposition, and prospective studies may yield a screening test utilizing a panel of mutagens to better identify populations at risk.
Two purified fractions of alamethicin have different conductance properties

Abstract The properties of two purified alamethicin fractions, Fraction 4 and Fraction 6, have been studied in phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) membranes and phosphatidylserine (PS) membranes. Membranes doped with Fraction 4 show well-defined single channel conductance (mean lifetime about 20 ms). The autocorrelation function of the current fluctuations has one relaxation time of the same order as the mean lifetime of the single channels, and the current response to a voltage pulse follows an exponential with only one time constant. The conductance of a membrane doped with Fraction 6 has a voltage-independent part and a current-voltage curve with a slope that is half the slope of the Fraction 4 current-voltage curve. In the presence of Fraction 6, PS membranes and PE membranes both have symmetrical current-voltage curves even with Fraction 6 added to only one side. We did not detect any well-defined single channel levels in the presence of Fraction 6, and autocorrelation analysis of the current due to Fraction 6 gave two characteristic correlation times: a fast time (about 5 ms) and a slow time (about 50 ms). High current level kinetics of Fraction 6 also show two time constants. A possible explanation for the differences between the two fractions is that Fraction 6 monomers have a lower dipole moment than those of Fraction 4. The difference in channel stability can be explained by a lowered tendency of the monomers to line up parallel to the field. The negative branch and voltage-independent conductance can be explained by lowered energy of insertion of monomers into the membrane, and lowered energy of interaction between the monomers and the electric field.
Psychological and neuropsychological aspects of COPD.

Abstract A review of the literature dealing with the effects of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) on psychological and neuropsychological functioning indicates that significant emotional and adaptive deficits characterize this patient population. Psychiatric consultation can provide valuable assistance to the primary care physician by reducing emotional distress and correcting dysfunctional attitudes and beliefs. Neuropsychological assessment can elucidate an individual's neurobehavioral resources and deficits.
The relationship between plasma levels of immunoreactive atrial natriuretic hormone and hemodynamic function in man.

To evaluate the relationship between plasma levels of immunoreactive atrial natriuretic hormone (IR-ANH) and different hemodynamic parameters in man, we studied 34 patients undergoing right heart catheterization. Plasma levels of IR-ANH in blood samples withdrawn from the femoral vein (n = 28), right ventricle (n = 27), and left ventricle (n = 17) were determined by radioimmunoassay. Right atrial pressure, pulmonary arterial wedge pressure, heart rate, and mean arterial pressure were found to be independent and significant predictors of IR-ANH plasma levels. The closest correlations were between right atrial pressure and either right ventricular IR-ANH levels (r = .78, p greater than .001) or femoral vein IR-ANH levels (r = .52, p less than .006). Five patients with isolated left ventricular failure had elevated IR-ANH levels out of proportion to their right atrial pressure levels. Pulmonary arterial wedge pressure also correlated with right ventricular IR-ANH levels (r = .46, p less than .002) and with femoral vein IR-ANH levels (r = .58, p less than .002). A single patient with isolated right heart failure had markedly elevated IR-ANH levels despite normal pulmonary arterial wedge pressure. Right ventricular levels were twice femoral vein levels and were closely correlated (181 +/- 40 vs 90 +/- 20 pmol/liter; r = .90, p less than .001). Right ventricular and left ventricular levels were almost identical (155 +/- 46 vs 146 +/- 43 pmol/liter; r = .99, p less than .001). Patients with volume overload states had elevated IR-ANH levels.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Application of the Hausdorff metric in gray-scale mathematical morphology via truncated umbrae

Abstract The Hausdorff metric plays a fundamental role in the convergence of compact binary images, especially with regard to mathematical morphology. The present paper investigates an extension of the Hausdorff metric to bounded gray-scale signals possessing compact domains. The extension is made via truncated umbrae, which, under the conditions of the paper, can be employed in place of full umbrae in the representation of morphological operations. The salient point regarding truncated umbrae is that they are compact for bounded upper semicontinuous signals. Once the basic morphological and metric properties of truncated umbrae are developed, convergence and continuity relative to the gray-scale Hausdorff metric are investigated, especially as they impact mathematical morphology. Finally, there is extension of binary Hausdorff-metric sampling theory to signal Hausdorff-metric sampling.
Economic policy-making: advantages and disadvantages of the federal model

In principle, key advantages of a democratic federation include (1) more efficient provision and production of public services tailored to the diversity of citizen and communal preferences; (2) better alignment of the costs and benefits of government for a diverse citizenry and thus more equity, insofar as citizens get what they pay for and pay for what they get; (3) better fits between public goods and their spatial characteristics, especially the variable economies of scale of different public goods; (4) increased competition, experimentation, and innovation in government; (5) greater responsiveness to citizen preferences, especially insofar as regional and local governments have the authority and ability to respond to those preferences; (6) more transparent and close-to-the-citizen accountability in policy-making; and (7) more sensitivity to subnational regional concerns, including the power of constituent governments to provide for primarily by considerations relating to liberty, the promotion of active citizenship, and democracy. In multination states, federal arrangements will also be necessitated by considerations of equity and the right to self-determination. Federal constitutions nevertheless tend to make it mation; there are significant differences between liberal individualist and multi-communal federations; and many factors other than federalism affect economic policy-making. Consequently, federations include both the world's richest and the world's poorest nations.
A novel 145 kd brain cytosolic protein reconstitutes Ca2+-regulated secretion in permeable neuroendocrine cells

Abstract The regulated secretory pathway is activated by elevated cytoplasmic Ca 2+ ; however, the components mediating Ca 2+ regulation have not been identified. In semi-intact neuroendocrine cells, Ca 2+ -activated secretion is ATP- and cytosol protein-dependent. We have identified a novel brain protein, p145, as a cytosolic factor that reconstitutes Ca 2+ -activated secretion in two neuroendocrine cell types. The protein is a dimer of 145 kd subunits, exhibits Ca 2+ -dependent interaction with a hydrophobic matrix, and binds phospholipid vesicles, suggesting a membrane-associated function. A p145-specific antibody inhibits the reconstitution of Ca 2+ -activated secretion by cytosol, indicating an essential role for p145. The restricted expression of p145 in tissues exhibiting a regulated secretory pathway suggests a key role for this protein in the transduction of Ca 2+ signals into vectorial membrane fusion events.
Climate and vegetation in northeastern Alaska 18,000 yr B.P.-Present

Changing abundances of taxa in the pollen record of northeastern Alaska contain a climate signal and may be compared with GCM simulations of paleoclimates. Cold, dry conditions indicated by full-glacial pollen spectra are in broad agreement with model simulations. Successive expansion of Betula and Salix, and later, Populus, during the deglacial period (14,000–11,000 yr B.P.) are likely correlated with the crossing of temperature thresholds determined largely by the size and position of the Laurentide ice. A degree of asynchroneity between sites probably reflects differential site responses to regional effects plus inaccuracies of radiocarbon dating. The early Holocene was probably the warmest period of the present interglacial, as summer climate was influenced by a strong positive insolation anomaly. Picea glauca expanded in majorr river valleys ca. 9000 yr ago and slightly later at upland sites in the Brooks and Alaska ranges. At some sites a Juniperus subzone, which suggests particularly warm and dry conditions, occurs between ca. 10,000 and 8000 yr B.P. Early mid-Holocene expansions of Alnus (8500–7000 yr B.P.) and Picea mariana (7500–5000 yr B.P.) suggest the subsequent development of moister conditions, which have continued to the present. Temporal patterns in Picea treeline position during the Holocene are different in northern Alaska, northwestern Canada and central Canada. In Alaska, the treeline is currently at its furthest Holocene extent. In northwestern Canada the treeline has retreated since the mid-Holocene, and in central Canada a mid-Holocene advance and retreat occurred. Such differences between regions suggest a complex response of this taxon to climatic controls and underscore the need to interpret vegetation changes in relation to regional-scale climate phenomena. If the pollen chronology is calibrated with reference to U-Th dates, the relationship of vegetational events to the insolation maximum at ca. 10,000 yr B.P. is significantly altered. The changed chronology also affects the interpretation of pollen records in relation to GCM simulations, which are partly keyed to calendar years.
Arguments for a New Formulation of Liposomal Amphotericin B: An Historical Perspective

AbstractDr. Armstrong's expert knowledge and vast experience with amphotericin B have allowed him to speak previously with authority on its merits and demerits. According to his assessment, amphotericin B is a valuable drug, marred by severe toxicity. I shall attempt to explain, in this short presentation, why liposomes as vehicles in which to administer amphotericin B have the potential to redress this agent's principal deficiency.
Phosphorylation of the IKs Channel Complex Inhibits Drug Block. Novel Mechanism Underlying Variable Antiarrhythmic Drug Actions

Background— IKs, an important repolarizing current in heart, is an antiarrhythmic drug target and is markedly increased by activation of protein kinase A (PKA; eg, by β-adrenergic stimulation). Because β-adrenergic stimulation is a frequent trigger of arrhythmias, we hypothesized that PKA stimulation inhibits drug block. Methods and Results— CHO cells were transfected with KCNQ1 cDNA (encoding the pore-forming subunit) with or without the ancillary subunit KCNE1. IC50 for quinidine block of basal IKs was 5.8±1.2 μmol/L, versus 19.9±3.2 μmol/L (P 3-fold shift was apparent in the absence of KCNE1 and with the IKs-specific blocker chromanol 293B. The first current recorded after channels were held at rest and exposed to the drug was reduced ≈40%, and further depolarizations increased the block with a time constant (τ) of 181±27 seconds. By contrast, PKA-stimulated channels displayed a <5% first-pulse block and much slower block development (τ=405±85 seconds). Alan...
Games with Incomplete Information Played by 'Bayesian' Players, Part III. The Basic Probability Distribution of the Game

Parts I and II of this paper have described a new theory for the analysis of games with incomplete information. Two cases have been distinguished: consistent games in which there exists some basic probability distribution from which the players' subjective probability distributions can be derived as conditional probability distributions; and inconsistent games in which no such basic probability distribution exists. Part III will now show that in consistent games, where a basic probability distribution exists, it is essentially unique. It will also be argued that, in the absence of special reasons to the contrary, one should try to analyze any given game situation with incomplete information in terms of a consistent-game model. However, it will be shown that our theory can be extended also to inconsistent games, in case the situation does require the use of an inconsistent-game model.
Mouse mast cells express the tryptic protease neuropsin/Prss19☆

The only tryptic enzymes identified so far in mouse mast cells (MCs) are three members of the chromosome 17A3.3 family of neutral proteases. Sequence analysis of a cDNA library revealed that BALB/c mouse bone marrow-derived MCs express neuropsin, a member of the chromosome 7B2 family of tryptic kallikreins. Kinetic studies revealed that neuropsin is expressed relatively early in MC development. As assessed immunohistochemically, the MCs residing in numerous connective tissues store neuropsin in their secretory granules. The finding that the neuropsin transcript is maximally expressed in the intestine at the height of a helminth infection indicates that MC-committed progenitors selectively increase their expression of neuropsin as they develop into mature mucosal MCs. This is the first report documenting the expression of neuropsin in an immune cell. Thus, it is now apparent that mouse MCs store at least two distinct families of tryptic-like proteases in their secretory granules.
Increased fluid secretion after adenoviral-mediated transfer of the aquaporin-1 cDNA to irradiated rat salivary glands

A replication-deficient, recombinant adenovirus encoding human aquaporin-1 (hAQP1), the archetypal water channel, was constructed. This virus, AdhAQP1, directed hAQP1 expression in several epithelial cell lines in vitro. In polarized MDCK cell monolayers, hAQP1 was localized in the apical and basolateral plasma membranes. Fluid movement across monolayers infected by AdhAQP1 in response to an osmotic gradient was approximately 4-fold that seen with uninfected monolayers or monolayers infected by a control virus. When AdhAQP1 was administered to rat submandibular glands by retrograde ductal instillation, significant hAQP1 expression was observed by Western blot analysis in crude plasma membranes and by immunohistochemical staining in both acinar and ductal cells. Three or four months after exposure to a single radiation dose (17.5 or 21 Gy, respectively), AdhAQP1 administration to rat submandibular glands led to a two- to threefold increase in salivary secretion compared with secretion from glands administered a control virus. These results suggest that hAQP1 gene transfer may have potential as an unique approach for the treatment of postradiation salivary hypofunction.
A global optimization algorithm for linear fractional and bilinear programs

In this paper a deterministic method is proposed for the global optimization of mathematical programs that involve the sum of linear fractional and/or bilinear terms. Linear and nonlinear convex estimator functions are developed for the linear fractional and bilinear terms. Conditions under which these functions are nonredundant are established. It is shown that additional estimators can be obtained through projections of the feasible region that can also be incorporated in a convex nonlinear underestimator problem for predicting lower bounds for the global optimum. The proposed algorithm consists of a spatial branch and bound search for which several branching rules are discussed. Illustrative examples and computational results are presented to demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed algorithm.
The Significance of Living Together and Importance of Marriage in Same-Sex Couples

Because marriage has been denied to same-sex couples, it is likely that the meaning and significance ascribed to non-marital cohabitation may be unique. Further, it is unclear whether same-sex couples view marriage as important to their relationships, and if they do, why. Using qualitative data from 526 individuals in cohabiting same-sex relationships across 47 states, we explored (1) the meaning and significance of cohabitation and (2) the perceived importance of legal marriage to the relationship. Participants viewed cohabitation as significant, most commonly because it indicates long-term commitment, provides emotional support, makes the couple a family, and allows them to share life together. Marriage was perceived as important to a majority (90%), most commonly because it confers financial and legal benefits, relational legitimacy, and demonstrates the same commitment as different-sex couples. Overall, findings highlight the symbolic significance of cohabitation and importance of access to legal marriage to adults in same-sex relationships.
Rituximab therapy of lymphoma is enhanced by orally administered (1 → 3),(1 → 4)-d-β-glucan

By activating complement, antitumor monoclonal antibodies coat tumor cells with iC3b. beta-glucans, naturally occurring glucose polymers, bind to the lectin domain of the leukocyte receptor CR3, prime it for binding to iC3b, and trigger cytotoxicity of iC3b-coated tumor cells. We studied the combination of the complement-activating antibody rituximab with barley-derived (1-->3),(1-->4)-beta-D-glucan (BG) against CD-20 positive lymphoma xenografts in SCID mice. Growth of established subcutaneous non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) (Daudi and EBV-derived B-NHL) or Hodgkin's disease (Hs445 and RPMI6666) was significantly suppressed in mice treated with a combination of intravenous rituximab and oral BG, when compared to mice treated with rituximab or BG alone. Survival of mice with disseminated lymphoma was significantly increased in the combination group as compared to other treatment groups. No clinical toxicity was observed. The therapeutic efficacy and lack of toxicity of this combination supports further investigation into its clinical utility.
On concentration of measure on the cube

Concentration property of the uniform distribution on the cube is considered for the class of permutation invariant sets. Bibliography: 10 titles.
The Usefulness of Experimental Auctions in Determining Consumers' Willingness-to-Pay for Quality-Differentiated Products

The validity and effectiveness of using experimental auctions to elicit consumers' willingness-to-pay for closely related, quality-differentiated products is examined. The effect of panelists' demographics on bid values and auction winners, and the impact of experimental procedures on auction prices are analyzed. Demographic variables are poor predictors of bids and auction winners. Experimental procedures such as panel size and initial endowment influence market price level. Relative bid differences for paired samples are primarily influenced by relative differences in taste panel ratings. Relative willingness-to-pay values elicited through experimental auctions appear valid, while actual willingness-to-pay values are influenced by experimental design.
Relation of the Verwey transition in magnetite to an order―disorder transition of strongly correlated electrons

Abstract The principal features of the Verwey transition in magnetite have been simulated by adopting elements of order-disorder theory. In certain limiting cases we obtain the model of Strassler and Kittel which had previously been used to rationalize the electronic and thermodynamic properties of magnetite. According to the present microscopic model the discontinuous Verwey transition in magnetite is driven by a change in a highly correlated electron system with temperature from a charge-ordered small-polaron state associated with local lattice deformations to a disordered state in which electrons resonate between Fe2+ and Fe3+ ions located on the octahedral cationic sites.
Learning to agree

Abstract An explicit model of communication and informational equilibrium is constructed and some results generalizing Aumann's theorem on the impossibility of agreeing to disagree are obtained, together with an example showing that full rationality may be sub-optimal.
Gene expression changes in plants and microorganisms exposed to nanomaterials

Unique properties of nanomaterials allow them to interact unexpectedly with biological systems. Analysis of the transcriptional response (change in gene expression) in exposed organisms constitutes a powerful approach for understanding the mechanisms of toxicity and molecular responses in cells exposed to nanomaterials. Transcriptional analyses have been conducted to study the effects of nanomaterials on humans, mammalian models, and other organisms important for the ecosystem. The present article reviews recent gene expression studies conducted to understand the effects of nanomaterials on plants and bacteria. As plants and bacteria are essential components of the food chain and/or play a central role in nutrient cycling and biodegradation, their interactions with nanomaterials have important implications for the environment and public health.
Semiparametric Approach to a Random Effects Quantile Regression Model.

We consider a random effects quantile regression analysis of clustered data and propose a semiparametric approach using empirical likelihood. The random regression coefficients are assumed independent with a common mean, following parametrically specified distributions. The common mean corresponds to the population-average effects of explanatory variables on the conditional quantile of interest, whereas the random coefficients represent cluster-specific deviations in the covariate effects. We formulate the estimation of the random coefficients as an estimating equations problem and use empirical likelihood to incorporate the parametric likelihood of the random coefficients. A likelihood-like statistical criterion function is proposed that, which we show is asymptotically concave in a neighborhood of the true parameter value and motivates its maximizer as a natural estimator. We use Markov chain Monte Carlo samplers in the Bayesian framework, and propose the resulting quasi-posterior mean as an estimator. ...