cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mechanical properties of fabricated hybrid composites infused with Heat-Treated alkali sisal fiber and SiC particles: a quantitative analysis

Hybrid composites made up of epoxy-based matrix materials and infused with reinforcement and a filler material continue to evince keen interest among researchers and technologist. Hybrid composites made up of epoxy based matrix materials and infused with reinforcements and a filler material continue to evince keen interest not only amongst researchers and technologists as well since they are found to possess superior technological characteristics, a requirement for critical engineering applications. The present work describes the fabrication of hybrid composites made up of epoxy as a matrix material infused with 18% NaOH-treated and heat-treated sisal fiber. In addition, SiC particles are used as a filler material and subsequent evaluation of typical mechanical properties. The results of this investigation revealed that epoxy-based matrix material infused with alkali–heat-treated sisal fibers as a reinforcement and SiC particles a filler material exhibits superior tensile, flexural, shear and compressive characteristics in comparison with other test sample experimented in this work. This is attributable to the ability of alkali treatment enabling the removal of organic material from the sisal fiber which helps the matrix material to fill these voids. SiC particle is formed to fill the force on the fibers thus making it stronger and hence capable of withstanding higher magnitudes of tensile, flexural, shear and compressive loads. Micrographic analyses further confirm the experimental research.
Diode-laser infrared heterodyne radiometer at 28 μm

An infrared heterodyne radiometer has been constructed which operates at 28 μm with a PbSnSe diode laser local oscillator and a HgCdTe photodiode photomixer, both cooled to about 20 K. In spite of low power and excess noise of the diode laser and weak rectification characteristics of the photodiode, a heterodyne NEP of 3.5 × 10−19 W/Hz was measured over a bandwidth of 500 MHz.
Heartbeat: is medical therapy for calcific aortic stenosis possible?

There have been a proliferation of data on management of patients with severe calcific aortic stenosis (AS) over the past decade. But, no matter how effective, safe and durable valve replacement turns out to be, we still are treating (or mitigating) only the end-stage of a lengthy disease process. Success in treating calcific AS should be defined as the ability to slow haemodynamic progression or, ultimately, entirely prevent disease in the valve leaflets. In this issue of Heart , Lee and colleagues1 present intriguing data on the association between treatment with a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor and haemodynamic progression of AS in 212 patients (mean age about 73 years) with diabetes and mild-to-moderate AS. Patients taking a DPP-4 inhibitors with a potential favourable anti-calcification ability (such as linagliptin or gemigliptin), compared with those taking an unfavourable DPP-4 inhibitor (such as alogliptin, sitagliptin, or vildagliptin), had a smaller change in aortic velocity and less progression to severe AS (7.1% vs 29%, P −0.03) with an HR of 0.116 (95% CI 0.024 to 0.551, p=0.007) on Cox regression analysis after adjustment for age, baseline renal function and AS severity (figure 1). Figure 1 Changes of maximal transaortic valve velocity (A), mean (B) and peak (C) pressure gradient according to medications. Turkey’s method was used to make box plots. DPP-4, dipeptidyl peptidase-4. Bing and Dweck2 discuss the strengths and limitations of this study in an editorial and put these findings into the context of shared mechanisms between calcific AS and atherosclerosis, …
A Personal Reckoning with Veteran Identity

As a former career Army officer and a veteran of 25 years, I explore the evolution of my own veteran identity and its inherent assumptions, and examine how veteran identity is shaped and transformed by a variety of factors. Through my engagement with younger, Post-9/11 veterans I have come to a fuller and more generous explanation of what veteran identity is and how it evolves, and make a case for the importance of understanding these complexities so that an inter-generational alliance of veterans can be realized.
HUBBLE SPACE TELESCOPE EMISSION-LINE GALAXIES AT z ∼ 2: THE MYSTERY OF NEON

We use near-infrared grism spectroscopy from the Hubble Space Telescope to examine the strength of [Ne III] λ3869 relative to Hβ, [O II] λ3727, and [O III] λ5007 in 236 low-mass (7.5 ≲ log (M {sub *}/M {sub ☉}) ≲ 10.5) star-forming galaxies in the redshift range 1.90 < z < 2.35. By stacking the data by stellar mass, we show that the [Ne III]/[O II] ratios of the z ∼ 2 universe are marginally higher than those seen in a comparable set of local Sloan Digital Sky Survey galaxies, and that [Ne III]/[O III] is enhanced by ∼0.2 dex. We consider the possible explanations for this ∼4σ result, including higher oxygen depletion out of the gas phase, denser H II regions, higher production of {sup 22}Ne via Wolf-Rayet stars, and the existence of a larger population of X-ray obscured active galactic nuclei at z ∼ 2 compared to z ∼ 0. None of these simple scenarios, alone, are favored to explain the observed line ratios. We conclude by suggesting several avenues of future observations to further explore the mystery of enhanced [Ne III] emission.
Science and Innovations in Russia in 2017

The year of 2017 can be described as a year of making plans, rather than assessing outputs, in the Russian scientific and technological sector. Preference was given to the development of a plan for the implementation of Scientific and Technological Development Strategy of the Russian Federation, including its integration with polices in progress as part of the National Technological Initiative of Russia (NTI), and to the endorsement of the state program for the development of a digital economy in the Russian Federation, including its synchronization with the NTI for the development of scientific and educational and technological competences. Finally, the 2017 full-year consideration of a new science legislation still continued at the end of year.
The Simulation of Hematopoiesis

Although the hematopoietic stem cell is an attractive target cell for gene transfer, little is known about its biology in vivo in large animals (or man). We have studied the in vivo behavior of hematopoietic stem cells in glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) heterozygous (female Safari) cats, and demonstrated that clonal instability persists for up to 4.5 years after autologous marrow transplantation. This contrasts the 2–6 months of clonal disequilibrium reported in comparable murine studies. Our data also suggests that hematopoietic stem cells do not self-renew more frequently than once per three weeks. These data may impact strategies for optimizing gene therapy in large animals, and by extension in man.
Effect of magnetic polaritons in SiC deep gratings on near-field radiative transfer

Abstract In this work, the effect of magnetic polaritons (MPs) inside the SiC grating microstructures on near-field radiative transfer is theoretically studied. Fluctuational electrodynamics that incorporates scattering matrix theory with rigorous coupled-wave analysis is employed to calculate the spectral heat flux between two SiC deep gratings. The results are compared with effective medium theory and proximity approximation method. Besides the well-known coupled surface phonon polaritons (SPhP), MPs can also greatly affect the spectral heat flux. Confined magnetic field inside the SiC grating grooves, contour plot of transmission coefficient and the prediction by an inductor-capacitor circuit model are used to elucidate the effect of MP excited within the grating grooves on the near-field radiative transfer. It shows that, compared to the near-field heat flux between two SiC plates, the one between SiC gratings can be enhanced with large vacuum gaps, while suppressed at small vacuum gap distances. The effects of misalignments, geometrical parameters and vacuum gap distances on both SPhP and MP are investigated as well.
Predictive correlation of resonance and radiation peaks in interconnect serpentine structure

Extracted TLM and FEM models of serpentine structures were used to predict limits of interconnect performance for resonance and radiation up to 20 GHz. The serpentine segment length was determined to produce the resonant frequencies. The frequencies of resonance correlated to radiation peaks in the given serpentine structure. Predictive modeling of serpentine interconnect routing identified limits of performance at resonant frequencies in chip-to-chip interconnect applications.
An Anti-Monopoly Law for China – Scaling the Walls of Protectionist Government Restraints

China's legislators are debating the enactment of an anti-monopoly law. The pending draft legislation would prohibit abuse of administrative monopoly. Administrative abuses are provincial and local measures that discriminate against and burden goods and services from other provinces and localities. State-owned monopolies would apparently be covered by the law except in regulated industries. Most nations deal with abusive government restraints and abusive private restraints by different instruments of law. This essay demonstrates, however, the integral nature of public and private protectionist restraints. It provides examples of integrated analysis in the United States, the European Union, and the World Trade Organization. It argues that a Chinese effort to address administrative economic abuses in its competition law would be progressive and helpful to the Chinese economy, especially in the absence of a Chinese "Commerce Clause." Also, it argues for fuller coverage of state-owned monopolies. SOEs and provincial and local protectionist restraints are among China's most significant obstacles to realizing the benefits of markets.
A Unified Model and Methodology for Conceptual Database Design

The event model integrates a set of data structuring and manipulation primitives with a database schema design and evolution methodology. A number of database research efforts have concentrated on expanding the expressiveness of database modelling mechanisms in order to increase the understandability and usability of database conceptual schemas. The event model includes a simple set of such high-level “semantic” modelling constructs; an associated methodology provides prescriptive assistance in the task of specifying and maintaining a conceptual schema. A primary goal of this approach is to reduce the expertise required to design, evolve, and access databases. An interactive database design and evolution system based upon the event model has been implemented and is in use on an experimental basis.
Friedman, May. Mommyblogs and the Changing Face of Motherhood

In the generations prior to the Internet, mothers were limited to their physical locations to create a sense of community among other mothers. Even if mothers made other mother friends, it could be...
Revisiting STEREO interplanetary and interstellar dust flux and mass estimates

Two recent events have motivated a second look at estimates for the flux and mass of approximately micron-radius interplanetary and interstellar dust observed by the twin STEREO spacecraft. First, the signals interpreted as nanometer dust impacts on STEREO-A have nearly ceased, even though STEREO-B continues to observe these signals unabated. Second, a recent laboratory dust accelerator experimental campaign has quantified the charge release associated with hypervelocity dust impacts on materials specific to STEREO. The first event enables an investigation of the extent to which nanometer dust signals influence estimates of micron-radius dust flux. The second event allows an evaluation of how impact charge release values specific to STEREO materials influence dust mass estimates. Revised estimates based on these considerations yield higher fluxes and similar masses for micron-radius interplanetary dust compared to prior studies, as well as lower fluxes and higher masses for interstellar micron-radius dust compared to prior studies. The revised flux and mass estimates reported here differ by less than a factor of 4 from those reported in previous work, demonstrating that STEREO-derived estimates for the flux and mass of micron-radius dust are largely robust to spacecraft material charge yields and the disappearance of nanometer dust signals.
Prenatal Substance Use: Exploring Assumptions of Maternal Unfitness

In spite of the growing knowledge and understanding of addiction as a chronic relapsing medical condition, individuals with substance use disorders (SUD) continue to experience stigmatization. Pregnant women who use substances suffer additional stigma as their use has the potential to cause fetal harm, calling into question their maternal fitness and often leading to punitive responses. Punishing pregnant women denies the integral interconnectedness of the maternal-fetal dyad. Linking substance use with maternal unfitness is not supported by the balance of the scientific evidence regarding the actual harms associated with substance use during pregnancy. Such linkage adversely impacts maternal, child, and family health by deterring pregnant women from seeking both obstetrical care and SUD treatment. Pregnant women who use substances deserve compassion and care, not pariah-status and punishment.
A comparative perspective on the exclusionary rule in search and seizure cases

The modern United States Supreme Court views the exclusionary rule as a means of deterring police conduct that unduly infringes privacy or autonomy interests. But in years past the Court also proffered two other reasons for exclusion: the importance of ensuring the integrity of the legal system (primarily by avoiding judicial complicity with police illegality) and the need to vindicate constitutional guarantees. Some version of one or both of the latter two rationales also appears to be the primary motivation behind the exclusionary rules in other countries. In contrast to the United States, however, in most of these countries exclusion is not very common. Those countries that focus on systemic integrity take into account not only the de-legitimizing impact of failing to exclude illegally seized evidence but also the truth-denigrating effect of excluding evidence. Those countries that focus on vindicating fundamental rights tend to define those rights narrowly, or undercut the vindication rationale in various other ways. After describing these developments, this paper examines, from both empirical and theoretical perspectives, the difficulties that arise in applying the deterrence, systemic integrity,and rights vindication models of the rule and concludes with thoughts about the possible alternatives to exclusion, the ways in which the exclusionary remedy can be refined, and the interaction of the exclusionary rule with substantive search and seizure law.
A Stephanid Wasp in Mid-Cretaceous Burmese Amber (Hymenoptera: Stephanidae), with Comments on the Antiquity of the Hymenopteran Radiation

Abstract A new fossil stephanid wasp (Stephanidae, or so called ‘crown wasps’) is described and figured from mid-Cretaceous Burmese amber. Kronostephanus zigrasi Engel and Grimaldi, new genus and species, is the oldest stephanid currently known in amber, and only the second amber specimen documented from the Mesozoic. Like Archaeostephanus corae Engel and Grimaldi (Turonian, New Jersey), the Burmese species belongs to the basal subfamily Schlettereriinae. The implications of this new taxon are elaborated and comments are provided regarding the age of the clade as well as the Hymenoptera as a whole.
Preferential oxidation of carbon monoxide on CoOx/ZrO2

Abstract The preferential oxidation (PROX) of carbon monoxide to carbon dioxide in excess H2 is one of the strategies for obtaining high purity H2 streams, especially for PEM fuel cells. A CoOx/ZrO2 catalyst was synthesized and studied for the PROX reaction under various reaction conditions and indicated that in the temperature window of interest (80–200 °C), this catalyst had potential for obtaining high conversions of CO with high O2 selectivity to CO2. Increases in the GHSV and the CO/O2 ratio led to lower CO conversion but higher O2 selectivity to CO2. High temperature operation led to a decrease in CO oxidation activity and the formation of methane, which was attributed to partial reduction of CoOx/ZrO2. The catalyst performance was examined using steady-state and transient temperature-programmed reaction (TPRxn) experiments. Temperature-programmed reduction (TPR) and time-on-stream studies were used to examine the catalyst stability in reducing conditions. DRIFTS studies during CO TPD and in situ PROX were used to examine surface species on ZrO2 and CoOx/ZrO2.
Hyperfine Interactions in F Centers

A method of calculating the magnetic and quadrupole hyperfine interactions of an electron with neighboring and next nearest neighboring nuclei in the vacancy model of the $F$ center and the change in its spectroscopic splitting factor are presented and carried out in the case of KCl. Two wave functions are used for the $F$ electron in this calculation, one obtained from a point-charge treatment of the crystal lattice and the other from a square-well approximation of the vacancy. The results are shown to be nearly the same for these two widely different approximations and are found to be in good qualitative agreement and even fair quantitative agreement with experimental data of Feher and Kip et al.
Fetal death and reduced birth rates associated with exposure to lead-contaminated drinking water.

This ecologic study notes that fetal death rates (FDR) during the Washington DC drinking water “lead crisis” (2000–2004) peaked in 2001 when water lead levels (WLLs) were highest, and were minimized in 2004 after public health interventions were implemented to protect pregnant women. Changes in the DC FDR vs neighboring Baltimore City were correlated to DC WLL (R2 = 0.72). Birth rates in DC also increased versus Baltimore City and versus the United States in 2004–2006, when consumers were protected from high WLLs. The increased births in DC neighborhoods comparing 2004 versus 2001 was correlated to the incidence of lead pipes (R2 = 0.60). DC birth rates from 1999 to 2007 correlated with proxies for maternal blood lead including the geometric mean blood lead in DC children (R2 = 0.68) and the incidence of lead poisoning in children under age 1.3 years (R2 = 0.64). After public health protections were removed in 2006, DC FDR spiked in 2007–2009 versus 2004–2006 (p < 0.05), in a manner consistent with high W...
Phase II study of daily oral perifosine in patients with advanced soft tissue sarcoma

BACKGROUND. A multicenter Phase II study was performed to evaluate the clinical activity of an initial loading (150 mg every 6 hours × 4 doses) dose followed by continuous daily oral dosing (100 mg/day) of perifosine in patients with advanced soft tissue sarcomas (STSs). METHODS. Patients with measurable metastatic STS received perifosine as first-, second-, or third-line treatment and underwent disease assessment every 8 weeks until disease progression, excessive toxicity, or patient refusal. RESULTS. Twenty-three patients received 66 cycles (1 cycle = 4 weeks) of perifosine. One partial response of 9 months duration was observed. The overall 3 and 6 month progression-free survival was 22% and 9%. NCI CTC (v2.0) Grade 1 to 2 gastrointestinal toxicity or fatigue were the most common (>50% of subjects) toxicities observed. The steady-state plasma perifosine levels (Css) were similar to prior experience (mean 6 μg/mL). Patients with Css levels >6 μg/mL appeared more likely to remain on study past 2 months than those with levels <6 μg/mL. CONCLUSIONS. Despite not achieving the primary objective of ≥40% 6-month progression-free survival rate, optimism remains for this agent in STS patients. Prolonged responses in heavily pretreated STS patients continue to be observed with perifosine treatment. Continued assessment of perifosine in STS appears warranted, with special attention to specific histologies or tumor characteristics that might identify a more sensitive population and achieving perifosine Css levels >6 μg/mL. Cancer 2006 © 2006 American Cancer Society.
A real analytic constructive proof of the lojasiewicz theorem

In this paper we eliminate the complex analytic part from original Lojasiewicz's proof and show a constructive method of producing a saucissonnage for a set of polynomials.
Global transcriptional responses of the toxic cyanobacterium, Microcystis aeruginosa, to nitrogen stress, phosphorus stress, and growth on organic matter.

Whole transcriptome shotgun sequencing (RNA-seq) was used to assess the transcriptomic response of the toxic cyanobacterium Microcystis aeruginosa during growth with low levels of dissolved inorganic nitrogen (low N), low levels of dissolved inorganic phosphorus (low P), and in the presence of high levels of high molecular weight dissolved organic matter (HMWDOM). Under low N, one third of the genome was differentially expressed, with significant increases in transcripts observed among genes within the nir operon, urea transport genes (urtBCDE), and amino acid transporters while significant decreases in transcripts were observed in genes related to photosynthesis. There was also a significant decrease in the transcription of the microcystin synthetase gene set under low N and a significant decrease in microcystin content per Microcystis cell demonstrating that N supply influences cellular toxicity. Under low P, 27% of the genome was differentially expressed. The Pho regulon was induced leading to large increases in transcript levels of the alkaline phosphatase phoX, the Pst transport system (pstABC), and the sphX gene, and transcripts of multiple sulfate transporter were also significantly more abundant. While the transcriptional response to growth on HMWDOM was smaller (5–22% of genes differentially expressed), transcripts of multiple genes specifically associated with the transport and degradation of organic compounds were significantly more abundant within HMWDOM treatments and thus may be recruited by Microcystis to utilize these substrates. Collectively, these findings provide a comprehensive understanding of the nutritional physiology of this toxic, bloom-forming cyanobacterium and the role of N in controlling microcystin synthesis.
Feature similarity and laterality effects in visual masking

Observers attempted to recognize single letters presented to the left or right visual field when preceded or followed by a masking stimulus. When the masking stimulus contained features identical to those of the target letter, there was a left visual field (right hemisphere) advantage for target recognition. When the target and mask contained extremely different features, the opposite visual field advantage was obtained. Implications are discussed for models of hemispheric asymmetry and for interpreting visual laterality studies that use masks to reduce the overall level of performance.
A Technique for Decomposing Algorithms Which Use a Single Shared Variable

A general theorem is proved which shows how a system of contending asynchronous processes with a special auxiliary supervisor process can be simulated by a system of contending processes without such a supervisor, with only a small increase in the shared space needed for communication. Two applications are presented, synchronization algorithms with different fairness properties requiring N + c and [N/2] + c (c a constant) shared values to synchronize N processes, respectively.
Favorite websites: Understanding prior knowledge of teens' mental models of public library websites for teens

In this paper, we explore teens' mental models of public library websites for teens (teen library websites/TLWs), specifically favorite websites as they relate to prior knowledge and experience. Thirty teen participants from three public libraries within three demographically diverse locations in New Jersey took part in the study. Each participant completed a questionnaire, a drawing task, and a semi-structured individual interview. During the semi-structured interview, participants described their drawings in detail, discussed and demonstrated their favorite websites and evaluated current TLWs. The results showed that teen public library users hold multiple mental models of TLWs. In addition, favorite websites data provided some understanding of the role of prior knowledge and experience in teens' use and expectations of TLWs. Based on analysis of the data, we offer design recommendations for making TLWs better match teens' design and use expectations and preferences.
PROTOPERIDINIUM BELIZEANUM SP. NOV. (DINOPHYCEAE) FROM MANATEE CAY, BELIZE, CENTRAL AMERICA1

A new marine heterotrophic dinoflagellate species, Protoperidinium belizeanum sp. nov., from a coral reef-mangrove pond was identified from scanning electron micrographs. Recognition of this new species was based on unique features of the thecal morphology, which included cell size and shape, presence of short and wide postcingular plates, sulcal architecture, antapical spines, and intricate thecal plate patterns of ridged hexagonal depressions. The thecal plate formula is as follows: Po, X, 4', 3a, 7", 4C (3+t), 6S, 5"', 2"". Species association of P. belizeanum sp. nov. within the genus Protoperidinium, its habitat, and associated dinoflagellates species are discussed.
Public values for equity in air quality management

The results of a pilot study of public values regarding the criterion of equity for air quality management are reported. Values refer to: (a) the priority assigned to equity attributes; and (b) the strength of preference for potential attribute levels. The public for this study was comprised of: (a) the members of two task forces appointed to assist the South Coast Air Quality Management District of California evaluate alternative air quality management measures, and (b) the gallery present during the task force meetings. Major findings include: (a) the concern with the equity of the impact distribution of measures among socio-economic groups is significantly higher to that among counties; (b) the concern with the equity of employment impact distributions is even higher than that of the next value of all impacts for a large number of the study participants; (c) there exist two groups of participants with opposing strong views regarding the priority of all equity attributes defined by the study; (d) there is no unanimous agreement on a monotonically increasing preference for higher equity levels; and (e) the lack of agreement among participants declaring similar interest and expertise affiliations. These findings call for a participatory multi-attribute evaluation of the equity of air quality management measures which will facilitate conflict management and thus a more efficacious implementation.
DYNAMICS OF POLLEN TUBE GROWTH IN THE WILD RADISH RAPHANUS RAPHANISTRUM (BRASSICACEAE). II. MORPHOLOGY, CYTOCHEMISTRY AND ULTRASTRUCTURE OF TRANSMITTING TISSUES, AND PATH OF POLLEN TUBE GROWTH

The relative importance of prezygotic mechanisms of gametophytic competition and selection are often unclear due to an absence of observations on the gynoecium and pollen tube growth in vivo. We used LM, SEM, and TEM to study the structure of the gynoecium and the path of pollen tube growth in Raphanus raphanistrum, a sporophytically self-incompatible annual. Wild radish has a papillate stigma and a solid style. A septum, which is characteristic ofcruciferous gynoecia, is present in the ovary. After germination on the stigma, pollen tubes grow in the secretion of the transmitting tract of the style. The stylar secretion stains positive for acidic polysaccharides and insoluble carbohydrates, and negative for lipids and protein. In the ovary, the transmitting tissue is contained inside the septum. The secretion in the ovary stains positive only for acidic polysaccharides. Pollen tubes travel inside the septum as they enter the ovary and must exit to the surface of this tissue before ovule fertilization can occur. Pollen tube growth on the septum tracks the intercellular junctions of the septum epidermis where the secretion leaks out through a torn cuticle. Tubes must grow across the obturator before reaching the micropyle of an ovule. The temporal pattern with which tubes growing into the ovary exit the septum can contribute to the previously observed nonrandom patterns of fertilization (Hill and Lord, 1986).
Organochlorine pesticides in gamebirds of Eastern Tennessee

Muscular tissue specimens of adult grouse, quail and woodcock from the rural counties of upper East Tennessee have been analyzed by gas chromatography for the organochlorine pesticides lindane, heptachlor, endrin, aldrin, dieldrin, DDT (total) and methoxychlor. Procedures for the analyses are described. The pesticidal levels in the muscle of all gamebirds exceeded the acceptable levels shown in governmental sources and professional journals. The observed concentrations constitute a serious threat to the wildlife of the region and permit accumulation and magnification even in man, who eats gamebirds as a part of his diet.
Natural history study of gallbladder cancer. A review of 36 years experience at M. D. Anderson hospital and tumor institute

Seventy-five patients with gallbladder cancer referred to our institution over a 36-year period were studied. They represented 0.08% of all hospital admissions over the period of study. The disease was most common in older females (median age, 62 years). Ninety-seven percent of patients had a pre-existing clinical history of recurrent right upper quadrant pain suggestive of cholecystitis for a median duration of 3 years (range, 4 days to 25 years). Ninety-eight percent of patients whose records had adequate clinical, surgical or postmortem information had gallstones. Laparotomy was diagnostic in 100% of the patients. The cell type in all patients was adenocarcinoma. Surgery was curative in only 5% of patients. Results of chemotherapy, mainly 5-fluorouracil, were poor. The median survival for all patients was 5.2 months. Survival was slightly better for males, for patients younger than 62 years of age, and for patients with good performance status. At postmortem, most patients had metastases to the liver (91%) and intraabdominal lymph nodes (82%). Metastases to extraabdominal organs were infrequent.
Ruthenium catalyzed chemical modification of unsaturated polymers

Chemical modification of unsaturated polysiloxanes with pendant or terminal vinyl groups and polycarbosilanes with pendant Si-vinyl groups has been achieved by a novel ruthenium catalyzed reaction. Dihydridocarbonyltris(triphenylphosphine)-ruthenium catalyzes the addition of the ortho C−H bond of 2′-methylacetophenone across the C−C double bond of pendant or terminal vinyl groups of polymers such as copoly(dimethylsiloxane/vinylmethylsiloxane), polydimethylsiloxane which is terminated with vinyldimethylsiloxy groups and copoly(vinylmethylsilylene/1,4-phenylene).
Fluorescent Glycosylamides Produced by Microscale Derivatization of Free Glycans for Natural Glycan Microarrays

A novel strategy for creating naturally derived glycan microarrays has been developed. Glycosylamines are prepared from free reducing glycans and stabilized by reaction with acryloyl chloride to generate a glycosylamide in which the reducing monosaccharide has a closed-ring structure. Ozonolysis of the protected glycan yields an active aldehyde, to which a bifunctional fluorescent linker is coupled by reductive amination. The fluorescent derivatives are easily coupled through a residual primary alkylamine to generate glycan microarrays. This strategy preserves structural features of glycans required for antibody recognition and allows development of natural arrays of fluorescent glycans in which the cyclic pyranose structure of the reducing-end sugar residue is retained.
Epileptic seizures increase circulating endothelial cells in peripheral blood as early indicators of cerebral vascular damage

Circulating endothelial cells (CECs) are nonhematopoetic mononuclear cells in peripheral blood that are dislodged from injured vessels during cardiovascular disease, systemic vascular disease, and inflammation. Their occurrence during cerebrovascular insults has not been previously described. Epileptic seizures cause the long-term loss of cerebrovascular endothelial dilator function. We hypothesized that seizures cause endothelial sloughing from cerebral vessels and the appearance of brain-derived CECs (BCECs), possible early indicators of cerebral vascular damage. Epileptic seizures were induced by bicuculline in newborn pigs; venous blood was then sampled during a 4-h period. CECs were identified in the fraction of peripheral blood mononuclear cells by the expression of endothelial antigens (CD146, CD31, and endothelial nitric oxide synthase) and by Ulex europeaus lectin binding. In control animals, few CECs were detected. Seizures caused a time-dependent increase in CECs 2–4 h after seizure onset. Seizure-induced CECs coexpress glucose transporter-1, a blood-brain barrier-specific glucose transporter, indicating that these cells originate in the brain vasculature and are thus BCECs. Seizure-induced BCECs cultured in EC media exhibited low proliferative potential and abnormal cell contacts. BCEC appearance during seizures was blocked by a CO-releasing molecule (CORM-A1) or cobalt protoporphyrin (heme oxygenase-1 inducer), which prevented apoptosis in cerebral arterioles and the loss of cerebral vascular endothelial function during the late postictal period. These findings suggest that seizure-induced BCECs are injured ECs dislodged from cerebral microvessels during seizures. The correlation between the appearance of BCECs in peripheral blood, apoptosis in cerebral vessels, and the loss of postictal cerebral vascular function suggests that BCECs are early indicators of late cerebral vascular damage.
Prevention of the Spread of Zebra Mussels during Fish Hatchery and Aquaculture Activities

Abstract Fish hatchery and aquaculture activities present numerous opportunities for accelerating the spread of zebra mussels Dreissena polymorpha to new locations. We tested aquaculture chemicals including NaCl, KCl, CaCl2, formalin, and the lampricide TFM (3-trifluoromethyl-4-nitrophenol) for efficacy against zebra mussel veligers and tolerance by several species of juvenile fish. Our short-term exposures simulated the high-stress environment of fish transport. High concentration of NaCl was the most effective treatment against veligers but also caused unacceptably high mortality in most fish species. A dilute solution of formalin (25 mg/L) in conjunction with KCl was effective against veligers and was safe for all fish taxa tested. However, concurrent exposures to 5,000 mg NaCl/L, which is commonly used to counteract fish shock during transport, decreased the toxicity of the formalin to veligers.
Control moment gyroscope singularity reduction via decoupled control

Two objectives dominate consideration of control moment gyroscopes (CMGs) for spacecraft maneuvers: High torque (or equivalently momentum) and singularity-free operations. Utilizing a 3/4 CMG skewed-pyramid in the optimal singularity-free configuration, this paper develops a decoupled control strategy to reduce the remaining singular conditions. Analysis is provided to justify the argument with promising simulations followed by experimental verification using a free-floating satellite simulator.
Analog Chip Scale Photonics

There is value to including gain in optical filters. To some extent, gain can overcome losses and yield higher quality factors. Additionally, gain can provide tunable, programmable and adaptive operation. In this paper we develop appropriate theory and describe the implementation architecture for active optical filters.
Modeling and simulating earthquake accelerograms using strong-motion data from the Istanbul, Turkey, region

Abstract In order to simulate earthquake ground motions for the Instanbul (Turkey) region, acceleration time series from western Turkey are modeled by transforming the series into a stationary one which can be described by an autoregressive moving-average ( ARMA ) process. The ARMA and other parameters used in the stationary transformation are related to physical parameters (e.g. magnitude, distance to epicenter, depth to hypocenter and duration) via a regression analysis. To create simulations for a given set of physical parameters, the modelling procedure is reversed.
Mapping thunder sources by inverting acoustic and electromagnetic observations

We present a new method of locating current flow in lightning strikes by inversion of thunder recordings constrained by Lightning Mapping Array observations. First, radio frequency (RF) pulses are connected to reconstruct conductive channels created by leaders. Then, acoustic signals that would be produced by current flow through each channel are forward modeled. The recorded thunder is considered to consist of a weighted superposition of these acoustic signals. We calculate the posterior distribution of acoustic source energy for each channel with a Markov Chain Monte Carlo inversion that fits power envelopes of modeled and recorded thunder; these results show which parts of the flash carry current and produce thunder. We examine the effects of RF pulse location imprecision and atmospheric winds on quality of results and apply this method to several lightning flashes over the Magdalena Mountains in New Mexico, USA. This method will enable more detailed study of lightning phenomena by allowing researchers to map current flow in addition to leader propagation.
Reproductive life history stages sensitive to oil and naphthalene in Atlantic croaker

Abstract The reproductive effects of chronic exposure to water-soluble fractions (WSF) of diesel fuel oil and naphthalene in female Atlantic croaker during critical periods of their reproductive life history were investigated. Fish were repeatedly exposed to WSF of oil (2.5 or 5%) or naphthalene (0.5 or 1.0 ppm) for 5 or 8 weeks. Both pollutants blocked sexual maturation in some fish and impaired ovarian recrudescence in others. The majority of the oocytes in exposed fish were undeveloped and widespread oocyte atresia was evident at higher concentrations of these polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH). The disruption of ovarian growth and oocyte development in croaker after PAH exposure was associated with alterations in reproductive endocrine function at multiple sites on the hypothalamus-pituitarygonadal axis. A third period of increased sensitivity to xenobiotics was observed during final oocyte maturation.
Context, Structure, and Academic Effectiveness: Evidence from West Germany

Using a sample of 35 university departments, this study relates aspects of research and teaching effectiveness in university departments to contextual and structural contingen cies. Three contextual measures (paradigm development, student emphasis, resource availability) and two structural measures (academic control, bureaucratic control) serve as independent variables. The contextual variables are found to be better predictors of effectiveness than the structural variables. Implications for developing and testing structural contingency theories as well as programmes for university reforms are discussed.
Does osteolysis of the distal clavicle occur following spinal cord injury

Objective. To determine whether there is an association between spinal cord injury and ”atraumatic” osteolysis of the distal clavicle. Patients and design. Seventy-seven consecutive spinal cord injury patients without upper extremity injuries were studied. Of these, 39 each had a pair of chest radiographs – one at admission and one at least 1 month later – which included both acromioclavicular joints. Each radiograph was evaluated by two independent musculoskeletal radiologists, who were masked as to which radiograph was the baseline. Results. Ten of 76 acromioclavicular joints demonstrated osteolysis of the distal clavicle: three bilateral, three left side only, and one right side only. There was one case in which the admission radiograph was read as osteolysis but reverted to normal at 35 months follow-up. Conclusion. There is an apparent association between spinal cord injury and osteolysis of the distal clavicle.
Discovery and Development of Natural Product-Derived Chemotherapeutic Agents Based on a Medicinal Chemistry Approach

Medicinal plants have long been an excellent source of pharmaceutical agents. Accordingly, the long-term objectives of the author’s research program are to discover and design new chemotherapeutic agents based on plant-derived compound leads by using a medicinal chemistry approach, which is a combination of chemistry and biology. Different examples of promising bioactive natural products and their synthetic analogues, including sesquiterpene lactones, quassinoids, naphthoquinones, phenylquinolones, dithiophenediones, neo-tanshinlactone, tylophorine, suksdorfin, DCK, and DCP, will be presented with respect to their discovery and preclinical development as potential clinical trial candidates. Research approaches include bioactivity- or mechanism of action-directed isolation and characterization of active compounds, rational drug design-based modification and analogue synthesis, and structure−activity relationship and mechanism of action studies. Current clinical trial agents discovered by the Natural Produc...
Lysis/balloon angioplasty versus thrombectomy/ open patch angioplasty of failed femoropopliteal polytetrafluoroethylene bypass grafts

Abstract Purpose: Several studies have reported on the outcome of lysis/percutaneous transluminal balloon angioplasty (PTA) of failed or failing femoropopliteal bypass grafts (FPGs) with mixed results. None of these studies have compared the results of lysis/PTA versus thrombectomy/open patch repair for failed above-knee polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) FPGs. Methods: Patients with failed (thrombosed) above-knee FPGs (PTFE, Goretex) during a 10-year period were given the option to choose between thrombectomy/open patch repair for localized anastomotic short stenosis (≤2 cm; group A, 31 patients) and lysis/PTA or thrombectomy/balloon angioplasty when lysis failed or was contraindicated (group B, 26 patients). The cumulative patency rates were compared by using a Kaplan-Meier life table analysis. All patients underwent routine color duplex ultrasound scanning/ankle brachial index measurements at 30 days, 6 months, and every 6 months thereafter. Results: Demographic and clinical characteristics and indications for intervention were comparable in both groups. The mean follow-up period was 54.1 and 46.2 months in group A and group B, respectively. There were four perioperative complications in group A (13%) and seven perioperative complications in group B (27%). Initial technical success and 30-day secondary graft patency rates were 100% in both groups. Overall, 17 of 31 patients (55%) had open grafts, with no further revisions in group A and six of 26 patients (23%) in group B requiring further revisions ( P =.012). Nine of 31 grafts (29%) failed in group A versus 15 of 26 grafts (58%) in group B ( P =.027). The rate of limb loss was comparable in both groups (6% vs 12%). The overall cumulative secondary patency rates at 6 months and 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 years were 100%, 93%, 85%, 72%, 67%, and 62% for group A and 100%, 96%, 88%, 76%, 63%, and 45% for group B ( P =.035). Thirty-five further interventions were needed to maintain graft patency in group B (mean, 1.35; range, 0-3) versus five further interventions in group A (mean, 0.16; range, 0-1; P Conclusion: Thrombectomy/open surgical repair is superior to lysis/PTA (or thrombectomy/balloon angioplasty) for the treatment of failed above-knee PTFE FPGs with anastomotic stenoses. Therefore, balloon angioplasty should be reserved for patients who are at high risk for surgery. (J Vasc Surg 2002;35:307-15.)
Curtain rising, baton falling: The politics of musical conducting in contemporary Argentina

This article gives an ethnographic account of the several processes under which a charismatic conductor is de-legitimized, exploring the relationship between institutions and charisma in an art world where the authority of the cultural producer is diminished by the management of everyday interaction. The article shows how, in Argentina, the politics of musical conducting are shaped by four institutional worlds. They range from the macro economic cultural policies of the diverse state agencies to the everyday interaction world of orchestra musicians, and include meso-processes and mechanisms like the field of musical conducting. This article explores the structure and ideologies of the four institutional worlds, their interplay, the concrete practices that shaped them, their struggles, and how they overlap in causing the diminishing power of charisma. In undertaking this endeavor, the article systematizes the existing sociological corpus on the orchestral world in order to sketch a more complex and complete picture of hierarchies and interactions.
Ab initio study of the electrostatic multipole nature of torsional potentials in CH3SSCH3, CH3SSH, and HOOH

The origin of torsional potentials in H3CSSCH3, H3CSSH, and HOOH and the anisotropy of the local charge distribution has been analyzed in terms of atomic multipoles calculated from the ab initio LCAO-MO-SCF wave function in the 6-31G* basis set. The results indicate that for longer -S-S-bonds the major contribution to these torsional barriers are electrostatic interactions of the atomic multipoles located on two atoms forming the rotated bond. This finding demonstrates the important role of electrostatic 1-2 interatomic interactions, usually neglected in conformational studies. It also opens the possibility to derive directly from accurate ab initio wave functions a simple nonempirical torsional potential involving atomic multipoles of two bonded atoms defining the torsional angle. For shorter -O-O- bonds, use of more precise models and inclusion of 1-3 interactions seems to be necessary.
Re-examining the efficiency of the Major League Baseball over-under betting market

We examine the efficiency of the Major League Baseball over-under betting market. Previous research in this area was unable to correctly test market efficiency because a data-set including the odds at which wagers were placed was unavailable. Using a data-set that includes both run lines and money lines, we find little evidence that the over-under market is inefficient.
Adjustments for Wind Sampling Errors in an Estimate of the Atmospheric Water Budget of the Mississippi River Basin

Abstract The spurious mass divergence found in observed and analyzed atmospheric wind fields causes errors in estimated energy flux divergence. An objective method for correcting these errors in radiosonde-based atmospheric water and energy budgets is developed. The proposed method is compared with other correction methods for estimating the moisture budget over the Mississippi River basin. The proposed method adjusts the spatial weights applied at each radiosonde station in the calculation of divergence. The adjustment is done in a least squares sense to minimize the modification to the weights under the constraint of mass conservation (accounting for surface pressure tendency) by use of Lagrange multipliers. The weight adjustment requires fewer and less arbitrary assumptions than existing methods. The adjustment scheme is particularly useful for diagnosing different components of energy transport (e.g., eddy, mean advection, mean divergence) because the adjustment is applied equally to all terms, unlike...