cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Prospects of hydrogen-fueled vehicles

Abstract The concerns about global warming and the California requirements for zero emission vehicles have rekindled the interest in hydrogen as a fuel for passenger vehicles. In 1980 one of the authors (Kukkonen, 1981, SAE Paper 810349) concluded that hydrogen will not be used as an automotive fuel before the year 2000. Taking into account the developments since then and using as criteria total primary energy consumption and emissions of ‘greenhouse’ gases, the present assessment concludes that hydrogen will not be used as fuel for personal vehicles before the year 2020.
Training and Deployment at Novo Catengue and the Diaries of Jack Simons, 1977–1979

This article examines training and deployment of Umkhonto we Sizwe (MK) cadres in the late 1970s at Novo Catengue, the largest African National Congress (ANC) military training camp in Angola. This camp occupies an important space in the polarised literature on the liberation struggle. Sympathetic struggle histories identify Novo Catengue as a model camp, which demonstrated the ANC's ability to incorporate, train, and deploy a new generation of cadres, while critical histories of the struggle portray Novo Catengue as an example of the expansion of SACP control over the ANC. A unique set of diaries kept by Jack Simons, head of political education at Novo Catengue, allow for an alternative reading of the history of this camp, one that transcends the competing narratives of the armed struggle through a detailed documentation of everyday life. When read for details about training and deployment, a much more complex picture of relations within the camp emerges. Arguments over the training programme reflected c...
The resolution of the Gibbs phenomenon for "spliced" functions in one and two dimensions

Abstract In this paper we study approximation methods for analytic functions that have been “spliced” into nonintersecting subdomains. We assume that we are given the first 2N + 1 Fourier coefficients for the functions in each subdomain. The objective is to approximate the “spliced” function in each subdomain and then to “glue” the approximations together in order to recover the original function in the full domain. The Fourier partial sum approximation in each subdomain yields poor results, as the convergence is slow and spurious oscillations occur at the boundaries of each subdomain. Thus once we “glue” the subdomain approximations back together, the approximation for the function in the full domain will exhibit oscillations throughout the entire domain. Recently methods have been developed that successfully eliminate the Gibbs phenomenon for analytic but nonperiodic functions in one dimension. These methods are based on the knowledge of the first 2N + 1 Fourier coefficients and use either the Gegenbauer polynomials (Gottlieb et al.) or the Bernoulli polynomials (Abarbanel, Gottlieb, Cai et al., and Eckhoff). We propose a way to accurately reconstruct a “spliced” function in a full domain by extending the current methods to eliminate the Gibbs phenomenon in each nonintersecting subdomain and then “gluing” the approximations back together. We solve this problem in both one and two dimensions. In the one-dimensional case we provide two alternative options, the Bernoulli method and the Gegenbauer method, as well as a new hybrid method, the Gegenbauer-Bernoulli method. In the two-dimensional case we prove, for the very first time, exponential convergence of the Gegenbauer method, and then we apply it to solve the “spliced” function problem.
Predictive Displays for Survey Vessels

Inexperienced helmsmen often oversteer because of the lag that occurs between changing the rudder angle and a change in the vessel's heading. Predictive displays are a common way of mitigating the effect of lag on human control. Accordingly we developed a predictive display to show the position and heading of a vessel a short time in the future. With this display, the helmsman's task becomes that of keeping the predictor on the planned path. In effect, the predictor is steered, not the vessel. Our predictive model was statistical and based on data gathered from a 40 foot survey vessel carrying out a variety of maneuvers while the position, heading, speed through the water and rudder angle were continuously recorded. The advantage of such a predictor is that it can, in principle, be generated automatically, without any need for a model of hull shape or vessel dynamics. We evaluated the predictor by having both experienced and inexperienced helmsmen steer a pre-defined figure-of-eight course. The results showed substantial reduction in cross track error for inexperienced participants to the point that their performance was indistinguishable from those that were more experienced. Language: en
A gait analysis data collection and reduction technique

Abstract The clinical objective of the gait analysis laboratory, developed by United Technologies Corporation (Hartford, CT, USA) in 1980, at the Newington Children's Hospital is to provide quantified assessments of human locomotion which assist in the orthopaedic management of various pediatric gait pathologies. The motion measurement system utilizes a video-based data collection strategy similar to commercially available systems for motion data collection. Anatomically aligned, passive, retroreflective markers placed on the subject are illuminated, detected, and stored in dedicated camera hardware while data are acquired from force platforms and EMG transducers. Three-dimensional marker position information is used to determine: (i) the orientation of segmentally-embedded coordinate systems, (ii) instantaneous joint center locations, and (iii) joint angles. Joint kinetics, i.e., moments and powers, may also be computed if valid force plate data are collected.
Some aspects of sulfide oxidation by rat-liver preparations.

Abstract 1. 1. The sulfide-oxidizing system in rat liver does not require peroxide for its operation. 2. 2. The existence of a protein-bound intermediate, possibly a thiosulfonate, has been demonstrated. 3. 3. Sulfite may be involved as an intermediate in the in vitro formation of thiosulfate from sulfide. A reaction mechanism has been proposed which accounts for the accumulation of thiosulfate in in vitro systems. 4. 4. Some effects of inhibitors and chelators on the rat-liver system have been described. While 8-hydroxyquinoline stimulated the heat-labile fraction, EDTA stimulated the complete system through its action on the heat-stable fraction.
Experimental Study on the Effect of Retained Austenite on the Impact Toughness of a Low-Carbon Martensite Steel

Effect of various heat treatment processes on the impact property of a low-carbon steel was investigated. Its microstructure and morphology were also observed and characterized. Fraction of retained austenite of the tested steel varied with the change of temperature and holding time of quenching, carbon partitioning and tempering process. After Q&P treatment, the impact property of the tested steel improved with increasing volume fraction of retained austenite. After tempering, the impact property of the tested steel further improved despite the decrease of the fraction of the retained austenite. Experimental results show that the stabilization and fraction of the retained austenite from which the transformation induced plasticity (TRIP) effect originated control the toughness of the tested steel. It should be noted that the common tempering theory is insufficient to explain the current observations for the impact energy increment. Instead, it may be explained by the decomposition of the block-like retained austenite that is generally harmful to the toughness of the steel.
Application of Continuous Crystallization in an Integrated Continuous Pharmaceutical Pilot Plant

Real-time control using process analytical technology (PAT) tools is required for the implementation of continuous crystallization within integrated continuous manufacturing (ICM) of pharmaceuticals. However, appropriate selection of PAT tools is challenging, and the design and operation of automated control loops for continuous crystallization within a continuous pharmaceutical process brings forward important questions. This paper discusses the process design and operation of a continuous reactive crystallization of aliskiren hemifumarate as part of an ICM pilot plant. Several PAT tools were used within automated control loops to satisfy specifications on the critical materials attributes of the crystallization process. The operational performance of the process was maintained for periods of time over 100 h. The purity of the targeted product exceeded 99%, and the process yield reached 91.4%.
Stress relaxation behavior of shot-peened Ti–6Al–4V under fretting fatigue at elevated temperature ☆

Abstract Relaxation behavior of residual stress in a shot-peened titanium alloy, Ti–6Al–4V subjected to fretting fatigue was investigated at room and elevated temperatures. Constant amplitude fretting fatigue tests were conducted at several maximum stress levels, σmax ranging from 333 to 666 MPa with a stress ratio of 0.1. Two heaters, placed at the front and back of specimen, were used to heat and maintain the temperature in the gage section of specimen at 100 and 260 °C. Residual stress was measured using the X-ray diffraction method. There was relaxation of residual compressive stress during fretting fatigue at room and elevated temperatures, which in turn manifested in the reduction of fretting fatigue life. Greater stress relaxation occurred when higher temperature, stress range and contact load were applied, however, contact load had a considerably smaller effect. Stress relaxations due to elevated temperature and mechanical load (i.e. fretting fatigue) were found to be independent processes within the test conditions of this study, such that they can be linearly superimposed to predict the total stress relaxation from fretting fatigue at elevated temperature.
Basal Metabolism and Thyroid Size in Chickens Fed Thiouracil and a Thiouracil-Thyroprotein Combination

Abstract Singh and Shaffner (1950) have reported that a very small amount of thyroprotein (1 gram per 100 pounds of feed) completely overcame the depression of basal metabolic rate (BMR) due to 0.2 percent of thiouracil in the diet of two-week-old chicks. Moreng and Shaffner (1949) reported that the same level of thyroprotein in combination with 0.2 percent thiouracil produced larger goiters in chicks than those produced by thiouracil alone. The level of thyroprotein used by these workers was one-fourth that which Schultze and Turner (1945) found would maintain normal thyroid size in growing chickens fed thiouracil, and therefore is presumably equivalent to one-fourth the normal thyroxine secretion. For this reason, plus the unexpected nature of the findings with respect to thyroid size, it was considered desirable to determine whether results similar to those of the Maryland workers could be obtained in another laboratory. Eighty-day-old male chicks (BPR × RIR) were randomly …
Variable Input: What Sarah Reveals About Nonagreeing Don't and Theories of Root Infinitives

Two recent proposals link the use of nonagreeing don't to the Root Infinitive (RI) Stage. Guasti & Rizzi (2002) argue for a misset parameter involving how agreement is spelled out. Schutze (2010) proposes that Infl is underspecified in child language and that do surfaces to support the contracted clitic/affix n't. Both proposals obtain partial support from the Sarah corpus (Brown 1973), yet neither proposal drew on Sarah's parents’ use of nonstandard, nonagreeing don't as a possible explanation for Sarah's production. In this article I argue that much of the nonagreeing don't produced by Sarah is not part of the RI Stage. Once Sarah's data are removed from the analysis, the remaining data support Schutze's proposal.
Failure is not an option for Black women: Effects of organizational performance on leaders with single versus dual-subordinate identities

We contribute to a current debate that focuses on whether individuals with more than one subordinate identity (i.e., Black women) experience more negative leader perceptions than do leaders with single-subordinate identities (i.e., Black men and White women). Results confirmed that Black women leaders suffered double jeopardy, and were evaluated more negatively than Black men and White women, but only under conditions of organizational failure. Under conditions of organizational success, the three groups were evaluated comparably to each other, but each group was evaluated less favorably than White men. Further, leader typicality, the extent to which individuals possess characteristics usually associated with a leader role, mediated the indirect effect of leader race, leader gender, and organizational performance on leader effectiveness. Taken together, these results suggest that Black women leaders may carry a burden of being disproportionately sanctioned for making mistakes on the job.
8-(Dialkylaminoalkylamino)-Caffeines as potential pharmacodynamic agents*

A group of caffeine and theophylline derivatives containing basic side chains at position 8 were synthesized as potential pharmacodynamic agents. An attempt was made to explain why type I compounds were at times isolated as the free base and again as the hydrochloride and also why the dihydrochloride and dimethiodide of the same compounds could not be prepared. As an illustration of pharmacodynamic actions, the methiodide of one of the type I compounds caused marked postural hypotension in the absence of autonomic blockade, while no ganglionic blocking or anticholinergic effect was observed.
Extension constants of unconditional two-dimensional operators

It is shown that the (absolute) extension constant e(T) of an operator T such that Tvk = λkvk, k = 1, 2, for some unconditional basis (v1, v2) of a two-dimensional real normed space is less than or equal to λ1| + |λ2| + 2√λ21 − |λ1λ2| + λ22)3. In fact, it is demonstrated that e(T) is attained by exactly one unconditional two-dimensional space (up to an isometry).
Enhancement of hydroperoxide-dependent lipid peroxidation in rat liver microsomes by ascorbic acid.

Abstract Simultaneous addition of ascorbic acid and organic hydroperoxides to rat liver microsomes resulted in enhanced lipid peroxidation (~threefold) relative to incubation of organic hydroperoxides with microsomes alone. No lipid peroxidation was evident in incubations of ascorbate alone with microsomes. The stimulatory effect of ascorbate on linoleic acid hydroperoxide (LAHP)-dependent peroxidation was evident at all times whereas stimulation of cumene hydroperoxide (CHP)-dependent peroxidation occurred after a lag phase of up to 20 min. EDTA did not inhibit CHP-dependent lipid peroxidation but completely abolished ascorbate enhancement of lipid peroxidation. Likewise, EDTA did not significantly inhibit peroxidation by LAHP but dramatically reduced ascorbate enhancement of lipid peroxidation. The results reveal a synergistic prooxidant effect of ascorbic acid on hydroperoxide-dependent lipid peroxidation. The inhibitory effect of EDTA on enhanced peroxidation suggests a possible role for endogenous metals mobilized by hydroperoxide-dependent oxidations of microsomal components.
Humidity effects on Pd/Au-based all-optical hydrogen sensors

Abstract The hydrogen sensing performance of Pd (60 at%)/Au (40 at%) thin films has been examined under room temperature conditions and at variable humidity levels using either air or nitrogen as a carrier gas. Two humidity effects on the sensing properties of these films have been observed: (1) the baseline optical transmittance of the Pd/Au thin film progressively and reversibly increases with an increase in humidity for both air and N 2 carrier gases; (2) the transmittance signal change becomes reduced and eventually inverts with an increase in humidity while using an air carrier gas for the hydrogen exposure cycles. Optical microscopy and H 2 /H 2 O vapor exposure experiments reveal that the baseline signal increase is induced by the blistering of the Pd/Au thin film due to the adsorption of H 2 O. The transmittance signal change reduction/inversion during H 2 /humidified air exposures is caused by Pd surface-catalyzed reactions followed by H 2 O desorption. Specifically, the sensing characteristics as a function of carrier gas and humidity levels can be explained by the following surface reactions: H 2 O is dissociatively adsorbed on the film surface forming OH molecules with assistance of surface chemisorbed atomic oxygen. Once H 2 is admitted and dissociatively adsorbed as atomic H, a ready reaction between H and OH dominates the consumption of H 2 into the formation of H 2 O, thereby reducing the formation of PdH x . The overall desorption of the surface formed H 2 O causes a decrease in the optical transmittance observed for a given hydrogen exposure level, thus desensitizing the Pd/Au thin film towards the detection of hydrogen. The addition of Ru or YSZ as a buffer layer between the glass substrate and the Pd/Au thin film demonstrates a reduced or a completely removed baseline shifting, but H 2 desensitization in the presence of humidified air is still present.
Hypersensitivity to electrical stimulation of auditory nuclei follows hearing loss in cats

Abstract The purpose of the study was to determine if permanent, sound-induced hearing loss altered behaviorally measured thresholds for the detection of electrical stimulation applied to auditory nuclei. Electrodes were placed in cochlear nucleus and inferior colliculus in four cats. Behaviorally measured thresholds for the detection of brief trains of electrical pulses were determined before and after a 48 h exposure to a 1 kHz tone of approximately 110 dB SPL. The mean decrease in electrical stimulation threshold as a result of the sound exposure was 10.4 dB. The ongoing electrical activity (in μV, rms) recorded from the electrodes showed a mean 2.2 dB decrease after the sound exposure. In some electrodes, there was partial recovery towards pre-exposure levels for stimulation threshold and for ongoing activity, but typically, the changes persisted until the animals were terminated 30 days later. The magnitudes of the decreases in stimulation threshold and background activity proved not to be highly correlated. The permanent auditory threshold shift across all cats and all frequencies was 19 dB. This mild hearing loss produced a marked alteration in certain characteristics of the central auditory mechanisms.
The chemistry of carbenes in low temperature rigid media

Abstract The use of frozen organic matrices to study the chemistry of arylcarbenes is discussed. Also the effects of the matrix environment on bimolecular reactions are explored.
Estimating the Complete Sample Size from an Incomplete Poisson Sample

Abstract Maximum likelihood estimators and a modified maximum likelihood estimator are developed for estimating the zero class from a truncated Poisson sample when the available sample size itself is a random variable. All the estimators considered here are asymptotically equivalent in the usual sense; hence their asymptotic properties are investigated in some detail theoretically as well as by making use of Monte Carlo experiments. One modified estimator appears to be best with respect to the chosen criteria. An example is given to illustrate the results obtained.
AGN and Starbursts in Dusty Galaxy Mergers: Insights from the Great Observatories All-sky LIRG Survey

The Great Observatories All-sky LIRG Survey (GOALS) is combining imaging and spectroscopic data from the Herschel, Spitzer, Hubble, GALEX, Chandra, and XMM-Newton space telescopes augmented with extensive ground-based observations in a multiwavelength study of approximately 180 Luminous Infrared Galaxies (LIRGs) and 20 Ultraluminous Infrared Galaxies (ULIRGs) that comprise a statistically complete subset of the 60μm-selected IRAS Revised Bright Galaxy Sample. The objects span the full range of galaxy environments (giant isolated spirals, wide and close pairs, minor and major mergers, merger remnants) and nuclear activity types (Seyfert 1, Seyfert 2, LINER, starburst/HII), with proportions that depend strongly on the total infrared luminosity. I will review the science motivations and present highlights of recent results selected from over 25 peer-reviewed journal articles published recently by the GOALS Team. Statistical investigations include detection of high-ionization Fe K emission indicative of deeply embedded AGN, comparison of UV and far-IR properties, investigations of the fraction of extended emission as a function of wavelength derived from mid-IR spectroscopy, mid-IR spectral diagnostics and spectral energy distributions revealing the relative contributions of AGN and starbursts to powering the bolometric luminosity, and quantitative structure analyses that delineate the evolution of stellar bars and nuclear stellar cusps during the merger process. Multiwavelength dissections of individual systems have unveiled large populations of young star clusters and heavily obscured AGN in early-stage (II Zw 96), intermediate-stage (Mrk 266, Mrk 273), and late-stage (NGC 2623, IC 883) mergers. A recently published study that matches numerical simulations to the observed morphology and gas kinematics in mergers has placed four systems on a timeline spanning 175-260 million years after their first passages, and modeling of additional (U)LIRGs is underway. A very brief description of ongoing work with Herschel and ALMA will be given. The talk will conclude with a discussion of the demographics of dual AGN (kpc-scale orbits) in the GOALS sample, including the difficulty of their detection and confirmation, a proposed sequence representing a progression from dual AGN to binary AGNs (sub-pc scale orbits), and implications for the scarcity of confirmed binary QSOs in recent large surveys. Grant support from NASA is gratefully acknowledged.
Subversion of plasmacytoid and myeloid dendritic cell functions in chronic HCV infection

Abstract Insufficient elimination of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) during acute infection results in chronic disease in the majority of patients due to weak virus-specific immune responses. Dendritic cells (DC) play a central role in recognition of HCV and in induction of innate and adaptive immune responses. In this study, we evaluated the frequency and functions of plasmacytoid dendritic cells (PDC) and myeloid dendritic cells (MDC) in patients with chronic HCV infection. We found that both the numbers and IFN α production capacity of blood PDC were significantly reduced in patients with chronic HCV infection compared to normal controls. While the frequency of MDC was not affected in chronic HCV, the allostimulatory capacity of monocyte-derived MDC was significantly decreased compared to normals. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced maturation improved the allostimulatory capacity of HCV infected patients’ MDC that still remained significantly lower compared to normal controls. Our experiments revealed that MDC defects can be induced by HCV core and NS3 proteins suggesting virus-induced mechanisms for the DC defects in HCV infection. Finally, using toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) and TLR4 deficient or mutant mice, we demonstrated that TLR2 but not TLR4 was critical in recognition of HCV core and NS3 proteins by innate immune cells. Further, TLR2 recognition of HCV core and NS3 was not augmented by co-expression of the TLR co-receptor, CD14. These data demonstrate that both PDC and MDC functions are impaired in patients with chronic HCV infection and DC defects are likely related to interaction of HCV viral products with innate immune cells.
Cities, Slums, and Energy Consumption in Less Developed Countries, 1990 to 2005

Theories in urban political economy and environmental sociology are engaged to assess the extent to which energy consumption in less developed countries is affected by different urban characteristics. Results of first-difference panel model estimates for a sample of less developed countries yield two noteworthy findings. From 1990 to 2005, growth in energy consumption was positively associated with growth in overall urban population and negatively associated with growth in the percentage of a population residing in urban slum conditions. The two divergent effects hold, net of multiple human ecological and political-economic controls. The authors conclude by highlighting the theoretical implications of the findings and the need for more nuanced approaches in future research on such topics.
Use of computed tomography in anterior abdominal stab wounds: results of a prospective study.

Hypothesis Computed tomography (CT) can be used to evaluate patients with anterior abdominal stab wounds (AASWs). Design Prospective observational study. Setting Academic level I trauma center. Patients and Methods All of the patients sustaining AASWs, excluding those with hemodynamic instability, peritonitis, or omental evisceration, were admitted for serial abdominal examinations with or without CT depending on attending preference. Patients with associated left thoracoabdominal stab wounds underwent diagnostic laparoscopy. Main Outcome Measures Change in patient management as a direct result of the CT scan findings, as well as sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of CT scanning calculated against clinical outcome (the need for laparotomy, uneventful discharge without laparotomy, or return to the hospital for adverse events). Results One hundred fifty-six consecutive patients with AASWs were included over 24 months. Computed tomography was performed for 67 patients (CT group) whereas 89 patients were admitted for serial examination only (no-CT group). Nineteen of the 67 patients in the CT group had positive CT results, leading to laparotomy in 10 patients. Of the 48 patients with negative CT results, 3 underwent diagnostic laparoscopy for an associated thoracoabdominal stab wound and 2 eventually underwent laparotomy for clinical deterioration with negative results. Excluding patients with associated thoracoabdominal stab wounds, the negative predictive value of CT was 100%. Conclusions In patients with AASWs, CT can be used to identify visceral injuries. It is a promising tool that may identify patients who can be discharged after a shorter period of observation. Further evaluation of its use in patients with AASWs is warranted.
Genetics of Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common disorder with multiple adverse consequences. This disorder leads to excessive sleepiness, with increased risk of motor vehicle crashes, and is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease and insulin resistance. However, not all patients with OSA get all these consequences. There is a differential susceptibility to these consequences. Even patientswith severeOSAmaynot complain of excessive sleepiness. It is likely that this differential susceptibility is in part genetic, which complicates identifying genes conferring risk for OSA because patients with consequences, such as excessive sleepiness, are more likely to present clinically. In this article, the evidence that there is a genetic contribution to OSA is reviewed. The likely intermediate traits are discussed, each of which may have genetic contributions. The studies identifying gene variants conferring risk for OSA are described. The studies of the genetic determinants of cardiovascular consequences of OSA are also described in the contribution by Ryan and colleagues in this issue. At present, there are no firmly established gene variants conferring risk for OSA, which have been replicated in several studies. In all genetic studies, replication is the key and adds confidence to the findings.
The demographic factor in China's transition

During the last two and a half decades, China has witnessed demographic change of historic proportions. It has transformed from a “demographic transitional” society, one where reductions in mortality led to rapid population growth and subsequent reductions in fertility led to slower population growth, to a “posttransitional” society, where life expectancy has reached new heights, fertility has declined to below-replacement level, and rapid population aging is on the horizon. In the nottoo-distant future ‐ in a matter of a few decades ‐ China’s population will start to shrink, an unprecedented demographic turn in its history in the absence of massive wars, epidemics, and famines. In this process, China will also lose its position as the most populous country in the world.
AMS Dates from Four Late Prehistoric Period Rock Art Sites in West Central Montana

In 2002, eight pigment samples were collected from three rock art sites in the Big Belt Mountains of west central Montana. Samples from Hellgate Gulch (24BW9), Avalanche Mouth (24BW19), and the Gates of the Mountains (24LC27) were dated using plasma-chemical extraction and accelerator mass spectrometry. The dates were statistically indistinguishable with ages of 11701 ± 45, 1225 ± 50, and 1280 1 ± 50 B.P. When calibrated, these ages range from 650 to 990 cal A.D. This corresponds to the early Late Prehistoric period on the Northwestern Plains. An oxalate accretion sample overlying a painted area at another site, Big Log Gulch (24LCI707), provided a minimum age of 1440 ± 45 B.P. for the rock art present at this site. The dated images at the four sites fit within the Foothills Abstract and Eastern Columbia Plateau rock art traditions.
Spectral FDTD: a novel computational technique for the analysis of periodic structures

The finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) technique is a robust analysis tool in electromagnetics. Recently, periodic structures, in which a periodicity exists in one or more of their dimensions, have been given special attention. In the analysis of periodic structures by FDTD, implementation becomes difficult for a plane wave at oblique incidence. The paper presents a novel technique, referred to as spectral FDTD, for the analysis of a plane wave incident on 2D periodic ground planes. Each simulation by the spectral FDTD gives the reflection coefficient for a fixed value of wavenumber over a wide range of frequencies. The technique provides stable results for grazing incidence, where most algorithms fail.
Neurally mediated cardiac syncope: autonomic modulation after normal saline infusion

Abstract OBJECTIVES This study assessed the heart variability response to orthostatic stress during tilt table testing before and after normal saline administration. BACKGROUND The efficacy of sodium chloride and mineralocortoid in the treatment of neurally mediated cardiac syncope is attributed to intravascular volume expansion; however, their modulation of autonomic nervous system activity has not been evaluated. METHODS Heart rate variability analysis was performed on 12 adolescents with a history of syncope or presyncope (mean age 15.2 ± 0.7 years) during tilt table testing. Subjects were upright 80° for 30 min or until syncope. After normal saline administration, the patient was returned upright for 30 min. Heart rate variability analysis data were analyzed by an autoregression model (Burg method). RESULTS All subjects reproducibly developed syncope during control tilt table testing; median time to syncope was 9.4 ± 2.1 min. After normal saline infusion, none of the subjects developed syncope after 30 min upright. In the control tilt, there was an initial increase followed by a progressive decrease in low frequency power until syncope. Repeat tilt after normal saline administration demonstrates that low frequency power increased but the magnitude of initial change was blunted when compared with control. In addition, low frequency power increased during normal saline tilt sequence compared with the control tilt, during which it decreased. CONCLUSIONS Normal saline blunted low frequency power stimulation and prevented paradoxical low frequency power (sympathetic) withdrawal. Increasing intravascular volume with normal saline alters autonomic responses that may trigger neurally mediated syncope reflexes.
Cardiac resynchronization therapy response is associated with shorter duration of atrial fibrillation.

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is commonly associated with heart failure. The benefit of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) on atrial remodeling has been demonstrated. However, biventricular pacing did not reduce the global incidence of AF. We evaluated the relationship between CRT response and AF duration. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed data from 96 patients (59 ± 15 years; 78% male) who underwent CRT. All patients had class III-IV New York Heart Association (NYHA) symptoms despite maximal medical therapy, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤ 35%, QRS >130 ms, and sinus rhythm before implantation. CRT response in patients who survived at six months of follow-up was defined as: (1) no hospitalization for heart failure and (2) improvement of one or more grades in the NYHA classification. Results: CRT responders (n = 54) and non-responders (n = 42) had similar baseline characteristics, including the incidence of persistent AF within six months before implantation. Six months after implantation, when compared to baseline, CRT responders exhibited a significant decrease in left atrial size (47.5 ± 7.1 mm vs 44.6 ± 7.7 mm, P < 0.01) and in the incidence of persistent AF (17% vs 2%, P = 0.02). At six months, CRT responders demonstrated shorter mean AF duration (7.5 ± 43.3 hours vs 48.8 ± 129.0 hours, P = 0.03) and lower incidence of persistent AF (2% vs 19%, P = 0.004) compared to nonresponders. Conclusion: CRT response is associated with a reversal of atrial remodeling and a shorter AF duration.
Rings with x(yz)=z(yx)

In non-associative rings the associative law is replaced by various weaker identities. In this paper the identity x.yz = z.yx is considered. Let R be a ring satisfying this identity. It is obvious that if R has an identity element, then R is both commutative and associative. It is shown that if R is prime, third power associative, 2-torsion free, and has a nonzero idempotent, then this idempotent must be an identity and hence R must be commutative and associative.
Pathologic studies of fetal thyroid development.

Ordinarily the assignment of tissue change to the category of lesion or to variation is straightforward, depending on the character and extent of the change and its functional impact. The developmental process alters this relationship in large part because the effect is often in the future, sometimes the distant future. As such, what is “pathological” from the developmental point of view requires more understanding of the coordination of developing systems, the sequences for obtaining functional competency, and the effects of growth, maturation, and diseases in other organ systems. Specified injuries may have different effects on the time scale of development. Moreover, lesions in fetuses and newborns often have unusual features. It should be kept in mind that much of the final form, content, and location of many organs often depends on the removal of primordial structures which were earlier stages of those tissues. For the thyroid gland the process in question is that of folliculogenesis [Norris, 1914]. through the formation of a primordium later converted to follicles, a unique vertebrate structure.
The productivity of a root-initial accenting suffix, (-zu): judgement studies

In many languages affixes can assign accents on roots to which they attach. Some previous studies have claimed that accents assigned by affixes universally fall on syllables next to the affixes (Kurisu 2001; Revithiadou 2008). Kawahara and Wolf (2010) document a newly-coined suffix which counterexemplifies this generalization: the new Japanese suffix [-zu] assigns an accent on root-initial syllables. This paper reports five experiments that test the productivity of non-local accentuation of this suffix. The first three experiments show that given four-mora roots, Japanese speakers prefer initial accents in zu-words to those in monomorphemic words. However, when zu-words are derived from four-mora long roots, speakers prefer default antepenultimate accentuation to initial accentuation. The last two experiments using shorter roots show that speakers assign initial accents to zu-words more often when derived from shorter roots. Overall, the experiments support the initial accenting behavior of [-zu], contributing to the typology of affix-controlled accentuation.
Kinetic Mechanisms for the Concentration Dependency of In Vitro Degradation of Nitroglycerin and Glyceryl Dinitrates in Human Blood: Metabolite Inhibition or Cosubstrate Depletion?

The in vitro degradation of nitroglycerin (NTG) and its dinitrate metabolites in human blood and red blood cells (RBC) has been shown to exhibit apparent first-order kinetics. The decay rates of NTG and its dinitrate metabolites, however, were dependent on the initial concentration. We showed that this unusual kinetic behavior can be described mathematically by models of Michaelis–Menten kinetics combined with either competitive product inhibition or cosubstrate depletion. Experimental studies were conducted to determine the relative contribution of these two mechanisms to the observed kinetics. The effect of added thiols (the likely cosubstrates) on [14C]NTG degradation was studied separately in whole blood, reconstituted RBC, lysed RBC, and plasma. N-Acetylcysteine, l-cysteine, and d-cysteine accelerated NTG degradation in whole blood, while a similar concentration of glutathione had no effect. However, all four thiols exerted no effect on NTG kinetics in reconstituted and lysed RBC. In contrast, these thiols, as well as dithiothreitol, produced a marked increase (3–14 fold) in NTG degradation rate in plasma compared with buffer controls. Since thiol replenishment in reconstituted and lysed RBC did not abolish the concentration dependency, cosubstrate depletion due to thiols appeared unimportant as a contributor to the kinetic phenomenon. In human blood, metabolite inhibition of NTG degradation occurred along with the existence of concentration dependency. Both phenomena, however, were absent when NTG degradation was examined in rat blood. Concentration-dependent degradation in human blood was not observed for glyceryl-1-mononitrate, a compound that does not produce a nitrated metabolite. These results suggest, therefore, that product inhibition of nitrate degradation in human blood requires the metabolite to possess a nitrate group, and that this process probably contributes to the concentration dependency observed in the in vitro degradation of NTG and its dinitrate metabolites in human blood.
Steroid Resistant Takayasu Arteritis

Takayasu’s arteritis (TA), a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the aorta, its branches and the pulmonary arteries has become increasingly recognized as a worldwide entity, with a variable spectrum of disease expression. Here in a case of paediatric Takayasu arteritis affecting purely the arch of aorta and it’s branches that was steroid resistant. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jnps.v33i2.7113 J Nepal Paediatr Soc. 2013; 33(2):144-146
Diagnostic Delay in Acute Aortic Syndromes: How Sensitive and Specific are Clinical Features in Disease Recognition

Aortic dissection presents a diagnostic challenge. The history and pain characteristics of aortic dissection overlap significantly with those of acute coronary syndrome (ACS), a condition that is more common by several orders of magnitude. A careful interview focused on high risk conditions (connective tissue diseases, recent aortic manipulation, gene mutations, aortic aneurysm and aortic valve disease), high risk pain characteristics (abrupt, severe or ripping/tearing) and high risk examination features (pulse deficit, focal neurologic deficit or murmur of aortic regurgitation) is critical. High risk pain characteristics are particularly sensitive for detection of aortic dissection. By combining these clinical features, the clinician can identify a patient in whom aortic dissection is more likely and proceed to further aortic imaging. Delays in recognition of dissection are common. Symptoms at presentation, especially in the elderly may be atypical and may include syncope, heart failure, or a lack of pain. Abnormalities on the electrocardiogram, which are common, may lead clinicians to suspect and treat ACS. Additionally, it is not widely recognized that patients with recent aortic manipulation are at risk for dissection, leading to delays in recognition. Clinicians can improve the accuracy and speed with which they diagnose aortic dissection by integrating known risk factors into a careful history and physical exam. One must remain mindful that atypical presentation occur and are associated with delayed diagnosis and increased mortality.
Identification of Stochastic Sequential Bargaining Models

Stochastic sequential bargaining games (Merlo and Wilson (1995, 1998)) have found wide applications in various fields including political economy and macroeconomics due to their flexibility in explaining delays in reaching agreement. In this paper, we present new results in non-parametric identification of such models under different scenarios of data availability. First, with complete data on players' decisions, the sizes of the surplus to be shared (cakes) and the agreed allocations, both the mapping from states to the total surplus (i.e. the cake function) and the players' common discount rate are identified, if the unobservable state variable (USV) is independent of observable ones (OSV), and the total surplus is strictly increasing in the USV conditional on the OSV. Second, when the cake size is only observed under agreements and is additively separable in OSV and USV, the contribution by OSV is identified provided the USV distribution satisfies some distributional exclusion restrictions. Third, if data only report when an agreement is reached but never report the cake sizes, we propose a simple algorithm that exploits exogenously given shape restrictions on the cake function and the independence of USV from OSV to recover all rationalizable probabilities for reaching an agreement under counter-factual state transitions. Numerical examples show the set of rationalizable counterfactual outcomes so recovered can be informative.
Sudden death in the ed: Educating residents to compassionately inform families

We describe a program used in our emergency medicine residency to help teach residents new skills in interacting with survivors following a patient's sudden death in the emergency department. This teaching module requires about two and a half hours to complete. It includes a brief presentation of new skills, videotapes of family notification, resident role play experiences, and a summary. Trained volunteers are used as simulated survivors in the role plays. Although labor intensive and time consuming, the program offers educational advantages. The residents have an opportunity to practice their communication skills in a protected setting. In addition, they receive immediate and specific feedback from the faculty facilitator, fellow residents, and, most importantly, the simulated survivor. Following the role play sessions, residents feel they are more skillful in meeting survivors' needs.
Whole-lake addition of coarse woody habitat: response of fish populations

Lakeshore residential development (LRD) reduces coarse woody habitat (CWH) in lakes resulting in negative effects on fishes. We tested whether the addition of CWH could reverse those effects. We added CWH to Camp Lake, a lake with CWH abundances similar to developed lakes, following 2 years of study of the fish populations in the reference and treatment basins. Both basins were monitored for 4 years following the manipulation. Specifically, we tested for changes in the population dynamics (densities, size-structure, growth), diet, and behavior (habitat use) of bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus) and largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides). CWH addition had no discernible effect on fish population dynamics. Diet and behavioral responses were more pronounced in the treatment basin. Prey diversity and availability increased. Piscivory increased, with decreased reliance upon terrestrial prey, for largemouth bass. Habitat use was positively correlated with CWH branching complexity and abundance. Our study suggests that negative effects observed in fish populations through CWH reductions cannot be reversed in the short-term by adding CWH. We recommend that regulations governing the LRD process be protective of CWH.
Prevalence and Treatment of Mental Health and Substance Use Problems in the Early Emerging Adult Years in the United States: Findings From the 2010 National Survey on Drug Use and Health

Onset of most mental disorders occurs by the mid-20s, yet studies of mental health (MH) status are limited for younger adults (YAs) aged 18–25. The objectives were to determine YAs’ rates of MH and...
L-selectin-mediated neutrophil recruitment in experimental rodent aneurysm formation.

Background— This investigation tested the hypothesis that L-selectin is important in experimental abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) formation in rodents. Methods and Results— Rat abdominal aortas were perfused with saline (control) or porcine pancreatic elastase and studied on postperfusion days 1, 2, 4, 7, and 14 (n=5 per treatment group per day). Neutrophil (polymorphonucleur leukocyte, PMN) and macrophage counts per high-powered field (HPF) were performed on fixed sections. L-selectin expression and protein levels in aortic tissue were determined by polymerase chain reaction and Western blot, respectively. Elastase-perfused aortic diameters were significantly increased compared with control aortas at all time points except day 1 (P<0.05). PMN counts significantly increased in elastase-perfused aortas compared with control aortas at days 1, 2, and 4, reaching maximum levels at day 7 (40.8 versus 0.3 PMNs/HPF, P=0.001). L-selectin mRNA expression in elastase-perfused aortas was 18 (P=0.018), 17 (P<0.001), ...
The State in Early Modern France: Historical background: the growth of the French state to 1627

On the cover we see Henry IV, the last French king regularly to lead his cavalry charges, at the scene of one of his greatest triumphs, the battle of Arques in 1589. Henry and his forces wear the “modern” attire of light cavalry; his defeated opponents, led by the grandee duke of Mayenne, are dressed as heavily armored medieval knights. Here we have in a single visual image the traditional version of the evolution of the French state between the sixteenth century and the Revolution: the “modernizing” monarchy overcoming the “feudal,” backward nobility. As the painting suggests, some people (often in the pay of the king) promulgated this view as early as 1620 (the time of the painting). Generations of publicists and historians have worked very hard to maintain this image. They have often called this centralizing state the “absolute monarchy,” because, they argue, the king's ability to act had no legal barriers. The king did not have to give a reason for his decision; he had merely to state, in the final operative phrase of so many royal documents, “for such is our pleasure.” To these historians, the “absolute monarchy” is an historical stage of statebuilding between the “feudal” monarchy of the Middle Ages and the constitutional governments of the past two centuries. They argue that the “absolute monarchy” attempted, unsuccessfully, to modernize the state. In this absolutist construct, the “bourgeoisie” provided the monarchy with its chief ally against their common main opponent, the nobility.