cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Elevated Interleukin-6 and G-CSF in Human Pancreatic Cancer Cell Conditioned Medium Suppress Dendritic Cell Differentiation and Activation

Although dendritic cell (DC) function is impaired in pancreatic cancer patients, the underlying mechanisms are unknown. This study analyzed the soluble factors released by pancreatic cancer cells responsible for inhibiting DC differentiation and activation. Medium conditioned by a highly metastatic human pancreatic cancer cell line BxPC-3 [BxPC-3 conditioned medium (BxCM)] was mainly used for the study. Both CD34+ hematopoietic progenitor cell-derived and CD14+ monocyte-derived immature DCs and mature DCs (mDCs) were inhibited by BxCM. Allostimulation of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells by BxCM-treated mDCs was inefficient and resulted in production of lower levels of Th1 and Th2 cytokines. Antigen-specific T-cell activation capability was also reduced in BxCM-treated mDCs. Addition of exogenous interleukin-6 (IL-6) and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), which were present in high amounts in BxCM, mimicked the inhibitory effect of BxCM on DC differentiation and maturation. IL-6 was able to suppress DC differentiation and G-CSF mainly acted on the suppressing allostimulatory capacity of DCs. In addition, pancreatic cancer patient sera were able to inhibit DC differentiation of CD14+ monocytes obtained from healthy donors. Depleting IL-6 or G-CSF from BxCM could reverse the DC-inhibitory properties of BxCM. Furthermore, BxCM, IL-6, or G-CSF led to the activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) in CD14+ monocytes to different degrees. Blocking BxCM-induced STAT3 activation also reversed the inhibitory effect of BxCM on DC differentiation. Therefore, IL-6 and G-CSF in BxCM represent two main factors responsible for suppression of DC differentiation, maturation, and antigen presentation, and this suppression of DC functions may be due to the aberrant activation of STAT3 by BxCM.
Location services in WiMax networks

Location-based services have become a requisite feature for most wireless networks. There are two primary use cases: newer applications such as navigation, tracking of assets and personnel, and Points of Interest lookup, and emergency services (e.g., E911), where the user's location is reported to the public safety answering point from which emergency responders are dispatched. Within this space of applications, location accuracies ranging from less than 5 m to hundreds of meters may be acceptable, depending on the specific use case. This article presents the end-to-end framework for location-based services in WiMAX technology, including both the mobile managed location approach with minimal network support as well as different network managed location solutions with assistance from mobile stations.
Historical Priorities and the Responses of Doctors' Associations to Abortion Reform Proposals in Britain and the United States, 1960—1973

In the 1960s and early 1970s policy-makers in Britain and the United States considered proposals to make abortions more readily available. The main doctors associations in each country responded differently to these proposals. Doctors associations in both countries initially sought to preserve clinical autonomy by ensuring that doctors could continue to "diagnose" the "medical necessity" of abortions. However the American Medical Association (AMA) eventually changed its position to allow abortion on request. The study explains this difference by way of an "historical priorities" approach to analyzing the construction of collective political demands. It argues that "policy legacies" provide contexts in which collective actors prioritize among their policy desires. The study finds that because of differing health care policy legacies British doctors associations viewed abortion clinical autonomy as a higher priority than did the AMA. Moreover British doctors associations were most concerned about patient infringements on clinical autonomy while the AMA was equally concerned about state infringements on autonomy. (authors)
Production of Endothelin by Aortic Endothelial Cells is Age Dependent|[dagger]| 1075

Endothelin-1 (ET) is a potent vasoconstrictor produced by endothelial cells(ECs) in response to several stimuli, including hypoxia and ischemia. Pulmonary ECs increase ET production when exposed to hypoxia, a response which may contribute to the pathogenesis of neonatal pulmonary hypertension. Basal and stimulated production of ET by systemic arterial ECs is less well studied, especially during early postnatal life. We examined the rate of ET production by aortic ECs harvested from 3- and 35-day old swine. Cells were grown in primary culture until confluent and then made quiescent for 24h in serum-poor media. Cells were then placed into a conventional incubator (room air) and sampled for ET production 1, 6 and 18 hours later. ET was determined by RIA.Results: ECs derived from 3-day old subjects produced 63±16, 342±119, and 681±12 pg ET/mg protein at 1, 6 and 18 hours, whereas ECs derived from 35-day old subjects produced 58±23, 189±82, and 456±162 pg ET/mg protein at 1, 6, and 18 hours. The production rates at 6 and 18 hours were significantly greater in cell cultures derived from 3- than in 35-day old subjects (p<.01). In a second study, aortic ECs from 3- and 35-day old swine were cultured as before, but then placed into an anaerobic incubator (1% O2-5% CO2-bal N2, media pO2 25±2 mmHg). Cells remained viable in this environment, as determined by LDH assay and visual assessment. ET production was determined at 6 and 18 hours. Results: ECs derived from 3-day old swine produced 181±47 and 567±129 pg ET/mg protein at 6 and 18h under hypoxic conditions, whereas ECs derived from 35-day old swine produced 141±38 and 286± 92 pg ET/mg protein at 6 and 18h under hypoxic conditions. Production of ET during hypoxia was significantly less than under normoxic condtions, for both age groups at both time points (p<.01); also, the production rate at 18h was significantly greater in cells from younger subjects (p<.01). Conclusions: i) Basal production of ET is greater in aortic ECs derived from 3- than from 35-day old swine;ii) Unlike pulmonary ECs, production of ET by aortic ECsdecreases during hypoxia; ie., hypoxia is not a stimulus for ET production by these cells. This depressing effect is more pronounced in cells dervied from older than from younger subjects. Speculation: The more substantial production of ET by newborn endothelium may allow this constrictor peptide to participate in the creation of regional ischemia, a phenomenon especially common in preterm infants.
Uptake and Metabolism of Atrazine by Poplar Trees

Hybrid poplar trees can uptake, hydrolyze, and dealkylate atrazine to less toxic metabolites. In whole plant studies, the parent compound atrazine and 14C ring-labeled metabolites were extracted from poplar tissues and analyzed via high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) with UV and radiochromatographic detectors in series. The concurrent separation and identification of these metabolites has not been previously reported in higher plants for phytoremediation applications. Unidentified metabolites were also detected. Metabolism of atrazine occurred in poplar roots, stems, and leaves and became more complete with increased residence time in tissues. In poplar cuttings exposed to atrazine for 50 days, the parent compound comprised only 21% of the 14C label in the leaves, while it constituted 59% of 14C activity remaining in the soil. After 80 days, the parent compound remaining in the leaves had decreased to only 10% of the 14C label recovered in the leaves. Preferred metabolic pathways were suggested by ...
Wave generation from explosions in rock cavities

We have developed a measurement method to monitor P- and S-waves generated from laboratory-scale explosions in meter-sized rock samples at a series of stations, as well as invented a device to drill spherical cavities in rock, with diameters up to 10 centimeters. We applied these to experiments in Bedford limestone in which spherical/cylindrical explosives (0.2 to 1.9 g) were centrally placed in 1.2- to 3-cm diameter cavities. Stress waves generated by the explosions were recorded within a radius of 25 cm. The radial stress wave records and post-explosion studies demonstrate that S-waves are generated from explosions in cavities as a result of both wave mode-conversion from the cavity wall and crack propagation in rocks. The experimental results of wave generation from the explosions in spherical and cylindrical cavities demonstrate the cavity geometrical effect on the resulting wave pattern. The P- and S-waves generated by explosions and crack propagation in rocks are analyzed. A simple analytic model for P-wave generation is proposed to explain the differences of P-wave-induced displacement histories between the observed waveforms and those predicted by a step-pressure source. Generally, the qualitative predictions of this model fit the observations. The present results demonstrate the importance of rock cracking and cavities in P- and S-wave generation.
Computerized tomography in hemophiliacs with head trauma

Intracranial hemorrhage secondary to head trauma is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with bleeding disorders. Indications for head computerized tomographic scanning (CT scan) on patients with bleeding disorders who sustain head trauma are not well established. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records and head CT scan results of 21 patients with bleeding disorders. Five patients had more than one episode of head trauma. The severity of head trauma per episode was classified according to objective clinical findings as minor in 12 episodes, moderate in 12, and severe in four. In three of four patients with severe head trauma, the CT scan showed evidence of intracranial hemorrhage. In this series, all 17 patients with 24 episodes of moderate or minor head trauma had normal head CT scans. We conclude that a larger prospective study is needed to further evaluate the diagnostic value of head CT scan in hemophilia patients with minor or moderate head trauma, as defined in this study.
Impact and clinical significance of recurrent venous thromboembolism.

Background: The purpose of this review was to analyse current knowledge and controversies associated with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of recurrent venous thromboembolism (VTE). Methods: MEDLINE and manual searches were performed to select prospective papers on the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of recurrent VTE for their relevance and quality. Results: The cumulative incidence of recurrent VTE increases from 11 per cent at 1 year to 40 per cent at 10 years. The incidence of recurrence is higher in unprovoked thrombosis compared with provoked VTE. Patients with unprovoked deep vein thrombosis also have a greater number of multiple recurrences. Ultrasonography or D-dimer monitoring may have an impact on the duration of anticoagulation but further refinements are needed. The incidence of skin damage is higher in ipsilateral recurrence compared with contralateral or no recurrence. Legs with ipsilateral recurrence more often have both reflux and obstruction. Conclusion: The role and weight of the predictive factors for recurrent VTE and its sequelae, and the type and optimal duration of anticoagulation have not been studied adequately. Fatality associated with pulmonary embolism and rates of recurrent VTE remain unacceptably high. Copyright © 2010 British Journal of Surgery Society Ltd. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Aerobic fitness: I. Response of volume regulating hormones to head-down tilt.

We investigated the relationship of aerobic fitness to the response of volume-regulating hormones to acute simulated microgravity. Six untrained (UT) and six endurance-trained (ET) healthy young males were studied in the head-down tilt (HDT) position of -6 degrees for 4 h. Peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) and plasma volume (PV) were significantly greater in the ET (VO2peak = 61.7 +/- 1.6 ml.min-1.kg-1 and PV = 53.1 +/- 2.8 ml.kg-1) than in the UT (VO2peak = 38.4 +/- 1.7 ml.min-1.kg-1 and PV = 38.8 +/- 1.0 ml.kg-1). Plasma concentrations of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), arginine vasopressin (AVP), norepinephrine (NE), renin activity (PRA), and aldosterone (PA) were measured prior to HDT and at minutes 2, 5, 15, 30, 60, 120, 180, and 240 during HDT. PRA and PA significantly decreased during the time of HDT in both groups. The changes in ANP and NE concentrations were not significantly different between the groups nor across time. However, in the ET subjects, the changes in PRA and NE were significantly correlated with the changes in ANP (r = 0.49, P less than 0.01; and r = 0.86, P less than 0.001, respectively); in the UT subjects, the changes in AVP, PRA, and PA were significantly associated with changes in NE (r = 0.34, P less than 0.03; and r = 0.59; and r = 0.53, P less than 0.01, respectively). PV significantly decreased during HDT, and was primarily related to the decrease in PA in both groups.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
The impact of surface mine reclamation on headwater streams in Southwest Virginia

Recovery of headwater streams following the cessation of mining and the application of terrestrial (vegetative) reclamation techniques was assessed by comparison of water quality and aquatic biota in two such systems (reclaimed four to seven years) with that of an unimpacted stream and of streams draining mine areas which were abandoned without reclamation. Alkalinity, hardness, sulfate, and conductivity were elevated in the reclaimed mine streams as were fine-particle suspended solids and sediment. Overall water quality was comparable to streams draining unreclaimed lands. Benthic invertebrate and fish populations were significantly lower in abundance in the reclaimed mine streams than in the reference stream and showed less taxonomic richness and stability; they were similar in these respects to the biota of the unreclaimed mine streams. Continued sedimentation from mined areas and haul roads affected stream habitat and appeared to be the major factor limiting biotic recovery. These findings emphasize that terrestrial reclamation does not assure lotic restoration. Water quality criteria merit consideration in the refinement of reclamation procedures for mined lands.
Characterization of large area devices by an improved constant capacitance voltage transient technique

Abstract By introducing simple modifications in circuit design and in data analysis methods, we established an improved constant capacitance voltage transient (CCVT) measurement system which is very convenient for studying the imperfection properties of large area devices. Using an array of diodes as sensors, the CCVT system can measure the two-dimensional distribution of the dopant, the bulk imperfections and the heterojunction interface states of large area devices with high speed and high sensitivity.
Identification of a Second Transforming Function in Bovine Papillomavirus Type 1 E6 and the Role of E6 Interactions with Paxillin, E6BP, and E6AP

Papillomavirus E6 oncoproteins transform mammalian cells through interaction with cellular proteins. Bovine papillomavirus type 1 E6 (BE6) interacts with three previously described cellular targets: the E6AP E3 ubiquitin ligase, the calcium-binding protein E6BP (also known as ERC-55), and paxillin, which is a focal adhesion adapter protein. BE6 interacts strongly with each of these proteins in vitro, binding to similar peptide sequences found in E6AP, E6BP, and paxillin. To determine which BE6 interactions are necessary for transformation by BE6, we used a novel selection strategy for temperature-sensitive BE6 mutants in yeast that could discriminate in their interaction between E6AP, E6BP, and paxillin. All BE6 mutants that retained transforming ability retained association with paxillin, while some mutants that were transformation positive failed to interact with E6AP or E6BP. This study demonstrates that oncogene mutants that are temperature sensitive for transformation can be selected in yeast and that the induction of anchorage-independent cell proliferation by BE6 does not require strong association of BE6 with either E6AP or E6BP. Of particular interest is the identification of a BE6 mutant that interacts strongly with the acidic charged leucine motifs of E6AP, E6BP, and paxillin but is devoid of transformation activity, thereby genetically identifying a second essential transformation function in BE6 that is independent of interaction with acidic charged leucine motifs.
All-glass open-split interface for capillary GC/MS

This paper describes a design for an all-glass GC/MS interface. The design has advantages due to low dead volume, lack of column effluent adsorption and degradation, simple interface production and installation, and ease of column mounting/dismounting.
In vivo proton electron double resonance imaging of mice with fast spin echo pulse sequence.

Purpose: To develop and evaluate a two-dimensional (2D) fast spin echo (FSE) pulse sequence for enhancing temporal resolution and reducing tissue heating for in vivo proton electron double resonance imaging (PEDRI) of mice. Materials and Methods: A four-compartment phantom containing 2 mM TEMPONE was imaged at 20.1 mT using 2D FSE-PEDRI and regular gradient echo (GRE)-PEDRI pulse sequences. Control mice were infused with TEMPONE over ∼1 min followed by time-course imaging using the 2D FSE-PEDRI sequence at intervals of 10–30 s between image acquisitions. The average signal intensity from the time-course images was analyzed using a first-order kinetics model. Results: Phantom experiments demonstrated that EPR power deposition can be greatly reduced using the FSE-PEDRI pulse sequence compared with the conventional gradient echo pulse sequence. High temporal resolution was achieved at ∼4 s per image acquisition using the FSE-PEDRI sequence with a good image SNR in the range of 233–266 in the phantom study. The TEMPONE half-life measured in vivo was ∼72 s. Conclusion: Thus, the FSE-PEDRI pulse sequence enables fast in vivo functional imaging of free radical probes in small animals greatly reducing EPR irradiation time with decreased power deposition and provides increased temporal resolution. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2012;471-475. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
House Lab: The House as Instigator of Full-Scale Constructions

The house as a container for our personal possessions is a type of architecture that we encounter on a daily basis. The possessions change over time reflecting our personal changes, yet the house o...
Case report 798

In summary, this is a case of recurrent CMF in soft tissue, 17 years after the diagnosis of the initial lesion. The literature concerning this entity is reviewed and the histological and radiological patterns are considered. The causative factors are evaluated and the prognosis is discussed.
TEST ANXIETY IN COLLEGE STUDENTS: A REVIEW OF THE RECENT RESEARCH AND AN ENDORSEMENT OF A MULTIMODAL APPROACH

This article reviews the major research done between 1984‐1989 on test anxiety in college students. Cognitive studies suggesting that the problem may lie in a student's inability to effectively org...
The carcinoembryonic antigen assay: Prognostic value in neural crest tumors.

Summary Plasma carcinoembryonic antigen levels were measured before and after treatment in 14 children with histologically proved neural crest tumors. All eight children with a pretreatment CEA value below 4.0 ng/ml had long-term survival without evidence of tumor recurrence. Six patients had values of 4.0 ng/ml or above-the three who appear cured showed follow-up values in the normal range and the three who died had persistently elevated levels. We conclude from these data that: (1) slight but definite elevations in plasma CEA can be expected in most infants and children with neural crest tumors-an interesting biologic note; (2) the test adds little to currently available methods of early diagnosis; and (3) the assay may have value in monitoring response to therapy; our data suggest that values below 4.0 ng/ml are associated with a good outcome whereas values above this level call for a guarded prognosis.
How Prosody Influences Sentence Comprehension

Prosody, or the tune and rhythm of speech, affects the interpretation and comprehension of sentences. This article first summarizes the prosodic system of English and then reviews research on how prosodic boundaries and pitch accents affect sentence processing. In general, prosodic boundaries usually influence attachment decisions, as they are seen to reflect syntactic structure, while pitch accents relate to the focus and information structure of a sentence. However, neither mapping is simple, because multiple prosodic contours are possible for any particular sentence. Prosody tends to be influential rather than decisive in resolving syntactic ambiguity.
Electronic Properties of Ca Doped LaFeO 3 : A First-Principles Study

Abstract Acceptor doping of oxides generally results in the formation of charge-compensating oxygen vacancies, leading to enhanced ionic conductivity. Ca-doped LaFeO3 is one such example which has been considered for use in cathode materials of solid oxide fuel cells. In the present work, we determine the structural, electronic, and magnetic properties of individual intrinsic and extrinsic point defects and defect clusters in Ca-doped LaFeO3. We find that the concentration of oxygen vacancies can increase through the formation of dopant-vacancy clusters. Oxygen vacancy concentration will influence the diffusivity of oxygen which in La-based perovskites is shown to be governed by the oxygen vacancy concentration. We also calculate the interaction between dopant ion and oxygen vacancies and find that oxygen vacancies will not be trapped by the dopant species as found in other oxide materials. These findings suggest an enhanced conductivity of oxygen in LaFeO3 under Ca doping.
Fully automatic two dimensional mesh generation using normal offsetting

A technique, based on a normal offsetting procedure, for the fully automatic generation of two dimensional meshes suitable for finite element analysis is presented. The method positions nodes by first meshing the geometric entities that compose the object boundary, then offsetting those nodal locations along vectors normal to the boundary geometry. The offset row of nodes is processed to ensure a good nodal spacing appropriate for generating well shaped elements. Following processing, the new row is offset again and the cycle is repeated until the entire area is filled with nodes. The boundary based technique ensures good quality element shapes for analysis in critical boundary regions and facilitates applications involving integration of mesh generation with design geometry databases. Nodal locations are calculated based on local parameters avoiding the higher order time complexities associated with global calculations. A technique for controlling mesh density by overlaying an independent mesh density function on the geometry is also presented as part of the method. This approach allows mesh density to be automatically controlled by a variety of factors, such as previous analysis results, that are external to the actual mesh generation process. The independent nature of the function method allows different sources of density information to be used interchangeably without modification to the mesh generation procedure.
TU‐A‐BRA‐01: EPID, MVCT

The Mega‐Voltage Cone‐Beam CT (MVCBCT) system provides a 3D image of the patient anatomy in the actual treatment position that can be tightly aligned to the planning CT, allowing daily verification and correction of the patient position moments before the dose delivery. Integrated onto a linear accelerator, the system consists of a new a‐Si flat panel adapted for MV imaging and a workflow application allowing the automatic acquisition of projection images at low dose rate, CBCTimage reconstruction,CT to CBCTimage registration and couch position adjustment. MVCBCT provides accurate electron density and allows studies of dosimetrical impact of setup error, anatomical changes or in presence of implanted metallic objects. This lecture will provide an overview of the physics characteristics of MV and MV CBCTimaging, acquisition and reconstruction,image registration, alignment precision and quality assurance procedures. A description of the workflow and a survey of the clinical applications, indications and protocols will be presented. Finally, current challenges and future developments will be addressed. Educational objectives 1. Understand the basics of MV Cone‐Beam CTimaging. 2. Understand the possibilities of daily 3D Imaging for patient alignment and other applications. 3. Understand the clinical roles of Image‐Guided(IGRT) and Dose‐ Guided (DGRT) Radiation Therapy. This work was supported by Siemens Oncology Care Systems.
Analysis of l-glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase mutants in Drosophila melanogaster: complementation for intracellular degradation of the mutant polypeptide.

Null and low activity alleles at the genetic locus coding for L-Glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (alpha-GPDH, NAD+ oxidoreductase, E.C. 1.1.1.8) in Drosophila melanogaster have been analyzed by a combination of rocket immunoelectrophoresis, interallelic complementation, and two-dimensional gel electrophoresis. In addition to proving information on the molecular weight, charged state, and steady state level of CRM in each of these mutants, it is suggested that each mutation has resulted in a genetic lesion within the structural element, Gpdh+. CRM levels appear to be the result of differential sensitivity to the normal intracellular degradative process and the CRM- mutants represent "hypersensitive" alleles, such that the mutant polypeptide does not accumulate in the intracellular environment.
Microwave-driven coherent operation of a semiconductor quantum dot charge qubit

An intuitive realization of a qubit is an electron charge at two well-defined positions of a double quantum dot. This qubit is simple and has the potential for high-speed operation because of its strong coupling to electric fields. However, charge noise also couples strongly to this qubit, resulting in rapid dephasing at all but one special operating point called the 'sweet spot'. In previous studies d.c. voltage pulses have been used to manipulate semiconductor charge qubits but did not achieve high-fidelity control, because d.c. gating requires excursions away from the sweet spot. Here, by using resonant a.c. microwave driving we achieve fast (greater than gigahertz) and universal single qubit rotations of a semiconductor charge qubit. The Z-axis rotations of the qubit are well protected at the sweet spot, and we demonstrate the same protection for rotations about arbitrary axes in the X-Y plane of the qubit Bloch sphere. We characterize the qubit operation using two tomographic approaches: standard process tomography and gate set tomography. Both methods consistently yield process fidelities greater than 86% with respect to a universal set of unitary single-qubit operations.
Factor structure comparison of occupational needs and reinforcers

Abstract The factor structures of the Minnesota Importance Questionnaire (MIQ) and the Minnesota Job Description Questionnaire (MJDQ) for a public school teacher sample ( n = 189) were investigated. For both instruments, a three-factor solution was extracted. For the MIQ, the factors were interpreted as autonomy-achievement, environmental reinforcement-aggrandizement, and safety. For the MJDQ, the factors were identified as reinforcement from self, reinforcement from environment/organization, and autonomy-security. Although there were similarities in the factors, completely parallel factor structures were not obtained.
Signal transduction-mediated regulation of urokinase gene expression in human prostate cancer.

Urokinase-type plasminogen activator (u-PA) contributes to tumor progression in prostate cancer (CaP). We have previously shown that u-PA expression is upregulated through the AP-1 and PEA3 sites and repressed by androgen. However, signaling pathways mediating u-PA gene expression in CaP are not delineated. We hypothesized that MAPK pathways mediate u-PA in CaP, and thereby studied specific ERK, JNK, and P38-MAPK pathway mutant constructs and inhibitors in vitro. Human, androgen insensitive CaP PC3 cells stably transfected with the androgen receptor expression vector and vector alone were used. A u-PA promoter CAT vector transiently expressed with dominant negative mutant signaling constructs was studied. All mutants drastically reduced u-PA promoter activity. Furthermore, inhibition of PI3K, an upstream regulator in the JNK/SAPK pathway, decreased u-PA promoter transcription. Collectively, these results show that MAPK pathways ERK, JNK/SAPK, and P38-MAPK represent a significant component in the regulation of u-PA expression in human CaP.
Age matters: How developmental stages of adulthood affect customer reaction to complaint handling efforts

This research examines how age moderates the impact of justice perception (i.e., distributive, procedural, and interactional justice) on post-complaint satisfaction. By tracking the three justice dimensions' effect sizes across different ages, we identify four developmental stages of adulthood, which are separated by five-year transition periods. The stages are young (18–27 years of age), early (33–43), middle (49–57), and late adulthood (≥63). The moderation results show that the impact of distributive justice on satisfaction peaks in middle adulthood and the effect of procedural justice in early adulthood. Finally, the effect of interactional justice dips in early adulthood. Managerial and theoretical implications are discussed.
Nonlinear state-observer design with application to reactors

Abstract This article concerns the problem of nonlinear state-observer design. It presents a reduced-order nonlinear observer design approach, which allows adjustment of the rate of the decay of observer error and is easy to use. Furthermore, in many chemical engineering cases, it is straightforward to prove analytically that the observer-error dynamics are globally asymptotically stable. Several classes of reactors (classical chemical reactors, free-radical polymerization reactors, and bio-reactors) are considered to illustrate the application of the observer design approach. The global asymptotic stability of the observer-error dynamics is proved for each class of the processes. For many of these processes, this study presents the first observer with an analytically proven global convergence.
A Comparison of Language Functions Used By Normal Male and Female Pre-School Children in a Structured Setting:

The present study investigated the use of language functions within a structured clinical setting. Subjects were 30 male and 30 female normal pre-school children. Findings revealed 1) a decrease in the inappropriate responses used by children with an increase in age, 2) inappropriate responses occurring primarily in the same categories across age levels regardless of sex and 3) generally males exhibiting a higher proportion of inappropriate responses. Findings are discussed relative to patterns of pragmatic language development as a function of age and sex.
Angular Momentum Distributions in the Thomas-Fermi-Dirac Model of the Atom

According to the Thomas-Fermi and the Thomas-Fermi-Dirac models of the atom, the electrons in an atom of a given $Z$ have a given continuous distribution in angular momentum. Therefore, the question of how many $s$, $p$, $d$, or $f$ electrons are to be found in an atom of a given $Z$ cannot be answered by the statistical model as it stands. However, this question can be answered by assigning all the electrons which have values of angular momentum within a certain interval to a definite angular momentum quantum number $l$. There is, of course, some arbitrariness involved in selecting the method of angular momentum assignment. Fermi first calculated a set of curves for the numbers $\ensuremath{\nu}(l, Z)$ of $s$, $p$, $d$, and $f$ electrons in an atom as a function of $Z$ on the basis of a particular angular momentum assignment, and using the Thomas-Fermi statistical theory. Since the completion of Fermi's work, Dirac has modified the Thomas-Fermi theory to include the exchange effects of the electrons. In the present work, curves for $\ensuremath{\nu}(l, Z)$ have been calculated on the basis of the Thomas-Fermi-Dirac theory in order to investigate the effect on such curves of the exchange interaction between the electrons. Complete sets of curves have been found using the angular momentum assignment proposed by Fermi, and also using an angular momentum assignment proposed later by Jensen and Luttinger. Some isolated points on the $\ensuremath{\nu}(l, Z)$ curve have been plotted using a third angular momentum assignment. On the basis of the analysis of the graphs so obtained and their comparison with the empirical data, it is concluded that the exchange effects are not negligible for this calculation, that no simple angular momentum assignment such as the ones proposed by Fermi and by Jensen and Luttinger agrees well with the theory, and that it is probably possible by sufficient juggling to find an angular momentum assignment which would fit the empirical data reasonably well.
Theory and observations of Alfve´n solitons in the finite beta magnetospheric plasma

Abstract A nonlinear Schrodinger equation which governs the nonlinear evolution of Alfven wave in a hot, two-fluid plasma, is derived by using a modified version of reductive perturbation theory. The effect of coupling with the density fluctuation is taken into account in the calculation of nonlinear frequency shift. The theory is applied to explain recent observations of the solitary Alfven waves in space plasma. For the observational analysis, an extensive search was conducted by analyzing magnetic field data from geostationary satellites GOES 2, 3, and 5 in the earth's magnetosphere at 6.6 earth radii. In data covering a period of August 1979–January 1984, we have found occurrence of 292 solitary wave events. Out of these events, 108 events are classified as Alfvenic solitons (perturbations perpendicular to the ambient field) and 184 mixed mode solitons (perturbations perpendicular and parallel to the ambient field.) No event for compressional mode soliton was found. We believe, this is the first time, such analysis and observations of solitary waves in space plasma have been performed. A statistical analysis has been carried out to compare the results of theory and observations. A range of unstable wave numbers has been determined for the Alfvenic soliton in the magnetosphere.
Optimal Policies and Approximations for a Bayesian Linear Regression Inventory Model

In this paper, we consider a periodic review inventory problem where demand in each period is modeled by linear regression. We use a Bayesian formulation to update the regression parameters as new information becomes available. We find that a state-dependent base-stock policy is optimal and we give structural results. One interesting finding is that our structural results are not analogous to classical results in Bayesian inventory research. This departure from classical results is due to the role that the independent variables play in the Bayesian regression formulation. Because of the computational complexity of the optimal policy, we propose a combination of two heuristics that simplifies the Bayesian inventory problem. Through analytical and numerical evaluation, we find that the heuristics provide near-optimal results.
Enantioselective Inhibition of Squalene Synthase by Aziridine Analogues of Presqualene Diphosphate

Squalene synthase catalyzes the conversion of two molecules of (E,E)-farnesyl diphosphate to squalene via the cyclopropylcarbinyl intermediate, presqualene diphosphate (PSPP). Since this novel reaction constitutes the first committed step in sterol biosynthesis, there has been considerable interest and research on the stereochemistry and mechanism of the process and in the design of selective inhibitors of the enzyme. This paper reports the synthesis and characterization of five racemic and two enantiopure aziridine analogues of PSPP and the evaluation of their potencies as inhibitors of recombinant yeast squalene synthase. The key aziridine-2-methanol intermediates (6-OH, 7-OH, and 8-OH) were obtained by N-alkylations or by an N-acylation−reduction sequence of (±)-, (2R,3S)-, and (2S,3R)-2,3-aziridinofarnesol (9-OH) protected as tert-butyldimethylsilyl ethers. SN2 displacements of the corresponding methanesulfonates with pyrophosphate and methanediphosphonate anions afforded aziridine 2-methyl diphosphat...
Two independent indices of activation.

Abstract Two indices of “activation”, Wenger's estimate of relative autonomic balance (Ā) and per cent-time alpha, were obtained from 42 male undergraduate subjects. No correlation was found between them. The indices were judged to measure independent functions, and it was concluded that a general “activation” theory of emotions is not yet justified.
Microstructure and environmental resistance of low Cr ODS FeCrAl

AbstractThree oxide dispersion strengthened (ODS) Fe–12 wt-%Cr–5 wt-%Al (12 at-%Cr–9·7 at-%Al) alloys were mechanically alloyed with different oxide additions: (1) Y2O3, (2) Y2O3+HfO2 and (3) Y2O3+ZrO2. The as extruded microstructure was characterised including the oxide particle composition and size distribution. The 700°C Pb–Li compatibility was evaluated for a fusion energy application and the steam oxidation resistance at 1200°C and higher temperatures was evaluated for a nuclear accident tolerant fuel cladding application. The alloy prepared with only a Y2O3 addition contained some low Al regions and did not perform well, but provided a baseline for comparison. The other alloys contained sufficient Cr and Al to form a protective LiAlO2 surface oxide, which inhibits dissolution in isothermal Pb–Li. Also, a protective α-Al2O3 scale formed in steam oxidation at 1200°C, similar to the scale formed in dry air at 1200°C. For the alloy with HfO2, the scale remained protective to 1475°C in steam.
Viral RNA testing in hepatitis C antibody-positive veterans.

Background Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection affects approximately 1.3% of the U.S. population. As up to 30% of HCV-antibody (anti-HCV)–positive patients have negative HCV ribonucleic acid (RNA), indicating resolution of infection, VA (Veterans Affairs) guidelines recommend RNA testing on all anti-HCV–positive patients. As HCV RNA testing is a prequel to treatment, perceived eligibility for treatment may influence the decision to order an RNA test. This study was designed to determine the patient and healthcare facility factors associated with patient receipt of HCV RNA testing. Methods Two logistic regression analyses were conducted in anti-HCV–positive patients, including the entire sample and then on a subsample excluding sites with routine HCV RNA testing policies, using data stored in the VA Southern California Network data warehouse. Significant patient- and site-level predictors of patient receipt of HCV RNA testing were determined. Results Of the 13,257 antibody-positive patients, 76% received HCV RNA testing. Excluding sites with routine HCV RNA testing, patients aged >65 years (RR=0.79) and illicit drug users (RR=0.94) were significantly less likely to receive HCV RNA testing. Patients with abnormal transaminases (RR=1.14), presence of non-HCV hepatitis (RR=1.08), or decompensated liver disease (RR=1.22) were significantly more likely to receive HCV RNA testing. Conclusions Without policies for routine RNA testing, patients with hepatitic C who either are aged >65 years or are illicit drug users are less likely to be tested. Also, patient receipt of RNA testing becomes dependent on clinical cues of hepatic decompensation or inflammation. The results support the implementation of routine RNA testing for anti-HCV–positive patients.
Spin assignments in 61Ni from the 60Ni(d, p)61Ni reaction

Abstract Angular distributions of vector analyzing power and differential cross sections were measured for the 60 Ni(d, p) 61 Ni reaction at a deuteron energy of 10 MeV. The observed j - dependence of the vector analyzing power allowed unambiguous spin assignments for the fol- lowing states in 61 Ni (excitation energies in MeV): 0.0, 3 2 − ; 0.068, 5 2 − ; 0.284, 1 2 − ; 1.186, 3 2 − ; 2.701, 5 2 + . A definitive assignment of 1 2 − is made to that member of an unresolved doublet at 2.123 MeV which proceeds by l n = 1 transfer. An assignment of 9 2 + is indicated for the member of the doublet which proceeds by l n = 4 transfer. Most of the data are well reproduced by DWBA calculations employing available deuteron and proton optical model parameters. The behavior of the vector analyzing power for the two low lying 61 Ni states formed by l n = 1 transfer was measured for angles from 2.5° to 15° using a magnetic spectrograph and found to be in agreement with DWBA predictions.
On the decarboxylation of oxalic acid in solutions

The first-order kinetics and hydrogen kinetic isotope effect of the decarboxylation of oxalic acid in acetophenone were studied in the temperature range of 109.6°–150.0°C. The rate constants, activation parameters, and hydrogen kinetic isotope effect were calculated. Detailed comparison and discussion of the results were made with the data reported in the literature. Kinetic isotope effects and solvent effects on rates should be considered similar in mechanistic and/or theoretical studies in the sense that kinetic isotope effects result from a small perturbation of the reaction coordinate, while the solvent effect causes a general overall variation on the potential energy surface (thereby resulting in a change in the reaction coordinate).
Extreme radiation damage in soil from Mare Fecunditatis

High-voltage electron microscopy has been used to compare radiation effects in micron-size soil grains from the Luna 16 site (Mare Fecunditatis) and the four Apollo landing sites. Radiation damage by heavy solar particles is strikingly greater in the Luna 16 sample than in the other four samples. It is suggested that less movement of the soil at Mare Fecunditatis has taken place, perhaps because of its proximity to the limb and consequent lower exposure to energetic electrons in the earth's magnetospheric tail, which would cause electrostatic agitation of fine particles.
Single crystal preparation and characterization of the group VA metal hydrides and deuterides

Abstract Single crystals of the Group VA (vanadium group) hydrides and deuterides were prepared. The quality of the specimens, as assessed by X-ray and neutron diffraction techniques, was usually sufficient for detailed structural analyses; these are currently in progress. It was noted in many cases that the single-crystal hydride (deuteride) could be cycled through the α′-δ (or β) phase transition without a deterioration in crystal quality. In one case a single-domain single crystal of TaD 0.79 (δ phase) was successfully produced.
Safety and efficacy comparison of two dosing regimens of MetroGel-Vaginal® in the treatment of bacterial vaginosis: a multicenter, randomized, single-blind, parallel comparison

Objective: To compare the safety and efficacy of 0.75% metronidazole vaginal gel (MGV) administered QD for 5 days to MGV administered BID for 5 days for the treatment of bacterial vaginosis (BV).Methods: Nonpregnant women 18 years or older with a diagnosis of BV were enrolled into this trial. Patients were determined to have BV if their vaginal discharge had >/=20% clue cells and if they had at least 2 of the following criteria: homogeneous discharge, positive KOH amine odor test, or vaginal pH >/=4.7. In addition, microbiologic confirmation of BV at baseline was required to be evaluable. Patients were evaluated at baseline and at 7-12 days after completion of therapy. If patients remained free of BV after therapy, they were evaluated at a follow-up visit 28-35 days after therapy.Results: A total of 514 patients were enrolled in the trial; 252 in the QD treatment group and 262 in the BID treatment group. Clinical cure rates based on patients considered evaluable at first return visits were 77% and 80% for QD and BID dosing regimens, respectively. Clinical cure rates based on patients considered evaluable at the final visit were 58% and 61% for QD and BID dosing regimens, respectively. Clinical cure rates at the final return visit based on intent-to-treat analysis were 53% and 57% for the QD and BID regimens, respectively. Two adverse events in two patients were reported as serious. Both adverse events resolved and neither event was judged to be related to therapy.Conclusion: MetroGel-Vaginal administered QD for 5 days was found to be as effective as MetroGel-Vaginal administered BID for 5 days in the treatment of bacterial vaginosis 28-35 days after therapy. The number of patients reporting adverse events judged to be related to therapy was also statistically comparable in both treatment groups.
Bubble lodging in bifurcating microvessel networks: a microfluidic model

Lodging of cardiovascular gas bubbles is investigated in a microfluidic model of small arteriole bifurcations. These experiments address the dynamics of the lodging mechanism of gas bubbles in bifurcations. This work is motivated by a novel gas embolotherapy technique for the potential treatment of cancer by tumor infarction. The experimental model arteriole bifurcations were constructed from a transparent elastomer (polydimethylsiloxane). A single air bubble was suspended in water within the parent tube of the bifurcation and a specified driving pressure was imposed via constant elevation reservoirs that were open to atmospheric pressure. The driving pressure and bubble size were varied, and their effects on the bubble lodging were assessed. The results show that the pressure to lodge a bubble in a bifurcation is less than to dislodge it. It was also possible to occlude an entire bifurcation and multiple bifurcation devices with bubbles. Splitting ratios were assessed in the range of lodging to dislodging pressure where we observed an instability in bubble splitting. From the results we estimate that gas bubbles from embolotherapy can lodge in vessels 21 mum or smaller in diameter. These findings may be useful in developing strategies for microbubble delivery in gas embolotherapy
Modulation of protein structure and function by asparagine-linked glycosylation

In eukaryotic cells, many enzymes are devoted to the construction of the complex glycan structures that decorate secreted and cell-surface proteins. Recent studies have begun to elucidate the effects of asparagine-linked glycosylation on protein folding and on the structure and function of mature glycoproteins.
Fractionated dose radiotherapy and its relationship to survival curve shape

Summary The radiobiology fundamental to rational radiotherapy is a developing, enlarging subject. This was emphasized once again by the 6th L. H. Gray Conference (London, 16–20 September 1974); a Conference addressed to the relevance of the initial part of the clonogenic and/or stem cell survival curves to the total doses and fractionation regimens required for effective radiotherapy. To indicate why the conferees focused on the initial shape of the single-cell survival curve, the essential biophysics and cell biology are reviewed from which important implications for radiotherapy can be derived. The data presented at the Conference are summarized and make it clear that generalizations relative to survival curve shape are not possible. In addition, examples are developed indicating where and how other factors may be critical to the effectiveness of fractionation. Although definitive answers were few, the 6th L. H. Gray Conference served to identify a number of points of growth needed to improve the applicability of radiobiology to radiotherapy.
On inversion of hermitian block toeplitz matrices

A formula for the inverse of a hermitian block Toeplitz matrix via solutions of two block equations(instead of four in the general case) is given.