cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Direct and indirect stimulus-frequency effects in recognition.

Subsequent recognition of stimuli perceived in a given situation was studied in relation to stimulus familiarity as determined by frequency in observers' prior experience. To distinguish direct and indirect frequency effects, on the basis of selective memory retrieval and selective attention during learning, respectively, rigorous controls were imposed on stimulus rehearsability and learning conditions. As predicted by a global memory model, both hits and false alarms on recognition tests increased as a function of prior frequency in a concordant pattern that indicates a direct effect, in contrast with the usual indirect effect of varying normative word frequency. Understanding the role of experiential stimulus frequency in recognition may further the interpretation of research in such paradigms as eyewitness testimony. In this study we address the issue of how recognition of an object or event that an individual has observed in some situation depends on its familiarity. Although familiarity has other meanings, we use the term here to denote a property of a stimulus that is determined by its frequency of occurrence in the individual's prior experience. For a much-investigated everyday-life situation in which the issue might arise, consider eyewitness testimony. Witnesses present at the scene of a crime or an accident are later given recognition tests in which they are asked to judge whether a target person was present at the scene. However, none of the voluminous research on the eyewitness problem (Loftus, 1979, 1992; Loftus & Hoffman, 1989) has been designed to answer the question we raise as to whether witnesses' familiarity with the target as a consequence of preceding experiences (personal encounters, news photos, or whatever) will influence the accuracy of such judgments. In a quite different context, a large body of research on so-called word-frequency effects in recognition has been taken to indicate that rare words are more memorable (recognizable) than common words (Kinsboume & George, 1974; Murdock, 1974, p. 64; Shepard, 1967). However, the relevance of that research to the broad issue of familiarity effects depends on the generalizability of the findings to stimulus domains other than words, a matter that receives close attention in this article.
Stereoelectronic Effects and Gas-phase Affinities of Dicoordinated Borinium Cations

The relative affinities of the borinium cations (CH 3 O) 2 B + and CH 3 OB + H towards pyridines were determined by the kinetic method using a pentaquadrupole mass spectrometer and the absolute affinities of these ions towards pyridine itself were estimated with the aid of ab initio calculations at the MP2/6-31G(d,p)//6-31G(d,p) level to be 75.7 and 82.2 kcal mol -l , respectively (1 kcal = 4.184 kJ). The affinities were found to correlate linearly with the proton affinities of the meta- and para-substituted pyridines, but steric effects decrease the affinities for ortho-substituted pyridines. A set of gas-phase stereoelectronic parameters (s k ) for these isomers was measured from the deviation of the value of the logarithm of the experimentally measured ion abundance ratio from the regression line established for meta- and para-substituted pyridines. The S k value of 2,6-dimethylpyridine with (CH 3 O) 2 B + is smaller than that for other dimethylpyridines, owing to the stabilizing effects of auxiliary hydrogen bonding interactions between one hydrogen of each of the ortho-methyl substituents and the two oxygens of the (CH 3 0) 2 B + ion. The dimethoxy boron cation (CH 3 O) 2 B + is shown to have smaller steric effects than CH 3 OB + H, even though the former ion has two bulky methoxy groups. This is ascribed to the relatively longer B-N bond in (CH 3 O) 2 B + -Py as a result of reduced charge density on the boron atom due to resonance stabilization within the dimethoxy boron cation.
Exhaust tuning of large-bore, multicylinder, two-stroke, natural gas engines

AbstractIn this paper, computational modelling of the exhaust system of two types of large-bore, multicylinder, two-stroke engine is performed. The airflow performance of a four-cylinder V-bank Cooper GMV-4TF engine and a six-cylinder in-line Clark TLA engine is simulated. The simulation includes the computation of pressure wave propagation in the exhaust manifold. Using a modified method of the steepest ascent numerical technique, tuned exhaust manifolds are designed for each engine with the objective of reduced NO emissions. The NO reduction is accomplished by increasing the trapped cylinder mass and correspondingly reducing the peak combustion temperature. The simulations predict NO reductions in the range 10–30 per cent as a result of exhaust tuning.
Intramolecular B−H Bond Activation from a Dihydridobis(dimethylpyrazolyl)borate Ligand: Formation of a Rhodium(III) Carbene Hydride and a Rare Example of Reverse α-Hydride Migration

The new complex BpMe2Rh(CO)(pyridine) (1) has been prepared and reacts with CH3I to yield the novel Rh carbene hydride complex (3), resulting from formal addition of CH3I across the Rh−C bond concomitant with hydride transfer from B to Rh. Thermolysis of 3 induces migration of the Rh hydride to the α-carbon to give (6), and a crossover study supports intramolecular mechanisms for both hydride transfer steps.
The impact of poor quality of mass‐reared Mediterranean fruit flies on the sterile insect technique used for eradication1

(...). The density of sterile flies in the large medfly eradication program in Central America was based upon 2000 pupae/ha. No adjustments were made for poor eclosion, flight ability or mating propensity. If such adjustments were made, the cost of the program would have to be increased substantially or the size of the release area must be reduced. The actual cost figures for producing flies of poor quality are explained
Sound and vision

When a brief flash appears at the same position as a moving object, the flash is perceived to lag behind. This so-called flash-lag effect tells us something about the perception of space and time: where is the moving object when the flash appears? A recent paper by Alais and Burr on auditory and crossmodal flash-lag effects indicates that our (often implicit) models of the perception of space and time might be flawed.
Relativistic corrections to stopping powers.

Relativistic corrections to the nonrelativistic Bethe-Bloch formula for the stopping power of matter for charged particles are traditionally computed by considering close collisions separately from distant collisions. The close-collision contribution is further divided into the Mott correction, appropriate for very small impact parameters, and the Bloch correction, computed for larger values. This division of the region of close collisions leads to a very cumbersome result if one generalizes the original Bloch procedure to relativistic energies. We avoid the resulting poorly specified scattering angle ${\ensuremath{\theta}}_{0}$ that divides the Mott and Bloch correction regimes by using the procedure suggested by Lindhard and applied by Golovchenko, Cox, and Goland to determine the Bloch correction for relativistic velocities.
Effect of glycerol and low pH on heat-induced cell killing and loss of cellular DNA polymerase activities in Chinese hamster ovary cells.

A whole-cell assay technique for DNA polymerase alpha and beta was used to measure the activities of both enzymes in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells after hyperthermic treatment of 42.2 - 45.5 degrees C in acidic or basic environment and in the presence or absence of 5% glycerol. Cell survival was measured at the same time, and the DNA polymerase activities were correlated with survival. The results show a positive correlation between cell killing by heat and loss of DNA polymerase beta activity, both when cells were sensitized to heat by treatment at pH 6.7 with or without glycerol and when cells were protected from heat by treatment with 5% glycerol at pH 7.4 or 6.7. The results show a poor correlation between loss of DNA polymerase alpha activity and cell survival; i.e., compared to cell killing, the loss of DNA polymerase alpha activity was sensitized to heat more by acidic treatment without glycerol and was protected less from heat by glycerol treatment at normal physiological pH (pH 7.4). However, cell killing and loss of polymerase alpha activity did correlate well for sensitization to heat by acidic treatment in the presence of glycerol and for protection from heat by glycerol treatment at low pH. These results considered with other hyperthermia-polymerase studies suggest that heat effects on membranes can apparently result in changes in environmental conditions within the cell (secondary effects), which can in turn alter polymerase activities and/or the direct or secondary effect of heat on the polymerase enzymes. Furthermore, loss of polymerase beta activity serves as a better index of thermal damage resulting in cell death than loss of alpha activity.
Eco-evolutionary consequences of road adjacency and road salt on the wood frog, Rana sylvatica

The network of roads on the landscape is vast, and has wide-reaching ecological influence. Recent investigations have focused on understanding impacts of contaminants from road runoff, especially deicing agents such as road salt. Despite growing research concerning ecological impacts of roads, our understanding of long-term consequences remains nascent. This stems in part from a dearth of investigations, and in part because ecological research typically ignores evolution on contemporary timescales. Yet reports of evolution influencing ecological outcomes are growing, suggesting this influence may be the rule rather than the exception. This may be especially true for species with spatially structured populations. For amphibians, such structuring coupled with environmental heterogeneity has been shown to yield contemporary evolutionary responses, with rates of divergence matching that of environmental disturbance. This suggests that amphibians dwelling in roadside wetlands may evolve rapidly as a consequence of novel selection pressures, such as runoff. I evaluated this potential response using a field-based reciprocal transplant experiment. I compared growth, survival, and development of embryonic and larval wood frogs originating from five roadside and five woodland wetlands. Concomitantly, I conducted chronic and acute road salt exposure experiments with wood frog embryos and larvae originating from the same suite of wetlands. Road salt and road adjacency negatively influenced wood frog growth, development, and survival. In the chronic exposure experiment, pre-metamorphic wood frog larvae reared in an ecologically relevant road salt solution were 13 % lighter in mass than larvae reared in a standard water solution. Further, the negative influence of road salt and road adjacency varied with respect to wetland origin type. Strikingly, wood frogs from roadside wetlands survived less than those from woodland wetlands. In the reciprocal transplant experiment, embryonic wood frogs originating from roadside wetlands survived on average 20% less than their woodland counterparts. Similarly, following acute exposure to road salt, roadside larval wood frogs survived 24% less than those larvae originating from woodland wetlands. These results suggest first that roadside wetlands are harsh environments for embryonic and larval wood frogs, and second, that populations of wood frogs are divergent across a road induced gradient. That roadside wood frog populations survive less and tolerate less road salt than woodland populations suggests that roadside wood frogs may be maladapted to their natal environment. These results pose questions about the mechanisms generating this divergent response, and indicate that roadside wetlands may induce sink dynamics coupled with inherited negative environmental effects.
The internal/external dimension in psychoepistemic orientation and measures of ability.

This study examined the associations of scores on the internal/external dimension of psychoepistemic style and measures of ability. Subjects were assessed using the portable rod and frame test, the...
Mexican immigrant male knowledge and support toward breast and cervical cancer screening.

Background We conducted a focus group study to assess the influence of partner communication on breast and cervical cancer screening and the perceived existing and potential support from male partners in participating in cancer screening. Secondarily, Mexican male and female views on health care and cancer were explored. Methods Seven focus groups (two female-only, three male-only, and two couples) were conducted in Spanish. Results Findings suggest that knowledge about cervical cancer was significantly less than knowledge about breast cancer among both men and women. Barriers to cancer screening included language barriers, lack of health insurance, and lack of awareness of the need for screening. Male partners expressed willingness to support their female partners in cancer screening activities. Conclusion Cervical cancer education is desperately needed, including education on the availability of free and low cost screening services. Education efforts should include the male community members, especially as the males perceive themselves as responsible for the financial burden of care.
A regional railroad network optimization model for coal transportation

Abstract A regional railroad network is presented to evaluate the system's response to increased coal traffic. An optimal, multimodal, coal-shipping pattern is developed for the study region to minimize total costs and to efficiently use the existing network. A two-stage, general model allocates resources among demands and then assigns flows to the network according to efficiency criteria. The model is sufficiently general to permit modification for specific needs, assumptions and data. Government agencies and industries can apply the model in resource allocation decisions and transportation policy analysis.
The importance of genetic counseling for individuals with schizophrenia and their relatives: Potential clients' opinions and experiences

Genetic counseling is a health service, which has been indicated for individuals with psychiatric conditions in their families. However, little is known about the awareness and/or experiences of genetic counseling of this group. This study was designed to assess the awareness and perceptions of genetic counseling among individuals affected by schizophrenia and their relatives. Data was collected via two online surveys. Study participants either had schizophrenia or had a relative with schizophrenia and were recruited via links from schizophrenia web sites. This study was granted IRB approval. Sixty-eight individuals with schizophrenia and 145 relatives completed the surveys. Ninety-four percent of all respondents had not been offered genetic counseling. Zero percent of affected individuals and only 5% of relatives had received genetic counseling. Forty-four percent of affected individuals and 41% of relatives indicated that their family planning decisions were influenced by the presence of schizophrenia in their family. Seventy four percent of relatives and 72% of people with schizophrenia thought genetic counseling would be useful to them. Respondents indicated that they felt genetic counseling would be useful for them and that they would like to see a genetic counselor. However, few individuals are being offered genetic counseling services. The awareness of genetic counseling needs to be raised among physicians and families affected by schizophrenia.
Dialogue interaction with the DARPA communicator infrastructure: the development of useful software

To support engaging human users in robust, mixed-initiative speech dialogue interactions which reach beyond current capabilities in dialogue systems, the DARPA Communicator program [1] is funding the development of a distributed message-passing infrastructure for dialogue systems which all Communicator participants are using. In this presentation, we describe the features of and requirements for a genuinely useful software infrastructure for this purpose.
Bacterial division: Finding the dividing line

Abstract Division of a cell — whether eukaryotic or prokaryotic — requires accurate spatial coordination. Recent work on the bacterium Escherichia coli has shown that correct placement of the cell division site at the midcell position occurs by a combination of selection against potential polar sites and selection of the midcell site.
HIV Risk Characteristics of Young Adult, Adult, and Older Adult Women Who Live in Inner-City Housing Developments: Implications for Prevention

ABSTRACT Economically disadvantaged urban women are increasingly vulnerable to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Research has documented increased HIV risk among urban women, but little...
High sodium causes hypertension： evidence from clinical trials and animal experiments

Hypertension is a cardiovascular disease affecting approximately one out of every seven people worldwide. High-sodium consumption has been generally accepted as a risk factor for developing hypertension. Today, global sodium consumption greatly exceeds guidelines recommended by all medical institutions. This review synthesizes the data of landmark mammalian and human studies which investigated the role of sodium in the pathogenesis of hypertension, along with modern studies questioning this relationship. Recent studies concerning the potential pathways by which high-sodium concentration induces hypertension were reviewed. Human trials and population studies revealed a strong correlation between high blood pressure and average dietary sodium; and animal studies found a dramatic reduction in vascular function in a variety of mammals treated with high-sodium diets. In spite of a few contrarian studies, we found overwhelming evidence that elevated sodium consumption could cause hypertension.
Nuclear spin lattice relaxation of 35Cl in antiferromagnetic CoCl2·6H2O

Abstract The nuclear spin lattice relaxation time of 35 Cl is antiferromagnetic CoCl 2 ·6H 2 O has been measured and found to be proportional to T −7 in the temperature range from 1.6°K to 0.7°K. Evidence is given that the relaxation does not occur via a paramagnetic impurity, but the temperature dependence has not been explained satisfactorily.
A 60-year literature review of stump appendicitis: the need for a critical view.

Abstract Background Stump appendicitis is an underreported and poorly defined condition. It is the development of obstruction and inflammation of the residual appendix after appendectomy. This is a review of the basic clinical, pathological, and surgical significance of stump appendicitis, and the “critical view” required for prevention. Data sources PubMed MEDLINE search was performed using terms “stump appendicitis” and “retained appendix” to obtain reported cases of stump appendicitis. Sixty-one cases were identified. Each case was charted based on 14 variables. Data were analyzed. Conclusions Stump appendicitis warrants early detection. Patients can present with abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. A prior history of appendectomy can delay the diagnosis. A diagnosis can be made with an abdominal ultrasound or computed tomography scan. If treated early, laparoscopic or open completion appendectomy can be performed. If diagnosis is delayed and perforation is found, extensive resection is often required. A “critical view,” as described in this article, is key for prevention.
Multifunctional deoxybenzoin-based epoxies: Synthesis, mechanical properties, and thermal evaluation

Abstract We describe 2,4,4′,6-tetrahydroxydeoxybenzoin (THDB) as a multifunctional cross-linker in conjunction with bis-epoxydeoxybenzoin (BEDB), affording new resins that combine excellent physical and mechanical properties with low flammability. The char residue and heat release capacity values of the cross-linked epoxies were measured by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and pyrolysis combustion flow calorimetry (PCFC), respectively. Resins fabricated from THDB exhibited low total heat release (13 kJ/g) and high char yields (34%), as well as good mechanical properties, making them suitable candidates for consideration in high performance adhesive applications. The desirable heat release and char yield properties of these structures are realized without the presence of any conventional flame retardant, such as halogenated structures or inorganic fillers that are commonly utilized in commercial materials.
Selling the Korean War: Propaganda, Politics, and Public Opinion in the United States, 1950–1953

STEVEN CASEY, 2008 Oxford: Oxford University Press xi + 476 pp. $55.00 In this exhaustively researched and insightful volume, Steven Casey breaks new ground in the analysis of the postwar era's fir...
Where does the energy go for radiationless transitions? The 3B1u ⇝ 1A1g transition for benzene and deuterobenzene

Abstract Starting from a previously derived correlation function expression the rate for intersystem crossing has been evaluated. It is found that only 66% (55%) of the energy goes into the CH (CD) breathing mode. The other major energy sinks involve the totally symmetric skeletal breathing mode (990 cm −1 ), the e 2g stretching mode (1584 cm −1 ) and, to a smaller extent, the out-of-plane vibrations.
Characterization of transparent conducting oxide thin films deposited on ceramic substrates

Abstract In this work, we investigate the optical and electrical properties of various transparent conductive oxide (TCO) thin films deposited on insulating ceramics for emerging optoelectronic applications. Thin films investigated include indium tin oxide (ITO), ruthenium oxide (RuO 2 ), and iridium oxide (IrO 2 ) on Al 2 O 3 ceramic substrates. The conducting films have been deposited by various techniques including RF magnetron sputtering and low-cost spray pyrolysis. The morphological characteristics of the films were carried out using high magnification optical microscopy and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Optical and electrical characterization was carried out by optical absorbance/transmittance, van der Pauw, current–voltage (I–V), and Hall effect measurements. The results are presented in this paper.
A Frequency Synthesizer for Television Receivers

Recently, several new approaches to the design of television tuning systems have emerged. Federal regulations concerning equal parity for UHF and VHF tuning systems have caused increased interest in purely electronic tuning systems. In addition, such factors as reliability, economics, aesthetics and convenience, as well as the increased number of channels on UHF and cable, have spurred interest in the development of solid state, totally electronic television tuning capability. The ideal tuning system incorporates all of these features.
Meshing complexity: predicting meshing difficulty for single part CAD models

This paper proposes a method for predicting the complexity of meshing computer aided design (CAD) geometries with unstructured, hexahedral, finite elements. Meshing complexity refers to the relative level of effort required to generate a valid finite element mesh on a given CAD geometry. A function is proposed to approximate the meshing complexity for single part CAD models. The function is dependent on a user defined element size as well as on data extracted from the geometry and topology of the CAD part. Several geometry and topology measures are proposed, which both characterize the shape of the CAD part and detect configurations that complicate mesh generation. Based on a test suite of CAD models, the function is demonstrated to be accurate within a certain range of error. The solution proposed here is intended to provide managers and users of meshing software a method of predicting the difficulty in meshing a CAD model. This will enable them to make decisions about model simplification and analysis approaches prior to mesh generation.
Variables Associated with Disclosure of the Diagnosis of HIV/AIDS to Children Born of HIV-infected Mothers † 51

Variables Associated with Disclosure of the Diagnosis of HIV/AIDS to Children Born of HIV-infected Mothers † 51
Comparative impacts of knockouts of two antioxidant enzymes on acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity in mice.

We have previously shown a more potent impact of knockout of Cu,Zn-superoxide dismutase (SOD1) than that of Se-dependent glutathione peroxidase-1 (GPX1) on murine hepatotoxicity induced by an intraperitoneal (ip) injection of a high dose of acetaminophen (APAP, 600 mg/kg). The objective of this experiment was to compare the temporal impacts of knockouts of GPX1 and SOD1 alone or together on mouse susceptibility to an injection of a low dose of APAP (300 mg/kg). The APAP-mediated rises in plasma alanine aminotransferase activity and nitrate/nitrite concentrations, hepatic GSH depletion, and hepatic protein nitration at 5 and (or) 24 h were nearly abolished (P < 0.05) in SOD1−/− or GPX1 and SOD1 double-knockout (DKO) mice, while GPX1−/− mice exerted only moderate or no change compared with the WT. Despite an increased (P < 0.05) APAP-N-acetylcysteine and decreased APAP-glucuronide (P < 0.05) relative to the total APAP metabolites in urine collected for 24 h after the APAP injection, the SOD1−/− mice display...
Handling and transporting the 8.4-m mirrors for the Large Binocular Telescope

The Large Binocular Telescope has two 8.4 meter mirrors, one of which is now in the telescope. Handling and moving the 8.4-meter honeycomb mirrors calls for moving 16 metric ton mirrors while maintaining very low stresses. We have now handled the first LBT mirror off the furnace, turned on edge, cleaned out, turned upside down, on the grinder, turned again, put on a polishing cell, moved under the polishing machine, lifted with a vacuum lifting fixture, moved to the telescope cell, to a transportation box, down the highway, onto a multi-axle trailer on edge, up Mount Graham, into the telescope building, back into the telescope cell and up through a hatch onto the telescope itself. The second LBT mirror is in the polishing stage. We have designed and manufactured many pieces of specialized equipment to handle the task. This equipment must be able to handle the mirrors without exceeding 0.7 MPa (100 psi) stress in the glass.
Simplified model for predicting impulsive loads on submerged structures to account for fluid-structure interaction

A simplified method for accounting for the effects of fluid-structure interaction (FSI) in sandwich structures subjected to dynamic underwater loads is developed. The method provides quite accurate predictions of the impulse on submerged structures for a large range of loads and core yield strengths. It is a simple model with two lumped masses, one of which is subjected to an incident wave and a rheological model to represent the core. It enables phenomena such as buckling of the components of the core to be taken into account and is simple enough to be used as a design tool. Comparisons with calculations of complete fluid-structure models show very good agreement.
Analysis of pendimethalin residues in fruit, nuts, vegetables, grass, and mint by gas chromatography.

Pendimethalin [N-(1-ethylpropyl)-3,4-dimethyl-2,6-dinitrobenzenamine], in the formulation of Prowl (a commercial herbicide), was applied to various crops. Analysis of pendimethalin and its metabolite [4(1-ethylpropyl)amino-2-methyl-3,5-dinitrobenzyl alcohol] was accomplished by utilizing liquid−liquid partitioning, gel permeation chromatography (GPC) for nuts and mint, solid-phase extraction (SPE) cleanup, and gas chromatography (GC) with a nitrogen−phosphorus detector (NPD). Method validation recoveries for fruits, nuts, vegetables, grass, and mint are given for both compounds. Pendimethalin average recoveries ranged from 71% to 126% over two levels of fortification. Pendimethalin metabolite average recoveries ranged from 69% to 123% over two levels of fortification. The quantitation limit for all crops except mint was 0.050 ppm. The quantitation limit for mint and mint oil was 0.10 ppm. Residues greater than the limit of quantitation were found for pendimethalin in apple pomace, fresh and dry fig, grass...
Mono-L-aspartyl chlorin e6 (NPe6) and hematoporphyrin derivative (HpD) in photodynamic therapy administered to a human cholangiocarcinoma model†

BACKGROUND Despite their relatively localized nature, the therapy for surgically unresectable cholangiocarcinomas has been largely unsuccessful. Photodynamic therapy is a promising technique for both curative and palliative treatment of this maligancy. The effectiveness of a potential new photosensitizer, mono-l-aspartyl chlorin e6 (NPe6), was compared with that of a traditional drug, hematoporphyrin derivative (HpD), in photodynamic therapy administered to a human cholangiocarcinoma model. METHODS An established cholangiocarcinoma cell line was inoculated subcutaneously in the left back of male nude mice age 8 weeks. After a predetermined tumor size was reached, the mice were randomly assigned to either a control group or an experimental group. Experimental tumor-bearing mice received either HpD (5 mg/kg or 10 mg/kg) or NPe6 (2 mg/kg, 5 mg/kg, or 8 mg/kg) followed by photoradiation. HpD and NPe6 were administered intraperitoneally at 24 and 2 hours, respectively, prior to light exposure. Photoradiation was conducted using a xenon-mercury arc lamp with a 405-650 nm filter at a light flux of 80 J/cm2. Tumor response was assessed by serial tumor volume measurements. RESULTS Control mice showed an estimated mean tumor volume doubling rate of 9.0 days. Triaxial tumor measurements correlated well with autopsy measurements (correlation coefficient = 0.9). Overall differences in tumor volume reduction were detected (P < 0.001) among the three groups: HpD, NPe6, and controls (photoradiation only, HpD only, or NPe6 only). The degree of tumor volume reduction was superior for dosages of NPe6 compared with all dosages of HpD (P < 0.05). Although a dose effect was detected (P < 0.05) for HpD and separately for NPe6, a consistent dose-response relationship was not observed for either. Inhibition of tumor regrowth was better for NPe6 compared with HpD. The depth of tissue injury was significantly increased (P < 0.05), by 67%, for 5-8 mg/kg of NPe6 compared with 5-10 mg/kg of HpD. The duration of cutaneous photosensitization was also decreased for NPe6 compared with HpD. CONCLUSION Photodynamic therapy with HpD or NPe6 was effective inducing tumor regression in the cholangiocarcinoma model in this study. At the dosages studied, NPe6 appeared to induce greater tumor regression than HpD, with decreased tumor regrowth and duration of cutaneous photosensitization. Cancer 1998;82:421-7. © 1998 American Cancer Society.
CEO compensation, firm performance and operational characteristics

Purpose – This paper aims to examine the impact on executive compensation (both cash and in total) of regulation, size of sales and number of employees, and nature of the business in terms of new‐economy vs traditional.Design/methodology/approach – This study uses the ExecuComp database as the information source. Regression analysis is used to test hypotheses that focus on firm size in terms of sales, market and accounting returns, and the number of firm employees. The sample consists of 455 US firms from 25 industries, and covers the period 1996‐2002.Findings – Firm size and market‐based return are the most significant explanatory variables in affecting executive compensation. More limited support was found for accounting‐based returns, as was changes in the number of employees.Research limitations/implications – Findings of this study may be limited by the temporal context. Around the turn of this century may have been an unusual time in America's corporate history. The economic outlook of the late 1990...
Protein Control of the Redox Potential of the Primary Quinone Acceptor in Reaction Centers from Rhodobacter sphaeroides

The role of the protein environment in determining the redox midpoint potential (Em )o f Q A, the primary quinone of bacterial reaction centers, was investigated by mutation of isoleucine at position 265 of the M subunit in Rhodobacter sphaeroides.Isoleucine was changed to threonine, serine, and valine, yielding mutants M265IT, M265IS, and M265IV, respectively. All three mutants, with smaller residues replacing isoleucine, exhibited decreased binding affinities of the Q A site for various quinone analogues, consistent with an enlargement or loosening of the headgroup binding domain and a decrease in the van der Waals contact for small quinones. In all other respects, M265IV was like the wild type, but the polar mutants, M265IT and M265IS, had unexpectedly dramatic decreases in the redox midpoint potential of QA, resulting in faster rates of P + QA - charge recombination. For both anthraquinone and native ubiquinone, the in situ Em of QA was estimated to be 100 and 85 mV lower in M265IT and M265IS, respectively. The effect on Em(QA) indicates destabilization of the semiquinone or stabilization of the quinone. This is suggested to arise from either (i) electrostatic interaction between the partial charges or dipole of the residue hydroxyl group and the charge distribution of quinone and semiquinone states with particular influence near the C4 carbonyl group or (ii) from hydrogen bonding interactions between the hydroxyl oxygen and the N‰H of histidine M219, causing a weakening of the hydrogen bond to the C4 carbonyl. The rate of the first electron transfer ( kAB (1) ) in the polar mutants was the same as in the wild type at low pH but decelerated at higher pH with altered pH dependence. The rate of the second electron transfer (kAB (2) ) was 3-4-fold greater than in the wild type over the whole pH range from 4 to 11, consistent with a larger driving force for electron transfer derived from the lower Em of QA.
Dapsone Hypersensitivity Syndrome in a Patient With Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome

Objective: A case of dapsone hypersensitivity syndrome (DHS) in an AIDS patient receiving dapsone for Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) prophylaxis is discussed. Case Summary: A 50-year-old Caucasian ma...
The effect of thermal annealing on the thermal properties and molecular weight of a segmented polyurethane copolymer

The influence of thermal annealing on molecular weight, microphase mixing, and multiple melting behavior of a segmented block copolyurethane is reported. The material studied contained 55% of hard segment consisting of 4,4'-diphenylmethane diisocyanate and butanediol, and a poly (propylene oxide) diol of molecular weight 2000 as the soft segment. The thermal stability of the materials was influenced greatly by the order-disorder transition, estimated to occur at ca. 191 o C. Upon annealing above this temperature, molecular weight increased rapidly as a result of chain branching reactions. Microphase separation increased under these conditions, while the degree of hard segment crystallinity decreased
Contrasting natural regeneration and tree planting in fourteen North American cities

Field data from randomly located plots in 12 cities in the United States and Canada were used to estimate the proportion of the existing tree population that was planted or occurred via natural regeneration. In addition, two cities (Baltimore and Syracuse) were recently re-sampled to estimate the proportion of newly established trees that were planted. Results for the existing tree populations reveal that, on average, about 1 in 3 trees are planted in cities. Land uses and tree species with the highest proportion of trees planted were residential (74.8 percent of trees planted) and commercial/industrial (61.2 percent) lands, and Gleditsia triacanthos (95.1 percent) and Pinus nigra (91.8 percent). The percentage of the tree population planted is greater in cities developed in grassland areas as compared to cities developed in forests and tends to increase with increased population density and percent impervious cover in cities. New tree influx rates ranged from 4.0 trees/ha/yr in Baltimore to 8.6 trees/ha/yr in Syracuse. About 1 in 20 trees (Baltimore) and 1 in 12 trees (Syracuse) were planted in newly established tree populations. In Syracuse, the recent tree influx has been dominated by Rhamnus cathartica, an exotic invasive species. Without tree planting and management, the urban forest composition in some cities will likely shift to more pioneer or invasive tree species in the near term. As these species typically are smaller and have shorter life-spans, the ability of city systems to sustain more large, long-lived tree species may require human intervention through tree planting and maintenance. Data on tree regeneration and planting proportions and rates can be used to help determine tree planting rates necessary to attain desired tree cover and species composition goals.
Zinc during and in convalescence from diarrhea has no demonstrable effect on subsequent morbidity and anthropometric status among infants <6 mo of age

Preventing illness and improving growth in the first 6 mo of life is critical to reducing infant mortality. Zinc given for 14 d at the start of diarrhea has been shown to decrease the incidence and prevalence of diarrhea and pneumonia and improve growth in the 2-3 mo after but no trial has been done in infants < 6 mo of age. This study sought to assess the effect of 14 d of zinc supplementation on subsequent morbidity and growth among infants 1-5 mo of age living in Pakistan India and Ethiopia. Infants with acute diarrhea were randomly assigned to receive zinc (10 mg/d; n = 538) or placebo (n = 536) for 2 wk. Weekly follow-up visits were conducted for 8 wk after the diarrhea episode. Incidence and prevalence of diarrhea and prevalence of respiratory infections including pneumonia were compared between the groups. Changes in weight length and corresponding z scores during the 8 wk of follow-up were also compared. One thousand seventy-four infants were enrolled at the start of follow-up. The groups did not differ significantly in the proportion of infants with at least one episode of diarrhea or respiratory infections. Infants who received zinc had more days of diarrhea (rate ratio = 1.20) than did the infants who received placebo. The groups had similar prevalences of pneumonia and overall respiratory infections. No significant differences in the mean changes in weight-for-age length-for-age and weight-for-length z scores were observed between the groups overall or in stratified analyses. Young infants do not appear to benefit from 2 wk of zinc unlike what has been observed among older children. (authors)
Ultralow Power Computing with Sub-threshold Leakage: A Comparative Study of Bulk and SOI Technologies

This paper presents a novel design methodology for ultralow power design (in bulk and double-gate SOI technology) using sub-threshold leakage as the operating current (suitable for medium frequency of operation: tens to hundreds of MHz). It has been shown that a complete co-design at all levels of hierarchy (device, circuit and architecture) is necessary to reduce the overall power consumption. Simulation results of co-design on a five-tap FIR filter shows ~2.5times (for bulk) and ~3.8times (for SOI) improvement in throughput at iso-power compared to a conventional design. It has been further demonstrated that the double-gate SOI technology is better suited for sub-threshold operation
Specifying the Influence of Family and Peers on Violent Victimization Extending Routine Activities and Lifestyles Theories

The fact that crime and victimization share similar correlates suggests that family and peer contexts are potentially useful for explaining individual differences in violent victimization. In this research, we used routine activities and lifestyles frameworks to reveal how strong bonds of family attachment can promote more effective guardianship while simultaneously making children less attractive as targets and limiting their exposure to motivated offenders. Conversely, the routine activities perspective suggests that exposure to delinquent peers will enhance risk. Using data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (Add Health), we found that family and peer context variables do correspond with a higher risk of violent victimization among teenagers, net controls for unstructured and unsupervised activities and demographic characteristics. The role of family and peer group characteristics in predicting victimization risk suggests new theoretical directions for victimization research.
Scheduling with neural networks for flexible manufacturing systems

An application of neural networks in multiple-task scheduling problems is presented. The optimum task scheduling for manufacturing processes is, in general, an NP-complete problem for single server or manufacturing cell. The problem is more severe for scheduling many tasks with precedence constraints among them, timing requirements, set-up costs and completion deadlines to several manufacturing cells. The crossbar Hopfield network which is used to solve the classical traveling salesman problem is extended to a three-dimensional neuro-box network to solve multiple task scheduling on multiple servers. The complete formulation of the problem is presented. This includes the definition of the energy function for the neural network and the differential equations for the neurons. Several simulations are carried out and presented. >
Using word recognition tests to estimate premorbid IQ in early dementia: Longitudinal data

This study examined the utility of word recognition scores for estimating actual Verbal IQ scores obtained from 1–5 years earlier. Participants were 271 persons remaining normal and 24 initially normal persons who developed cognitive impairment over longitudinal follow-up. A previously published regression equation based on education and the American modification of the National Adult Reading Test (Nelson, 1982) was used to estimate Mayo Verbal IQ. In spite of correlating well with prior obtained scores ( r = .7) the predicted score tended to overestimate the obtained Mayo Verbal IQ. A revised equation was developed in the normal sample, which improved accuracy of prediction. Among the 24 persons who developed cognitive impairment over a 5-year span, the revised predicted scores provided reasonable estimates of initial Mayo Verbal IQ. To aid in clinical interpretation, a table of the normal frequencies of predicted Mayo Verbal IQ minus contemporaneously obtained Mayo Verbal IQ is provided. ( JINS , 1997, 3 , 528–533.)
Changes in F-actin labeling in the outer hair cell and the Deiters cell in the chinchilla cochlea following noise exposure

Abstract It has been found that `conditioning' noise exposures can render the inner ear more resistant to traumatic noise exposures. To explore the possible mechanisms underlying this phenomenon, filamentous actin (F-actin), labeled by rhodamine-phalloidin, was examined in the chinchilla cochlea using confocal fluorescence microscopy. The conditioning noise was 0.5 kHz octave band noise (OBN) at 90 dB SPL for 6 h/day and the high-level noise was the same noise but at 105 dB SPL for 4 h. A variety of pathological changes were found in the chinchilla cochlea after exposure to noise. Subjects exposed to conditioning noise (1 day or 10 days) and only high-level noise showed an increase in F-actin labeling than unexposed controls. By contrast, subjects who had 5 days quiet after the 10-day conditioning exposure exhibited a decrease in F-actin labeling. Interestingly, subjects exposed to high-level noise with prior 10-day conditioning exposure also showed a decrease in F-actin labeling in the cuticular plate and the stereocilia. The F-actin decreases in the stereocilia and the cuticular plates may decrease the mechanical rigidity of the organ of Corti. A more pliable organ of Corti may have reduced the possibility of fracture or ripping of cell junctions during the motion of the basilar membrane induced by acoustic overstimulation.
The accuracy and health risks of a voiding cystourethrogram after a febrile urinary tract infection

Objective Physicians often defer obtaining a voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) after the diagnosis of urinary tract infection (UTI) due to concerns regarding increased health risks and inflated rates of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR). This study examines the health risks and accuracy of VCUG testing after diagnosis of a febrile UTI.
Improved Perfusion-Weighted MRI by a Novel Double Inversion With Proximal Labeling of Both Tagged and Control Acquisitions

A novel pulsed arterial spin labeling (PASL) technique for multislice perfusion-weighted imaging is proposed that compensates for magnetization transfer (MT) effects without sacrificing tag efficiency, and balances transient magnetic field effects (eddy currents) induced by pulsed field gradients. Improved compensation for MT is demonstrated using a phantom. Improvement in perfusion measurement was compared to other PASL techniques by acquiring perfusion images from 13 healthy volunteers (nine women and four men; age range 29–64 years; mean age 45 ± 14 years) and second-order image texture analysis. The main improvements with the new method were significantly higher image contrast, higher mean signal intensity, and better signal uniformity across slices. In conclusion, this new PASL method should provide improved accuracy in measuring brain perfusion.
The implications of starvation induced psychological changes for the ethical treatment of hunger strikers

Design: Electronic databases were searched for (a) editorials and ethical proclamations on hunger strikers and their treatment; (b) studies of voluntary and involuntary starvation, and (c) legal cases pertaining to hunger striking. Additional studies were gathered in a snowball fashion from the published material cited in these databases. Material was included if it (a) provided ethical or legal guidelines; (b) shed light on psychological changes accompanying starvation, or (c) illustrated the practice of hunger striking. Authors' observations, opinions, and conclusions were noted. Conclusions: Although the heterogeneous nature of the sources precluded statistical analysis, starvation appears to be accompanied by marked psychological changes. Some changes clearly impair competence, in which case physicians are advised to follow advance directives obtained early in the hunger strike. More problematic are increases in impulsivity and aggressivity, changes which, while not impairing competence, enhance the likelihood that patients will starve themselves to death.
VIP and endothelin receptor antagonist: an effective combination against experimental pulmonary arterial hypertension.

Background Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH) remains a therapeutic challenge, and the search continues for more effective drugs and drug combinations. We recently reported that deletion of the vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) gene caused the spontaneous expression of a PH phenotype that was fully corrected by VIP. The objectives of this investigation were to answer the questions: 1) Can VIP protect against PH in other experimental models? and 2) Does combining VIP with an endothelin (ET) receptor antagonist bosentan enhance its efficacy?
Accurate SVDs of polynomial Vandermonde matrices involving orthonormal polynomials

Abstract We present a new O(n3) algorithm for computing the SVD of an n × n polynomial Vandermonde matrix VP = [Pi−1(xj)] to high relative accuracy in O(n3) time. The Pi are orthonormal polynomials, deg Pi = i, and xj are complex nodes. The small singular values of VP can be arbitrarily smaller than the largest ones, so that traditional algorithms typically compute them with no relative accuracy at all. We show that the singular values, even the tiniest ones, are usually well-conditioned functions of the data xj, justifying this computation. We also explain how this theory can be extended to other polynomial Vandermonde matrices, involving polynomials that are not orthonormal or even orthogonal.