cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The 'Authority' of Law: Joseph Raz Reconsidered

The article presents a critical reassessment of the legal philosophical writings of Joseph Raz. The critique develops from the author’s previous argument that law is – contra recent near-consensus – best understood as “the command of the sovereign, backed by force.” Given that this is the distinctly defining feature of law, Raz’s extended preoccupation with “reasons for obeying law” is misplaced and even nonsensical.
Preliminary experience of using transumbilical multi-stab technique in laparoscopic pyeloplasty for newborns

Objective To investigate the feasibility and safety of laparoscopic pyeloplasty for treatment of newborns with ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO).Methods Twenty-one newborns (14 males and 7 females) with hydronephrosis from June 2009 to June 2012 were enrolled in the study.Among them,14 patients had left hydronephrosis,5 had right hydronephrosis,and 2 had bilateral hydronephrosis.The criteria for surgery were:①hydronephrosis with pelvic anteroposterior diameter greater than 3 cm on prenatal ultrasound;②ipsilateral renal function less than 40％ when examined a week after birth.These patients were treated through multi-incision transumbilical laparo scopic dismembered pyeloplasty technique.Results All 21 patients had successful operation with no conversion and no intraoperative complication.The mean operative time was 75 min for patients with unilateral hydronephrosis and 185 min for patients with bilateral hydronephrosis.The mean intraoper ative blood loss was less than 10 ml.The mean hospital stay was 9 days.Length of follow up of the patients varied from 6 to 36 months using ultrasound and radionuclide scans.These showed anastomotic patency,varying degree of renal parenchyma thickening,significantly reduced renal pelvic anteroposterior diameter and varying degrees of renal function recovery.In addition,the operative scars were not obvious.Conclusions Transumbilical laparoscopic pyeloplasty for newborns is feasible,safe and less invasive and has better cosmetic outcomes. Key words: Laparoscopes; Kidney pelvis; Neonate; Hydronephrosis
Topology of the tropical moduli spaces $$\Delta _{2,n}$$ Δ 2 , n

We study the topology of the link $$\Delta _{2,n}$$ of the moduli spaces of n-marked, genus 2 tropical curves. As an application, we calculate the top-weight rational homology of the moduli spaces $${\mathcal {M}}_{2,n}$$ of n-marked algebraic curves of genus 2 for $$n\le 8$$ .
Histologic Findings of Choroidal Vasculopathy in Eyes Enucleated following Radiation Therapy for Uveal Melanoma: Radiation Choroidopathy.

Introduction Little has been published about the choroidal vascular changes that occur years after radiation exposure. The aim of this study was to review the histological changes observed in the choroidal vasculature following radiotherapy for uveal melanoma. Methods Records from a single institution were retrospectively reviewed from June 7, 2007 to June 7, 2017; 101 patients with a diagnosis of uveal melanoma that underwent enucleation had their records reviewed. Out of these, a total of 26 eyes had undergone plaque brachytherapy prior to enucleation, which had been performed at a mean time of 7.2 years (range from 0 years to 30 years) after the initial plaque placement. A histopathologic analysis was conducted on all 26 eyes with special emphasis on the choroidal changes. Of these 26 eyes, 18 demonstrated evidence of radiation-induced vasculopathy. Results Of the 18 eyes, 10/18 (55%) had radiation retinopathy and 16/18 (89%) had radiation choroidal vasculopathy. One patient had a phthisical eye, and the choroid could not be evaluated because the characteristics of the vasculature could not be determined. Nine cases had vitreous hemorrhage (50%), all cases had radiation retinopathy, and 8/9 (89%) had radiation choroidopathy. Of the 16 cases with radiation choroidal vasculopathy, 3/16 (19%) had only intratumoral radiation choroidal vasculopathy, 3/16 (19%) had only extratumoral radiation choroidal vasculopathy, and, thus, 10/16 (32%) had both intratumoral and extratumoral radiation choroidal vasculopathy. In patients with radiation choroidal vasculopathy, 2/16 (13%) had hyalinization of the choroidal vessels. Another 3/16 (19%) cases with radiation choroidal vasculopathy had ectatic vessels. The other 11/16 (68%) had evidence of both hyalinization of the choroidal vessels as well as ectatic vessels in the choroid. Histological evidence of radiation retinopathy and choroidopathy were seen in 69% of eyes enucleated after receiving radiation therapy, which, in some cases, also had vitreous hemorrhage. Polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy, choroidal neovascularization, and retinal choroidal anastomoses (RAP-type lesions) were seen in 12 of the 16 eyes (75%). Discussion/Conclusion Irradiation of malignant tumors of the eye causes not only radiation retinopathy but also radiation choroidopathy. The role of radiation choroidopathy in the subsequent visual loss following radiotherapy and the role of anti-VEGF therapy needs to be recognized and distinguished from radiation retinopathy. Our data adds to the prior limited knowledge that radiation affects the choroid and can induce specific phenotypes similar to the clinical spectrum of CNV, PCV, and RAP.
ZrN Phase Formation, Hardening and Nitrogen Diffusion Kinetics in Plasma Nitrided Zircaloy-4

Plasma nitridation was conducted to modify the surfaces of Zircaloy-4. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and Raman analysis were used to characterize microstructures and phases. Surface indentation and cross-sectional indentation were performed to evaluate mechanical property changes. Nitridation forms a thin layer of ZrN phase, followed by a much deeper layer affected by nitrogen diffusion. The ZrN phase is confirmed by both TEM and Raman characterization. The Raman peaks of ZrN phase show a temperature dependence. The intensity increases with increasing nitridation temperatures, reaches a maximum at 700 °C, and then decreases at higher temperatures. The ZrN layer appears as continuous small columnar grains. The surface polycrystalline ZrN phase is harder than the bulk by a factor of ~8, and the nitrogen diffusion layer is harder by a factor of ~2–5. The activation energy of nitrogen diffusion was measured to be 2.88 eV. The thickness of the nitrogen-hardened layer is controllable by changing the nitridation temperature and duration.
Revisions in Repeat Sales Price Indices: Here Today, Gone Tomorrow?

Price indices based on the repeat sales model are revised all the way to the beginning of the sample every time a new quarter of information becomes available. Revisions can adversely affect practitioners. In this paper we examine this revision process both theoretically and empirically. The theory behind the repeat sales method says that revisions should lower the standard error of the estimated indices; we prove that, in fact, the revised index is more efficient than the original one. This implies that large samples should make revisions trivial. However, our data, and the Freddie-Fannie data, suggest that revisions are large, insensitive to sample size and systematic; revisions are more likely to be downward than upward. In Los Angeles and Fairfax, revisions are usually downward and statistically significant. This bias in initial repeat sales estimates is caused by sample selectivity; properties with only one or two years between sales do not appreciate at the same rate as other properties. We hypothesize that these "flips" are improved (possibly cosmetically) between sales. One implication of our analysis is that flips should be removed or downweighted before calculating repeat sales indices. The same model estimated without flips appears free of bias. We find small increases in efficiency from adding up to 4,300 observations to a base of 1,200.
Tracking bacterial effector protein delivery into host cells

Bacterial Type IV secretion systems (T4SSs) are a functionally heterogeneous group of nanomachines that can deliver substrates into a wide range of target cells. The Helicobacter pylori Cag T4SS has an important role in the pathogenesis of gastric cancer. CagA, the only effector protein known to be secreted by the H. pylori Cag T4SS, enters human gastric cells and causes alterations in intracellular signaling that are linked to cancer pathogenesis. Understanding the molecular mechanisms by which CagA is delivered into gastric cells has been hindered by the lack of robust methods for monitoring this process. A publication in this issue of Molecular Microbiology describes a split luciferase assay for monitoring T4SS-mediated translocation of CagA into host cells. The use of this translocation reporter allowed the quantification of CagA translocation in real-time assays, thereby facilitating the analysis of the kinetics of CagA delivery. This system also allowed the tracking of several types of CagA fusion proteins and confirmed that protein unfolding is important for secretion by the Cag T4SS. This commentary discusses T4SS-dependent delivery of H. pylori CagA into host cells and the use of the split luciferase system for monitoring bacterial protein secretion and delivery into target cells.
Photochemical and thermal addition of alcohols to 2-cyanofuran

Abstract The photolysis of 2-cyanofuran in alcohols yields 1-alkoxy-2-cyanocyclopropane-3-carboxaldehydes as the major products, which rearrange thermally to trans -2-alkoxy-3-cyano-2,3-dihydrofurans and small amounts of cis -isomers. Thermal mutual rearrangements between trans - and cis -2- alkoxy-3-cyano-2, 3-dihydrofurans were studied. Liquid phase thermal addition of alcohols in a temperature range between 100° and 200° yields 1-alkoxy-1-(2-furan)-methylenimines, which rearrange photochemically to 2-furyl-methylamino-ketone in case of the methoxy derivative. 3-Cyano-furan does not yield photoaddition or thermal addition products. The different behaviors of 2- and 3-substituted furans are discussed.
Identifying Chimerism in Proteins Using Hidden Markov Models of Codon Usage

Protein chimerism is a phenomenon involving the combination of multiple ancestral sequences into a single, multi-domain protein through evolution. We propose a novel method for detecting chimeric proteins by analyzing their nucleotide sequence. The method tests for differences in the distributions of synonymous (isoaccepting) codons in different regions of the protein. The test involves the comparison of the ability of varying size hidden Markov models (HMMs) of codon usage to fit the natural sequence, relative to a set of randomized controls. We demonstrate the method on the families of yeast nuclear and mitochondrial amino-acyl tRNA synthetases. The method is potentially useful for the automated screening of entire genomes or large databases.
Birds of Ometepe (Nicaragua) and La Suerte (Costa Rica): From a Narrative and Species Lists Over Species Richness and Bird Photo Documentations to a Central American Conservation Ornithology

Virtually everywhere, birds draw a crowd and receive great public attention. Our fascination with, and reverence for, birds was underscored by the global response to Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring, in which she questioned human and global survival in light of the massive decline in songbird populations resulting from widespread pesticide use. And most people have probably thought at least once in their lives about “just flying away” like a bird or like Icarus from Greek mythology. And would it not be awesome “to fly like a bird” straight to the tropics for an exotic winter vacation, or to hover among the stunning canopies and watch down on earth, simply leaving all problems behind? Tropical birds never lose their allure for us. Some heroic bird investigators in the Caribbean might well have provided the foundation for the modern James Bond 007 character (a British spy;). Regardless, birds were used by the British Commonwealth for centuries to make the new colonies abroad more attractive, a strategic policy to use the natural history as a public relations tool. It was a policy that the Spanish, Portuguese, and French colonial powers did not pursue, thus leaving their colonies’ natural history poorly described to this very day. Such a mind-set is still in existence in British institutions today. It likely gave the global conservation partnership, BirdLife International, a cultural head start. Many of the colonial legacies still carry on (a feature that the Smithsonian Institution in the USA, for instance, gets often criticized for, e.g., not being sufficiently “modern” and progressive on environmental issues like climate change, globalization, poverty eradication, and efficient conservation).
Review of Predicting and Changing Behavior: The Reasoned Action Approach

IN THE 1960s MARTIN FISHBEIN (the Harry C. Coles Jr. Distinguished Professor in Communication at the Annenberg School for Communication), and Icek Ajzen (Professor of Psychology at the University o...
Activation of β-Globin Promoter by Erythroid Krüppel-Like Factor

Erythroid Kruppel-like factor (EKLF), an erythroid tissue-specific Kruppel-type zinc finger protein, binds to the beta-globin gene CACCC box and is essential for beta-globin gene expression. EKLF does not activate the gamma gene, the CACCC sequence of which differs from that of the beta gene. To test whether the CACCC box sequence difference is the primary determinant of the selective activation of the beta gene by EKLF, the CACCC boxes of beta and gamma genes were swapped and the resulting promoter activities were assayed by transient transfections in CV-1 cells. EKLF activated the beta promoter carrying a gamma CACCC box at a level comparable to that at which it activated the wild-type beta promoter, whereas EKLF failed to activate a gamma promoter carrying the beta CACCC box, despite the presence of the optimal EKLF binding site. Similar results were obtained in K562 cells. The possibility that overexpressed EKLF superactivated the beta promoter carrying the gamma CACCC box, or that EKLF activated the mutated beta promoter through the intact distal CACCC box, was excluded. To test whether the position of the CACCC box in the beta or gamma promoter determined EKLF specificity, the proximal beta CACCC box sequence was created at the position of the beta promoter (-140) which corresponds to the position of the CACCC box on the gamma promoter. Similarly, the beta CACCC box was created in the position of the gamma promoter (-90) corresponding to the position of the CACCC box in the beta promoter. EKLF retained weak activation potential on the beta(-140CAC) promoter, whereas EKLF failed to activate the gamma(-90betaCAC) promoter even though that promoter contained an optimal EKLF binding site at the optimal position. Taken together, our findings indicate that the specificity of the activation of the beta promoter by EKLF is determined by the overall structure of the beta promoter rather than solely by the sequence of the beta gene CACCC box.
Gasoline and Other Motor Fuels

Gasoline and Other Motor Fuels. Albert M. Hochhauser (Exxon Research and Engineering Co.). Gasoline and other motor fuels comprise the largest single use of energy in the U.S. The cost of this energy continues to be a primary factor in the national economy. The fraction of resources from which these fuels come that is provided by foreign sources is a matter of political concern. Rapid increases in the price of crude oil has led to programs for developing alternative sources of fuels such as coal, oil shale, and natural gas. Alternative fuels are more important for the potential to reduce emissions and improve air quality than for energy self-sufficiency. All motor fuels in the U.S. are manufactured by private companies. Many participate in other aspects such as refining or marketing. Gasoline demand is determined by the numbers of cars, paved roads, population, and economic growth. Predictions for future demand are somewhat divided. Gasoline must meet exacting specifications and vary according to location, temperature and altitudes at which the product is used. Octane is probably the single most recognized measure of gasoline quality. Petroleum refining begins with distillation of crude oil into many fractions. Most gasoline in the U.S. is obtained by catalytic cracking. Reforming increases octane. Gasoline additives (e.g., dyes, antioxidants, detergents, etc.) are used to improve performance. Stricter emission standards have resulted in changes in vehicle hardware. Diesel fuel, second to gasoline, is used in a wide variety of engines. The ability of diesel fuel to burn properly is described by its cetene number. Diesel manufacturers have found it difficult to meet emission standards Alternative fuels include those made from coal and shale, methanol, compressed natural gas and liquefied petroleum gas. Use of alternative fuels has been promoted for two reasons: potential emissions benefits and reduced dependence on imported petroleum. Keywords: Gasoline; Requirements; Octane; Volatility; Cleanliness; Additives; Blending; Distribution; Fuel economy; Emissions; Diesel fuel; Environmental regulations; Natural gas; Liquefied petroleum gas; Methanol
What Did You Think of the Hematology/Oncology Rotation? A Survey of Internal Medicine Residents

Background. To evaluate responses of residents to a hematology/oncology rotation.Methods. A self-administered mail survey among internal medicine residents in a university-based training program who were required to complete a hematology/oncology rotation at a comprehensive cancer center.Results. The majority of the residents rated the duration of the rotation as adequate and quality as excellent or good. It had a positive impact on certain knowledge areas, general opinion about hematology/oncology, preparation for board examination, and motivation to pursue this subspecialty, especially among residents who had performed additional electives.Conclusion. A hematology/oncology rotation received a generally positive evaluation from internal medicine residents.
Vertical migration of the toxic dinoflagellate Karenia brevis and the impact on ocean optical properties

[1] Vertical migration behavior is found in many harmful algal blooms; however, the corresponding impact on ocean optical properties has not been quantified. A near-monospecific population of the dinoflagellate Karenia brevis was encountered off the west coast of Florida. The community was tracked for 24 hours by following a Lagrangian drifter deployed at the beginning of the experiment. A suite of inherent optical and cellular measurements was made. Over the 24 hour period, the K. brevis population increased during the day with concentrations peaking in the late afternoon (1600 local daylight time) in the upper 2 m of the water column. The increase in K. brevis in surface waters resulted in enhanced reflectance at the sea surface with distinct spectral changes. There was a 22% decrease in the relative amount of the green reflectance due to increased pigment absorption. There was enhanced red (35%) and infrared (75%) light reflectance due to the increased particle backscatter and chlorophyll a fluorescence; however, the relative impact of the fluorescence was relatively small despite high cell numbers due to the significant fluorescence quenching present in K. brevis. The relative change in the blue light reflectance was not as large as the change in green light reflectance, which is surprising given the pigment absorption in the blue wavelengths of light. The increased blue light pigment absorption was offset by a significant decrease in nonalgal particle absorption. The inverse relationship between K. brevis and nonalgal particles was robust. This relationship may reflect low grazing on K. brevis populations due to the neurotoxins associated with this dinoflagellate. The low-grazing pressure may provide the mechanism by which this slow-growing dinoflagellate can achieve high cell numbers in the ocean.
Estrogen Regulation of α1(I)-Procollagen Messenger Ribonucleic Acid in the Rat Uterus*

A cDNA library, prepared from mRNA isolated from the uteri of 3-day estradiol-stimulated immature rats, was constructed in pBR322. From this library an estrogen-regulated clone, pERU3, was isolated. This clone contained sequences complementary to uterine mRNA that migrated during gel electrophoresis as a double band of about 5.0 and 5.8 kilobases. Little of this mRNA was seen in several other tissues examined. An increase in the amount of this RNA in uterus was seen 2 h after estradiol treatment, with maximum hybridization occurring, in different experiments, between 18 and 36 h, followed by a decline. Hybridization of the cDNA insert of the pERU3 plasmid with known probes indicated that it coded for α1(I)- procollagen. This conclusion was supported by in vitro translation experiments in which the hybrid-selected mRNA complementary to pERU3 DNA was shown to code for a collagenasesensitive protein with a size corresponding to that of α1(I)- procollagen. This system, therefore, provides an additional tool f...
Cooperative Assembly of Hydrogen-Bonded Diblock Copolythiophene/Fullerene Blends for Photovoltaic Devices with Well-Defined Morphologies and Enhanced Stability

We report the cooperative self-assembly of functionalized fullerenes and all conjugated block copolymers (BCPs) containing polythiophene derivatives in both segments to yield solar cells with well-defined nanostructures and enhanced morphological stability. Favorable hydrogen bonding interactions between the COOH-functionalized fullerene, bis-[6, 6]-phenyl C61-butyric acid (bis-PCBA), and the tetraethyleneglycol side chains of poly(3-hexylthiophene)-block-poly[3-(2,5,8,11-tetraoxadodecane)thiophene] (P3HT-b-P3TODT) allows for high loading of bis-PCBA (up to 40 wt % to the blend) within the P3TODT domains, while preserving the lamellar morphology. Characterization by grazing incidence small-angle X-ray scattering, electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy indicates that the periods of the structures range between 24 and 29 nm depending on the bis-PCBA loading. The hydrogen bond interactions between bis-PCBA and P3TODT segments further suppress crystallization and macrophase separation of the fullere...
Data-Driven Subclassification of Speech Sound Disorders in Preschool Children

Purpose The purpose of the study was to determine whether distinct subgroups of preschool children with speech sound disorders (SSD) could be identified using a subgroup discovery algorithm (SUBgroup discovery via Alternate Random Processes, or SUBARP). Of specific interest was finding evidence of a subgroup of SSD exhibiting performance consistent with atypical speech motor control. Method Ninety-seven preschool children with SSD completed speech and nonspeech tasks. Fifty-three kinematic, acoustic, and behavioral measures from these tasks were input to SUBARP. Results Two distinct subgroups were identified from the larger sample. The 1st subgroup (76%; population prevalence estimate = 67.8%–84.8%) did not have characteristics that would suggest atypical speech motor control. The 2nd subgroup (10.3%; population prevalence estimate = 4.3%–16.5%) exhibited significantly higher variability in measures of articulatory kinematics and poor ability to imitate iambic lexical stress, suggesting atypical speech mo...
A fuzzy programming approach for solving a multiple criteria and multiple constraint level linear programming problem

Abstract This paper presents a solution method to the multiple criteria and multiple constraint level linear program (MC2LP using a fuzzy linear programming approach. This approach finds a potential solution to the problem by solving a fuzzy linear program, which is different than the usual approach of MC2-simplex method.
Binding characteristics of (-)- and (+)-nicotine to the rat brain P2 fraction.

Abstract Saturation studies employing (−)- and (+)-[3H]nicotine indicate that the isomers bind to different very high and high affinity sites since the binding density for (−)-[3H]nicotine is 10 times that for (+)-[3H]nicotine. Both isomers also bind to a low affinity site (KDs = ∼10−5 to 10−4M). Competition studies employing unlabelled (−)- and (+)-nicotine reveal greater complexities. The isomers also appear to bind to a separate site which enhances binding at the (−)- and (+)-nicotine high affinity sites. (+)-Nicotine is more effective in increasing the binding of (−)-[3H]nicotine at its high affinity site than (−)-nicotine. Further, (+)-nicotine has a greater specificity for enhancing binding than (−)-nicotine in that it enhances (−)-[3H]nicotine binding at lower concentrations and inhibits binding at higher concentrations than (−)-nicotine.
Evidence Based Fact Sheet: An Effective Method for Implementing Change

ISSUE: One intervention our hospital used to decrease central line related (CLR) blood stream infections (BSI) in our intensive care unit (ICU) was use of a 2% chlorhexidine preparation for skin antisepsis for catheter insertion and dressings as recommended by the CDC Guidelines for Prevention of Intravascular Catheter-Related Infections. We wanted to expand use of the product throughout our hospital to include all types of catheter insertion and care, skin preparation for minor procedures, and blood cultures. Effective education to implement the change was needed. PROJECT: We developed an Evidence Based Fact Sheet (EBFS) to provide concise, comprehensive education. The EBFS included a product description; advantages, and indications and contraindications for use. The EBFS included key references, a summary of our ICU outcomes, and references that supported cost effectiveness. The EBFS listed the Infection Control Practitioner (ICP) as a resource. The EBFS was distributed via our electronic announcement system, mailed to key staff, and posted in supply rooms where the product was stocked. The supply division notified staff of the change and discontinuation of the alternative product. The EBFS was also posted on our intranet site for ongoing access. RESULTS: The EBFS and hospital wide use of the chlorhexidine product was implemented January 2005. The ICPs collected surveillance data on hospital wide BSIs and blood cultures to monitor effectiveness. The ICU CLR BSI rate decreased from a cumulative infection rate of 3.0 per 1000 device days in 2004 to 2.4 in 2005. Hospital wide BSIs from all sources decreased from 17 to 8 per quarter in 2005 as compared with the previous historical range per quarter as high as 25 BSIs. Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) BSIs decreased from 3.0 BSIs per 100 PICCs placed in 2004 to 0.6 in 2005. The blood culture contamination rate per 100 bottles decreased from 2.4 in 2004 to 1.6 in 2005. A six month evaluation of the EBFS yielded positive comments about the value of the EBFS as an education tool. LESSONS LEARNED: Utilizing an EBFS is an effective way to provide education and evidence for a hospital wide Infection Control intervention. The time involved to develop the EBFS was minimal and it remains an available, valuable resource for staff.
WINTER SHOREBIRD COMMUNITIES AND TIDAL FLAT CHARACTERISTICS AT HUMBOLDT BAY, CALIFORNIA

Abstract We examined winter (November–January) shorebird use at 19 sites around Humboldt Bay, California, an important site for nonbreeding shorebirds. We analyzed species richness (number of species), species densities, and incidences (presence/absence) in relation to habitat characteristics (tidal flat width, channelization, standing water, timing of tidal ebb, and sediment particle size). We included site area in analyses of incidence, and site area and substrate heterogeneity in the species richness analysis. We observed a total of 19 species, 8–16 at individual sites, and this variation correlated with substrate heterogeneity. Substrate particle size correlated positively with Sanderling (Calidris alba) incidence and negatively with American Avocet (Recurvirostra americana) incidence. Amount of standing water correlated positively with Whimbrel (Numenius phaeopus) and negatively with dowitcher (Limnodromus griseus and L. scolopaceus) incidence. Width of tidal flat correlated negatively with Whimbrel ...
A study of 4-substituted acetanilide complexes of nickel(II) and cobalt(II) perchlorates

Abstract Complexes of cobalt(II) and nickel(II) perchlorates with 4-substituted acetanilides as ligands are reported for the first time. The stoichiometries of the complexes were found to be of the type [M(4−ZC 8 H 8 NO) 6 ] (ClO 4 ) 2 where M is the metal ion and Z = OCH 3 , CH 3 , H, Cl, Br, NO 2 . The ligand-metal bond is assigned through the carbonyl oxygen on the basis of infrared spectral shifts upon complexation. The visible spectra and ligand field parameters of the complexes are also reported and discussed.
Large deviations for stationary Gaussian processes

In their previous work on large deviations the authors always assumed the base process to be Markovian whereas here they consider the base process to be stationary Gaussian. Similar large deviation results are obtained under natural hypotheses on the spectral density function of the base process. A rather explicit formula for the entropy involved is also obtained.
Pharmacologic drugs for controlled hypotension

Due to the risks of transfusion reactions and the transmission of infectious diseases, there has been increased interest in measures to limit intraoperative blood loss and avoid the need for homologous transfusion. Controlled hypotension is one technique that has been used to limit intraoperative blood loss. Several drugs have been used alone or in combination for controlled hypotension, including the inhalational anesthetics, direct acting vasodilators such as nitroglycerin and nitroprusside, beta adrenergic antagonists, and calcium channel blockers. Various drugs available to the clinician for controlled hypotension are reviewed.
The determination of trace metals and fluoride in mineralogical and biological samples from the marine environment

Par l'analyse par activation, on recherche des traces de metaux et de fluor dans la poussiere atmospherique recoltee au-dessus des differents oceans. On a utilise l'activation neutronique pour l'analyse des metaux, l'activation aux photons pour evaluer la teneur en fluor. On discute de facon detaillee l'importance des resultats obtenus pour Hg et F en fonction du milieu. L'etude du rendement d'extraction du mercure a ete faite au laboratoire au moyen d'algues marines, phaeodactylum tricornutum. Au cours d'experiences preliminaires faites en utilisant le radiotraceur (197Hg), on a evalue differents parametres experimentaux. On compare les resultats finaux pour les concentrations de mercure dans les algues avec ceux obtenus par une methode d'analyse par absorption atomique.
Housing Segregation, Negro Employment, and Metropolitan Decentralization

I. Negro residential segregation, 176. — II. Segregation in Detroit and Chicago, 178. — III. The distribution of negro employment, 179. — IV. Negro employment by occupation and industry, 183. — V. The level of nonwhite employment, 189. — VI. Suburbanization and negro employment, 191. — VII. Postwar dispersal of employment and population in Chicago, 192. — VIII. Conclusions, 196.
Estimation of the electron-collision initiation rate constant for the plasma polymerization and deposition of ethane using a transport-based model

The plasma polymerization and deposition of ethane in a parallel-plate electrode system was predicted using gas-phase transport equations and published gas-phase kinetic rate constants, with the assumption that the deposition rate was limited by the production of monomer free radicals and their diffusion to the deposition surface. The kinetic rate constant for radical initiation by electron collision with ethane was adjusted to bring the modelpredictionsfor mass deposition into line with experimental measurements reported in the literature for 12 combinations of power, gas fowrate, and pressure. Furthermore, the shapes of the predicted deposition profiles were made to closely match the experimental profiles by introducing an adjustable parameter to account for plasma boundary effects and two coefficients to account for nonradical polymerization (constant for all conditions). The best-fit electron-collision initiation constant was compared with theoretical predictions for oxygen and hydrogen in a manner explainable by bond strengths and vibrational degrees of freedom.
Lil HAL: digital kneeboard for ejection seat aircraft

In the last few years, airlines, commercial air carriers and the military have begun to introduce electronic tools into the cockpit to replace paper versions of flight publications, flight plans, departure and approach plates, maps, etc. These devices have varied from the common laptop to the smaller pen-tablet type computers. In some instances these devices have been connected to aircraft data buses to collect maintenance data, fault codes and other useful information. None of these devices, however, have been found satisfactory in ejection seat aircraft due to their size, weight, and dynamic characteristics when subjected to the inertial and aerodynamic forces that occur during an ejection. This paper describes an electronic digital kneeboard suitable for use in an ejection seat aircraft. The kneeboard consists of a look at helmet-mounted display, a small streamlined kneeboard input device, a carry-on/carry-off computer and its associated support interfaces.
Nanoparticle-assisted combination therapies for effective cancer treatment

Combination chemotherapy and nanoparticle drug delivery are two areas that have shown significant promise in cancer treatment. Combined therapy of two or more drugs promotes synergism among the different drugs against cancer cells and suppresses drug resistance through distinct mechanisms of action. Nanoparticle drug delivery, on the other hand, enhances therapeutic effectiveness and reduces side effects of the drug payloads by improving their pharmacokinetics. These two active research fields have been recently merged to further improve the efficacy of cancer therapeutics. This review article summarizes the recent efforts in developing nanoparticle platforms to concurrently deliver multiple types of drugs for combination chemotherapy. We also highlight the challenges and design specifications that need to be considered in optimizing nanoparticle-based combination chemotherapy.
High-frequency vortex dynamics and dissipation of high-temperature superconductors

The high-frequency vortex dynamics of high-temperature superconductors near the flux-line depinning threshold is investigated based on a thermally activated flux-flow (TAFF) model. Dissipation due to vortex motion driven by a microwave electromagnetic field is studied as a function of the frequency, temperature, dc magnetic field, and microwave power. The generalized TAFF model is also compared to the conventional flux-creep theory and is found qualitatively consistent.
Microcavity exciton-polariton splitting in the linear regime.

Comparisons are made of a classical and a quantum mechanical model of polariton energy splitting inside a microcavity in the linear excitation regime. Analytical expressions are obtained for the splitting energy as a function of temperature, detuning, and exciton-photon coupling constants. Experimental results are compared with theory, and agreements are found only if the effect of inhomogeneity is taken into account.
Attitudes to Income Equality: The ‘Socialist Legacy’ Revisited

It is routinely assumed that residents of post-socialist countries have a preference for greater income equality, other things being equal, owing to the legacy of socialism. This proposition is examined in the context of Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union (FSU) using three waves of the World Values Survey. Contrary to expectations, there is little evidence of a ‘socialist legacy’ en bloc. Countries in the FSU as a group display significantly lower preference for moving towards greater income equality than Eastern Europe. Moreover, this preference for greater income inequality appears to have persisted at least since the mid-1990s.
Integrated 2D 4-C OBC velocity analysis of near-seafloor sediments, Green Canyon, Gulf of Mexico

Using 2D four-component ocean-bottom-cable (2D 4-C OBC) seismic data processed in common-receiver gathers, we developed robust VP and VS interval velocities for the near-seafloor strata. A vital element of the study was to implement iterative interpretation techniques to correlate near-seafloor P-P and P-SV images. Initially, depth-equivalent P-P and P-SV layers were interpreted by visually matching similar events in both seismic modes. Complementary 1D ray-tracing analyses then determined interval values of subsea-floor VP and VS velocities across a series of earth layers extending from the seafloor to below the base of the hydrate stability zone (BHSZ) to further constrain these interpretations. Iterating interpretation of depth-equivalent horizons with velocity analyses allowed us to converge on physically reasonable velocity models. Simultaneous VP and VS velocity analysis provided additional model constraints in areas where data quality of one reflection mode (usually VP in the near-seafloor environm...
Evaluating a Thermoregulatory Model for Cooling Garment Applications With Transient Metabolic Rates

Current state-of-the-art thermoregulatory models do not predict body temperatures with the accuracies that are required for the development of automatic cooling control in liquid cooling garment (LCG) systems. Automatic cooling control would be beneficial in a variety of space, aviation, military, and industrial environments for optimizing cooling efficiency, for making LCGs as portable and practical as possible, for alleviating the individual from manual cooling control, and for improving thermal comfort and cognitive performance. In this paper, we adopt the Fiala thermoregulatory model, which has previously demonstrated state-of-the-art predictive abilities in air environments, for use in LCG environments. We compare the model’s tissue temperature predictions with analytical solutions to the bioheat equation, and with experimental data for a 700 W rectangular type activity schedule. The thermoregulatory model predicts rectal temperature, mean skin temperature, and body heat storage (BHS) with mean absolute errors of 0.13°C, 0.95°C, and 11.9 W·hr, respectively. Even though these accuracies are within state-of-the-art variations, the model does not satisfy the target BHS accuracy of ±6.5 W·hr. We identify model deficiencies, which will be addressed in future studies in order to achieve the strict BHS accuracy that is needed for automatic cooling control development.© 2008 ASME
An autoradiographic study of complementary laminar patterns of termination of afferent fibers to the olfactory cortex.

The afferent projections to the olfactory cortical areas from the olfactory bulb and the prepiriform cortex have been studied in the rat, using the autoradiographic method for demonstrating axonal connections. In order to relate closely the results of these experiments to the structure of the olfactory cortical areas, the cytoarchitectonic characteristics of these areas have also been described. The olfactory cortical areas, which receive a direct input from the olfactory bulb, include the anterior olfactory nucleus, the ventral portion of the tenia tects, the olfactory tubercle, the prepiriform cortex, the nucleus of the lateral olfactory tract, the cortical amygdaloid nucleus, and the lateral entorhinal area. All of these areas are composed primarily of pyramidal cells and have three basic layers: a superficial plexiform layer containing the apical dendrites of the pyramidal cells (layer I), a pyramidal cell layer (layer II), and a deeper polymorphic cellular layer (layer III). In each area layer I may be divided into a superficial portion (IA) and a deeper portion (IB). The autoradiographic experiments have shown that all of the olfactory cortical areas receive projections from the prepiriform cortex as well as from the olfactory bulb, and that these two projections have complementary laminar patterns of termination which are the same in every area. Throughout the olfactory cortex the fibers from the olfactory bulb terminate exclusively in layer IA, in relation to the distal segments of the apical dendrite of the pyramidal cells, whereas the fibers from the prepiriform cortex terminate in layer IB, in relation to more proximal segments of the apical dendrites, and also in layer III. The boundary between the two projections within layer I is very sharp, with minimal overlap. In contrast to this precise laminar organization, there is little evidence for a topographical organization within these Projections.
Intrinsic acidity of aluminum, chromium (III) and iron (III) μ3-hydroxo functional groups from ab initio electronic structure calculations

Density functional calculations are performed on M{sub 3}(OH){sub 7}(H{sub 2}O){sub 6}{sup 2+} and M{sub 3}O(OH){sub 6}(H{sub 2}O){sub 6}{sup +} clusters for M {double_bond} Al, Cr(III), and Fe(III), allowing determination of the relative acidities of the {mu}{sub 3}-hydroxo and aquo functional groups. Contrary to previous predictions and rationalizations, {double_bond}Fe{sub 3}OH and {double_bond}Al{sub 3}OH groups have nearly the same intrinsic acidity, while {double_bond}Cr{sub 3}OH groups are significantly more acidic. The gas-phase acidity of the Fe{sub 3}OH site is in good agreement with the value predicted by the molecular mechanics model previously used to estimate the relative acidities of surface sites on iron oxides. Acidities of aquo functional groups were also computed for Al and Cr. The {double_bond}AlOH{sub 2} site is more acidic than the {double_bond}Al{sub 3}OH site, whereas the {double_bond}Cr{sub 3}OH site is more acidic than the {double_bond}CrOH{sub 2} site. These findings predict that the surface charging behavior of chromium oxides/oxyhydroxides should be distinguishable from their Fe, Al counterparts. The calculations also provide insight into why the lepidocrocite/boehmite polymorph is not observed for CrOOH.
Linopirdine does not improve matching performance in the titrating matching-to-sample paradigm

Abstract Linopirdine (DUP 996), a proposed cognitive enhancing agent, was studied in four squirrel monkeys ( Saimiri sciureus ) and six White Carneau pigeons responding under a titrating matching-to-sample paradigm (TMTS). Briefly, under this titration schedule, each trial began with the presentation of a sample stimulus on the center key of a three-key pigeon or squirrel monkey chamber. Completion of a fixed-ratio on the center key resulted in the termination of the stimulus presentation and the initiation of a delay period. The length of the delay changed as a function of the subject's performance. During the first five trials of each session, the delay was fixed at 3 s in length. On the sixth and all subsequent trials, the length of the delay increased, did not change, or decreased such that accuracy was maintained at approximately 80%. Following the delay, two of the three response keys were transilluminated with different colored lights. A single response on the key transilluminated with the same stimulus as the sample stimulus resulted in the presentation of food. A response on the key transilluminated with the stimulus that did not match the sample stimulus resulted in a timeout. Linopridine was administered in the pigeon (0.001–5.6 mg/kg) and squirrel monkey (0.01–1.0 mg/kg) 15 min before testing. Matching performance was not affected as measured by changes in mean delay values or percent accuracy even at doses that decreased rate of responding. These results suggest that the enhancement in cognitive function previously reported after administration of linopiridine may be limited to specific situations.
A Prognosis for the Rural Hospital: Part II: Are Rural Hospitals Economically Viable?

This is the second of a two part series that summarizes what is known about the operation and performance of the rural hospital and discusses potential options and strategies for strengthening the viability of these institutions. In Part II, we focus on the economic viability of the rural hospital and examine external factors that influence the environment within which the rural hospital operates. We conclude that the future will remain precarious for rural hospitals and that they can hope to improve their economic viability only if they are able to determine where they fit as part of the large health care system.
Synthesis and Structure of Alkoxy- and (Aryloxy)alanes. Observation of a Ring-Opening Reaction Involving Tetrahydrofuran

Dihydrogen elimination from aluminum hydrides and alcohols was used to produce new alkoxide and aryloxide complexes. Dimethylethylamine−alane (DMEAA) reacted with 2 equiv of 2,6-diisopropylphenol (DIPH) in THF at −78 °C to give (DIP)2AlH·2THF (1) in 94% yield. It was characterized by NMR, IR, MS, and X-ray crystallography and found to be trigonal bipyramidal with both axial sites occupied by THF. Crystal data for 1: C32H51AlO4, monoclinic, C2/c, a = 21.37(1) A, b = 9.324(3) A, c = 15.30(1) A, β = 94.16(5)°, V = 3040(5)A3, Z = 4. DMEAA reacted with 2 equiv of triphenylcarbinol, Ph3COH, in THF at −78 °C to give (Ph3CO)2AlH·THF (2) in 42% yield. The lower coordination number was attributed to the larger cone angle of the ligand. Crystal data for 2: C42H39AlO3, triclinic, P1, a = 8.482(1) A, b = 9.067(1) A, c = 23.59(1) A, α = 90.919(1)°, β = 92.624(1)°, γ = 116.093(1)°, V = 1626.2(2) A3, Z = 2. Three equivalents of DIPH in THF reacted with DMEAA at −78 °C to form the unexpected compound (DIP)3(THF)(NMe2Et...
Diabetes increases financial burden of individuals with traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI).

Secondary analysis of existing data. To estimate the association of diabetes with family income in a pooled 15-year cohort of individuals with TSCI. A large specialty hospital in the southeastern United States. A total number of 1408 individuals identified with TSCI were surveyed regarding family income as well as clinical and demographic factors. Due to income being reported in censored intervals rather than individual dollar values, interval regression was used to estimate models of the association of family income with diabetes. Approximately 12% of individuals with TSCI reported being diagnosed with diabetes. The most frequent family income interval in our sample was <$10 000, lower than the poverty threshold. The family income interval with the highest rate of diabetes was $15 000–$20 000. In an unadjusted model, diabetes was associated with a significant reduction of $8749 and in a fully adjusted model, diabetes was significantly associated with a reduction of $8560 in family income. Being a minority was also significantly associated with a reduction whereas educational attainment was associated with increased family income. TSCI severity was not significantly related to family income. Diabetes imposes an additional financial burden on individuals with TSCI an already vulnerable population with high health care costs. The burden is more pronounced in minorities with TSCI. Providers should be aware of the higher prevalence of diabetes among patients with TSCI and pursue a policy of testing early and vigilant management. Further studies are needed regarding special interventions for managing diabetes in the TSCI population.