cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The effects of alcohol celiac plexus block, pain, and mood on longevity in patients with unresectable pancreatic cancer: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study.

Objective. This additional analysis of data from a previously reported prospective trial comparing the effect of intraoperative alcohol or saline placebo neurolytic block in patients with pancreatic cancer was conducted in response to the development of a new theory, which explores the relationship of negative mood states to pain, pain-related behavior, and ultimately, longevity. Methods. The original study used a double-blind procedure to randomly assign 139 patients with histologically proven, unresectable pancreatic cancer to receive either an alcohol or a saline block. Data on visual analog pain, mood, and interference with activity were collected preoperatively and every 2 months postoperatively until death. The current analysis was conducted on the complete data sets received from 130 patients. Demographic data were submitted to chi-square analysis and to univariate and multivariate analysis of variance. Univariate and multivariate analyses of variance also compared 1) the effect of alcohol versus saline on pain, mood, interference of pain with activities, and longevity and 2) the impact of mood on pain with longevity as the dependent variable. Correlation and regression analyses examined the impact of mood on life expectancy. Results. The alcohol intervention had a significant positive effect on life duration and mood scores. High negative mood states correlated significantly with an increase in visual analog pain, the rating of pain intensity at its worse, and pain interference with patients' activities. Conclusion. In these subjects, the neurolytic block, as compared with medical management alone, improved pain, elevated mood, reduced pain interference with activity, and was associated with an increase in life expectancy.
Laboratory realization of an ion-ion hybrid Alfvén wave resonator

[1] In a magnetized plasma with two ion species, shear Alfven waves (or guided electromagnetic ion cyclotron waves) have zero parallel group velocity and experience a cut-off near the ion-ion hybrid frequency. Since the ion-ion hybrid frequency is proportional to the magnetic field, it is possible, in principle, for a magnetic well configuration to behave as an Alfven wave resonator in a two-ion plasma. This study demonstrates such a resonator in a controlled laboratory experiment using a H+-He+ mixture. The resonator response is investigated by launching monochromatic waves and sharp tone-bursts from a magnetic loop antenna. The observed frequency spectra are found to agree with predictions of a theoretical model of trapped eigenmodes.
Polyethylene glycol enhances axolemmal resealing following transection in cultured cells and in ex vivo spinal cord.

Abstract The integrity of the neuronal membrane is critical for its function as well as survival, and ineffective repair of damaged membranes may be one of the key factors underlying the neuronal degeneration and overall functional loss that occurs after spinal cord injury and traumatic brain injury. Previously, we showed that polyethylene glycol (PEG) can reseal axonal membranes following compression in isolated guinea pig spinal cord white matter. We now report that 10 mM PEG can also significantly enhance membrane resealing following transection in the clinically relevant conditions of low extracellular Ca2+ and low temperature. Such beneficial effects were demonstrated both functionally, through membrane potential measured by double sucrose gap apparatus, and anatomically, through horseradish peroxidase and tetramethyl rhodamine dextran dye exclusion assays. We further noted that axons with small diameters preferentially benefited from PEG-mediated axolemmal resealing. Using atomic force microscopy, w...
Divine foreknowledge and Newcomb's paradox

Newcomb's Paradox thus serves as an illustrative vindication of the compatibility of divine foreknowledge and human freedom. A proper understanding of the counterfactual conditionals involved enables us to see that the pastness of God's knowledge serves neither to make God's beliefs counterfactually closed nor to rob us of genuine freedom. It is evident that our decisions determine God's past beliefs about those decisions and do so without invoking an objectionable backward causation. It is also clear that in the context of foreknowledge, backtracking counterfactuals are entirely appropriate and that no alteration of the past occurs. With the justification of the one box strategy, the death of theological fatalism seems ensured. *** DIRECT SUPPORT *** A0985044 00003
Giant cell arteritis

In many populations giant cell arteritis (GCA) is the most common form of vasculitis. Genetic markers, ethnic factors, and increasing age over 50 years appear to enhance susceptibility and an infection may trigger its onset. Recent investigations provide evidence that the vasculitic reaction is part of an immune response to an antigen residing in involved artery walls. These studies along with the description of an experimental model of the disease have significantly increased out understanding of GCA.
Iterative preliminary design tools for composite structures

Abstract Advanced composite materials offer tremendous potential for the optimization of aerospace structures from weight, cost, strength and stiffness perspectives. However, this potential cannot be realized without the aid of advanced composite design tools that have been specifically developed to exploit the unique properties of these materials. This paper presents the philosophy behind a system of semi-empirical composite design programs that have primarily been developed for the preliminary design environment. The structure of the system is described and problems encountered during the development of the system are discussed. Practical examples are used to illustrate the system capabilities.
Intradiscal injection of simvastatin results in radiologic, histologic, and genetic evidence of disc regeneration in a rat model of degenerative disc disease

Abstract Background context A large percentage of back pain can be attributed to degeneration of the intervertebral disc (IVD). Bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2) is known to play an important role in chondrogenesis of the IVD. Simvastatin is known to upregulate expression of BMP-2. Thus, we hypothesized that intradiscal injection of simvastatin in a rat model of degenerative disc disease (DDD) would result in retardation of DDD. Purpose The purpose of the present study was to develop a novel conservative treatment for DDD and related discogenic back pain. Study design/setting The setting of this study is the laboratory investigation. Methods Disc injury was induced in 272 rats via 21-ga needle puncture. After 6 weeks, injured discs were treated with simvastatin in a saline or hydrogel carrier. Rats were sacrificed at predetermined time points. Outcome measures assessed were radiologic, histologic, and genetic. Radiologically, the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) index (number of pixels multiplied by the corresponding image densities) was determined. Histologically, disc spaces were read by three blinded scorers using a previously described histologic grading scale. Genetically, nuclei pulposi were harvested, and polymerase chain reaction was run to determine relative levels of aggrecan, collagen type II, and BMP-2 gene expression. Results Radiologically, discs treated with 5 mg/mL of simvastatin in hydrogel or saline demonstrated MRI indices that were normal through 8 weeks after treatment, although this was more sustained when delivered in hydrogel. Histologically, discs treated with 5 mg/mL of simvastatin in hydrogel demonstrated improved grades compared with discs treated at higher doses. Genetically, discs treated with 5 mg/mL of simvastatin in hydrogel demonstrated higher gene expression of aggrecan and collagen type II than control. Conclusions Degenerate discs treated with 5 mg/mL of simvastatin in a hydrogel carrier demonstrated radiographic and histologic features resembling normal noninjured IVDs. In addition, the gene expression of aggrecan and collagen type II (important constituents of the IVD extracellular matrix) was upregulated in treated discs. Injection of simvastatin into degenerate IVDs may result in retardation of disc degeneration and represents a promising investigational therapy for conservative treatment of DDD.
Do homeowners achieve more household wealth in the long run

Abstract Despite the public’s faith in homeownership as a vehicle for wealth creation, there are surprisingly few empirical studies of the independent impact of homeownership and its duration on household wealth accumulation. This paper provides the first empirical evidence that homeownership, after controlling for other drivers of wealth accumulation, is positively and significantly associated with wealth accumulation over time. Using the Panel Survey of Income Dynamics, it examines the influence of housing tenure choices between 1989 and 2001 on household net wealth levels in 2001 after controlling for initial wealth in 1989, location, income, education, and other family and personal characteristics that might influence the rate of wealth accumulation. Importantly, the models used also control for the tendency of households to accumulate wealth between 1984 and 1989 (five years prior to the studied period). This approach is used to address the possibility that an unobserved variable—the propensity to save or accumulate wealth—may be associated with both the probability and duration of homeownership and the rate of wealth accumulation. All else equal, those who owned homes and owned for longer periods of time had significantly higher household net wealth by 2001. These results are compelling because house price appreciation over the period was near its long-run average while stock gains were above and real rent increases below their long-run averages. Hence, the findings are suggestive of a positive influence of ownership over long periods on net wealth, even during a period when alternative investments produced higher than normal returns and rents grew slowly. This is especially important because the overwhelmingly majority of households do not sell their homes shortly after buying them. In our sample, those who became owners typically owned for 7 years. Furthermore, most households that bought during a period of declining real home values in the early 1990s continued to own their homes for at least eight years and came out well ahead of those who did not own.
Revised interpretation of the age of allochthonous rocks of the Uncompahgre Formation, Needle Mountains, Colorado

The middle Proterozoic Uncompahgre Formation consists of a deformed and mildly metamorphosed sequence of interlayered quartzites and metapelites. Previous workers advanced the notion that the Uncompahgre Formation represents an isolated remnant of a sequence of supracrustal sediments deposited on deeply eroded crystalline basement sometime after 1680 Ma and deformed and metamorphosed before 1430 Ma. These conclusions followed from previous interpretations that the contact between Uncompahgre lithologies and adjacent metamorphic units is an unconformity truncating dikes ranging in age from 1640 to 1680 Ma. A considerable body of evidence suggests, however, that the Uncompahgre Formation is, in fact, allochthonous and that age interpretations must be revised. Significant displacements between Uncompahgre units and adjacent metamorphic sequences are suggested by an increase in accumulated strain toward the contact zone, coupled with a 3- to 25-m-thick zone of mylonites, protomylonites, and phyllonites in the contact zone itself. The geometry of the contact and the presence of faults of similar attitude within the Uncompahgre itself indicate an allochthonous sheet of Uncompahgre units emplaced along a sole thrust of variable dip, with imbricate internal north-dipping thrusts and a northern thrust contact of similar attitude. Folding within the Uncompahgre Formation was intimately involved with southward emplacement and shortening of the allochthon. Because the Uncompahgre Formation is allochthonous, time of deposition of the protolith cannot be bracketed by the ages of surrounding crystalline basement. Deformation in the Uncompahgre Formation must, however, postdate 1680 Ma and predate intrusion of the Eolus batholith at ∼1430 Ma. The Uncompahgre Formation may well be older than previously presumed and likely has equivalents in northern New Mexico.
Assumptions of the Dialectical Method: The Centrality of Labor for the Human Species, Its History, and Individuals:

Critical Sociology has previously published examinations of the ontological assumptions Marx incorporated into his epistemological approach. These principles must be understood if intelligibility is to be made of his overall outlook. However, one such previous work failed to recognize the centrality of labor in Marx's ontological-epistemological assumptions. This omission should be rectified. The dimensions of this assumption involve the importance of labor for the species, the importance of labor for human history, and the importance of labor for individuals. A secondary focus attempts to demonstrate the implication of each of these for the conditions of life under capitalism.
Backward recognition masking as a function of ear of mask presentation.

Two experiments were conducted to determine whether the magnitude of auditory backward recognition masking (ABRM) differed as a function of whether the mask was presented contralaterally or ipsflaterally to the test tone ear; the mask/test tone ear relationship was a blocked variable in the experiments. On a pitch discrimination task, performance was better when a mask was presented contralaterally rather than ipsflaterally. However, in contrast to an earlier study, there was substantial ABRM on contralateral mask trials, although not as much as on ipsilateral trials. The implications of these results for theories of ABRM are discussed.
Rated Electrical Power Needed in a Wind Turbine for a Home

Etablissement d'un reseau de courbes permettant de determiner la puissance nominale d'un aerogenerateur necessaire pour la fourniture d'une quantite donnee d'energie electrique annuelle dans un regime de vent connu
Molecular recognition of histone H3 by the WD40 protein WDR5.

The WD40-repeat protein WDR5 is a conserved subunit of Trithorax (TRX) histone methyltransferase complexes. WDR5 has been reported to selectively bind dimethylated Lys4 (K4me2) in histone H3 to promote K4 trimethylation by TRX. To elucidate the basis of this binding specificity, we have determined the crystal structure of WDR5 bound to a histone H3 peptide bearing K4me2. The structure reveals that the N terminus of histone H3 binds as a 310-helix in the central depression formed by the WD40 repeats. R2 in histone H3 is bound in the acidic channel in the protein's core, whereas K4me2 is solvent exposed and does not engage in direct interactions with WDR5. Functional studies confirm that WDR5 recognizes A1, R2 and T3 in histone H3 but has virtually identical affinities for the unmodified and mono-, di- and trimethylated forms of K4, demonstrating that it does not discriminate among different degrees of methylation of this residue.
Derivation and validation of a simple model to identify venous thromboembolism risk in medical patients

Background Fewer than half of eligible hospitalized medical patients receive appropriate venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis. One reason for this low rate is the complexity of existing risk assessment models. A simple set of easily identifiable risk factors that are highly predictive of VTE among hospitalized medical patients may enhance appropriate thromboprophylaxis. Methods Electronic medical record interrogation was performed to identify medical admissions from January 1, 2000-December 31, 2007 (n=143,000), and those patients with objectively confirmed VTE during hospitalization or within 90 days following discharge. Putative risk factors most predictive of VTE were identified, and a risk assessment model (RAM) was derived; 46,000 medicine admissions from January 1, 2008-December 31, 2009 served as a validation cohort to test the predictive ability of the RAM. The newly derived RAM was compared with a published VTE assessment tool (Kucher Score). Results Four risk factors: previous VTE; an order for bed rest; peripherally inserted central venous catheterization line; and a cancer diagnosis, were the minimal set most predictive of hospital-associated VTE (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve [AUC]=0.874; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.869-0.880). These risk factors upon validation in a separate population (validation cohort) retained an AUC=0.843; 95% CI, 0.833-0.852. The ability of the 4-element RAM to identify patients at risk of developing VTE within 90 days was superior to the Kucher Score. Conclusions The 4-element RAM identified in this study may be used to identify patients at risk for VTE and improve rates of thromboprophylaxis. This simple and accurate RAM is an alternative to more complicated published VTE risk assessment tools that currently exist.
Image flow management in a PACS network

ABSTRACT The purpose of this project is to develop a graphical tool to analyze and optimize the image flow pattern in ahierarchical, large scale PACS local area network. The PACS network is characterized as heavy image traffic, longimage flow path, heterogeneous computer nodes, multiple protocols, and physical media. A smooth operation of the PACS network depends on a centralized, timely report of image flow pattern, trouble spots, and an alarm mechanism for critical conditions. Crucial timing parameters such as queue delay from acquisition to display, processing time forarchiving and reformatting, and retrieval speed, can be locally collected and reported to the network manager for statistical characterization. Moreover, network traffic information and system component failures anywhere in the image flow can be reported graphically. High urgency failures trigger an immediate alarm to the designated operator. Our network management software with user friendly graphical interface is easy to use even by non-computer personnel suchas hospital administrators. It achieves total automation in trouble reporting and thus leads to improvement of the networklayout and operation condition based on the analysis of image flow pattern.
Pulmonary toxicity screening studies in male rats with M5 respirable fibers and particulates.

M5 fiber is a high-strength, high-performance organic fiber type that is a rigid rod material and composed of heterocyclic polymer fibers of type PIPD. The aim of this study was to evaluate the acute lung toxicity of intratracheally instilled M5 respirable fibers and particulates in rats. Using a pulmonary bioassay and bridging methodology, the acute lung toxicity of intratracheally instilled M5 particulates and that of its fibers were compared with a positive control particle type, quartz, as well as a negative control particle type, carbonyl iron particles. Moreover, the results of these instillation studies were bridged with data previously generated from inhalation studies with quartz and carbonyl iron particles, using the quartz and iron particles as the inhalation/instillation bridge material. For the bioassay experimental design, in the bronchoalveolar lavage studies, the lungs of rats were intratracheally instilled with 0.5 or 0.75 mg/kg of M5 particulate or 1 or 5 mg/kg of the following control o...
Voltage-controlled quantum light from an atomically thin semiconductor

Single photons can be emitted by defects in WSe2 with emission properties that can be controlled through an applied voltage.
Virtual Structure Reduction on Distributed K-Coloring Problems

Distributed Constraint Problem solving represents a fundamental research area in distributed artificial intelligence and multi-agent systems. The constraint density, or the ratio of the number of constraints to the number of variables, determines the difficulty of either finding a solution or minimizing the set of variable assignment conflicts in a constraint problem. Reducing the active density of a problem typically reduces difficulty in finding a solution. We present a fully distributed technique for reducing the active density of constraint graphs that represent Distributed Constraint Optimization Problems (DCOP), called Virtual Structure Reduction (VSR). The VSR technique leverages the occurrence of frozen pairs, or variables that must be assigned the same value based on shared constraints between variables within the local neighborhood. We show how frozen pairs can be used to identify surrogate relationships between variables which reduces the active set of nodes in the constraint graph and leads to a reduction in active density. We discuss our DCOP solver, integrated with the Distributed Stochastic Algorithm (DSA), called VSR-DSA. The VSR-DSA algorithm demonstrates significant performance gains compared to the DSA-B and MGM algorithms in messages, cycles, solution quality, and time on randomized instances of the 3-coloring problem.
Feature selection for computerized mass detection in digitized mammograms by using a genetic algorithm.

Rationale and Objective. To investigate optimization of feature selection for computerized mass detection in digitized mammograms, and to compare the effectiveness of a genetic algorithm (GA) in such optimization with that of an “exhaustive” search of all feature permutations. Materials and Methods. A Bayesian belief network (BBN) was used to classify positive and negative regions for masses depicted in digitized mammograms; 20 features were computed for each of 592 positive and 3,790 negative regions in two databases. Conditional probabilities for the BBN were computed by using a “training” database of 288 positive and 2,204 negative regions. Performance was measured by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve ( A z ) by using the remainder database (304 positive and 1,586 negative regions). The optimal set was first found by using an “exhaustive” (complete permutation) searching method. A GA-based search for the optimal set then was applied, and the results of the two approaches were compared. Results. As the number of features in the classifier increased, the A z value increased until it reached a maximum performance for 11 features of 0.876 ± 0.008. The A z value then decreased monotonically as the number of features increased from 11 to 20. Using 100 random chromosomes (seeds) in the first generation, the GA identified the same optimal set of features but reduced the total computation time by a factor of 65. Conclusion. A GA-based search might be an efficient and effective approach to selecting an optimal feature set.
C-rate performance of silicon oxycarbide anodes for Li+ batteries enhanced by carbon nanotubes

Abstract We show that employing single wall carbon nanotubes (CNTs) as the conducting agent significantly increases the capacity of silicon oxycarbide anodes at high C-rates. In these anodes 515 mAh g−1 can be extracted in just over 3 min. The capacity decreases to 300 mAh g−1 at the same extraction rate when carbon black is used as the conducting agent. The CNT anodes have good cyclic stability, retaining 89.2% of initial capacity after 40 cycles. The coulombic efficiency ranges from 95% to 100%.
Effects of gypsy moth suppression tactics on litter- and ground-dwelling arthropods in the central hardwood forests of the Cumberland Plateau

Abstract This study assessed the impact of three gypsy moth suppression tactics on non-target arthropod abundance in the mixed mesophytic forests of the Cumberland Plateau prior to gypsy moth establishment in the region. Abundance of litter- and ground-dwelling arthropods was assessed in areas receiving applications of reduced rates of diflubenzuron and Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki, simulating gypsy moth suppression programs, and compared to untreated controls, simulating a hands-off management approach. Study plots in southeastern Kentucky were aerially sprayed one time in May of 1997; control plots received no insecticide. In 1997 and 1998 we sampled arthropods in strata ranging from ground level to the forest canopy. Here we report the effects of the treatments on ground- and litter-dwelling arthropods. Gypsy moth suppression tactics negatively impacted litter-dwelling mites and thrips, with populations in diflubenzuron-treated plots significantly lower relative to untreated controls in the year of application. The abundance of predatory spiders and rove beetles was also affected by treatment applications. Treatment effects were evident 1 year post-application for populations of thrips, spiders, bark/ambrosia beetles, millipedes, and centipedes. The highly clustered distribution patterns of many arthropods, as well as variable weather patterns, may have confounded the effects of our treatments. Since the gypsy moth is not yet established in the region, results of this study will be useful to land owners and natural resource managers to enable them to make well-informed decisions regarding future gypsy moth infestations.
Excited state electron transfer from photoexcited fac-CIRe(CO)3(2,2′-bipyridine) to N,N′-dimethyl-4,4′-bipyridinium detected by transient

Abstract Pulsed laser excitation of fac-CIRe(CO)3(bpy) in CH3CN containing N,N′-dimethyl-4,4′-bipyridinium, MV2+, results in excited state electron transfer to form MV+ that can be detected by the Raman scattering from the trailing portion of the 18 ns 354.7 nm pulse from the frequency-tripled Nd : YAG laser excitation source. Essentially the same results are found for the pulsed excitation of Ru(bpy)32+ in H2O containing MV2+.
Sensitive Observations With The Spacelab 2 Infrared Telescope

The small helium-cooled infrared telescope (Spacelab IRT) is a multiband instrument capable of highly sensitive observations from space. The experiment consists of a cryogenically cooled, very well baffled telescope with a ten channel focal plane array. During the Spacelab 2 flight of the Space Shuttle, this instrument will make observations between 5 and 120 micron wavelength that will be background limited by the expected zodiacal emission. Design considerations necessitated by this level of performance are discussed in this paper. In particular, the operation of a very sensitive focal plane array in the space environment is described. The Spacelab IRT will be used to map the extended, low-surface brightness celestial emission. During the seven day length of the mission better than 70 percent sky coverage is expected. The instrument will also be used to measure the infrared contamination environment of the Space Shuttle. This information will be important in the development of the next generation of infrared astronomical instruments. The performance of the Spacelab IRT, in particular its sensitivity to the contamination environment is detailed.
The stress of coming out

To conclude, (1) although homosexuality has been recognized for hundreds of years, we still do not understand it completely. (2) This paper places emphasis on the process of individuation and gender-identity that takes place very early in childhood as the cause of homosexuality. (3) If the process is not completed properly, the individual's gender-identity will deviate from that of the vast majority of people. Homosexuality is, therefore, considered by me as a deviation from, rather than a variation of, human sexuality. (4) The degree of neurosis or psychosis associated with homosexuality or heterosexuality is not causal in nature, although the two are intimately intertwined. (5) The stress of coming out varies a great deal in intensity and depends on the degree of integration of the individual and the support given to him by his friends, associates, and family. (6) Although the last decade has brought about a greater acceptance of homosexuality than ever before, sufficient prejudice, ignorance, and fear remain to keep many homosexuals "in the closet." (7) Even today the disclosure of one's homosexuality threatens the individual with the loss of so many important aspects of his life, such as his job, his friends, and even his family, that there is little wonder that coming out of the closet poses such problems for so many homosexuals.
Genetic selection, general characterization, and histology of atherosclerosis-susceptible and -resistant Japanese quail

Abstract A new animal model of atherosclerosis has been developed through genetic selection of Japanese quail ( Coturnix coturnix japonica ) into susceptible (SUS) and resistant (RES) lines. Characterization of the selected quail has shown that the RES birds were resistant to the disease and developed little atherosclerosis on a diet containing 1% cholesterol. The SUS birds were sensitive and developed severe atherosclerosis in 8–9 wks on a diet containing only 0.5% cholesterol. The histology of the progression of atherosclerosis in the SUS quail was studied. It bore a morphological similarity to that of human arterial atherosclerosis. The atherosclerotic plaque was characterized by intimal thickening, the presence of foam cells, the proliferation of smooth muscle cells and/or fibroblasts, and the formation of scar with collagen deposition. We believe that these two lines of quail may serve as a valid animal model for the study of the genetic and biochemical basis of cholesterol-induced atherosclerosis.
Effect of Chinese and Western Antimicrobial Agents on Selected Oral Bacteria

The susceptibility of selected oral bacteria, including suspected periodontopathogens, to a commonly employed Chinese herbal medicine Huang-chin (HC, Scutellaria baicalensis) was tested in vitro. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBC) were determined. HC was also compared with tetracycline, alexidine, and stannous fluoride. HC decoction, at a concentration of 2%, was bacteriostatic in eight of 11 bacteria tested, but a concentration of 3.13% or greater was required for bactericidal effect. Among the tested bacteria, Bacteroides melaninogenicus ss intermedius was the most sensitive (MIC = 1.57%, MBC = 2%); Actinomyces viscosus was the least sensitive (MIC = 6.25%, MBC = 12.5%). Tetracycline, alexidine, and SnF2 were bactericidal in vitro in all bacteria tested at concentrations lower than those used clinically.
Hydrothermal synthesis of alkali cation heulandite aluminosilicate molecular sieves

Heulandite molecular sieves with a Si/Al ratio of 3.2 ~ 3.8 have been synthesized hydrothermally in the presence of the alkali cations Li + ; Li + , K + ; and Na + , K + at 190 °C at autogenous pressure. They have been characterized by X-ray powder diffraction and scanning electron micrographs. Heulandites can be formed in the Li + and Na + , K + cation systems only with ~10 wt% seed crystals. But heulandite can be synthesized in the presence of Li + , K + cations without seed crystals. The formation of heulandite-type zeolites occurs over a narrow crystallization field and depends on the Si/Al ratio, the OH − /Si ratio, and on the presence of seed crystals. Scanning electron micrographs show a thin-plate topology for the crystals. Heulandite is thermally unstable for calcination beyond 350 ~ 450 °C.
Osteogenesis imperfecta: perspectives and opportunities.

The last 2 years have seen additions proposed to the very limited armamentarium of treatments for osteogenesis imperfecta. These include the use of bisphosphonates to decrease bone resorption, growth hormone to augment growth and collagen production, and bone marrow transplantation to create chimera
Dynamic fracture resilience of elk antler: Biomimetic inspiration for improved crashworthiness

The antler of the North American elk has been shown to have impressive fracture resistance under quasi-static loads, but given its viscoelastic behavior and impact nature of loading, questions remain as to its mechanical, and in particular, fracture behavior under dynamic loading. Samples were tested using a unique split-pressure Hopkin-son bar (SPHB) for four-point bending experiments in order to measure the fracture toughness of this material Interestingly, the hierarchical structure of antler had a strong influence on crack propagation characteristics, and cracks tended to propagate along the osteonal growth direction, whether loaded parallel or perpendicular to the osteonal growth direction. This occurred to such a degree so as to stop all crack propagation through the sample on transverse specimens, thus inhibiting the ability to measure a valid crack initiation toughness and demonstrating the extreme resilience of antler to resist dynamic fracture. The high resilience of antler to impact loading may serve as biomimetic inspiration to future material development for crashworthiness and defense applications.
Captopril modulates hormone receptor concentration and inhibits proliferation of human mammary ductal carcinoma cells in culture

The present study evaluated the effect of the angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor captopril on estrogen (ER) and progesterone (PR) receptor concentration and on proliferation in two lines of human mammary ductal carcinoma cells in culture: T-47D (ER+/PR+) and Hs578T (ER−/PR−). The incorporation of [3H]thymidine, validated by cell count, served as an index of proliferation. Compared to control cells, T-47D cells incubated for 48 hrs in 1, 2, or 5 mM captopril (but not in 0.5 mM) exhibited a reduction in ER from 130 ± 6 to 32 ± 32 fmol/mg cytosolic protein, and an increase in PR from 1780 ± 120 to 2740 ± 400 fmol/mg protein (p < 0.05). Western analysis confirmed these drug-induced changes in the concentration of immunoreactive receptor proteins. Captopril also induced the appearance of low but detectable PR in the Hs578T cells at concentrations as low as 50 µM. Captopril inhibited the incorporation of [3H]thymidine by both cell types during a 48 hr incubation, although Hs578T cells were 2–3 times more resistant than were T–47D cells. This cytostatic effect of captopril was not due to cytotoxicity as indicated by 51Cr release, and was not accompanied by significant changes in cell cycle distribution as determined by flow cytometry. The incorporation of [3H]uridine (RNA synthesis) and [14C]alanine (protein synthesis) also were inhibited by captopril, suggesting a general antimetabolic effect of the drug in the ductal carcinoma cells. These are novel actions of a common antihypertensive agent. In contrast, the nonthiol ACE inhibitor lisinopril, and penicillamine, a thiol compound with virtually no ACE inhibitory activity, had no effect on any of these endpoints.
Air Stream-Assisted Sublimation on a Microscale: A Rapid Procedure Suitable for Sophomore Laboratory

Using familiar apparatus, such as a 3-mL reaction vial, an air condenser, a stream of clean air/nitrogen/argon, an aluminum heating block and a hot plate, several compounds in the microscale amounts (50 mg), with its melting points ranging from 50-240 °C, have been successfully sublimed in 40 minutes.
Enhancing Diagnosis of Bladder Cancer by 2-D and 3-D Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)

We present the results on clinical diagnosis of bladder cancer in vivo with MEMS-based endoscopic OCT and the methods to enhance the detection of carcinoma in situ by 3-D OCT using SV40T transgenic mouse model.
A rapid semimicro method for production of yeast mitochondria

Abstract A simple, rapid, cconomical method for the production of yeast mitochondria is deseribed in detail. Highly intact mitochondria are isolated from cells mechanically ruptured with a small colloid mill. Yields of about 10 mg mitochondrial protein per 30 gm cells routinely are obtained. Because enzymic pretreatment of cells is unnecessary, intact mitochondria can be prepared from both parent and mutant cell strains in various physiological states using a standard set of conditions.
Formation of iron carbonyl between a 1/2 pct Mo steel and high-pressure gases containing carbon monoxide

An atomic absorption spectrophotometer was used to measure the formation of iron carbonyl between 1/2 pct Mo steel pipes and flowing high-pressure gases (to 6.9 MPa) containing carbon monoxide. The net formation rate, r, of iron carbonyl was measured as a function of the velocity, temperature, and pressure of the gases to determine the conditions that prevent its formation. These variables and the gas composition affected r as follows: 1) Rate r increases linearly with the gas velocity. Under equilibrium conditions, r is proportional to the gas velocity, but it reaches a limiting value above a critical gas velocity when equilibrium is not maintained. 2) Between 44 and 266 °C, r increases with temperature to a sharp maximum at 177°C in a gas mixture containing 17 CO-51 H2-30 CH4-2 CO2 (vol pct). The corresponding maximum in carbon monoxide occurs at 245 °C. The data predict that iron carbonyl formation will be negligible above 270°C in the gas mixture or above 285 °C in carbon monoxide. 3) Rate r depends on Pco in accordance with the equation r = kPn, where n = 4 to 5 under equilibrium conditions and n = 2 off equilibrium. The analytical procedure used to detect ±6 vpb (volume parts per billion) of iron carbonyl and ±1.5 vpb of nickel carbonyl in flowing high pressure gases is described. The reaction rates are described in terms of kinetics and thermodynamic equilibrium.
Synthesis of transition metal nitride powders and coatings using alkanolamine chelated precursors

Abstract A new synthesis approach has been developed in which transition metal nitride powders and coatings are synthesized from alkanolamine complexed precursors. In this technique, a transition metal chloride is dissolved in an aprotic polar solvent such as acetonitrile, then reacted with either monoethanolamine or triethanolamine to form a highly viscous solution which settles out of the solvent phase. The monoethanolamine-chelated precursor can be hydrolyzed by the addition of excess water, followed by refluxing for several hours to form a colloidal precipitate. However, the precursors generated after chelation with triethanolamine are much more resistant to hydrolysis and can be easily diluted with water or methanol, forming a semi-viscous liquid, which can be used directly to dip coat various substrates. In both cases, the powder generated by hydrolysis or the coating obtained by dipping a substrate in the polymeric liquid precursor will transform to the corresponding nitride when heat-treated in ammonia. The approach has been successfully used to synthesize a number of transition metal nitride powders as well as several different transition metal nitride coatings on silicon and stainless steel substrates.
Stagnation flow on a cylinder with partial slip—an exact solution of the Navier–Stokes equations

The stagnation slip flow on an axially moving cylinder is studied. The Navier-Stokes and energy equations reduce to nonlinear ordinary differential equations under a similarity transform. For large slip, the flow field decays exponentially into potential flow. The heat transfer can be expressed as an incomplete gamma function. In general, the heat transfer increases with slip, Prandtl number and Reynolds number.
Toxicity of Mildly Modified Low-Density Lipoproteins to Cultured Retinal Capillary Endothelial Cells and Pericytes

To investigate the role of modified low-density lipoproteins (LDL) in the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy, we studied the cytotoxicity of normal and mildly modified human LDL to bovine retinal capillary endothelial cells and pericytes in vitro. Pooled LDL was incubated (in phosphate-buffered saline-EDTA, 3 days, 37 degrees C) under 1) nitrogen with additional chelating agents and 2) air, to prepare normal and minimally oxidized LDL, respectively. Similar conditions, but with the addition of 50 mM D-glucose, were used to prepare glycated and glycoxidized LDL. None of the LDL preparations was recognized by the macrophage scavenger receptor, confirming limited modification. Retinal capillary endothelial cells and pericytes were grown to confluence and then exposed for 2 or 3 days to serum-free medium (1% albumin) supplemented with normal or modified LDL (100 mg/l) or to serum-free medium alone. Cytotoxicity was assessed by cell counting (live and total cells) and by cell protein determination. Compared with normal LDL, modified LDL were cytotoxic to both cell types at both time points, causing highly significant decreases in live and total cell counts (P < 0.001) (analysis of variance). Reductions in cell protein also were significant for pericytes at day 3 (P = 0.016) and of borderline significance for endothelial cells at day 2 (P = 0.05) and day 3 (P = 0.063). Cytotoxicity increased as follows: normal < glycated < or = minimally oxidized < glycoxidized LDL. We conclude that, in diabetes, mild modification of LDL resulting from separate or combined processes of glycation and oxidation may contribute to chronic retinal capillary injury and thus to the development of diabetic retinopathy.
Effect of pine needle removal and fertilization on tree growth and soil P availability in a Pinus elliottii Engelm. var. elliottii stand

Abstract Pine-needle raking and fertilization effects on tree growth nutrition and soil inorganic phosphorus availability were examined in a 13-year-old slash pine (Pinus elliottii Engelm. var. elliottii) stand in Clay County, Florida. Fertilized and nonfertilized treatments were applied to main plots. Sixteen of the 32 plots were unfertilized, while the remaining 16 plots received fertilizer application with 280 kg ha diammonium phosphate (DAP) in August 1991 and again in September 1992. Four raking frequency treatments: no raking; rake-every-year; rake-every-2-years; and rake-every-4-years were applied to split-plots within these main plots. Diameter at breast height and tree heights were measured annually from 1991 to 1995. Raking every-year treatment significantly reduced diameter growth by 5.2 mm. Fertilizer had a significant negative effect on tree heights; nonfertilized trees in the stand grew more than fertilized trees in all diameter classes. Annual needlefall production rate was 8735 kg ha−1 with a maximum of 50 kg N ha−1 and 5 kg P ha−1 removed through litter raking. During 1 year, a maximum yield of 737, 934, and 1093 bales/ha were produced in the rake-every-year, every-2, and every-4-year plots. N and P concentration in the raked needles was 0.59 and 0.052%, respectively. Needlefall P concentration was significantly lower among trees raked more frequently. Fertilizer significantly increased needlefall N concentration. Availability of soil inorganic phosphorus detected by anion-exchange membranes was significantly higher in the plots raked every-4-years followed by the control compared to the plots that were raked every-year. These results indicate that removal of pine needles does not have an immediate effect on old-field sites with high residual fertility, but removing 50 kg ha−1 of N and 5 kg ha−1 of P annually may eventually deplete the site.
Aggressive multimodality therapy for malignant pleural mesothelioma

Nineteen patients with clinical stage I malignant pleural mesothelioma were treated with aggressive multimodality therapy. Nine patients underwent pleurectomy and decortication followed by immediate intrapleural chemotherapy with cisplatin and mitomycin C. Ten patients required pleuropneumonectomy followed within 1 week to 2 weeks by intrapleural administration of cisplatin (100 mg). Four to 8 weeks after operation, 15 patients underwent postoperative adjuvant cisplatin-based systemic chemotherapy. There were three postoperative complications (16%) requiring reoperation and one postoperative death (5%). Intrapleural chemotherapy was well tolerated with no complications. Systemic chemotherapy was poorly tolerated, and there was one chemotherapy-related death. Sixteen patients (84%) experienced good to excellent palliation. Three patients are currently alive with no evidence of recurrent disease at 10, 35, and 43 months. The median overall survival was 13 months and the median disease-free survival, 11 months. Overall and disease-free 3-year survivals were 17% and 22%, respectively. Patients with epithelial malignant pleural mesothelioma had significantly better overall survival (p = 0.037) and disease-free survival (p = 0.02) than patients with sarcomatous or biphasic malignant pleural mesothelioma. We conclude that despite major toxicity, in select patients with clinical stage I malignant pleural mesothelioma, aggressive multimodality therapy offers effective palliation and occasional long-term disease-free survival.
The effect of dietary fibre on hydration status after dehydration with frusemide.

Three diets were fed to 6 horses in a 3 x 6 Latin rectangle experiment to determine if dietary fibre could improve hydration status in response to dehydration with frusemide. Frusemide was used to simulate dehydration from exercise-induced sweat loss. Diets contained similar dry matter (DM), energy, protein and electrolyte content, but differed in total dietary fibre (TDF) and/or soluble fibre (SDF). The 3 diets were: 1) HIGH-HIGH (high TDF, high SDF); 2) HIGH-LOW (high TDF, low SDF); and 3) LOW-LOW (low TDF, low SDF). In each 10 day period, water intake and faecal moisture content were assessed on Day 7. On Day 10, feed and water were withheld and horses were dehydrated with frusemide (1 mg/kg bwt, i.m.). Plasma volume (PV), plasma total protein (TP), packed cell volume (PCV) and plasma electrolyte concentrations were determined before and after frusemide administration. Water consumption was greater (P < 0.05) when horses received diets high in TDF. Faecal moisture content was greatest (P < 0.01) when horses received the HIGH-HIGH diet. The decline in PV and the rise in plasma TP concentration following frusemide administration were similar for all diets. When horses received the HIGH-HIGH diet, they had a greater (P < 0.05) bodyweight before dehydration and lost more (P < 0.05) bodyweight in response to frusemide. A greater loss of bodyweight in response to frusemide without a proportional loss of PV when horses received the HIGH-HIGH diet suggests that a diet high in SDF may provide the horse with a source of dispensable water in the hind gut during dehydration.
Differences in early results after single-lung transplantation

Single-lung transplantation is an effective treatment for end-stage pulmonary failure caused by a variety of lung diseases. Although single-lung recipients may undergo a similar operative procedure, physiologic differences in the remaining native lung dictate differences in postoperative management and perhaps outcome. To examine these effects on the early results after single-lung transplantation, we retrospectively reviewed the course of 83 patients undergoing single-lung transplantation from September 1988 through July 1993. The cause of the lung disease was obstructive (OLD) in 43, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) in 16, and primary pulmonary hypertension (PPH) in 24 patients. The hospital mortality was 5% in OLD, 13% in IPF, and 8% in PPH. Gas exchange as demonstrated by alveolar-arterial oxygen gradients was worse after transplantation in patients with IPF (349 ± 159 mm Hg) or PPH (270 ± 171 mm Hg) compared with patients with OLD (174 ± 105 mm Hg; p < 0.05). Mean pulmonary artery pressures were higher in patients with IPF (28 ± 6 mm Hg) and PPH (26 ± 7 mm Hg) compared with patients with OLD (22 ± 5 mm Hg; p < 0.05). Peak airway pressures after transplantation were greater in patients with IPF (36 ± 6 cm H2O) compared with patients with OLD (28 ± 6 cm H2O; p < 0.01). Additionally, patients undergoing single-lung transplantation for IPF required more intensive hospital therapy as measured in intensive care unit days, ventilator time, and need for tracheostomy (12.5 ± 17.5 days, 12 ± 19.9 days, and 24%, respectively) compared with patients with OLD (3.1 ± 2.7 days, 2.3 ± 2.3 days, and 7%, respectively; p < 0.05) or PPH (7.8 ± 8.6 days, 7.7 ± 9.8 days, and 21%, respectively). These data emphasize the importance of the difference in the physiology between patients undergoing single-lung transplantation for obstructive, restrictive, and pulmonary vascular diseases with regard to optimal patient management and results.