cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
ORGANOMETALLIC REACTIONS OF PLATINUM INVOLVING METALLIC HYDRIDES

Etude des reactions homogenes et heterogenes, d'apres les reactions de complexes olefiniques de Pt
On the theory of wave propagation along a thin dielectric coated wire in a stratified medium

Abstract We consider propagation along a thin dielectric coated wire that is parallel to the interface between two homogeneous half-spaces. The solution obtained correctly accounts for the presence of the interface provided the coating radius is small compared with the distance to the interface. The final results are simplified in form when dealing with long insulated antennas buried in the earth and operating at low frequencies.
From Bondage to Freedom: Spinoza on Human Excellence

Michael LeBuffe: From Bondage to Freedom: Spinoza on Human Excellence. Oxford and New York: Oxford University Press, 2010, pp. viii + 253, £45.00; $74.00 (hb.). ISBN: 978-0-19-538353-9 Spinoza's Et...
Psychosocial and cultural factors in alcohol and drug abuse: an analysis of a homosexual community.

Abstract Homosexual men and women may be at risk for alcohol and drug abuse due to psychosocial variables such as drinking styles, stress, or the cultural importance of bars. The study of psychosocial variables in homosexual culture may help us understand how they operate generally. This paper describes the findings of a large ( n =3400) survey of homosexual population. The core hypothesis was that stress and other psychosocial variables have their primary effects among people made vulnerable to substance abuse by individual expectancies and/or cultural values. Tension reduction expectancies of alcohol effects had substantial effects on alcohol and drug abuse, as did the use of bars as a social resource, a vulnerability variable more specific to urban homosexual culture. Further, stress affected alcohol-drug problems only among people who were “vulnerable” via expectancies and values, and both high risk styles of substance use and simple consumption levels had much stronger effects on problems among vulnerable respondents, thus supporting the stress-vulnerability perspective. Individual differences in social role status was related to alcohol and drug problems, and may explain differences between homosexual and general populations.
Surgery and Actinomycin Improve Survival in Malignant Rhabdoid Tumor

Purpose. Malignant rhabdoid tumor (MRT) is an uncommon tumor that rarely occurs outside of renal and central nervous system (CNS) sites. Data from the literature were compiled to determine prognostic factors, including both demographic and treatment variables of malignant rhabdoid tumor, focusing on those tumors arising in extra-renal, extra-CNS (ER/EC MRT) sites. Patients and Methods. A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed by extracting demographic, treatment, and survival follow up on 167 cases of primary ER/EC MRT identified in the literature. Results. No survival differences were observed between those treated with or without radiation, or with or without chemotherapy. A Cox regression of overall survival revealed several independent prognostic factors. Surgical excision had a 74% (P = 0.0003) improvement in survival. Actinomycin had a 73% (P = 0.093) improvement in survival. Older age was associated with improved survival. The four-year survival, by Kaplan-Meier estimates, comparing patients less than two years old versus older than two at diagnosis was 11% versus 35%, respectively (P = 0.0001, Log-Rank). Conclusion. ER/EC MRT is a rare, soft-tissue tumor with a poor prognosis most commonly occurring in children. Surgical resection, treatment with actinomycin, and older age at diagnosis are all associated with improved survival.
Simultaneous Assay of Thioridazine and Its Major Metabolites in Plasma at Single Dosage Levels with a Novel Report of Two Ring Sulfoxides of Thioridazine

A highly sensitive and selective method of analysis of plasma for thioridazine and its major metabolites, including two isomers of the ring sulfoxide, is presented. It is suitable for following the metabolism of thioridazine for 24 hr after a single dose. The method involves extraction of the materials from plasma, high-performance liquid chromatographic separation, and postcolumn oxidation and fluorometric detection. The sensitivity of the method to thioridazine and its metabolites is 2 ng/ml. Recoveries ranged from 87.8 to 100.6% at levels between 20 and 400 ng/ml.
The cardiovascular response to acoustic stimuli.

The purposes of this investigation were to determine whether adults display alterations of cardiac rate under acoustical stimulus conditions and whether such alterations are influenced by signal level. The stimulus consisted of a narrow band of noise centered at 1000 Hz and presented at 20, 40, 60 and 80 dB SPL. The stimulus was found to produce alterations of heart rate significantly different from variation under non-stimulus conditions, indicating that cardiovascular responses occurred. However, the responses themselves were unaffected by differences of sound pressure level.
The Pattern and Mechanisms of Response to Oxygen by the Ductus Arteriosus and Umbilical Artery

The Pattern and Mechanisms of Response to Oxygen by the Ductus Arteriosus and Umbilical Artery
Immunologic maturation in utero: kinetics of the primary antibody response in the fetal lamb.

The kinetics of the primary antibody response to bacteriophage φX174 have been studied in the fetal lamnb in utero after permanent indwelling catheterization of the fetal blood vessels. The initial antibody response by the developing fetus to this form of antigenic stimulus is comparable to that found in adult animals and shows none of the characteristics of the immature immunologic response that have generally been ascribed to fetal and neonatal animals.
Antigenic variation within and between populations of three genera of Harpellales (Trichomycetes)

Antibodies were formed in rabbits against cytoplasmic extracts of Trichomycetes, which were reacted with antigens from 47 isolates by rocket- or crossed-immunoelectrophoresis. Among Smittium culisetae isolates, variation in precipitin patterns grouped geographically. Smittium culisetae and S. morbosum , morphologically similar species, were shown to be distinct antigenically. Genistelloides hibernus and Capniomyces stellatus isolates, from winter-emerging stoneflies, had large antigenic variation from site to site, even over short distances, in agreement with the hypothesized isolation of the host populations. Linderina pennispora , a non-trichomycete, had cross reactivity to some Smittium culisetae isolates.
Perturbed C > 1 Conformal Field Theories and Generalized Toda Field Theories

Abstract We study relevant perturbations of conformal field theory based on G k × G n / G k+n coset spaces, for an arbitrary simply-laced Lie group G. By studying the Feigin-Fuchs construction of the models, we provide evidence for integrable systems, away from the minimal conformal models with the central charge c greater than 1. The new systems are identified as generalizations of Toda field theory which involve non-local parafermionic currents as well as bosonic fields.
A methodology for performance analysis of parallel computations with looping constructs

Abstract This paper describes a novel modeling methodology for evaluating the execution of parallel programs containing looping constructs. Our approach employs analytic methods to obtain an estimate of the average execution time of such a program in a distributed, multiple-computer environment. These tools are based on an amalgamation of queuing network theory (used to model physical system characteristics) and graph models of program behavior. To evaluate a complex program, we first decompose it into a number of program segments with “simpler” structures; then analyze each segment independently; and, finally, combine individual results to produce an approximate solution for the whole program. A realistic example is used to illustrate the application of this performance evaluation methodology.
Symposium on cytoplasmic transport of small molecules-Overview

Abstract Soluble cytoplasmic binding proteins have been associated with a wide range of metabolites, including inorganic and organic anions, lipids and numerous xenobiotics. They occur in most tissues of the body. The function of these molecules has been debated since their discovery. Newer experimental methods have permitted direct demonstration of their role in catalyzing the intracellular transport of small molecules. They accomplish this by increasing the concentration of the diffusing species in the aqueous cytosolic phase. Thus, they are most important for molecules that would otherwise have very low concentrations in the cytosol. Certain binding proteins also interact directly with membranes to catalyze transfer of their ligands and possibly to target them to intracellular sites. This symposium summarizes current data and thinking on the mechanisms of cytoplasmic transport, with emphasis on the role of soluble carrier proteins in the overall uptake and metabolism of small molecules.
SELF-DEFENSE, CULPABILITY, AND DISTRIBUTIVE JUSTICE

This paper has a threefold purpose: to question the adequacy of two familiar proposals for explaining the permissibility of harming others in self-defense, to suggest an alternative explanation, and to answer some objections to this latter explanation. By and large, discussions of the proposals whose adequacy I will question focus on what they imply about the permissibility of self-defense in controversial cases. I will argue here that the proposals themselves contain large and significant theoretical gaps. Accordingly, examining their implications for controversial cases is premature, since they don’t adequately explain permissible self-defense in even the clearest cases—that is, those in which people defend themselves against “culpable attackers”.
Levetiracetam in patients with impulsive aggression: a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

OBJECTIVE: There are few controlled studies evaluating drug treatment for impulsive aggression. The objective of this study was to evaluate levetiracetam in patients with impulsive aggression, and whether diagnosis or other baseline characteristics predict response. METHOD: Outpatients with clinically significant impulsive aggression (meeting Coccaro et al. revised criteria for intermittent explosive disorder), without other psychiatric symptomatology clearly requiring treatment, were randomly assigned to levetiracetam or placebo, double-blind, for 10 weeks, at a variable dose with a maximum dose of 3000 mg/day. The primary efficacy measure was change in the total aggression score from the revised Overt Aggression Scale-Modified. The study was conducted from September 2005 to July 2006. RESULTS: Of 40 patients (20 in each treatment group), 34 completed at least 4 weeks of treatment with double-blind medication. There was no overall statistical evidence of levetiracetam benefit, and no subgroup more responsive to levetiracetam could be identified. CONCLUSIONS: Levetiracetam was not as efficacious as oxcarbazepine was in a prior similar study. Additional studies of medications for impulsive aggression seem warranted. Language: en
Equations of substrate-limited growth: the case for blackman kinetics.

A simplified model of cell metabolism, consisting of a series of linked reversible enzymatic reactions dependent on the concentration of a single external substrate has been developed. The general mathematical solution for this system of reactions is presented. This general solution confirms the concept of a rate-limiting step, or “master reaction”, in biological systems as first proposed by Blackman. The maximum rate of such a process is determined by, and equal to, the maximum rate of the slowest forward reaction in the series. Of practical interest in modeling the growth rate of cells are three cases developed from the general model. The simplest special case results in the Monod equation when the maximum forward rate of one enzymatic reaction in the cell is much less than the maximum forward rate of any other enzymatic reactions. More realistic is the case where the maximum forward rates of more than one enzymatic reaction are slow. When two slow enzymatic reactions are separated from each other by any number of fast reactions that overall can be described by a large equilibrium constant, the Blackman form results: and A third case is that in which two slow enzymatic steps are separated by an equilibrium constant that is not large. Unlike the Monod and Blackman forms, which contain only two arbitrary constants, this model contains three arbitrary constants: The Monod and Blackman forms are special cases of this three constant form. In comparing equations with two arbitrary constants the Monod equation gave poorer fit of the data in most cases than the Blackman form. It is concluded that workers modeling the growth of microorganisms should give a t least as much consideration to the Blackman form as is given to the Monod equation.
Furnace assembly for reactions in controlled ligand atmospheres

By impressing a known pressure on a liquid in a properly-designed furnace, a sample can be decomposed or reacted in an atmosphere of that material. If the liquid is a decomposition product of the sample, the variation of decomposition temperature with pressure can be studied for thermodynamic reversibility (van't Hoff plot). Reactions between solid and vapor can be carried out. The system is particularly useful for study of complexes. It can be used with many solvents. Its present use is for differential thermal analysis but it can be used readily for preparative work or corrosion studies.
Free fatty acids are associated with metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance but not inflammation in systemic lupus erythematosus.

Free fatty acids (FFAs) are implicated in the pathogenesis of insulin resistance and atherosclerosis. Inflammatory cytokines promote lipolysis and increase FFAs, a cause of endothelial dysfunction ...
Environmental Influences on Substrates of Achievement Leading to Learning Disability

Achievement is determined by working systems assembled from developing ability- and valuing-systems. Development of these subsystems is characterized by quantitative and qualitative changes. Ability- and valuing-systems are interlocked so their interaction may either promote or inhibit achievement. Achievement outcomes depend on the extent to which the child's environment has supported his acquisition of suitable subsystem components and dynamics.
4-Hydroxynonenal and Malondialdehyde Hepatic Protein Adducts in Rats Treated with Carbon Tetrachloride: Immunochemical Detection and Lobular Localization

The metabolism of CCl4 initiates the peroxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids producing α,β-unsaturated aldehydes, such as 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE) and malondialdehyde (MDA). The facile reactivity of these electrophilic aldehydic products suggests they play a role in the toxicity of compounds like CCl4. To determine the rate at which CCl4-initiated lipid peroxidation results in the formation of 4-HNE and/or MDA hepatic protein adducts, rats were given an intragastric dose of CCl4 (1.0 ml/kg) and euthanized 0–72 h after administration. Rabbit polyclonal antisera directed toward 4-HNE- or MDA-protein epitopes were employed in immuno-histochemical and immuno-precipitation/Western analyses to detect 4-HNE and MDA-protein adducts in paraffin-embedded liver sections and liver homogenates. As early as 6 h post CCl4 exposure, 4-HNE and MDA adducts were detected immuno-histochemically in hepatocytes localized to zone 2 of the hepatic acinus. Liver injury was progressive to 24 h as lipid peroxidation and hepatocellular necrosis increased. The hallmark of CCl4 hepatotoxicity, zone 3 necrosis, was observed 24 h after CCl4 administration and immuno-positive hepatocytes were observed in zone 2 as well as zone 3. Immuno-positive cells were no longer visible by 36 to 72 h post CCl4 administration. From 6 to 48 h after CCl4 administration, at least four adducted proteins were immuno-precipitated from liver homogenates with the anti-MDA or anti-4HNE serum, which corresponded to molecular weights of 80, 150, 205, and greater than 205 kDa. These results demonstrate that 4-HNE and MDA alkylate specific hepatic proteins in a time-dependent manner, which appears to be associated with hepatocellular injury following CCl4 exposure.
NONLINEAR BUCKLING OF CYLINDRICAL SHELLS

A method is presented for the study of the nonlinear buckling of shallow cylindrical shells. The governing differential equations are expressed in terms of a stress function and the normal displacement. The Kantorovitch method and a finite difference scheme are applied to solve the resulting set of nonlinear differential equations. An incremental technique, and a high speed digital computer are used for the numerical solution of the problem.
PVD silicon carbide as a thin film packaging technology for antennas on LCP substrates for harsh environments

This paper describes an effort to develop a thin film packaging technology for microfabricated planar antennas on polymeric substrates based on silicon carbide (SiC) films deposited by physical vapor deposition (PVD). The antennas are coplanar waveguide fed dual frequency folded slot antennas fabricated on liquid crystal polymer (LCP) substrates. The PVD SiC thin films were deposited directly onto the antennas by RF sputtering at room temperature at a chamber pressure of 30 mTorr and a power level of 300 W. The SiC film thickness is 450 nm. The return loss and radiation patterns were measured before and after the SiC-coated antennas were submerged into perchloric acid for 1 hour. No degradation in RF performance or physical integrity of the antenna was observed.
Peripheral anxiogenic drug injections differentially affect cognitive and habit memory: role of basolateral amygdala.

Abstract Findings from single-solution plus-maze tasks that require the use of either place or response learning indicate that post-training intra-basolateral amygdala (BLA) administration of the anxiogenic α-2 adrenoreceptor antagonist RS 79948 can both enhance dorsal striatal-dependent response learning and impair hippocampus-dependent place learning. Whether post-training peripheral administration of RS 79948 can also enhance and impair response and place learning respectively, is not known. If peripheral drug administration can also produce this “dual” effect on cognitive and habit memory, it would be of interest to know whether the functional integrity of the BLA is critical. In order to examine these questions, the present experiments combined peripheral administration of RS 79948 with concurrent neural inactivation of the BLA. Adult male Long–Evans rats were trained in place or response learning tasks in a water plus-maze. On days 1–3 of training, rats received post-training peripheral injections of saline or RS 79948 (0.1 mg/kg) combined with intra-BLA injections of saline or the sodium channel blocker bupivacaine (1.0% solution, 0.5 μl). Post-training peripheral injections of RS 79948 enhanced acquisition of response learning, and impaired acquisition of place learning. Bupivacaine infusions into the BLA had no effect on acquisition of either task. However, intra-BLA infusions of bupivacaine blocked both the enhancement of response learning and the impairment of place learning produced by RS 79948. Taken together, the findings indicate that although the functional integrity of BLA is not necessary for acquisition of place and response learning, BLA activity is critical in order for peripheral injections of an anxiogenic drug to differentially modulate hippocampus-dependent and dorsal striatal-dependent memory.
Costly Jobs: Trade-related Layoffs, Government Compensation, and Voting in U.S. Elections

Does globalization's impact on the labor market affect how people vote? I address this question using a new dataset based on plant-level data that measures the impact of foreign competition on the U.S. workforce over an 8-year period. Analyzing change in the president's vote share, I find that voters were substantially more sensitive to the loss of local jobs when it resulted from foreign competition, particularly from offshoring, than to job losses caused by other factors. Yet, I also find that between 2000 and 2004, the anti-incumbent effect of trade-related job losses was smaller in areas where the government certified more of the harmed workers to receive special job training and income assistance. The findings have implications for understanding the impact of international economic integration on voting behavior, as well as for assessing the electoral effect of government programs designed to compensate the losers from globalization.
Para-Aminosalicylic Acid Acts as an Alternative Substrate of Folate Metabolism in Mycobacterium tuberculosis

Folate biosynthesis is an established anti-infective target, and the antifolate para-aminosalicylic acid (PAS) was one of the first anti-infectives introduced into clinical practice on the basis of target-based drug discovery. Fifty years later, PAS continues to be used to treat tuberculosis. PAS is assumed to inhibit dihydropteroate synthase (DHPS) in Mycobacterium tuberculosis by mimicking the substrate p-aminobenzoate (PABA). However, we found that sulfonamide inhibitors of DHPS inhibited growth of M. tuberculosis only weakly because of their intracellular metabolism. In contrast, PAS served as a replacement substrate for DHPS. Products of PAS metabolism at this and subsequent steps in folate metabolism inhibited those enzymes, competing with their substrates. PAS is thus a prodrug that blocks growth of M. tuberculosis when its active forms are generated by enzymes in the pathway they poison.
Non-resonant SERS study of the adsorption of cytochrome c on a silver electrode

Abstract Non-resonant surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) using 632.8 nm excitation was applied to the study of adsorption and redox changes of cytochrome c (cyt c) on a silver electrode. The bands from specifically adsorbed phosphate anions, heme group, and aromatic residues have been assigned in SER spectra. An electrode deactivation procedure was devised to enhance the signal of cyt c relative to that from adsorbed phosphate anions. The intensity of the B 1g modes has been found to be preferentially enhanced via the pre-resonance enhancement mechanism. The redox marker band v 4 A 1g , not observed in solution cyt c Raman spectra with 632.8 nm excitation, was surface enhanced and seen in SERS at 1370 cm −1 for cyt c 3+ and 1364 cm −1 for cyt c 2+ . The v 15 B 1g mode at 742 cm −1 (cyt c 2+ ) was the most intense SERS peak and could serve as an indicator for the redox state of the adsorbed protein. The heme associated propionate modes have been found to be preferentially enhanced in SER spectra compared with solution, indicating the close proximity of the propionate group relative to the surface. Irreversible changes in SER spectra have been observed at potentials more negative than −0.7 V. The diminished intensity of the heme modes, and the appearance of bands associated with tyrosine and phenylalanine residues, as well as amide III mode, have been explained in terms of a new conformational state where the protein is partially unfolded.
Hydration of Tricalcium Germanate–Tricalcium Silicate Solid Solutions

The hydration characteristics of solid solutions of composition 3CaO·xGeO2·(1 −x)SiO2 were investigated at 25°C by isothermal calorimetry. The compositions hydrated were for x= 0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, and 1.0. Full hydration was achieved for compositions in which x < 0.2. Both the rate of hydration and the total heat evolved for complete hydration vary with composition. Hydrate compositions were determined, and these also show a compositional dependence. The hydration product for tricalcium germanate has a Ca/Ge ratio near 1.5. Although the hydration products of the solid solution are far more fibrous, their morphologies are reminiscent of that of calcium silicate hydrate.
Quantitative Spectral Radiance Measurements in the HYMETS Arc Jet

Calibrated spectral radiance measurements of gaseous emission spectra have been obtained from the HYMETS (Hypersonic Materials Environmental Test System) 400 kW arc-heated wind tunnel at NASA Langley Research Center. A fiber-optic coupled spectrometer collected natural luminosity from the flow. Spectral radiance measurements are reported between 340 and 1000 nm. Both Silicon Carbide (SiC) and Phenolic Impregnated Carbon Ablator (PICA) samples were placed in the flow. Test gases studied included a mostly-N2 atmosphere (95% nitrogen, 5% argon), a simulated Earth Air atmosphere (75% nitrogen, 20% oxygen, 5% argon) and a simulated Martian atmosphere (71% carbon dioxide, 24% nitrogen, 5% argon). The bulk enthalpy of the flow was varied as was the location of the measurement. For the intermediate flow enthalpy tested (20 MJ/kg), emission from the Mars simulant gas was about 10 times higher than the Air flow and 15 times higher than the mostly-N2 atmosphere. Shock standoff distances were estimated from the spectral radiance measurements. Within-run, run-to-run and day-to-day repeatability of the emission were studied, with significant variations (15-100%) noted.
Nitrous oxide from aerated dairy manure slurries: Effects of aeration rates and oxic/anoxic phasing.

Abstract Small-scale laboratory research was conducted to compare the effects of different aeration rates and oxic/anoxic phasing on nitrous oxide (N 2 O) formation from dairy manure slurries. Manure slurry samples were incubated in triplicate for three-weeks under a range of continuous sweep gas flows (0.01–0.23 L min −1 kg −1 slurry) with and without oxygen (air and dinitrogen gas). The net release of N 2 O–N was affected by both aeration rates and oxic/anoxic conditions, whereas ammonia volatilization depended mainly on gas flow rates. Maximum N 2 O–N losses after three-weeks incubation were 4.2% of total slurry N. Major N losses (up to 50% of total slurry N) were caused by ammonia volatilization that increased with increasing gas flow rates. The lowest nitrous oxide and ammonia production was observed from low flow phased oxic/anoxic treatment.
A discrete scintillation camera module using silicon photodiode readout of CsI(TI) crystals for breast cancer imaging

The authors characterize a 3/spl times/4 element imaging array consisting of 3/spl times/3/spl times/5 mm/sup 3/ CsI(TI) scintillator crystals individually read out by 3/spl times/3 mm/sup 2/ PIN silicon photodiodes. The array is a prototype for larger modules (16/spl times/16 element) for use in single photon breast cancer imaging. The photodiode output signals are amplified with a 16 channel custom IC (<3 mm on a side), after which a "Winner Take All" (WTA) custom IC (<3 mm on a side) identifies the crystal of interaction based on relative signal amplitudes. The compact nature of these readout electronics will simplify the construction of larger imaging arrays. The photodiodes were developed for low leakage current (/spl sim/50 pA) and yield a total electronic noise of 390 e- full width at half maximum (fwhm) at a shaping time of 8 /spl mu/s, with signal levels of 6600 e- for the 140 keV emissions of /sup 99m/Tc. Array pixels demonstrate an average room temperature energy resolution of 10.7/spl plusmn/0.6% fwhm for these 140 keV gamma rays. The authors observe an intrinsic spatial resolution of 3.3 mm fwhm for a 2.5 mm diameter /sup 57/Co beam on the face of the crystal array, and a system resolution of 5.9 mm fwhm for a 2 mm diameter uncollimated /sup 99m/Tc source viewed through a high resolution hexagonal hole collimator (1.5 mm hole diameter, 32 mm length, 4300 events/mCi/sec) at an imaging distance of 5 cm.
The Successful Integration of Study Abroad and an Engineering Curriculum

This paper describes the collaboration between a university in Bremen, Germany, and the Engineering Division of a Liberal Arts and Engineering College in Easton, Pennsylvania. The partnership is in its sixth year and has provided more than one-hundred engineering undergraduates with a semester-long immersion in a foreign culture. These students complete a semester's studies in their engineering major, travel extensively, and live and work in an international setting. The paper describes the structure, successes, and the challenges experienced with the program, and presents summary evaluative responses from students participating in this partnership.
Retrospective review of hemoglobin and/or hematocrit levels with occurrence of thrombosis in cancer patients treated with erythropoiesis stimulating agents

Background. No data exists that directly compares hemoglobin and hematocrit levels between cancer patients with and without occurrence of thrombosis during treatment with erythropoiesis stimulating agents (ESAs).Objective. To determine the association of hemoglobin and hematocrit levels with the occurrence of thrombosis in cancer patients treated with ESAs.Methods. A retrospective case-control study approved by the Institutional Review Board was conducted on cancer patients billed for epoetin or darbepoetin between 1 July 2002 and 30 June 2007. Cases were defined as patients billed for thrombosis while controls were defined as patients not billed for thrombosis.Results. Sixteen patients had an occurrence of thrombosis (cases) and were matched to 16 patients that did not have an occurrence of thrombosis (controls) based on age, sex, and cancer type. The mean peak hemoglobin levels for cases and controls were 12.6 ± 1.2 g/dL versus 12.6 ± 1.4 g/dL (p = 0.9). The mean peak hematocrit levels for cases and con...
New volatile and water-soluble ethylene antagonists

Twenty cyclopropenes were prepared and their anti-ethylene activity was evaluated in the fruit ripening and plant senescence bioassays. The treatment of banana fruits with developed antagonists led to delay of fruit ripening. Some antagonists were capable to extend exhibition life of cut mini carnation flowers as well as delay senescence of bean leaves. The potency of ethylene antagonists declined with increase in molecular weight and reduction in their solubility in water, irrespective of bioassay used.
Pseudo-likelihood ratio tests for semiparametric multivariate copula model selection

The authors propose pseudo-likelihood ratio tests for selecting semiparametric multivariate copula models in which the marginal distributions are unspecified, but the copula function is parameterized and can be misspecified. For the comparison of two models, the tests differ depending on whether the two copulas are generalized nonnested or generalized nested. For more than two models, the procedure is built on the reality check test of White (2000). Unlike White (2000), however, the test statistic is automatically standardized for generalized nonnested models (with the benchmark) and ignores generalized nested models asymptotically. The authors illustrate their approach with American insurance claim data. Tests du rapport des pseudo-vraisemblances pour la selection de modeles de copules multivaries semiparametriques: Les auteurs proposent l'emploi de tests du rapport des pseudo-vraisemblances pour la selection de modeles de copules multivaries semiparametriques dans lesquels les marges ne sont pas precisees et la copule parametrique peut eventuellement ětre ma1 specifiee. La forme du test permettant de comparer deux modeles varie selon que les copules sous-jacentes sont emboitees ou non dans un sens large. La procedure permettant de comparer plusieurs modeles a la fois s'inspire du test de realisme de White (2000). A la difference de ce demier, cependant, la statistique du test est automatiquement standardisee (par rapport a un etalon) pour les modeles non-emboites et fait fi, asymptotiquement, des modeles emboites. Les auteurs illustrent leur approche a l'aide de donntes americaines de sinistres en assurance.
An animal assay method for the measurement of post-transfusion survival of stored blood.

Summary A method is described of measuring post transfusion survival of stored blood in the rabbit. Results with blood stored in acid-citrate-dextrose and with an experimental preservative have been shown to be comparable to those in man. The harmful effects of plastic bags were also detected by rabbit testing. On the basis of these correlated studies, the rabbit assay is suggested as a suitable method for determination of the viability of stored blood. Resume Le temps de survie d'erythrocytes transfuses chez le lapin a ete determine par une methode de marquage aux isotopes. Les courbes de survie d'erythrocytes frais ou conserves pendant divers espaces de temps en solution ACD, avec ou sans l'addition d'adenosine, sont semblables a celles obtenues dans des experiences analogues chez l'homme. Avec cette methode, il a ete Bgalement possible de demontrer que les erythrocytes peuvent btre endommages lorsqu'ils sont conserves dans certains materiels plastiques. Les experiences decrites dans ce travail montrent que pour etudier la survie de sang conserve, on peut aussi bien se servir du lapin que de l'homme. Zusammenfassung Eine Isotopenmethode zur Bestimmung der Uberlebenszeit von transfundierten Kaninchenerythrozyten wird beschrieben. Frisches und uber verschieden lange Zeiten in ACD-Losung mit und ohne Adenosinzusatz konserviertes Kaninchenblut zeigte beim Transfusionsversuch an Kaninchen ahnliche Abbaukurven, wie sie von Versuchen am Menschen her bekannt sind. Im weiteren gelang es mit dieser Versuchsanordnung, schadigende Einflusse von gewissen Kunststoffbehatern auf die darin konservierten Erythrozyten zu erfassen. Es ist deswegen anzunehmen, daβ der Transfusionsversuch am Kaninchen bei Studien uber die Vollblutkonservierung die Uberlebenszeitbestimmung am Menschen in vielen Fallen erfolgreich zu ersetaen vermag.
A Grain Boundary Fracture Model for Predicting Dynamic Embrittlement and Oxidation-Induced Cracking in Superalloys

Nickel-based superalloys are sometimes susceptible to oxygen embrittlement in the form of dynamic embrittlement or oxidation-induced grain boundary cracking during services at elevated temperatures. Dynamic embrittlement is a fracture process that involves the ingress and diffusion of atomic oxygen to induce time-dependent decohesion of grain boundaries. A related fracture process, also a time-dependent process, is stress-accelerated grain boundary oxidation and oxide-induced cracking along grain boundaries. In this paper, a micromechanical model is developed to treat both dynamic embrittlement and oxidation-induced crack growth in Ni-based superalloys. The model is utilized to assess: (1) the conditions where dynamic embrittlement are dominant, (2) the conditions where oxidation-induced crack growth are dominant, and (3) the role of oxidation in suppressing dynamic embrittlement in Ni-based superalloys. For illustration, the grain boundary fracture model is applied to predict the onset of dynamic embrittlement and oxidation-induced crack growth in superalloys such as IN 718.
Coupling Field Theory with Mesoscopic Dynamical Simulations of Multicomponent Lipid Bilayers

A method for simulating a two-component lipid bilayer membrane in the mesoscopic regime is presented. The membrane is modeled as an elastic network of bonded points; the spring constants of these bonds are parameterized by the microscopic bulk modulus estimated from earlier atomistic nonequilibrium molecular dynamics simulations for several bilayer mixtures of DMPC and cholesterol. The modulus depends on the composition of a point in the elastic membrane model. The dynamics of the composition field is governed by the Cahn-Hilliard equation where a free energy functional models the coupling between the composition and curvature fields. The strength of the bonds in the elastic network are then modulated noting local changes in the composition and using a fit to the nonequilibrium molecular dynamics simulation data. Estimates for the magnitude and sign of the coupling parameter in the free energy model are made treating the bending modulus as a function of composition. A procedure for assigning the remaining parameters in the free energy model is also outlined. It is found that the square of the mean curvature averaged over the entire simulation box is enhanced if the strength of the bonds in the elastic network are modulated in response to local changes in the composition field. We suggest that this simulation method could also be used to determine if phase coexistence affects the stress response of the membrane to uniform dilations in area. This response, measured in the mesoscopic regime, is already known to be conditioned or renormalized by thermal undulations.
An unbiased method for estimating binding parameters in a non-cooperative binding process.

Abstract A statistically unbiased method of estimating ligand-macromolecule binding constants from experimental data is given, assuming a non-cooperative binding process. The new method is, by application to dicumarol-albumin data, shown to give results which in some cases differ substantially from those of methods commonly used. These differences arise because the assumptions on which the commonly used methods are based are severely violated due to the experimental setup. In addition to the advantage of giving unbiased parameter estimates, the new method provides confidence intervals of the estimates and also allows for the inclusion of weights compensating for varying precision in the data.
Isolated systolic hypertension and the J-curve of cardiovascular disease risk

Abstract Controversy persists regarding the presence and significance of blood pressure “J-curves” of increased cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk as they relate to older people with isolated systolic hypertension (ISH). Age is an important effect modifier favoring diastolic blood pressure (DBP) in young adults, systolic blood pressure (SBP) in middle-aged, and pulse pressure (PP) in the elderly as predictors of CVD events. By contrast, a recent Framingham Heart Study showed that combined blood pressure components increased the prediction of CVD risk over any single blood pressure component. Interestingly, of the 4 blood pressure components [DBP, SBP, PP, and mean arterial pressure (MAP)] only DBP showed non-linear tendencies, which presented as a J-curve of increased CVD risk in this primary prevention study. A low DBP was associated with increased PP, and hence, was a marker for increased arterial stiffness; thus, risk was defined by increased PP that resulted in decreased DBP and increased SBP. On the other hand, when primary CVD events result in poor cardiac function, the presence of combined SBP and DBP J-curves serve as predictors of secondary CVD events—so called “reverse causality”; thus, risk is associated with decreased rather than by increased SBP. Lastly, treatment-induced cardiac risk is a potential third explanation for J-curves that occur in the presence of hemodynamically significant coronary artery stenosis. The thesis of this presentation is that a treatment-induced cardiac event, as an explanation for the J-curve risk, occurs infrequently as compared to arterial stiffness or reverse causality; furthermore, the exact point at which the J-curve begins, remains in doubt. Nevertheless, only a prospective trial with baseline and pre-event blood pressure determinations can establish the presence and frequency of treatment-induced J-curve risk.
Miniaturization of an Anoikis assay using non-adhesive micromolded hydrogels

Anoikis is a specific form of apoptosis resulting from the loss of cellular attachment to extracellular matrix or other cells. Challenges in simulating these conditions in vitro make it difficult to generate a controlled, efficient assay to study anoikis. We developed a microscale method for analysis and quantification of anoikis using micromolded, non-adhesive hydrogels. These hydrogels allow for isolation and observation of single, unattached cells in an ordered array, and controlled distribution. Cell distributions resulting from multiple seeding densities were compared to a mathematical probability model. Normal human fibroblasts, human umbilical vein endothelial cells, and Mandin-Darby canine kidney epithelial cells were seeded at low densities of approximately one cell/well. Because the hydrogel is made of non-adhesive agarose, attachment was negligible. Survival was monitored using fluorescent microscopy, and quantified by image analysis. The attachment and proliferative potential of cells after being held in a non-adherent environment was assessed with a companion attachment assay. The data from both methods revealed that cells were able to survive much longer than expected without attachment. When tested with H35 rat hepatoma cells we showed that single cancer cells could grow into three-dimensional spheroids, demonstrating the utility of this method in understanding the role of anoikis in cancer.
Assertiveness in Children

100 children, ages 6 to 12 yr., were divided into four groups for the purposes of this study. Each child was given a Children's Emotion Projection Instrument, a series of simulated, frustrating incidents. Responses were rated as belonging to one of seven categories: anger, aggression, passive aggression, sadness, satisfaction/acceptance, avoidance, or assertion. Frequencies by response categories were analyzed using chi-squared for bivariate data. Responses for each category were analyzed separately using chi-squared for single variables. All children used assertion responses frequently, and older children used such responses significantly more often than younger ones. There were no differences between girls and boys for either age group on assertion.
Activation of descending pain-facilitatory pathways from the rostral ventromedial medulla by cholecystokinin elicits release of prostaglandin-E2 in the spinal cord

Cholecystokinin (CCK) has been suggested to be both pro-nociceptive and "anti-opioid" by actions on pain-modulatory cells within the rostral ventromedial medulla (RVM). One consequence of activation of RVM CCK₂ receptors may be enhanced spinal nociceptive transmission; but how this might occur, especially in states of pathological pain, is unknown. Here, in vivo microdialysis was used to demonstrate that levels of RVM CCK increased by approximately 2-fold after ligation of L₅/L₆ spinal nerves (SNL). Microinjection of CCK into the RVM of naive rats elicited hypersensitivity to tactile stimulation of the hindpaw. In addition, RVM CCK elicited a time-related increase in (prostaglandin-E₂) PGE₂ measured in cerebrospinal fluid from the lumbar spinal cord. The peak increase in spinal PGE₂ was approximately 5-fold and was observed at approximately 80 minutes post-RVM CCK, a time coincident with maximal RVM CCK-induced mechanical hypersensitivity. Spinal administration of naproxen, a nonselective COX-inhibitor, significantly attenuated RVM CCK-induced hindpaw tactile hypersensitivity. RVM-CCK also resulted in a 2-fold increase in spinal 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA), a 5-hydoxytryptophan (5-HT) metabolite, as compared with controls, and mechanical hypersensitivity that was attenuated by spinal application of ondansetron, a 5-HT₃ antagonist. The present studies suggest that chronic nerve injury can result in activation of descending facilitatory mechanisms that may promote hyperalgesia via ultimate release of PGE₂ and 5-HT in the spinal cord.
Potential Drop and Ionization at Mercury Arc Cathode

By means of a movable Langmuir collector, the potential, ion concentration and electron temperature were measured at various distances from a stationary mercury cathode spot, at various arc currents. The results indicated a cathode drop of 10.0 volts, and a small negative potential gradient beyond the fall space which was more pronounced at the larger currents. The ion concentration varied between 2${(10)}^{13}$ and 3${(10)}^{11}$ ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\ensuremath{-}3}$ for distances between 0.4 cm and 1.7 cm and arc currents between 11 amp and 4.2 amp. The concentrations evidently greatly exceed these values very close to the cathode. The mean electron energies were about 1.4 volts near the cathode and fell to a little less than a volt at the greater distances. From the lack of saturation of currents to the collector at space potential, the coefficient of electron reflection at the amalgamated tungsten collector surface was found to be close to 0.5. It is shown that the thickness of the cathode fall space must be less than 1.76${(10)}^{\ensuremath{-}4}$ cm and that the field at the cathode surface must exceed 7.6${(10)}^{4}$ volts\ifmmode\cdot\else\textperiodcentered\fi{}${\mathrm{cm}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$.
XVIS 4.2 - A COMPLETE DATA VISUALIZATION PACKAGE

This paper describes XVis version 4.2, which is written in C++ using an object-oriented approach and implementing field data, plot type, and surface type in a way which allows for easy extensibility for future enhancements. XVis is a highly interactive visualization package specifically designed to visualize Computational Fluid Dynamic data. The package allows for multi-window, multi-segment, and profile plot capability for two- and three-dimensional flow fields on structured and unstructured multi-zoned meshes. The graphical user interface is implemented in OSF/Motif and the graphics is displayed using OpenGL. This results in a program that is fairly portable. Additionally, the program is available to DOD institutions and contractors at no cost.
Disparities in Child Access to Emergency Care for Acute Oral Injury

Objective: We examined the impact of insurance status on dental practices' willingness to schedule an appointment for a child with a symptomatic fractured permanent front tooth. Patients and Methods: Between February and May 2010, 6 research assistants posed as mothers of a 10-year-old boy seeking an urgent dental appointment. Two calls 4 weeks apart, with the same clinical scenario, were made by the same caller to a stratified random sample of dental practices, one-half of which were enrolled in the state's combined Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) dental program. The only difference in the calls was the child's insurance coverage (Medicaid/CHIP versus private Blue Cross dental coverage). We estimated differences in the log-odds probability of scheduling an appointment for a child with public versus private insurance by using exact conditional (fixed-effects) logistic regression, which accounts for paired data. Results: Of 170 paired calls to 85 dental practices (41 participating in the Medicaid program), only 36.5% of Medicaid beneficiaries obtained any appointment compared with 95.4% of Blue Cross-insured children with the same oral injury. Among dental providers enrolled in the Medicaid program, children with Medicaid were still 18.2 times more likely to be denied an appointment than privately-insured counterparts (95% confidence interval: 3.1 to ∞; P Language: en
A new approach for the design of wideband band-pass filters with extended stop-bands

In this paper, a new design approach is introduced for the design of very wideband band-pass filters with extended stop-bands. The approach is based on interleaving two low-pass filter sections with a high-pass filter section. The proposed approach is applied to the realization of a wideband filter in the frequency range from 0.8 GHz to 2.2 GHz. Open circuit stubs from the low-pass filter sections are used to realize finite stop-band transmission zeros. The filter is analyzed using circuit model and the results were verified using full electromagnetic simulations as well as actual measurements. The simulations and measurements show that the proposed design approach results in a wideband filter with very low insertion loss in the pass-band and a very wide stop-band with stop-band rejection of 25 dB or more.