cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ingress and reactive chemistry of nitroxyl-derived species within human cells.

Abstract The mechanisms that control the biological signaling and toxicological properties of the nitrogen oxide species nitroxyl (HNO) are largely unknown. The ingress and intracellular reactivity of nitroxyl-derived species were examined using Angeli’s salt (AS), which decomposes initially to HNO and nitrite at physiologic pH. Exposure of 4,5-diaminofluorescein (DAF) to AS resulted in fluorescent product formation only in the presence of molecular oxygen. Kinetic analysis and the lack of signal from a nitric oxide (NO)-sensitive electrode suggested that these processes did not involve conversion of HNO to NO. On an equimolar basis, bolus peroxynitrite (ONOO − ) exposure generated only 15% of fluorescent product formation observed from AS decomposition. Moreover, infusion of synthetic ONOO − at a rate comparable to AS decomposition resulted in only 4% of the signal. Quenching of AS-mediated product formation within intact human MCF-7 breast carcinoma cells containing DAF by addition of urate to buffer suggested involvement of an oxidized intermediate formed from reaction between HNO and oxygen. Conversely, intact cells competitively sequestered the HNO-derived species from reaction with DAF in solution. These data show this intermediate to be a long-lived diffusible species. Relative product yield from intracellular DAF was decreased 5- to 8-fold when cells were lysed immediately prior to AS addition, consistent with the partitioning of HNO and/or derived species into the cellular membrane, thereby shielding these reactive intermediates from either hydrolysis or cytoplasmic scavenger pools. These findings establish that oxygen-derived species of nitroxyl can readily penetrate and engage the intracellular milieu of cells and suggest this process to be independent of NO and ONOO − intermediacy. The substantial facilitation of oxygen-dependent nitroxyl chemistry by intact lipid bilayers supports a focusing role for the membrane in modulation of cellular constituents proteins by this unique species.
Evidence for cavitation in superplastic Zn-22 pct Ai of very high purity

The cavity formation of very high purity Zn--22% Al was studied. Results confirm that cavities are nucleated in the Zn--22% Al eutectoid during superplastic deformation, and the extent of cavitation is essentially identical to an alloy of commercial purity (190 ppm impurities). (FS)
When East meets West: intensive care unit experiences among first-generation Chinese American parents.

Purpose: To explore the experiences of first-generation Chinese American parents while their infants are cared for in intensive care units (ICUs). Design: Because the study focus was on understanding the experiences of parents, a phenomenological approach was used, with open-ended questions that encouraged participants to describe events they perceived to be important. The data analysis procedure suggested by van Manen was used for the qualitative data analysis. Participants/Setting: A convenience sample of 25 first-generation Chinese American families, with infants hospitalized in the intensive care units of three teaching hospitals in the San Francisco area. Results: Seven themes were identified: perceived incompetence, self-blame, blame from others, filial piety, lack of support in the US, communication issues, and cultural differences. Conclusions: Both fathers and mothers experienced stress related to all identified themes. Findings suggest the need for more resources to educate and support families as well as culturally competent care within pediatric ICUs. Further study is critical to understand how the Chinese American's personal and family characteristics may influence stress perceptions when coping with their children's hospitalization. Clinical Relevance: This study can help healthcare providers to understand Chinese American parents’ perceptions while their infants are hospitalized in the ICU, which can enhance cultural competence care services.
Physiology, Phylogeny, and Functions of the TRP Superfamily of Cation Channels

The transient receptor potential (TRP) protein superfamily consists of a diverse group of Ca(2+) permeable nonselective cation channels that bear structural similarities to Drosophila TRP. TRP-related proteins play important roles in nonexcitable cells, as demonstrated by the recent finding that a mammalian TRPC protein is expressed in endothelial cells and functions in vasorelaxation. However, an emerging theme is that many TRP-related proteins are expressed predominantly in the nervous system and function in sensory physiology. The TRP superfamily can be divided into six subfamilies, the first of which is composed of the "classical TRPs" (TRPC subfamily). These proteins all share the common features of three to four ankryin repeats, >/=30% amino acid homology over >/=750 amino acids, and a gating mechanism that operates through phospholipase C. Some classical TRPs may be store-operated channels (SOCs), which are activated by release of Ca(2+) from internal stores. The mammalian TRPC proteins are also expressed in the central nervous system, and several are highly enriched in the brain. One TRPC protein has been implicated in the pheromone response. The archetypal TRP, Drosophila TRP, is predominantly expressed in the visual system and is required for phototransduction. Many members of a second subfamily (TRPV) function in sensory physiology. These include VR1 and OSM-9, which respond to heat, osmolarity, odorants, and mechanical stimuli. A third subfamily, TRPN, includes proteins with many ankyrin repeats, one of which, NOMPC, participates in mechanotransduction. Among the members of a fourth subfamily, TRPM, is a putative tumor suppressor termed melastatin, and a bifunctional protein, TRP-PLIK, consisting of a TRPM channel fused to a protein kinase. PKD2 and mucolipidin are the founding members of the TRPP and TRPML subfamilies, respectively. Mutations in PKD2 are responsible for polycystic kidney disease, and mutations in mucolipidin result in a severe neurodegenerative disorder. Recent studies suggest that alterations in the activities of SOC and TRP channels may be at the heart of several additional neurodegenerative diseases. Thus, TRP channels may prove to be important new targets for drug discovery.
A fisherian analysis of individual retirement accounts

This paper has employed a Fisherian analysis of intertemporal choice to evaluate the use of IRA's. The analysis shows that with perfect capital markets assumptions, the presence of IRA's will generate no other effect on savings than would a simple tax rabate. Further, it shows that if the tax revenue loss due to IRA's is not accompanied by an expenditure reduction, but is financed with taxes or borrowing, rational households will still employ IRA's, but their effect on intertemporal choice will be nil. The analysis also shows that IRA's do act as a savings incentive to the extent that there are market imperfections, specifically to the degree that transactions costs are important. However, empirical evidence from the literature does not lend firm support to this possibility. The conclusion is that a market imperfection is not a firm basis on which to construct savings incentives.
TRP Channel Structural Biology: New Roles for an Old Fold

The capsaicin receptor, TRPV1, contributes to thermal and chemical sensitivity of primary afferent neurons of the pain pathway, but many aspects of its regulation remain elusive. In this issue of Neuron , Lishko et al. describe a high-resolution structure of a TRPV1 domain, providing insight into the molecular basis of channel modulation while revealing new functions for a widely expressed protein interaction fold.
Water intake regulation in rats after intestinal bypass surgery

Abstract Jejunoileal bypass surgery in normal-weight female rats produced a temporary reduction in food intake, and small but more long lasting reductions in water intake and the water to food intake ratio. The bypass rats, however, did not differ from controls in their drinking response in a variety of thirst tests. That is, the bypass rats displayed normal increases in water intake following 24 hr water deprivation, hypertonic saline injection, or injection of polyethylene glycol; and normal decreases in water intake when food deprived or when given quinine-adulterated water. On the other hand, the bypass rats did not drink as much as did the controls when offered isotonic saline, or a saccharin solution for 24 hr/day, or when tested for schedule-induced-polydipsia 3 hr/day. The results indicate that bypassing a large segment of the jejunum and ileum does not disrupt regulatory drinking in the rat, but it does limit their ability to consume large volumes of fluid.
Easiness, Attractiveness, and Faculty Evaluations: Evidence from RateMyProfessors.Com

Among the many wonders of the internet is the possibility of the rapid collection of information from decentralized sources. An example of this is the RateMyProfessors.com website where students may submit evaluations of their professors and view faculty ratings submitted by other students. Students rate professors’ clarity and helpfulness on a 1Y5 scale. The site then averages these scores to obtain faculty members’ overall quality. In addition, students assign a 1Y5 rating for easiness of professors’ courses and have the opportunity to award a chili pepper icon if they think the professor is Fhot._ Given the ubiquity of end-of-course student evaluations as instruments for evaluating faculty performance, the RateMyProfessors.com data provide an opportunity to analyze some of the factors affecting student perceptions of professors. To conduct this analysis, the authors obtained the overall quality, easiness, and Fhot_ data for all 295 rated faculty at their institutions. A dummy variable was then constructed for sex (FEMALE), six dummies for ranges of easiness ratings (2.0Y2.49, 2.5Y2.99, : : : , with 0Y1.99 as the omitted category), and dummy variables for attractive women (HOTFEMALE) and attractive men (HOTMALE) by interacting the sex dummy with the dichotomous Fhot_ variable. Because of the censored range (1 to 5) of professors’ quality ratings, estimation via Tobit was appropriate and yielded the following results (with z-scores in parentheses):
Road Pricing and Public Transport

Substantial benefits may arise from road pricing through its effects on the speed and service frequency of public transport. These effects are examined using a stylized model of local bus transport in a city center, a model requiring only a few parameters to obtain quantitative estimates. The model highlights four considerations: the cost savings to users and operators due to reduced road congestion; the service improvements made feasible by increased ridership; the potential passthrough of operator cost savings (even after paying for service improvements) as fare reductions; and the resulting multiplier effects on ridership and service offerings. The model is applied to central London using data from the first few months of the congestion charging program implemented in February 2003. Simulation results suggest significant effects, even if the pricing revenues had not been used to augment the public transport budget as they were in London: a ridership increase of 11 percent, a service increase of 7 percent, and user cost savings equivalent to 38 percent of the fare. Net benefits from these effects are equal to 39 percent of initial operator costs, suggesting the importance of fully accounting for these effects when evaluating congestion pricing proposals. These effects (but not the net benefits) are even larger in cities with more typical values for bus subsidies and initial modal share.
The 8 protein of Escherichia coli tryptophan synthetase II. New β-elimination and β-replacement reactions

The B protein of Escherichia coli tryptophan synthetase is reported to catalyze β-elimination reactions with S-methyl-L-cysteine, O-methyl-L-serine, and β-chloro-L-alanine to produce pyruvate and β-replacement reactions with the same substrates plus indole to produce L-tryptophan. The mechanism of this enzyme is comparable to that of tryptophanase of E. coli, but the two enzymes have some important differences in reaction specificity.
Electrochemical characterization of the effects of impurities and organic additives in lead electrowinning from fluoborate electrolyte

The effects of glue and calcium lignin sulfonate additives, and chloride and antimony impurities on the lead electrowinning process, using a fluoborate electrolyte, were studied. Short-term deposition tests, voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and SEM techniques were used for the evaluation. The interactions among additives and impurities were also evaluated. The presence of antimony or chloride ion in the range of 50 to 200 mg/L was shown to cause a more dendritic and powdery lead deposit. Additions of glue and calcium lignin sulfonate at selected concentrations helped to level the deposit and counteracted the detrimental effects of chloride and antimony. The voltammetry and EIS characteristics obtained with additions of glue and calcium lignin sulfonate to the electrolyte indicated the roles of these components in modifying the lead deposition mechanisms and the deposit morphology.
Review: In acute respiratory failure, prehospital CPAP reduces mortality and intubation rates

Source Citation Goodacre S, Stevens JW, Pandor A, et al. Prehospital noninvasive ventilation for acute respiratory failure: systematic review, network meta-analysis, and individual patient data met...
Incidence and seasonal variations in blood and tissue parasites of yellow-billed magpies.

SYNOPSIS. Blood and tissue smears from 156 yellow-billed magpies showed infection with hematozoa in 154 (99%). Leucocytozoon berestneffi was found in 149 (96%), Haemoproteus picae in 40 (26%), Plasmodium relictum, in 32 (21%), Trypanosoma sp. in 3 (2%), and microfilariae in 42 (27%). Fifty-two birds were infected with two genera of parasites, 27 with 3, and 4 with 4. Leucocytozoon, Plasmodium and microfilariae showed a higher incidence in tissue than in blood smears.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SUBSTRATE CONCENTRATION, GROWTH RATE, AND RESPIRATION RATE OF ESCHERICHIA COLI IN CONTINUOUS CULTURE.

Using a continuous flow technique the relationship between growth rate and substrate concentration was investigated with glucose as the limiting factor of a culture of Escherichia coli. Graphical and numerical analysis of the experimental data demonstrated that the application of the Michaelis-Menten equation produced erroneous results, whereas, the constants obtained from the Teissier equation were in agreement with the experimental data. On this basis, new equations defining the steady state cell and substrate concentration in continuous flow cultures were developed and tested against experimental data.
Thermodynamics of Addition of H2, CO, N2, and C−H Bonds to M(PiPr3)2Cl (M = Ir, Rh). An Unprecedented Metal−Carbonyl Bond Strength

The thermodynamics of interconversion of various complexes containing the unit IrL*2Cl (L* = P(iPr)3) have been investigated by calorimetry and equilibrium measurements. These complexes span a wide range of configurations including four- and five-coordinate d8 (IrL*2ClL‘, IrL*2Cl(CO)2) and five- and six-coordinate d6 (IrL*2ClRH and IrL*2ClRH(CO)). On the basis of kinetic experiments, a lower limit to the Ir−N2 bond dissociation enthalpy (BDE) of IrL*2Cl(N2) has been determined (36 kcal/mol). Using this value as an “anchor”, in conjunction with the relative addition enthalpies obtained calorimetrically, it is possible to derive lower limits for the absolute exothermicities of H2 (48 kcal/mol) and CO (72 kcal/mol) addition to IrL*2Cl; estimates can also be made for the addition of benzene and acetylene C−H bonds. These values are unusually high; indeed, the magnitude of the Ir−CO BDE is unprecedented. In addition, kinetic methods have been used to determine a lower limit of 29 kcal/mol to the Rh−N2 BDE of R...
Modeling Warfare in Southwestern Prehistory

Warfare was an important behavioral component in the Southwest, and its existence and consequences have not been adequately considered in modeling Southwestern prehistory. Warfare seems to have varied in intensity, importance, and form during the prehistoric record, however, one particular episode seems to be particularly important and usefully dealt with. This was a period of intense warfare lasting from the mid a.d. 1200s, well into the Pueblo IV period.
Beamstrahlung from colliding electron-positron beams with negligible disruption

Abstract We present radiative energy loss formulas for beamstrahlung from colliding electron-positron beams which experience negligible disruption, as determined by numerical simulation. Our computer code uses the correct quantum mechanical photon number spectrum for synchrotron radiation emitted by relativistic electrons to simulate with macroparticles the discrete nature of photon emission. For Gaussian beams with small average electron energy loss, we determine energy loss formulas valid for all radiation regimes from classical to extreme quantum mechanical which depend on only two beam parameters, a quantum radiation parameter ϒ0 and a beam energy per unit length, Γ0.
Intraventricular morphine administration for control of chronic cancer pain

Twenty cancer patients with severe chronic pain have been treated with intraventricular morphine sulfate. Adequate pain relief until death was achieved in 10 patients; 1 patient has been treated for 9 months and is still being treated. In 2 patients, the effects of the morphine sulfate on their unilateral pelvic pain wore off after 4 and 6 months because of tumor progression. At that time, they underwent chordotomy procedures elsewhere. The treatment was discontinued in 4 patients for reasons other than inadequate pain relief, such as medical complications or resolution of pain. In 3 patients, the procedure was abandoned when emotional and psychological factors interfered with pain control. Dose requirements of intraventricular morphine sulfate varied greatly, depending on the total daily dose of systemic narcotic intake at the onset of the study. Intraventricular morphine sulfate is a feasible and reliable method to achieve pain relief in selected cancer patients with severe chronic pain when the maximum tolerated dose of systemic narcotic analgesics has become insufficient to control their pain.
Hubble Space Telescope STIS Ultraviolet Spectral Evidence of Outflow in Extreme Narrow-Line Seyfert 1 Galaxies. I. Data and Analysis* **

We present Hubble Space Telescope (HST) Space Telescope Imaging Spectrograph observations of two extreme narrow-line Seyfert 1 galaxies (NLS1's), IRAS 13224-3809 and 1H 0707-495. The spectra are characterized by very blue continua; broad, strongly blueshifted high-ionization lines (including C IV and N V); and narrow, symmetric intermediate- (including C III], Si III], and Al III) and low-ionization (e.g., Mg II) lines centered at the rest wavelength. The emission-line profiles suggest that the high-ionization lines are produced in a wind and that the intermediate- and low-ionization lines are produced in low-velocity gas associated with the accretion disk or base of the wind. In this paper, we present the analysis of the spectra from these two objects; in a companion paper, we present photoionization analysis and a toy dynamical model for the wind. The highly asymmetric profile of C IV suggests that it is dominated by emission from the wind, so we develop a template for the wind from the C IV line. We model the bright emission lines in the spectra using a combination of this template and a narrow symmetric line centered at the rest wavelength. We also analyzed a comparison sample of Hubble Space Telescope spectra from 14 additional NLS1's and constructed a correlation matrix of emission-line and continuum properties. A number of strong correlations were observed, including several involving the asymmetry of the C IV line.
Factors Affecting Attrition in a Longitudinal Smoking Prevention Study

Abstract Background.In longitudinal smoking prevention studies, a difficulty in evaluating treatment effects is understanding whether bias is associated with those who do not complete the study. This study presents the significant predictors of attrition and suggests how to reduce attrition bias in evaluating program effects.Methods.Survival analysis methods were used to assess factors associated with attrition at different time points of the study.Results.Results of the analysis indicate that those who drop out tend to be of lower academic achievement, have lower tobacco and health knowledge, and have lower social influence/resistance skills knowledge, and are more likely to be smokers and to be marijuana users. Blacks are more likely to drop out than the other ethnic groups. Gender is not a significant predictor for dropout. The dropout rates among the treatment conditions are significantly different.Conclusions.The findings of this study demonstrate that attritions in longitudinal smoking prevention studies are not at random. By considering the characteristics of dropouts, one can reduce attrition bias using available procedures and can take appropriate strategies for reducing dropout rates in future smoking prevention studies.
Effects of 4,4'-biphenylene-bis-(2-oxoethylene)-bis-(2,2-diethoxyethyl) dimethylammonium dibromide (DMAE) on catecholamines released by angiotensin.

Abstract The effect of 4,4′-biphenylene-bis-(2-oxoethylene)-bis-(2,2-diethoxyethyl-dimethylammonium dibromide (DMAE) on the response of the isolated, superfused guinea pig seminal vesical to angiotensin, tyramine, norepinephrine and epinephrine was evaluated. The seminal vesicles did not respond to angiotensin or tyramine until the lumen was distended with physiologic solution. DMAE enhanced responses to angiotensin and tyramine only in the presence of functional neuronal stores of catecholamines. Reserpine and guanethidine abolished responses to angiotensin and tyramine. The results suggest that responses to angiotensin and tyramine are mediated by release of catecholamines. Endogenous catecholamine stores were reduced after incubation with angiotensin or high concentrations of tyramine for 30 min. DMAE enhanced the depletion of neurotramsmitter caused by angiotensin and tyramine and reduced slightly the neurotransmitter stores itself. These results demonstrate that DMAE acts to augment the responses to angiotensin and tyramine by enhancing neurotransmitter release.
A two-dimensional finite element formulation of the perfectly matched layer

A perfectly matched layer (PML) is implemented using the finite element method (FEM) to successfully terminate the output port of a parallel-plate waveguide operating over a wide range of frequencies. The PML layer is modeled as a nonphysical anisotropic lossy material backed with a perfect electric conductor (PEC). Numerical results showing the reflection coefficient as a function of frequency, for both TEM and TM/sub 1/ propagation modes, demonstrate the effectiveness and accuracy of the PML concept as applied in the context of the FEM.
Existence of enantiomeric phase separation in a three-dimensional lattice gas model

A three-dimensional lattice gas model for enantiomeric phase separation is introduced. The enantiomeric molecules (d andl) are the two nonsuperimposable mirror images having the molecular structure C(AB)2, where C is a tetrahedrally bonded carbon atom with one bond to each end of two AB groups. The lattice gas model consists of a body-centered cubic lattice, each site of which can be either vacant or occupied by a molecule oriented so that the A and B groups point toward neighboring lattice sites. Pairs of molecules interact with short-range, orientationally-dependent interactions. For a domain of interaction parameters, the Pirogov-Sinai extension of the Peierls argument is used to prove thatd-rich andl-rich phases exist in the model at sufficiently low temperature. For another domain of interaction parameters, at sufficiently high chemical potential there is an infinite number of ground states, each containing a racemic mixture ofd andl molecules.
Pesticide runoff loads from lawns and golf courses

Pesticide runoff loads from grass surfaces were estimated for 29 chemicals commonly applied to U.S. lawns and golf courses. Data on pesticide properties and typical application rates and schedules were developed and summarized as input parameters for the TurfPQ runoff model. Weather data for each of 9 U.S. cities were generated by the USCLIMATE model and modified by the addition of growing season irrigation. Simulation runs were made for each chemical, grass surface (lawns, greens, fairways), and city, and the results were summarized as mean annual and 1-in-10 year annual maximum daily pesticide loads. These loads varied greatly with pesticide, grass surface, and city, ranging from 0 to 875 g/ha for mean loads and 0 to 818 g/ha for 1-in-10 year daily loads. Mean annual loads averaged over the 29 chemicals and 3 grass surfaces were found to be closely related to growing season precipitation. Variations among the nine cities were well-captured by three general climate categories: Humid, characterized by abundant precipitation and warm temperatures, represented by Atlanta and Houston; temperate, with moderate precipitation and temperature, as with Albany, Columbus, Madison, and Olympia; and dry, with sparse precipitation, represented by Bismarck, Fresno, and Roswell. Mean annual pesticide runoff was 37, 9, and 2 g/ha in the humid, temperate, and dry regions, respectively.
Endogenous prostaglandin E2 enhances polyclonal immunoglobulin production by tonically inhibiting T suppressor cell activity

The immunoregulatory effect of endogenous prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) on immunoglobulin production was studied in an in vitro culture system of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells, stimulated with pokeweed mitogen (PWM). Three different cyclooxygenase inhibitors (indomethacin, carprofen, and piroxicam) suppressed Ig synthesis by ~50%. This inhibitory effect could be reversed by adding low doses of exogenous PGE2 (3 × 10−9 to 3 × 10−8M). These doses are endogenously produced in PWM-stimulated cultures, and a concentration of 2 × 10−8M is reached after 48 hr of culture. When B cells were directly stimulated with helper factor, PGE2 did not enhance Ig production and doses of 3 × 10−7M to 3 × 10−6M were inhibitory. The effects of indomethacin and PGE2 were eliminated when T cells were irradiated or treated with mitomycin prior to culture. The enhancing effects of PGE2 were substantially reduced after OKT8(+) T cells were removed from the system. PWM-stimulated cultures of lymphocytes from healthy subjects over age 70 were more sensitive to inhibition by indomethacin and to stimulation by PGE2 than were cultures of lymphocytes from young controls. Thus the major role of endogenous PGE in polyclonal Ig production in vitro is to tonically inhibit a radiosensitive, OKT8(+) suppressor T cell. This tonic inhibition is increased in subjects over 70, which provides one explanation for decreased suppressor cell function in elderly subjects.
Stochastic compartment models with Prendville growth rates

The Prendville growth mechanism, which assumes a linearly decreasing population growth rate, was generalized to a multicompartment system by Parthasarathy and Kumar. This article shows that their solution is only an approximate one. A diagnostic test is presented to indicate parameter vectors for which this first approximation is not very accurate. A second approximation, which overcomes some limitations of the first one, is developed and illustrated.
Design and synthesis of substituted N-methylbenzamide analogues derived from SR 48,968 as neurokinin-2 receptor antagonists

Abstract A series of N-methylbenzamide analogues (2–18) that is structurally derived from SR 48,968, a potent neurokinin-2 (NK2) receptor antagonist (pKb 9.1), has been obtained using asymmetric synthesis. Isothiocyanato-N-methylbenzamide (10–12) and bromoacetamido-N-methylbenzamide derivatives (16–18) have been designed to serve as potential electrophilic affinity labels. Nitro-N-methylbenzamide (4–6) and acetamido-N-methylbenzamide (13–15) were designed to serve as the nonelectrophilic controls for these ligands. Functional assay results using guinea pig trachea indicate that electrophilic N-methylbenzamide analogues exhibit potent but surmountable NK2 receptor antagonist activity. Several members of this series (2, 3, 7–9) exhibit potent NK2 receptor antagonist potencies with pKb values in the range of 9.1–9.7. para-Fluoro substituted analogue 3 was found to be highly potent with a pKb of 9.7.
Duration of strong ground motion during Northridge, California, earthquake of January 17, 1994

Abstract Contours of spatial variations of the duration of strong earthquake ground motion during the 1994 Northridge, California earthquake are smooth over distances as large as tens of kilometers. Visual comparison of those contours with the depth of sediments and with vertical offsets of the basement rocks along the faults in the Los Angeles basin are in excellent qualitative agreement with the trends predicted by the previously published empirical scaling equations of strong-motion duration. It is argued that if the source-to-station distances were measured along the three-dimensional wave paths through the sedimentary wave-guides, rather than along straight lines as is common at present, the accuracy of empirical scaling equations could be improved significantly.
Molecular dynamics simulation of binary hard sphere colloids near the glass transition

This study reports on molecular dynamics simulations of concentrated binary hard sphere colloids near the glass transition. We present the three-dimensional mean square displacements for systems that increase in density, into the glass transition region. The molecular dynamics simulations probe wider time scales than the experimentally assessable range. They cover the short time scale that corresponds to ballistic motion, the intermediate scale that corresponds to caged Brownian motion, and the long time diffusion described by the Einstein–Smoluchowski limit. We report results for α2, the non-Gaussian parameter, which captures the details of the mean square displacements around the time that, on average, rearrangements of the particle cages occur. The dynamic temporal correlations were examined in terms of the four point susceptibility. The implications for ageing are also discussed.
The Cost of Being Lost in the Crowd: How Congregational Size and Social Networks Shape Attenders’ Involvement in Community Organizations

Past research indicates that levels of social embeddedness in a congregation differ between small and large congregations. Since embeddedness in religious social networks is an important predictor of community involvement, this study contributes to the literature by examining whether the relationship between embeddedness in congregational social networks and involvement in community organizations varies based on congregation size. Using a sample of attenders and their congregations from the 2008/2009 U.S. Congregational Life Survey, a national survey representative of American congregations, this study examines the relationship between social embeddedness in a congregation and involvement in community organizations and the cross-level interaction between congregation size and social embeddedness. Results suggest that the relationship between social embeddedness and involvement in community organizations is positive overall, but stronger in larger congregations. Involvement in community organizations is the most likely for attenders of smaller congregations and attenders who are socially embedded in their congregations, but it is the least likely for attenders of large congregations who are not very embedded in them.
Interactions between societal goals and restoration of dry forest landscapes in western North America

Millions of acres of dry, frequent-fire woodlands and forests in western North America are the focus of multi-million dollar ecosystem restoration and fuel treatment activities. Societal awareness and engagement with these ecosystems has intensified due to recent mega fires and projections for increased vulnerability of these systems to fire, insects, and drought-related stressors. Also, the importance of goods and services provided by dry forests has expanded to include many values, such as watershed protection, habitat for biodiversity, and recreation as well as timber. Public awareness of fire and other risks associated with current conditions in dry forests generally is high and broad support exists for active management over passive alternatives. Efforts to integrate scientific principles with societal goals in dry forest restoration programs are encouraging but significant social barriers remain related to funding, conflicting goals (e.g., smoke vs. human health and restoration vs. preservation of species habitat), and stakeholder trust. The limited area restored relative to the extensive vulnerable area suggests that the seriousness and complexity of the threats are not fully appreciated or not given sufficient priority for funding, despite stated preferences for restorative management. Hence, challenges remain. Societal choices ultimately determine the goals, extent, and methodology of dry forest restoration programs with science stimulating and informing policy and management decisions.
Impact of calcium entry blockers on glomerular injury in experimental hypertension.

A major problem for patients with kidney disease and their physicians is that most chronic renal diseases progress to global glomerular sclerosis and end-stage renal failure. Studies in experimental models of hypertension and renal insufficiency have advanced our understanding of the pathogenesis of progressive kidney damage. In a number of settings, sclerosis has been related to the presence of intrarenal hypertension, a consequence of the hemodynamic adaptation to a reduction in the number of functioning nephrons. A growing body of evidence also supports the hypothesis that kidney and glomerular hypetrophy constitute an independent risk factor for glomerular sclerosis. Recent studies suggest that calcium antagonists can reduce glomerular injury in experimental hypertension. Renal protection may be related to the ability of these agents to inhibit compensatory renal growth.
A Despatching Rule to Allow Trade‐offs between Inventory and Customer Satisfaction

In job‐shop scheduling research, the shortest processing time despatching rule (SPT) has received considerable attention. Several truncated shortest processing time (SPT) despatching rules have been published in the literature. The motivation for such rules is that SPT despatching will frequently result in favourable inventory levels but unfavourable due date performance. Thus, the truncated SPT rules periodically switch from SPT despatching to despatching by some other rule. Owing to the complexity associated with these truncated rules, their implementation is doubtful. As a result, a modified truncated rule is presented that is easy to implement and yet performs favourably with respect to inventory and due date performance.
Non-homogeneous Distribution of Organic Molecules Within Zeolites

Distribution of organic guest molecules within Na Y zeolites has been examined utilizing aromatic probe molecules such as pyrene, naphthalene and phenanthrene, and dyes such as thionin as photophysical probes. Results have been analyzed on the basis of three parameters, guest occupancy, families of sites and distribution of sites within a family. Distribution of guests, on all three counts, within zeolites has been shown to be non-uniform. Co-adsorbed molecules such as water and organic solvents, temperature and the nature of aromatics influence significantly the guest distribution within zeolites.
Stability of five plastics used in medical devices to oxidation produced by copper or iron ions and reducing agents

Abstract Metal-based formulations containing Cu(II) or Fe(III) ions plus a reducing agent, have been shown to be effective microbicidal agents and suggested for liquid disinfection or sterilization of reusable medical devices. In this study, we examined, by optical and scanning electron microscopy, the stability of five polymeric materials, commonly used in the manufacture of implantable, exploratory, and other medical devices, to oxidative challenge by metal-based formulations. No damage of any of the polymers could be attributed to repeated treatment with metal-based formulations under ‘in use’ conditions. However, a poly(vinyl acetate-vinyl chloride) copolymer (PVC) was found to be unstable to 10 wetting/drying cycles. The polymers were also challenged once for a longer time, at higher temperature, and with reagents at concentrations far exceeding those expected to be used in disinfecting medical devices. The only damage observed after this ‘accelerated’ testing consisted in minor pitting, or erosion, observed in polyamide and polyurethane samples exposed to formulations containing Fe(III) ions. Our results after ‘in-use’ and ‘accelerated’ testing indicate that silicone rubber, polyethylene, polyamide, and polyurethane polymers should be stable to treatment with Cu(II) plus hydrogen peroxide or ascorbic acid under conditions likely to be encountered in the decontamination of medical devices. The stability of these polymeric materials suggests the feasibility of using metal-based formulations for repeated disinfection of a broad range of medical devices without deleterious effects on the polymeric components.
Neuroanatomy and physiology of aphasia: Evidence from positron emission tomography

Abstract Positron emission tomography allows for the study of brain physiology and chemistry in humans. Most studies to date have examined cerebral blood flow, oxygen or glucose metabolism. Studies in aphasic patients have focused on glucose metabolism and have demonstrated that the extent of cerebral metabolic changes consistently involves brain regions which are not structurally damaged. These remote metabolic changes follow consistent patterns that are dependent on the location and extent of structural damage. Metabolic changes were variably found in undamaged prefrontal lobe, basal ganglia and thalamus. Variation in clinical aphasic syndromes were found to relate to these metabolic changes, suggesting that some aspects of the clinical features result from differences in prefrontal function rather than directly from structural damage to perisylvian structures.
Eve as a "Fair Defect" in Milton's PARADISE LOST, BOOK 10

(2007). Eve as a 'Fair Defect' in Milton's PARADISE LOST, BOOK 10. The Explicator: Vol. 65, No. 4, pp. 204-206.
Intravenous lidocaine as adjunctive therapy in the treatment of decompression illness

Two cases of severe decompression illness for which IV lidocaine was used as adjunctive therapy to recompression and hyperbaric oxygen therapy are described. The first patient demonstrated improvement only after lidocaine was added to her treatment; the second had essentially complete recovery after only a single treatment despite severe symptoms and a significant delay in presentation. These cases support the need for a controlled clinical trial of lidocaine as an adjunct to hyperbaric therapy in decompress on illness.
Trapping of single bubbles in cryogenic fluids

Abstract Single bubbles of helium gas of radius 10–20μm have been stably trapped in liquid nitrogen. A spherical acoustic resonator 5.0 cm in diameter is driven with ultrasonic transducers in a radial mode, and the acoustic radiation pressure provides the force holding the bubble at the center of the sphere. It should be possible to use this technique to trap bubbles in other cryogenic fluids such as argon, neon, and helium. Applications of the trapping are discussed, including a search for the emission of sonoluminescence from the bubble, study of the bubble oscillation dynamics using laser scattering, and the prospect of studying charged bubbles.
Crime and Capital Punishment: Some Recent Studies...

Some of the recent articles (specifically, those by Ehrlich, Bowers and Pierce, and Zeisel) on the deterrent effect of the death penalty are discussed, and the need for further work is suggested.
Attenuation of baroreflex changes in cardiac sympathetic efferent activities during acute myocardial ischemia.

Abstract Sympathetic efferent activities to the heart during blood pressure changes were investigated in 11 dogs with acute myocardial ischemia. Normalized sympathetic efferent activities recorded in thoracic cardiac nerves decreased or increased as anticipated in response to transient changes in mean arterial pressure (15 to 25 mm Hg with nitroglycerin or phenylephrine, 2 to 8 μg/kg, intravenously). A branch of the left circumflex coronary artery was occluded, and the arterial pressure challenges were repeated at 5, 15, and 25 minutes after the occlusion. The control (preocclusion) responses in sympathetic efferent activities to the heart ranged from ±2% to 70% (changes relative to steady state normalized at 100%). Reflex sympathetic efferent responses were diminished at 15 and 25 minutes of ischemia. Several sympathetic efferent baroreflex responses during myocardial ischemia were paradoxic. Reflex sympathetic efferent changes were not affected in sham animals. These results indicate that both increases and decreases in cardiac sympathetic efferent activities during baroreflex challenges are attenuated within 15 to 25 minutes of acute coronary artery occlusion. These findings suggest that an abnormal buffering of blood pressure changes during acute myocardial ischemia might lead to autonomic dysfunction that promotes arrhythmogenesis and sudden cardiac death.
Role of solvents in the gelation process: can light scattering studies shed some light?

Sol–gel reactions continue to be of interest for the preparation of nanostructured materials. Two chemical reactions that are important in the sol–gel process are the hydrolysis and condensation reactions. The rate of the these two reactions are affected by a number of factors such as reaction pH, temperature, humidity, amount of water, type of alkoxide, molar ratio of alkoxide to water, and nature of solvent. Moreover, there is a physical process, that of particle aggregation that is also important in the overall gelation process. The role of solvents in these chemical and physical processes is still not very clear. In order to clarify the role of solvents in the gelation process, small angle light scattering studies (SALS) were carried out. A model system chosen was a colloidal silica solution that contained preformed silica particles of 10–15 nm in diameter. SALS studies indicate that gelation times are independent of the nature of solvent.
Identification of a Neurotoxic Venom Component in the Tiger Rattlesnake, Crotalus tigris

Previous toxicological and immunology assays have strongly suggested that a neurotoxic component is present in the venom of the Tiger Rattlesnake, Crotalus tigris. However, there has been no direct identification of this neurotoxin. We obtained 18 blood samples from Arizona C. tigris and analyzed them by PCR and DNA sequencing using primers specific for the acidic and basic subunits of Mojave toxin. All 18 samples demonstrated the presence of both subunits. Venom collected from five of the 18 snakes that provided blood samples were additionally tested for the presence of Mojave toxin with monoclonal antibodies. These anti-Mojave toxin antibodies recognized all five venoms. We conclude that, at least for the Arizona snakes sampled, the neurotoxin in C. tigris is Mojave toxin. Additional sampling and testing is necessary to determine the complete geographic distribution of Mojave toxin and Mojave toxin subunits in C. tigris populations.
Neuromuscular blockade in aeromedical airway management.

Study objective: Induction of paralysis before intubation is controversial in the aeromedical setting. We reviewed our experience using neuromuscular blockade with nurse/paramedic aeromedical teams to determine effectiveness and outcome. Materials and methods: In 670 flights during a 16-month period, 119 patients required endotracheal intubation aided by muscle relaxant administration. Age ranged from two months to 83 years, with a mean of 33 years. All patients were hyperventilated with 100% oxygen before intubation. Sedation was given if presenting systolic blood pressure was greater than 100 mm Hg. A short-acting depolarizing agent was then given in a 1-mg/kg dose. Once the airway was secure, a longer-acting, nondepolarizing agent and/or sedation was given. Results: Of the 119 patients, 115(96.6%) were orally intubated. Four (3.4%) required surgical airway intervention because of injuries and conditions prohibiting oral intubation. Of 115 oral intubations, 99(86%) were achieved on the first attempt. Eight patients (7%) were intubated on a second attempt, and another eight were intubated on a third attempt. There was no change in operator. Sixty-eight percent of patients requiring airway management were multiple trauma victims with associated head injuries. There were no laryngeal injuries, detected cardiac rhythm changes, bleeding episodes, or neurologic complications despite incomplete cervical-spine evaluation. Conclusion: Neuromuscular blockade can be used safely and effectively in the field by experienced nurse/paramedic teams. Although problematic intubation was not eliminated, the difficulties encountered were manageable and the overall risk/benefit ratio was acceptable.
A simple two stage optimization algorithm for constrained power economic dispatch

A simple two stage optimization algorithm is proposed and investigated for fast computation of constrained power economic dispatch control problems. The method is a simple demonstration of the hierarchical aggregation-disaggregation (HAD) concept. The algorithm first solves an aggregated problem to obtain an initial solution. This aggregated problem turns out to be classical economic dispatch formulation, and it can be solved in 1% of overall computation time. In the second stage, a linear programming method finds optimal solution which satisfies power balance constraints, generation and transmission inequality constraints and security constraints. Implementation of the algorithm for IEEE systems and EPRI Scenario systems shows that the two stage method obtains an average speedup ratio of 10.64 as compared to the classical LP-based method. >
Qualitative evaluation of mental health services for clients with limited English proficiency

Background To meet federal requirements under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, the state of California instituted policies requiring that comprehensive mental health services in native languages be made available to limited English proficiency (LEP) populations when concentrations exceed “threshold” levels.
A current source model for CMOS logic cells considering multiple input switching and stack effect

This paper presents a current source model (CSM) of a CMOS logic cell, which captures simultaneous switching of multiple inputs while accounting for the effect of internal node voltages of the logic cell. Characterization procedures for various components of the proposed CSM are described and application of the model to output waveform computation is discussed. Experimental results to assess the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed multiple input switching CSM in the context of noise and timing analyses in VLSI circuits are reported.
Abnormal rectoanal function in children recovered from chronic constipation and encopresis.

Abstract It is unknown if abnormal anal sphincter function as assessed by anorectal manometry is still present years after resolution of chronic constipation and encopresis. Twenty healthy controls, 12 children with constipation but no encopresis, and 20 children with chronic constipation and encopresis underwent anorectal manometric testing, using intraluminal pressure transducers and a balloon for rectal distention. Anorectal measurements were repeated in the 20 constipated and encopretic children 2.5–4 yr after treatment began; 11 children had recovered for at least 1 yr. The mean values of anal resting tone and of anal pull-through pressure were lower in the constipated and encopretic children than in the 20 control children (p