cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of pituitary hormone activity with derivatives of pituitary preparations.

A PREVIOUS publication (1) reported that the administration of a sulfur labeled thyrotrophic hormone preparation failed to cause an increase in thyroid weight, although a significant localization of radioactivity occurred in the thyroid gland. Thus, the biological activity of a pituitary trophic hormone (TSH) apparently could be dissociated into at least two properties: one localizing, the other stimulatory. Subsequently, it was found3 that there was a decreased localization of the administered radioactive sulfur in the thyroid when an S35 labeled TSH preparation was administered with increasing amounts of unmodified TSH. If the S35 found in the thyroids represented thyrotrophic hormone, this latter observation might suggest that there is a limited number of binding sites available at any one time in the thyroid for localization of TSH. On the basis of the above observations, a theory of inhibitory action was formulated. It was assumed that the thyroid contains a limited number of birding sites available ...
On the Interaction of Radiation and Matter

The quantum theory of radiation describes the effect of retardation in the interaction of two charged particles by the mutual emission and absorption of light quanta. The method used in a previous paper on the interaction of radiation and two particles is extended and applied to a process involving the interaction of any number of charged particles (obeying Dirac's equation) and light quanta. It is shown that in the usual first-order approximation of perturbation theory the resulting expression for the interaction of two free particles obtained by summing over all the intermediate states involving virtual quanta is of the same form for any process. By carrying the summation one step further it is shown that this expression reduces to M\o{}ller's formula. The results are relativistically invariant in spite of the usual omission of divergent terms in the Hamiltonian.
Religion and Bio-Psycho-Social Health: A Review and Conceptual Model

This paper presents a research-based conceptual model respectively linking three dimensions of religious experience (religious practices, spiritual beliefs, and faith community) with three dimensions of health (biological, psychological, and social). The model is used as a framework to highlight findings in the religion-health knowledge base and to provide a broad survey of this domain of inquiry. Considerations for future research on religion and health are addressed.
The development of reference materials for acid rain research

Abstract The Center for Analytical Chemistry of the National Bureau of Standards is actively engaged in research to provide the basis for quality assurance in chemical measurements of rain water. Several types of SRMs are currently available which have direct applicability to atmospheric deposition programs. In addition, research is proceeding to develope and SRM specifically for rain-water analyses. Initial attempts, using a single solution containing all the components of rain and stored in glass ampoules, were unsuccessful due to the chemical instability of the solution. Current efforts are directed to improving the stability by using polyethylene bottles to store the solutions, and by preparing two separate solutions, one for the major components of rain (sulfate, nitrate, chloride, sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, ammonium, and hydrogen ions), and the other for the trace metals. Preliminary results on the stability of a pilot set of simulated rainwater solutions are encouraging.
A voice controlled telephone dialer

The design and implementation of a voice controlled telephone dialer is described. The dialer is based on a speaker-dependent speech recognition system and is controlled by a Commodore 64 microcomputer. The purpose of the system is to recognize spoken digits to replace normal pushbutton dialing, or to recognize names stored in a directory and then automatically dial the corresponding telephone numbers upon request. Software necessary to evaluate and operate the system is presented. The hardware designed to interface the telephone with the microcomputer is given. The performance of the system is discussed. >
Thoracic stimulation and prolactin secretion

Although galactorrhea and/or enhanced prolactin (PRL) secretion have been reported with a variety of thoracic stimuli, the effect of thoracic stimulation on dynamic prolactin secretion is not clear. A 49-year-old woman with ventilatory muscle weakness from polio presented with galactorrhea, and intermittent hyperprolactinemia but regular menses. The galactorrhea was noted following the use of a new, tight fitting cuirass (thoracic apparatus which assists ventilation). To determine if the new, “tight” cuirass elicited enhanced PRL secretion, and to assess more extensively the effect of such thoracic stimulation on PRL secretion, serum PRL was measured during brief and prolonged stimulation, sleep, and pharmacological manipulation of PRL. Basal PRL was normal (<25 ng/ml) and increased during brief stimulation (1 hour) with the “tight” (137%) and “loose” cuirass (140%). Although the absolute increments were similar, the “tight” cuirass elicited an earlier PRL peak than the “loose” cuirass and the PRL began to decrease while the “tight” cuirass was still functioning. Several hours of thoracic stimulation resulted in a transient rise in PRL and a fall to normal, prestimulatory levels despite persistent stimulation. During this stimulation, PRL did not rise after sleep nor after insulin-induced hypoglycemia despite normal cortisol and GH increments, but the PRL response after TRH was exaggerated. These data suggest that: 1) the intensity of the thoracic stimulation affects the time of onset rather than the magnitude of the PRL response; 2) extended thoracic stimulation results in the development of an adaptive or counter-regulatory response to the stimulus for PRL secretion; 3) the cuirass inhibits a normal CNS-mediated PRL response to other neurogenic stimuli (hypoglycemia and sleep) despite the presence of pituitary lactotropes which exhibit a hyperresponsive PRL response to direct stimulation by TRH.
The chemiluminescence of riboflavin.

Abstract 1. 1. It has been found that the oxidation of riboflavin with peroxide produces light of approximately the same color as the fluorescence of riboflavin. 2. 2. Data concerning the temperature dependence of the reaction have been presented. 3. 3. Optimal luminescence without added metallic activators occurs around pH 7–8. 4. 4. The reaction is optimal at a riboflavin to peroxide molar ratio of ca. 10−4. 5. 5. Cupric ion, ferrous ion, and osmic acid increase the rate of luminescence, whereas hydrosulfite and mercuric ion inhibit it. Cyanide antagonizes the activating effect of Cu++ and Fe++.
Citizen Review of the Police

Abstract The research presents the summary and analysis of ten-year data (1991-2000) involving the People's Law Enforcement Board (PLEB). It describes the types of police officers and the police departments that had cases before the People's Law Enforcement Board (PLEB). It also examines the types of cases that were handled by these civilian review boards as well as the manner of dispositions of these cases, the number of times its decisions were affirmed, reversed, or modified by an appellate board, and the composition and qualifications of the members of the boards. The data indicate that the propensity of police officers for receiving complaints in the boards may be a function of both rank and assignment. The data also suggest that the PLEB tends to be lenient in its disposition of cases. However, the People's Law Enforcement Board appears to make good quality decisions as indicated by the appellate boards' upholding of PLEB decisions.
Flexible amorphous‐silicon non‐volatile memory

— The development of a flexible, rewritable, non-volatile memory (NVM) that is implemented on a standard, low-temperature a-Si:H process without additional mask steps is reported. This NVM is a part of a flexible-display system. Each NVM cell is composed of differentially configured thin-film-transistors (TFTs). The cell reads out one of two stable states depending on the relative threshold voltages of the differentially configured TFTs. Information is stored in each cell by increasing the threshold voltage of one differential TFT or the other, utilizing the well-known electrical-stress degradation intrinsic to a-Si:H TFTs. The stored information is retained indefinitely with no applied power. A test array of individually addressable NVM cells has been successfully fabricated and tested on flexible stainless-steel substrates. Read and write operation, as well as preliminary reliability measurements, are described. The design is readily scalable to large memory arrays.
Sulfur gas tolerance and toxicity of co-utilizing and methanogenic bacteria

Anaerobic bacteria have been shown to be capable of converting CO, H2, and CO2 in synthesis gas to valuable products, such as acetate, methane, and ethanol. However, synthesis gas also contains small quantities of sulfur gases such as H2S and COS, that may inhibit the performance of these organisms. This paper compares the performance of several CO-utilizing and methanogenic bacteria in converting CO, CO2, and H2 to products in the presence of various concentrations of H2S and COS. The sulfur gas toxicity levels, growth, substrate uptake, and product formation for each organism are compared.
On the photoionization of large molecules

There is no apparent limit to the size of a molecule for which photoionization can occur. It is argued that it is difficult to obtain useful photoionization mass spectra of peptides (above ∼ 2000 u), proteins, and oligonucleotides, because of the high internal energy of these polar molecules as a result of the desorption event and because vibrationally excited radical cations readily fragment. Evidence to support this hypothesis is presented from the 118-nm single-photon ionization (SPI) mass spectra of the cyclic decapeptide gramicidin S and of fullerenes, from null SPI results with the linear peptides substance P and gramicidin D and oligonucleotides, and from a variety of data found in the literature. The literature data include mass spectra from jet-cooled peptides, perfluorinated polyethers, collisional ionization of small neutral peptides, and the ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy of polymeric solids.
Diphosphopyridine nucleotide binding effect of sickle cell erythrocytes on in vitro growth of Hemophilus influenzae.

SummaryExperiments are reported which demonstrate that DPN required for growth of II influenzae type B is normally present in equal amounts in erythrocytes from patients with sickle cell anemia, sickle cell trait, and normal adults. This material disappears within one hour from sickle cell anemia erythrocyte preparations and in 6 hours from sickle cell trait and normal adult erythrocyte preparations. The difference in rate of disappearance is caused by the greater DPN binding capacity of sickle cell anemia erythrocytes. Hemolysis stimulates binding of DPN; chocolating prevents binding; and peptic digestion frees bound DPN. The site of the bond is the stroma of the erythrocyte.The author wishes to express his thanks to Dr. Dorothy Conzelman, Children's Memorial Hospital for performing the determinations of alkali resistance, osmotic fragility and hemoglobin electrophoresis; Dr. Guy P. Youmans, Northwestern Univ. Med. Sch., for assistance in providing laboratory facilities; and to Drs. John A. Bigler, David...
Effect of chronic ethanol feeding on hepatic collagen in the monkey

The effect of chronic ethanol feeding was determined on parameters of hepatic collagen metabolism in the monkey. Four monkeys of the species Macaca radiata received a nutritionally adequate diet containing 50% of the calories as ethanol, while four others were pair-fed a diet in which ethanol was isocalorically substituted by carbohydrate. Liver biopsies were obtained at 3, 12, and 24 months, and the animals were killed between 40 and 48 months after initiation of the diets. The ethanol-fed animals developed various degrees of fatty infiltration, but no necrosis, inflammation, or fibrosis. The amount and distribution of collagen Types I, III, and IV demonstrated by immunohistochemical techniques was not altered after ethanol feeding. No changes were found in hepatic protein-bound hydroxyproline or in collagen prolyl hydroxylase activity at the various time intervals. Liver free proline and the incorporation of labeled proline into protein-bound hydroxyproline by liver slices were not altered after 40 to 48 months of ethanol feeding. This study shows that prolonged feeding of ethanol together with an adequate diet results in fatty infiltration but not deposition or alteration of hepatic collagen metabolism.
Vasculitis associated with tumor necrosis factor-α inhibitors.

Objective To describe the clinical characteristics, histopathologic features, and outcomes of patients in whom vasculitis developed in association with use of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) inhibitors.
Optimization of the parameters for a rotating, mixed-phase reactor

The motion of small, monodisperse particles in fluid was studied in a horizontal, cylindrical container rotating about its axis. One instigation for the study was the common requirement for mixed-phase, chemical or biological reactors to maintain particles in suspension for extended periods. A cylindrical, rotating reactor can allow long-term particle suspension without particle collisions and resulting agglomeration. The purpose of this study was to verify parametric effects and optimize the time of particle suspension. The theoretical and experimental results were obtained for inert, constant-diameter particles of nearly neutral buoyancy. The centrifugal buoyancy and gravitation terms were both included in the equations of motion. Laser illumination, photography and computer imaging were used to measure experimental particle concentration.
Identification of Histidine 118 in the D1 Polypeptide of Photosystem II as the Axial Ligand to Chlorophyll Z

Chlorophyll Z (ChlZ) is a redox-active chlorophyll (Chl) which is photooxidized by low-temperature (<100 K) illumination of photosystem II (PSII) to form a cation radical, ChlZ+. This cofactor has been proposed to be an “accessory” Chl in the PSII reaction center and is expected to be buried in the transmembrane region of the PSII complex, but the location of ChlZ is unknown. A series of single-replacement site-directed mutants of PSII were made in which each of two potentially Chl-ligating histidines, D1-H118 or D2-H117, was substituted with amino acids which varied in their ability to coordinate Chl. Assays of the wild-type and mutant strains showed parallel phenotypes for the D1-118 and D2-117 mutants: noncoordinating or poorly coordinating residues at either position decreased photosynthetic competence and impaired assembly of PSII complexes. Only the mutants substituted with glutamine (D1-H118Q and D2-H117Q) had phenotypes comparable to the wild-type strain. The ChlZ+ cation was characterized by low...
Impedance pneumography--a survey of instrumentation techniques.

The impedance pneumograph is a bioimpedance recorder for indirect measurement of respiration. Using superficial thoracic electrodes, the impedance pneumograph measures respiratory volume and rate through the relationship between respiratory depth and thoracic impedance change. This paper reviews the development of impedance pneumography, and pneumographic instrumentation techniques. The advantages and disadvantages of the bridge, modulated oscillator, constant voltage, voltage divider, and constant current designs are examined and both the bridge and constant current designs are found to be useful. The relationship between impedance change component and instrumention technique is examined and a method for reducing the subjectrground artifact is presented.
A convenient spectrophotometric assay for phospholipase D usingp-nitrophenyl-phosphocholine as substrate

A simple assay for plant phospholipase D is described. The enzyme hydrolyzesp-nitrophenyl-phosphocholine top-nitrophenyl phosphate, which in the presence of an acid phosphatase generatesp-nitrophenol (a chromogenic compound). Thus,p-nitrophenylphosphocholine can be used for assay of phospholipase D in sources that do not also contain high levels of phospholipase C.
Expectation and repetition effects in searching for featural singletons in very brief displays.

Visual search is a key feature of many commonplace human activities, ranging from finding pebbles hidden among batches of beans to spotting weapons in airline baggage screening. A better understanding of visual search, and especially of how experience affects visual search, should help with optimizing training and other practical applications. In the present study, we ask about short-term plasticity in visual search, focusing on two questions: First, how is search processing affected by knowledge of the features of the to-be-detected object? Second, how is search processing affected by events on preceding trials? In this research, we used an orientation singleton detection task. This kind of search task requires subjects to make forced choice judgments about the location of an element (left vs. right half of the display) that is unique in a given feature. Singleton detection is a relatively simple task and is therefore a good starting point for the questions we want to ask. Singleton detection is also a theoretically important task likely to reveal important aspects of basic attentional and perceptual limitations and mechanisms (Bacon & Egeth, 1994; Pashler, 1988; Wolfe, 1998). We begin by defining two distinct types of experiencebased modulation.
Metal ion affinity adsorption of a Zn(II)-transport protein present in maternal plasma during lactation: Structural characterization and identification as histidine-rich glycoprotein

A high-affinity Zn(II)-binding protein has been purified to homogeneity (880-fold) from the plasma of lactating women by a single affinity adsorption step on columns of tris(carboxymethyl)ethylenediamine (TED)-agarose loaded with Zn(II) ions. Purity was evaluated by high-performance reverse-phase (phenyl) chromatography and by silver staining after SDS-polyacrylamide gradient gel electrophoresis. The mass of denatured Zn(II)-binding protein was estimated by SDS-polyacrylamide gradient gel electrophoresis to be 75 kDa under both reducing and nonreducing conditions; by matrix-assisted uv laser desorption time-of-flight mass spectrometry the purified protein mass was determined to be 66 kDa. The amino acid composition revealed a high content of His (13 mol%) and Pro (12 mol%). N-terminal amino acid sequence analysis (50 residues) identified the purified protein as histidine-rich glycoprotein (HRG). Immunoblots demonstrated the absence of fragments in the purified product. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was developed; a 75% recovery of intact HRG from the immobilized Zn(II) ion affinity column was documented. The circular dichroism spectra for the purified human HRG in the far uv (260-178 nm) were similar to those published for human and rabbit serum HRG. These results demonstrate that TED-immobilized Zn(II) ions can be used as a new and efficient method for the isolation of structurally intact human plasma HRG.
Analyzing power measurements in pn--> pi -pp(1S0).

A recent experiment has measured analyzing powers in d(p\ensuremath{\rightarrow},${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\pi}}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}}$pp)p in a geometry which selected the quasifree two-body reaction p\ensuremath{\rightarrow}n\ensuremath{\rightarrow}${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\pi}}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}}$pp${(}^{1}$${\mathit{S}}_{0}$). Analysis of the results indicated a significant contribution from a very-short-range part of the nucleon-nucleon interaction. We show that the analyzing power data measured in the above experiment is reasonably well described by a unitary NN \ensuremath{\rightarrow} NN\ensuremath{\pi} model containing only the one-pion-exchange driving force.
Locomotor training with partial body weight support in patients with Parkinson's disease and stroke: Its efficacy and neural mechanisms

Locomotor training with partial bodyweight support on the treadmill is applicable to neuro-rehabilitation for various gait disorders caused by neurological diseases. Although neural mechanisms for the efficacy remain unclear, recent optical neuroimaging studies using near infra-red spectroscopy have suggested that this training might modify the hierarchical locomotor control system, including several cortical motor areas and the central pattern generator in the spinal cord.
Fitting multiple trajectories simultaneously to a model of inducible enzyme synthesis

Abstract The iterative scheme described by Milstein [6] is used to estimate the rate constants of a model describing an inducible enzyme system. The model was formulated by Heinmets [5], and was mathematically analyzed by Roth and Roth [9] using Bellman's quasilinearization technique. The method used in this article makes use of multiple trajectories of the system to obtain a set of parameters which fit the data of all trajectories simultaneously. A comparison of the numerical results is presented. The data used in the calculations were generated in a similar way to that of Roth and Roth. However, we introduce into each datum 5% noise from a random number generator uniformly distributed [0,1].
Standardized French PWR programs and the application of mechanical analysis

Abstract The implementation of the French PWR construction programs is marked by the following factors: • - the construction of similar plants by series, together with the standardization of plant layout and component design, • - the various aspects of the plant operation policy adopted by Electricite de France (EdF), the main client, • - the special provisions of French licensing regulations, • - the continuous development of technical experience required to support an active export policy. The effect of these factors on the organization of the programs and on technical achievements will be examined, with special attention being given to the mechanical aspects, which constitute the main subject of the SMiRT conference.
Design of Acoustic Cloak by Transmission Line Approach

This paper proposed an approach to construct the acoustic cloak by a network of subwavelength Helmholtz resonators. Based on transmission line model to describe the acoustic wave propagation inside such effective anisotropic medium, we derived the acoustic parameters such as effective density and compressibility. Our simulation demonstrates the propagation of acoustic waves can be bent and excluded from an object inside the cloak with no perturbation of exterior field, which may have great potential application in ultrasound noise control.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
SUSCEPTIBILITY OF PEKIN AND MUSCOVY DUCKS TO HAEMOPROTEUS NETTIONIS

Domestic muscovy (Cairina moschata) and pekin (Anas platyrhynchos) ducklings were exposed to or injected with homogenates of Culicoides flies collected at White Pine, Michigan. Gametocytes of Haemoproteus nettionis were detected in both species of ducks at 16 days post-exposure. Culicoides downesi was indicated as a vector of H. nettionis in northern Michigan. Blood infections occurred with a higher prevalence and reached a higher intensity in muscovy ducks. Endogenous tissue stages of H. nettionis were located in endothelial cells of the lung and occasionally in the heart and spleen. Attempts to infect domestic ducklings by blood or tissue inoculations from wood ducks (Aix sponsa) infected with H. nettionis were not successful, even though schizonts of H. nettionis were seen in these wood ducks at necropsy. No morbidity or mortality was observed in any ducks infected with H. nettionis.
Physiological reaction and presence in stressful virtual environments

A common metric of VE quality is presence --- the degree to which the user feels like they are in the virtual scene as opposed to the real world. Presence is important for many VE applications [Hodges et al. 1994]. Since presence is a subjective condition, it is most commonly measured by self-reporting, either during the VE experience or immediately afterwards by questionnaires. There is vigorous debate in the literature as to how to best measure presence [Meehan 2001].
Androgyny and the refusal of classicism : Rereading Fragoletta

L'A. montre de quelle maniere la mise en scene de l'androgynite, en ce qu'elle destabilise les sexes et les genres, destabilise egalement les codes culturels de differentiation et devient de fait une figure subversive qui interroge les ideologies dominantes, soit ici le classicisme contre lequel Latouche ecrit
N-Benzyladriamycin-14-valerate versus progressively doxorubicin-resistant murine tumours: cellular pharmacology and characterisation of cross-resistance in vitro and in vivo

N-Benzyladriamycin-14-valerate (AD198) is a novel lipophilic anthracycline with greater in vivo antitumour activity than doxorubicin (DOX) in experimental model systems. Using sensitive and progressively DOX-resistant L1210 mouse leukaemia and B16-BL6 mouse melanoma lines, we have determined the cellular pharmacokinetics and cytotoxic response in vitro and in vivo of AD198. In the L1210 leukaemia model following 3 h drug exposure in vitro, the IC50 for AD198 was approximately 0.35 microgram ml-1 for the sensitive and 10-fold DOX resistant cells and 1.0 microgram ml-1 for the 40-fold DOX resistant cells. A similar pattern of cross-resistance to AD198 was also observed with the B16-BL6 melanoma, with and IC50 for AD198 with the sensitive and 10-fold DOX-resistant cells being similar, and about 2-fold higher with the 40-fold resistant cells. In the L1210 leukaemia model, cellular pharmacokinetics of AD198 revealed the following: (a) accumulation of AD198 was concentration but not time dependent, and cellular drug levels in the sensitive and resistant sublines were similar when treated with equimolar concentrations; (b) retention of AD 198 was 60% of the initial drug uptake and, in cells treated with the IC50 of AD198, cellular levels in the 40-fold DOX-resistant line were, as expected, 2-fold higher than in sensitive or 10-fold DOX-resistant cells; (c) in vitro biotransformation of AD 198 in the sensitive and resistant sublines was comparable. Studies in vivo with i.p. L1210 leukaemia (disseminating) and B16-BL6 melanoma (non-disseminating) tumour models evaluating therapeutic efficacy of DOX vs AD 198 in mice implanted with tumour i.p. on day 0 and treated i.p. on days 1-4 indicated: (a) DOX at 3 mg kg-1 administered once daily on days 1-4 resulted in a 55% ILS and 104% ILS with parent-sensitive B16-BL6 melanoma and L1210 leukaemia models respectively; however, similar doses of DOX in the resistant sublines were ineffective, with survival similar to the untreated control; (b) AD198 at 10-12.5 mg kg-1 day-1 for 4 days was extremely effective in the sensitive L1210 (189% ILS), and similar to DOX (61% ILS) in the sensitive B16-BL6; (c) AD198 (10-12.5 mg kg-1) was ineffective (survival similar to untreated control) in the 10-and 40-fold DOX-resistant L1210 leukaemia and 40-fold DOX resistant B16-BL6 melanoma, but produced a 76% ILS in the 10-fold DOX resistant B16-BL6 melanoma.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
First-principles study of polar LaAlO (001) surface stabilization by point defects

We use density functional theory to investigate the influence of surface vacancies on the surface stability of a stoichiometric freestanding LaAlO${}_{3}$ (001) thin film. Defect-free three- and five-unit-cell-thick LaAlO${}_{3}$ (001) thin films show macroscopic electric fields of 0.28 and 0.22 V/\AA{}, respectively. The built-in electric field is sufficiently strong for the five-unit-cell-thick film to undergo a dielectric breakdown in the local density approximation. We show that the electric field can be effectively compensated by La vacancies on the LaO surface, O vacancies on the AlO${}_{2}$ surface, or both types of vacancy present at the same time. Comparing surface Gibbs free energies we show that several surface vacancy structures are thermodynamically stable.
Elderly persons' last six months of life: findings from the Hospitalized Elderly Longitudinal Project.

BACKGROUND: Few studies describe the end of life in very old people. OBJECTIVES: To characterize the last 6 months of life and dying in patients 80 years and older by describing demographic characteristics, functional state and quality of life, symptoms, preferences, use of life-sustaining treatments, satisfaction with care, and family burden. DESIGN: A retrospective analysis for patients enrolled in a prospective cohort study. SETTING: Four teaching hospitals who participated in the Hospitalized Elderly Longitudinal Project (HELP). SUBJECTS: 417 patients who died within 1 year of their enrollment hospitalization. MEASUREMENTS: Chart reviews and interview data with patients and surrogates at several points in time. We constructed four observational time windows backward in time beginning with the patients' death. RESULTS: Before hospitalization, two out of three patients reported fair quality of life, and patients averaged 2.4 impairments in activities of daily living. Seventy percent preferred comfort care on the third day of hospitalization. During the last month of life, three of five patients interviewed in the hospital and four of five interviewed out of the hospital preferred not to be resuscitated. At the time of death, four of five patients had a do not resuscitate (DNR) order and two of five had an order to withhold a ventilator. During the last month of life, one out of four patients reported severe pain. CONCLUSIONS: Patients reported increasing functional impairments and limited quality of life. The majority preferred comfort care. The number of patients in severe pain was substantial. Before death, the majority had measures in place to limit aggressive care.
A new sterol, indosterol, from s. indicum

During the chemical investigation of the seeds of Seseli indioum', W. 8 A., a new product, a.p. 15345'; L4c_TD 3o + 3o" , was also isolated from the neutral part of the petroleum-ether extract after saponification and steam-distillation. This compound, of composition c29 48 H 0 rC, 84.OOk H, ii.09k Calcd. for Cz9Rr80s C, 84.40%; II, ii.72%_7, b4+ 41% (base peak as well), has been found to contain two oleflnlc linkages and one hydroxyl group. On the basis of extensive studies it has been found to be a new sterol and has been designated as 'Indosterol'. This communication presents the evidence leading to the structure 3/bhydroxy-56-stigmasta-9(ii), 22(23)-dlene (I) for indosterol. The compound was separated and purified by chromatography on alumina and proved homogeneous by thin-layer-chromatography on silloa gel (pure, and with AgN0320%). It gave positive Liebermann-Burchard and tetranitrorethane tests and indioated a diene system by perbenzoic acid titration. The mass spectrum of the substance revealed oharaoterlstic peaks at m/e 369, 351, 314, 300, 273 (M+-139, the side ahaii), 2'7IL-M*-(139+2)J2, 255, 231, 213, 159, 81, and 43. The mass peak m/e 271 is more intense than the peaks m/e 314 and 273. The NMR spectrum (60 Ml-la) showed the presence of methyl signals at 60.70, 0.75, 0.80, 0.85, 0.90, 0.967, 1.00, and 1.07 (which may be assigned' respectively at oarbon atoms IS; 29; 26, 27; 29; 26, 27 Iyr 29; 21; 19 and 21), secondary carbinol methine ( 6 3.6, broad II , ii%) and oleflnlc protons at 65.12 (dt, 2R) and at 65.35 (dt, IR); )>m-(KBr) 3325, 1650, 1050 and 830 or-l. Treatment of (I) with acetic anhydride and pyridine furnished an
Feasibility of adjunct therapeutic hypothermia treatment for hyperammonemia and encephalopathy due to urea cycle disorders and organic acidemias.

Abstract Background Children with urea cycle disorders (UCDs) or organic acidemias (OAs) and acute hyperammonemia and encephalopathy are at great risk for neurological injury, developmental delay, intellectual disability, and death. Nutritional support, intravenous alternative pathway therapy, and dialysis are used to treat severe hyperammonemia associated with UCDs and nutritional support and dialysis are used to treat severe hyperammonemia in OAs. Brain protective treatment while therapy is initiated may improve neurological and cognitive function for the lifetime of the child. Animal experiments and small clinical trials in hepatic encephalopathy caused by acute liver failure suggest that therapeutic hypothermia provides neuroprotection in hyperammonemia associated encephalopathy. We report results of an ongoing pilot study that assesses if whole body cooling during rescue treatment of neonates with acute hyperammonemia and encephalopathy is feasible and can be conducted safely. Methods Adjunct whole body therapeutic hypothermia was conducted in addition to standard treatment in acutely encephalopathic, hyperammonemic neonates with UCDs and OAs requiring dialysis. Therapeutic hypothermia was initiated using cooling blankets as preparations for dialysis were underway. Similar to standard therapeutic hypothermia treatment for neonatal hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy, patients were maintained at 33.5 °C ± 1 °C for 72 h, they were then slowly rewarmed by 0.5 °C every 3 h over 18 h. In addition data of age-matched historic controls were collected for comparison. Results Seven patients were cooled using the pilot study protocol and data of seven historic controls were reviewed. All seven patients survived the initial rescue and cooling treatment, 6 patients were discharged home 2–4 weeks after hospitalization, five of them feeding orally. The main complication observed in a majority of patients was hypotension. Conclusion Adjunct therapeutic hypothermia for neonates with UCDs and OAs receiving standard treatment was feasible and could be conducted safely in pediatric and neonatal intensive care units experienced in the application of therapeutic hypothermia in critically ill neonates. However, including adjunct therapeutic hypothermia in the already involved treatment regimen of critically ill patients with hyperammonemia and encephalopathy adds to the complexity of care and should not be done unless it is proven efficacious in a randomized clinical trial.
Effects of Early Maternal Separation on Subsequent Reproductive and Behavioral Outcomes in Male Rats

To investigate effects of maternal separation on reproductive and behavioral outcomes, male Wistar rats were separated from their mothers daily for 3 hr (maternal separation; MS) or 0 hr (control) from postnatal day (PND) 1 to 14. Timing of puberty, reproductive parameters, hormone levels, and aggressive behaviors in juvenile and adult rats were examined. Contrary to expectations, there was no effect of maternal separation on any measure of aggression. However, maternal separation altered peripubertal testosterone secretion and increased mean day of preputial separation. In addition, adult MS males demonstrated less total sexual behavior. There was no difference in sperm counts or testosterone levels at necropsy on PND 56 or in adulthood, but seminal vesicle weights were increased in adult MS rats. These results suggest that early life stress may influence hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis development in males, at least during peripuberty.
Application of test surfunctions

Appropriate definitions and properties are introduced for the scale of Frechet spaces, . Differentiation of every order is then given for functionals having the space as their domain. These derivatives are similar to Frechetderivatives. For computational considerations thev are evaluated asf We then implement some techniques in our setting to solve abroad class of abstract Cauchy problems. The techniques aresimilar to operator techniques employed to classical problems. The order of the operator is introduced as where λ relates to the usual inverse operator to time differentiation and nλ relates to the generalized differentiation which can be associated to spacial differentiation
A hypercube algorithm for the 0/1 knapsack problem

Abstract Many combinatorial optimization problems are known to be NP-complete. A common point of view is that finding fast algorithms for such problems using polynomial number of processors is unlikely. However, facts of this kind usually are established for “worst” case situations and in practice many instances of NP-complete problems are successfully solved in polynomial time by such traditional combinatorial optimization techniques as dynamic programming and branch-and-bound. New opportunities for effective solution of combinatorial problems emerged with the advent of parallel machines. In this paper we describe an algorithm which generates an optimal solution for the 0/1 integer Knapsack problem on the NCUBE hypercube computer. It is also demonstrated that the same algorithm can be applied for the two-dimensional 0/1 Knapsack problem. Experimental data which support the theoretical claims are provided for large instances of the one- and two-dimensional Knapsack problems.
First responder thermal imaging cameras: development of performance metrics and test methods

Thermal imaging cameras are rapidly becoming integral equipment for first responders for use in structure fires and other emergencies. Currently, there are no standardized performance metrics or test methods available to the users and manufacturers of these instruments. The Building and Fire Research Laboratory at the National Institute of Standards and Technology is developing performance evaluation techniques that combine aspects of conventional metrics such as the contrast transfer function (CTF), the minimum resolvable temperature difference (MRTD), and noise equivalent temperature difference (NETD) with test methods that accommodate the special conditions in which first responders use these instruments. First responders typically use thermal imagers when their vision is obscured due to the presence of smoke, dust, fog, and/or the lack of visible light, and in cases when the ambient temperature is uncomfortably hot. Testing has shown that image contrast, as measured using a CTF calculation, suffers when a target is viewed through obscuring media. A proposed method of replacing the trained observer required for the conventional MRTD test method with a CTF calculation is presented. A performance metric that combines thermal resolution with target temperature and sensitivity mode shifts is also being investigated. Results of this work will support the establishment of standardized performance metrics and test methods for thermal imaging cameras that are meaningful to the first responders that use them.
An Information-Theoretic Approach to Descriptor Selection for Database Profiling and QSAR Modeling

In order to rationalize the selection of molecular descriptors for QSAR and other applications, we have adapted the Shannon entropy concept that was originally developed in digital communication theory. The approach has been extended to facilitate the large-scale analysis of molecular descriptors and their information content in diverse compound databases. This has enabled us to identify descriptors with consistently high information content. Furthermore, it has been possible to select descriptiors that are sensitive to systematic property differences in diverse compound collections (synthetic compounds, natural products, drug-like molecules, or drugs) and, in addition, to quantify such database-specific differences. Selection of descriptors based on information content has been proven useful for binary QSAR analysis. In this review, we describe the principles of entropy-based descriptor selection and discuss different applications.
Analysis and design of conformal SCMR WPT systems with multiple resonators

A new equivalent circuit model Conformal Strongly Coupled Magnetic Resonant (CSCMR) wireless powering transfer (WPT) systems using multiple resonators is derived. Mutual coupling between all resonators is considered and the mutual inductance for CSCMR systems is derived. Our analytical model is verified for the case of two pairs of resonators by comparison with measurements and simulation results.
CBR channels on a DQRAP-based HFC network

DQRAP (distributed queuing random access protocol), is a multiple access protocol that offers a throughput equal to the offered traffic up to a load of one with a lesser delay than any other multiple access protocol. DQRAP utilizes three control minislots and two distributed queues: transmission and collision resolution, to provide this performance for all values of 'a', i.e., the size of the network is immaterial. This paper describes: (a) how DQRAP can act as the switching fabric for a distributed ATM switch serving an HFC (hybrid fiber-coax) network; and (b) how CBR (constant bit rate) traffic is supported on our distributed ATM switch, i.e., a DQRAP/ATM switch. Simulation results representing the operation of a DQRAP/ATM switch operating in two modes: (a) the control minislots in dataslots allocated to CBR traffic are utilized in the reservation process; and (b) the control minislot capacity in those slots is allocated to CBR data.© (1995) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Subwavelength Terahertz Waveguide Using Negative Permeability Metamaterial

We propose a novel subwavelength terahertz (THz) waveguide using the magnetic plasmon polariton (MPP) mode guided by a narrow gap in a negative permeability metamaterial. Deep subwavelength wave-guiding (< λ/10) with a modest propagation loss (2.5 dB/λ) and group velocities down to c/21.8 is demonstrated in a straight waveguide, a 90-degree bend, and a splitter. The distinctive dispersions of the guided mode with positive and negative group velocities are explained analytically by considering the dispersive effective optical constants of the metamaterial. The proposed waveguiding system inherently has no cutoff for any core width and height, paving the way toward the deep subwavelength transport of THz waves for integrated THz device applications.
Factory-level control consolidation using Event-Condition-Action: Case study on the reconfigurable factory testbed

During its lifetime, a manufacturing system often has added functionalities or significant changes to its control system that can result in a broken control hierarchy, causing problems with debugging and reconfiguration. For the up- and-coming field of reconfigurable manufacturing systems, poor reconfigurability is especially problematic. A procedure for restructuring a standard control hierarchy is presented, including how to decide where to move particular logic and preserve event-condition-action (ECA) based structure, when originally present. This procedure is applied to an ECA-based case study - the Reconfigurable Factory Testbed at the University of Michigan - to demonstrate its use. Additional lessons learned about ECA's role in restructuring are also presented through the case study.
NADH Oxidase Activity of Plasma Membranes of Soybean Hypocotyls Is Activated by Guanine Nucleotides

The activity of an auxin-stimulated NADH oxidase of the plasma membrane of hypocotyls of etiolated soybean (Glycine max Merr.) seedlings responded to guanine and other nucleotides, but in a manner that differed from that of enzymes coupled to the classic trimeric and low molecular weight monomeric guanine nucleotide-binding proteins (G proteins). In the presence and absence of either auxin or divalent ions, both GTP and GDP as well as guanosine-5[prime]-O-(3-thiotriphosphate) (GTP-[gamma]-S) and other nucleoside di- and triphosphates stimulated the oxidase activity over the range 10 [mu]M to 1 mM. GTP and GTP-[gamma]-S stimulated the activity at 10 nM in the absence of added magnesium and at 1 nM in the presence of added magnesium ions. Other nucleotides stimulated at 100 nM and above. The NADH oxidase was stimulated by 10 [mu]M mastoparan and by 40 [mu]M aluminum fluoride. Neither cholera nor pertussis toxins, tested at a concentration sufficient to block mammalian G protein function, inhibited the activity. Guanosine 5[prime]-O-(2-thiodi-phosphate) (GDP-[beta]-S) did not stimulate activity, suggesting that the stimulation in response to GDP may be mediated by a plasma membrane nucleoside diphosphate kinase through conversion of GDP to GTP. Auxin stimulation of the NADH oxidase was unaffected by nucleotides at either high or low nucleotide concentrations in the absence of added divalent ions. However, pretreatment of plasma membranes with auxin increased the apparent affinity for nucleotide binding. This increased affinity, however, appeared not to be the mechanism of auxin stimulation of the oxidase, since auxin stimulation was similar with or without low concentrations of guanine nucleotides. The stimulation by nucleotides was observed after incubating the membranes with 0.1% Triton X-100 prior to assay. The results suggest a role of guanine (and other) nucleotides in the regulation of plasma membrane NADH oxidase that differs from the interactions with G proteins commonly described for animal models.
Bias analysis in continuous adaptation systems for hearing aids

This paper studies analytically the steady-state convergence behavior of adaptive algorithms that approximate the Wiener solution when operating in continuous adaptation to reduce acoustic feedback in hearing aids. A bias is found in the adaptive filter's estimate of the hearing-aid feedback path when the input signal is not white. Delays in the forward and cancellation paths are shown to reduce the magnitude of the bias. Equations for the bias transfer function are obtained. A discussion about properties of the bias when delays are placed in the forward and cancellation paths follows.
SENSITIVITY OF HUMAN NATURAL KILLER CELLS TO HYPERTHERMIA

Abstract Significantly less natural killer (NK) activity is exhibited by human lymphocytes when the NK assay is carried out at temperatures above 37°C. Hyperthermia seems to act directly on the NK effector cells. The effect is partially abrogated by treatment of the heated cells with human leucocyte interferon.
FTIR investigation of interactions in blends of PMMA with a styrene/acrylic acid copolymer and their analogs

Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was used to examine the interactions in miscible blends of a styrene (92%)/acrylic acid (8%) copolymer (SAA8) with poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA). From the residue or interaction spectra and shifts of carbonyl and carboxylic acid stretching bands, it is concluded that there is a significant specific interaction involving hydrogen bonding between the carbonyl groups of the PMMA and the carboxylic groups of the SAA8. Similar FTIR spectra of some low-molecular-weight liquid analogs for the various monomer units of these polymers do not indicate a comparable interaction. This explains why direct calorimetry with these compounds fails to model correctly the expected exothermic mixing of the blends. Furthermore, the role of the aromatic moiety in the SAA polymer appears to reduce the degree of self-association of the carboxylic acid groups based on results for the model compounds. Coupled with molecular rigidity, the above mechanism makes the carboxylic acid units in SAA8 more available for interaction with the PMMA carbonyls.
Reply to Susanne MacGregor's Response, `We did not Simply Mimic Received Opinion'

In 2002, I published an article in the Journal of Social Work, in which, based on my experience as an external assessor for the UK's RAE (Research Assessment Exercise), I raised concerns about lack of clarity in criteria used to review research. Susanne MacGregor responded to my original article in a subsequent edition of the Journal of Social Work. This article is a reply to that response.