cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Toxic Chemical Risks

At the present time there are approximately 100,000 chemicals in the environment, with an additional 500–1,000 added each year. Although not all these chemicals are toxic, merely keeping up-to-date information on the possible toxicity of so many compounds is a prodigious task. Federal agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) are responsible for establishing rules and guidelines that ensure, insofar as possible, that risks associated with exposure to toxic chemicals are within acceptable limits. Legislation such as the Clean Air Act, originally passed in 1963, and Clean Water Act, a 1977 amendment to the 1972 Federal Water Pollution Control Act, have done much to advance the cause of environmental safety. Ironically perhaps, in the United States the primary sources of exposure to toxic chemicals and poisons are related to lifestyle issues, including in particular smoking, drinking (alcohol), use/abuse of pharmaceutical and recreational drugs, and obesity. Most incidents of poisoning occur in the home, where unintentional exposure to toxic chemicals is often the result of ignorance and/or carelessness. Education and public awareness have therefore become important components of the effort to address the issue of exposure to toxic chemicals in the United States.
The acid-catalyzed hydrolysis of 3-oxetanols

Abstract The acetone photodimer 2,2,3-trimethyl-3-oxetanol was synthesized by photocyclization of isopropyloxyacetone and of 3-methyl-3-methoxy-2-butanone. The oxetanol was very sensitive to acids, and it rearranged to 3-hydroxymethyl-3-methyl-2-butanone by ring opening and migration of the hydroxymethyl group.
The effect of SO2 on lung clearance of TiO2 particles in rats.

By use of the nontoxic-particle-challenge system, the integrated alveolar clearance was measured in rats by serially sacrificing them after exposure to TiO2 aerosol and determining the amount of TiO2 retained in the lung. Prior to exposure to TiO2, groups of animals were exposed to 0.1, 1 or 20 ppm of SO2 for 7 hours/day, 5 days/week for total exposure of 70 to 170 hours. The results indicate that SO2 affects the clearance of “inert” particles. The lowest exposures showed slight stimulation or no effect on clearance whereas a depressing of clearance was observed after 170 hours of exposure at 1 ppm. Short-term exposure at higher concentrations appear to be tolerated better than longer exposures at low concentrations.
Mechanism of the luminescent oxidation of cypridina luciferin.

In an aqueous medium with Cypridina luciferase, or in an aprotic solvent without luciferase, the aerobic oxidation of Cypridina luciferin is accompanied by emission of light (1,2,3). The products of the luminescent oxidation have been reported as oxyluciferin and CO2 (4,5,6), although the oxyluciferin can be further converted to etioluciferin by acid or slowly by luciferase (4,7).
Control of Black Carbon, the Most Effective Means of Slowing Global Warming

Under the Kyoto Protocol of 1997, no control of black carbon (BC) was considered. Recent studies, though, have suggested that BC and non-CO2 greenhouse-gas emission controls might slow global warming. Yet, no study has compared the effects, over time, of theoretically redcing BC versus CO2 or CH4 emissions. In this study, a global model was used to compare the effects of such reductions. The model treated eight important feedbacks of aerosols to climate. Results suggest that the most efficient method of controlling global warming over the next 20-50 years, in terms of the magnitude and speed of a cooling, is control of fossilfuel BC and associated organic matter. It is further shown that late-model diesel vehicles enhance global warming more than do equivalent gasoline vehicles, yet fuel-tax and carbon-tax laws favor diesel in many countries. It is concluded that control strategies for global warming should include control of BC along with control of CO2 and other greenhouse gases.
Response of plasma insulin and human growth hormone to arginine in pregnant and postpartum females.

Abstract In the last trimester of pregnancy the plasma growth hormone (HGH) concentration following hypoglycemia is reduced and the plasma insulin response to glucose is increased. The purpose of this study was to determine if such alterations of HGH and insulin secretion occur in pregnancy after other stimuli. Twenty-nine studies with arginine infusion were conducted throughout pregnancy and post partum. HGH response to arginine was similar to controls during the first two trimesters of pregnancy but blunted thereafter. Plasma insulin responses were small in early pregnancy but returned toward normal near term. Basal plasma glucose concentrations were significantly less than in comparable control studies. A rise in plasma chorionic somatomammotropin (HCS) concentration was seen throughout pregnancy, but no change was noted during arginine infusion. If HCS affects pituitary responsiveness, it may be related to its plasma concentration. Furthermore, insulin response to arginine may be related to the plasma glucose concentration.
An Investigation of the Cryogenic Mechanical Properties of Low Thermal-Expansion Superalloys

Four Fe-based superalloys, JBK-75, Incoloy 903, Incoloy 905, and Incoloy 909 were evaluated as tube materials for ICCS Nb3Sn superconductors. Evaluation consisted of 4-K tensile and elastic-plastic fracture-toughness testing, and a microstructural characterization of unwelded and autogenously gas-tungsten-arc welded sheet given a simulated postweld processing treatment of 15% cold reduction by rolling followed by a Nb3Sn-reaction heat treatment of 96 hours at 700 °C plus 48 hours at 730 °C. Results indicate that JBK-75 and Incoloy 903 showed satisfactory combinations of strength and toughness for ICCS tube use requiring long Nb3Sn-reaction heat treatments. Incoloy 905 welds and 909 showed unacceptable fracture toughness. Results are discussed in terms of microstructural changes caused by the extended Nb3Sn-reaction heat treatment.
Politics, Altruism, and the Definition of Poverty

The history of poverty lines suggests that they are determined jointly with poverty policy in the same political game. If the definition of poverty is endogenous, however, why do altruistic voters allow poverty to persist indefinitely, as seems to be the case in real life? A simple redistribution model shows that the persistence of poverty imposes fairly strong restrictions on the nature of voter altruism. Specifically, a voter's compassion for the poor must rise as the defined severity of the poverty problem worsens. Given such preferences, political actors face incentives to define poverty as a severe problem and then to use redistribution to reduce it significantly. There is no direct incentive to eliminate poverty, however; indeed, voters may prefer a state in which policy always attacks poverty vigorously and yet never defeats it. It follows that social policy should not be judged by its success in eliminating poverty, which may be directly counter to voter interests and therefore practically impossible. Rather, we should ask whether poverty policy provides enough help to people whom voters currently consider to be poor.
Interface coupling and magnetic properties of exchange-coupled Ni81Fe19/Ir22Mn78 bilayers

Hysteresis loop measurements using magnetooptic Kerr effect magnetometry in the low frequency region and magnetization dynamics measurements using high frequency permeametry are carried out to study the exchange anisotropy in Ni81Fe19/Ir22Mn78 bilayers. These two measurement techniques provide different exchange anisotropies for bilayers with thin Ir22Mn78 films. The observations can be understood by assuming that the AF grains break into domains due to the interface random field. By analysing the results from these two techniques, the interface coupling strength and the magnetic properties of the bilayers can be quantitatively determined.
Use of cethromycin, a new ketolide, for treatment of community-acquired respiratory infections.

Background: The ketolides are a subclass of macrolides, which were designed specifically to overcome macrolide-resistant respiratory pathogens. Ketolides lack the cladinose sugar, which is replaced with a 3-ketone group. Ketolides bind to a secondary region on domain II of the 23S rRNA subunit. Telithromycin was the first ketolide to be approved by the FDA in 2004 for treatment of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP), acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis (AECB) and sinusitis. However, in 2006, after reports of serious hepatotoxicity, the FDA issued a public health advisory followed by a warning. In 2007 the indications for treatment of AECB and sinusitis were removed from the labeling. Cethromycin (ABT-773) is the only other ketolide currently under clinical development. Objective: To review currently available data on cethromycin, including chemistry, in vitro activity, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, in vivo activity and results of treatment studies in humans. Methods: A search was made in PubMed...
Reaction dynamics: surrounded by complications.

There is a long history of gas-phase studies of bimolecular reactions, but the presence of surrounding molecules complicates analogous studies in solution. Now, advances in ultrafast laser technology have enabled the detailed study of vibrational energy release in a reaction in solution.
Pupillary response predicts multiple object tracking load, error rate, and conscientiousness, but not inattentional blindness

Research on inattentional blindness (IB) has uncovered few individual difference measures that predict failures to detect an unexpected event. Notably, no clear relationship exists between primary task performance and IB. This is perplexing as better task performance is typically associated with increased effort and should result in fewer spare resources to process the unexpected event. We utilized a psychophysiological measure of effort (pupillary response) to explore whether differences in effort devoted to the primary task (multiple object tracking) are related to IB. Pupillary response was sensitive to tracking load and differences in primary task error rates. Furthermore, pupillary response was a better predictor of conscientiousness than primary task errors; errors were uncorrelated with conscientiousness. Despite being sensitive to task load, individual differences in performance and conscientiousness, pupillary response did not distinguish between those who noticed the unexpected event and those who did not. Results provide converging evidence that effort and primary task engagement may be unrelated to IB.
Short pulse detection and imaging of objects behind obscuring random layers

This paper presents a theory of imaging objects behind layers of scattering media. The transmitter is a focused array or an aperture emitting a short pulse. The scattered pulse is received by a focused array or aperture. The received signal consists of two components: the pulse scattered from a random medium and from the target, and these two components can be distinguished by the use of ultra wide band (UWB) pulse. The second moment of the received signal includes the fourth-order moments of stochastic Green's functions, which are reduced to the second moments by the use of the circular complex Gaussian assumption, and of the generalized two-frequency mutual coherence function. This imaging theory is a generalization of optical coherence tomography (OCT), SAR and confocal imaging. It clarifies the relationships among resolution, coherence length, shower curtain effects and backscattering enhancement.
Introduction to Principal Components Analysis

Principal components analysis (PCA) is a powerful statistical tool that can help researchers analyze datasets with many highly related predictors. PCA is a data reduction technique— that is, it reduces a larger set of predictor variables to a smaller set with minimal loss of information. PCA may be applied before running regression analyses or for exploratory purposes to help researchers understand relationships among their variables or discover patterns in their data. Although it is widely used in certain domains, such as dietary studies and questionnaire development, it is underused in other domains. In this article I first provide examples that illustrate the utility of PCA and then delve into greater detail about how it works.
Privatisation in Russia: One step forward: Two steps back?

AGAINST A BACKGROUND of political chaos and continuing economic decline, privatisation seems to be one of the few positive fruits of Russian economic policy since 1991. According to the Russian government's Western advisers, the privatisation now taking place is 'the fastest in human history', sweeping up 3-4% of state industry per month, and is 'the most successful reform in Russia'.! Is this really the case, or is the programme a mere Potemkin village, disguising Russia's continuing economic disintegration? This article makes three general points about privatisation in Russia. These are advanced more as points for discussion than as definitive statements: evidence on how the programme has actually been implemented is still very sketchy.2 First, the rhetoric of revolutionary transformation is somewhat misleading: the narrative should be one of an evolution in economic policy, since privatisation is best seen as the continuation of pre-1991 shifts in property structures. Second, the 'bad news' is that privatisation is insider-dominated, contrary to the government's hopes and expectations. That the government nevertheless pressed ahead with the reform is best explained in terms of its political utility-for the government as a whole, for the politicians running the scheme, and for the government's international supporters.
A probabilistic assessment of sea level variations within the last interglacial stage

Robert E. Kopp,1 Frederik J. Simons,2 Jerry X. Mitrovica,3 Adam C. Maloof2 and Michael Oppenheimer2,4 1Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences and Rutgers Energy Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA. E-mail: robert.kopp@rutgers.edu 2Department of Geosciences, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA 3Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA 4Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
Clinical experience with dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA) in depression

THIS is a report of the rGsults of a clinical trial of dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA), a precursor of catechol amines, in the treatment of depression. This experiment was undertaken as an indirect test of the catechol amine theory of affective disorders, which proposes that depressed patients have an absolute or relative deficiency of central nervous system (CNS) catechol amines, and that conversely, patients with elation have an excess of CNS catechol amines. The evidence in support of this theory derives from parallels between neuropharmacological investigations and clinical therapeutic experience with various psychopharmacologic agents, particularly reserpine and the MAO inhibitors. Soon after they were found effective in excited and psychotic patients, including manic patients,1 the Rauwolfia derivatives were discovered to alter CNS stored and free amines, particularly serotonin and norepinephrine. Reserpine, moreover, was found to induce severe depressive reactions in humans, especially hypertensive patients.2 Based on these considerations, BRODIE et al. proposed that the clinical and pharmacological effects of the Rauwolfia derivatives were related to their capacity to alter brain amines. The therapeutic effectiveness of iproniazid, a monoamine oxidase inhibitor, in depressions further supported the idea that depressive states might be associated with a deficiency of
Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion for Adjacent Segment Disease: Clinical Outcomes and Cost Utility of Surgical Intervention.

Study Design:Retrospective review.Objective:Determine clinical outcomes and cost utility of anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) for the treatment of adjacent segment disease (ASD).Summary of Background Data:The incidence of symptomatic ASD after ACDF has been estimated to occur in up to 2
Theory of strong electron–phonon superconductivity for MgB2 in the framework of two-band model

Abstract Using strong coupling Eliashberg formalism for a two-band model, the superconductivity in MgB 2 is analyzed. We calculated the temperature dependence for physical quantities of relevant importance for understanding the superconductivity mechanism in this simple compound. We performed calculations for the order parameter, density of states and spin relaxation. Our theoretical results are in agreement with the experimental data available.
Binary neutron stars in general relativity: Quasiequilibrium models

We perform fully relativistic calculations of binary neutron stars in quasiequilibrium circular orbits. We integrate Einstein's equations together with the relativistic equation of hydrostatic equilibrium to solve the initial-value problem for equal-mass binaries of arbitrary separation. We construct sequences of constant rest mass and identify the innermost stable circular orbit and its angular velocity. We find that the quasiequilibrium maximum allowed mass of a neutron star in a close binary is slightly larger than in isolation.
Source localization using a reference wave to correct for oceanic variability

This paper describes a low‐frequency, long‐range acoustic propagation method for source localization. It is based on imaging techniques that remove the effects of adiabatic oceanic variability between an acoustic receiving array and an unknown source by combining measured data from the unknown source with measured data from a known reference source. At the heart of the concept is the realization that both sets of measured data are contaminated in the same way by the range‐integrated effects of the ocean, for the stretch of ocean that they share between their positions and the receiving array. These contaminants can be made to cancel, leaving the integrated, and much smaller, effects of the oceanic variability between the reference source and the unknown source.
Mean upwelling velocities on the Oregon continental shelf during Summer 1973

Abstract Mean vertical velocities for a 56-day period during Summer 1973 are estimated from consideration of the heat balance and mass conservation at a mid-shelf location in the coastal waters off Oregon. In the heat balance, vertical velocity is required to carry cold water upward predominantly to balance horizontal advection of warm water toward the coast by onshore velocities below 20 m depth. In the conservation of mass, vertical velocity is required to transport water upward to balance the onshore transport below 20 m. The two sets of vertical velocities at four depths agree within 0.2 × 10 −2 cm s −1 , which is less than their estimated errors. The upward velocities are found to increase from 0.3 × 10 −2 cm s −1 at 87.5m to 1.6 × 10 −2 cm s −1 at 30 m depth. These vertical velocities are as large as those estimated previously during upwelling events of a few days duration. Because they are time-averages over almost two months, these mean vertical velocities are likely to be more important than the event-scale vertical velocities in the coastal circulation. Comparisons of observed onshore and offshore transports with the wind-driven offshore transport predicted by simple models suggests that the coastal circulation is a factor of 3 larger than that predicted from observed local winds.
Secularization: In Defence of an Unfashionable Theory, by Steve Bruce, Oxford University Press: Oxford, 2011, ix+243 pp. ISBN 978 0 19 958440 6, US$45 (hardback)

Secularization: In Defence of an Unfashionable Theory , by Steve Bruce, Oxford University Press: Oxford, 2011, ix + 243 pp. ISBN 978 0 19 958440 6, US$45 (hardback) In recent decades, many scholars...
Intranasal salmeterol inhibits allergen-induced vascular permeability but not mast cell activation or cellular infiltration.

Background Salmeterol is a long-acting β2-adrenergic agonist that is widely used in the treatment of asthma. It has been suggested that non-bronchodilator actions of salmeterol may contribute to its efficacy. Objective To further evaluate the potential non-bronchodilator actions of salmeterol in vivo, using a model of nasal challenge with allergen. Methods Twelve asymptomatic subjects with seasonal allergic rhinitis participated in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial of the effects of a single dose of 100 μg of salmeterol on the response to allergen challenge. Sneezing and symptom scores, and levels of histamine and albumin in nasal lavages, were measured throughout the protocol. Concentrations of tryptase, prostaglandin D2 and lysozyme were measured during the acute allergic response, while levels of IL-3, IL-5 and IL-8 were measured at later time points. Numbers of eosinophils and of total white blood cells were also recorded. Results Salmeterol did not affect sneezing or symptom scores at any point. During the immediate response to allergen challenge, mast cell activation, reflected by concentrations of histamine, tryptase and prostaglandin D2, and serous glandular secretion, assessed by measurements of lysozyme, were unaffected by salmeterol treatment but vascular permeability, reflected by concentrations of albumin in nasal lavages, was significantly reduced. At later time points, salmeterol had no effect on levels of histamine or albumin and did not affect cellular infiltration. Concentrations of IL-3, IL-5 and IL-8 were not increased by allergen challenge in these subjects, so the effects of salmeterol could not be evaluated. Conclusions Treatment with a single dose of salmeterol had no effect on activation of mast cells or cellular infiltration but inhibited vascular permeability. The ability of salmeterol to inhibit antigen-induced vascular permeability may contribute to its therapeutic efficacy in asthma.
Measure theoretic imaging, with an example employing magnetic resonance input

We present a new medical imaging principle which allows reconstruction of images (from the output of a general digital imaging technology) whose contrast is based on a fundamentally different mathematical mechanism than that of standard images. These images have the useful property that they are capable of exhibiting high contrast between tissues which in currently produced images necessarily have low contrast. The meaning of these images, and their general place in the context of present image generation techniques, is most naturally expressed in the formalism of measure theory. The property actually imaged is derived from a probability measure associated with the mapping which expresses the output of the imaging technology. It also has a nonprobabilistic interpretation as a generalization of the Jacobian, specifically, the Radon-Nikodym derivative. In particular, unlike standard images, contrast is independent of the metric in the space of physical signals that the imaging technology associates with points of the region to be imaged. Images based on this approach using magnetic resonance input are presented.
Cutaneous gas exchange in snakes

Cutaneous aquatic gas exchange and pulmonary gas exchange have been compared in an aquatic snakeAchrochordus javanicus and the terrestrial snakeConstrictor constrictor.
Systematic identification of aldehydes and aldehyde-derived crosslinks in elastin by methods including a modified Strecker reaction.

Summary The crosslinks in elastin of bovine ligamentum nuchae and of the intimal-medial and adventitial segments of rat thoracic aorta were evaluated comparatively. Reaction with [14C] -sodium cyanide and ammonia was used to stabilize and identify aldehydes and certain aldehyde-derived crosslinks. The derivatives obtained demonstrated the presence in the aortic elastins of α-amino adipic acid σ-semialdehyde, dehydrolysinonorleucine and the aldol condensate of αamino adipic acid σ-semialdehyde. In addition to lysinonorleucine and the desmosines, other, but as yet uncharacterized compounds were found to be present.
Quantitative Modeling of Nonlinear Processes in Coherent Two-Dimensional Vibrational Spectroscopy†

The line shapes and intensities in coherent multidimensional vibrational spectra are determined by amplitude level interference between different nonlinear processes. The relative amplitude and phase of each process is controlled by the transition moments and dephasing rates associated with each coherence in a nonlinear pathway. The important nonlinear pathways involve processes that are doubly vibrationally enhanced (DOVE) and nonresonant. The DOVE processes are sensitive to dephasing-induced resonances that change the appearance of two-dimensional spectral features. To understand how these contributions interfere to create a two-dimensional vibrational spectrum, line shapes were measured in the frequency domain for a set of model compounds over a range of vibrational frequencies. The amplitudes and dephasing rates for each pathway were determined by modeling spectra. By comparing the amplitudes with a deuteriobenzene internal standard, quantitative values were obtained for the DOVE processes. The results agree with recent ab initio calculations of the third-order DOVE susceptibilities, previous measurements of the concentration dependence, and estimates based on the absorption and Raman cross-sections of each resonance. The interference effects make the DOVE measurements sensitive to the sign of the transition moments.
A Self-Delamination Method of Measuring the Surface Energy of Adhesion of Coatings

Abstract A self-delamination technique is presented to assess the surface energy of adhesion of coatings. By measuring the debond area resulting from a circular hole cut in a film adhered onto a substrate, the surface energy may be determined if the tensile modulus, Poisson's ratio and residual stress level of the film are known. This method is useful for coating thicknesses greater than a critical thickness for self-peeling. Using this technique, the surface energy for a polyimide film (cured up to 220°C) on a glass plate was determined to 3.2 Nm−1.
Modeling the Optimal Location of the Cattle Feeding Industry

A variety of interregional linear programming models have been used to study the optimal location of the cattle feeding industry. An analysis is performed to determine which factors are most influential in determining feedlot location and thus need to be included in these models. In addition to traditional factors, consideration is given to the effects of region definition and regional land use patterns. Results indicate the importance of feeders, grain, and land use patterns. The implications of these results in the analysis of future trends in feedlot location is discussed.
Lessons from a grand master

The Triumph of the Embryo. ByLewis Wolpert. Oxford University Press: 1991. Pp. 244. £14.95, $22.95.
Evidence against a lymphocyte-mediated autoimmune etiology for murine muscular dystrophy

Abstract The hypothesis that murine muscular dystrophy (MMD) is a lymphocyte-mediated autoimmune disease was tested by orthotopically transplanting normal and dystrophic muscle into normal or dystrophic hosts immunosuppressed with antilymphocyte serum (ALS). Normal serum (NS)-treated animals served as controls. Allograft conditions revealed that both normal and dystrophic muscle were antigenic and were rejected by NS-treated hosts, with the myofiber component of the muscle implant being rejected before the fibroblast portion. New muscle regenerated in a host receiving ALS therapy and was retained by the host until 30 days after the withdrawal of the ALS therapy. Normal muscle isografted into dystrophic hosts regenerated irrespective of whether the host was treated with ALS or NS. In the reciprocal experiment, dystrophic muscle regenerated in normal hosts, but the myofibers were gradually eliminated and replaced by connective tissue, thus behaving as they would have in the donor animal. These observations are incompatible with a lymphocyte-mediated autoimmune etiology for MMD. Furthermore, they raise some question about the claims of muscular dystrophy being attributable to a neural or vascular lesion, and imply that the lesion may be intrinsic to the muscle.
Diamylamylphosphonate Solvent Extraction of Am(VI) from Nuclear Fuel Raffinate Simulant Solution

The separation of hexavalent americium from the lanthanides in simulated PUREX raffinate solution using 1 M diamylamylphosphonate in dodecane extraction was investigated. Hexavalent americium was prepared using room-temperature sodium bismuthate oxidation. Under these conditions the majority of the lanthanides were not oxidized and remained inextractable. A separation factor of ∼50 was provided for americium from europium over the nitric acid concentration range 6–7 M. Cerium was the exception with oxidation to CeIV resulting in its co-extraction with AmVI. However, since americium is readily reduced to AmIII it was easily stripped with a dilute acidic solution of hydrogen peroxide. Although hydrogen peroxide also reduces cerium, it does so slowly, and a selective americium strip was achieved, with a separation factor of as high as 35. Alternatively, since americium spontaneously reduced in the loaded organic phase, samples allowed to stand for 2 hours could be selectively stripped of americium by contact...
Interaction of neuropsychological and psychological factors in two cases of "space phobia"

Recent theories of psychological disorders are beginning to break down the traditional dichotomy between mental and physical processes. The present paper reports on two cases of space phobia in which this is especially apparent. Neuropsychological assessment indicated subtle disturbance in visuospatial functioning. The emotional response to this dysfunction appeared, however, to be somewhat excessive given the subtlety of the deficit. This is seen as a psychological reaction to a neuropsychological dysfunction.
EQCM study of adsorption of bipyridine on Au polycrystalline electrode using underpotential deposition of Pb as a probe

Abstract The adsorption of 2,2′-bipyridine and 4,4′-bipyridine at a gold polycrystalline electrode surface in 0.1 M NaClO 4 electrolyte has been studied by electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance (EQCM). The underpotential deposition (upd) process of Pb has been used to understand the adsorption and reorientation of 2,2′-bipyridine and 4,4′-bipyridine. The influence of these two bipyridine compounds on the Pb upd process in 0.1 M NaClO 4 electrolyte showed that 4,4′-bipyridine adsorption on Au is surface site selective and both 4,4′ and 2,2′ bipyridines adsorbate surface structure are potential dependant.
Promising combination therapies with gemcitabine.

Abstract Because treatment regimens for breast cancer commonly include gemcitabine, we evaluated two promising combinations in preclinical studies: gemcitabine (Gemzar; Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN) with either ionizing radiation or docetaxel (Taxotere; Aventis Pharmaceuticals, Inc, Parsippany, NJ). In breast cancer cell lines that expressed either wild-type p53 (MCF-7) or mutant p53 (MCF-7/Adr), sensitivity to the cytotoxic effects of gemcitabine during a 24-hour incubation was similar (IC50 values 80 and 60 nmol/L in MCF-7 and MCF-7/Adr, respectively). Both cell lines were well radiosensitized by gemcitabine at the corresponding IC50, with radiation enhancement ratios of 1.6 to 1.7. Although the MCF-7 cells accumulated nearly twice as much gemcitabine triphosphate compared with the MCF-7/Adr cells, a similar reduction in 2′-deoxyadenosine 5′-triphosphate pools was observed. While the number of dying cells, as measured by sub-G1 DNA content or S-phase cells unable to replicate DNA, differed between the wild-type p53 or mutant p53-expressing cell lines, neither parameter correlated with radiosensitization. Docetaxel was a more potent cytotoxic agent than gemcitabine in MCF-7 cells (IC50 = 1 nmol/L). Strong synergistic cytotoxicity was observed in cells treated with gemcitabine (24 hours) followed by docetaxel (24 hours) or the reverse sequence. However, simultaneous addition of the two drugs was antagonistic. To determine whether synergy with radiation or docetaxel was mediated by increased DNA damage, DNA double-strand breaks (double-strand breaks) were measured by immunostaining for phosphorylated H2AX. Ionizing radiation produced more double-strand breaks than gemcitabine alone, while no significant double-strand breaks formed with docetaxel alone. The addition of docetaxel or ionizing radiation to gemcitabine-treated cells did not increase H2AX foci formation. These results show that the combination of gemcitabine with ionizing radiation or docetaxel produces strong, schedule-dependent synergy in breast cancer cells that is not mediated through increasing DNA double-strand breaks.
Formation of the (La0.67Sr0.33)2MnO4 Phase in La–Sr–Mn–O Thin Films by Pulsed Laser Deposition

La0.67Sr0.33MnO3 thin films were grown on LaAlO3 substrate in vacuum using pulsed laser deposition to investigate the effect of changing oxygen content. Transmission electron microscopy studies showed that the epitaxial (La0.67Sr0.33)2MnO4 phase with K2NiF4 structure formed unexpectedly as a matrix with a square-shaped nanometer-sized MnO phase distributed in a regular pattern throughout the whole film like self-assembled quantum dots. The MnO phase grew epitaxially from the LaAlO3 substrate to the top of the film with no outgrowth. High-resolution image simulation indicated that Sr ions take up only positions in every other La layer in the (La0.67Sr0.33)2MnO4 structure. Basing our theory on the composition and structure of the matrix phase, we propose that it is possibly electron-doped with a mixed valence of Mn2+/Mn3+ instead of the Mn3+/Mn4+ as in the hole-doped case.
Effects of the Inclusion and Refutation of Peripheral Details on Eyewitness Credibility

The present study examines the effects of including trivial details in eyewitness testimony on witness credibility, as well as the effects of discrediting presented details. Participants (N= 155) read 2 brief, contradictory depositions from fictional witnesses about a fictional car accident. One of the depositions included a short set of details unrelated to the accident itself. After participants rated the credibility of the witnesses, the trivial details were refuted and the participants rated the credibility of the witnesses again. Contrary to previous research (Bell & Loftus, 1989), the inclusion of trivial details had no effect on witness credibility. However, significant effects on witness credibility were obtained when the details were refuted. As expected, the credibility of the witness presenting the trivial details significantly decreased after detail refutation. More interestingly, refutation appeared to increase the credibility of the other witness.
Commentary: Anterior atlantoaxial transarticular screws: should this be the preferred atlantoaxial fixation technique?

Commentary on Xu H, Chi YL, Wang XY, et al. Comparison of the anatomic risk for vertebral artery injury associated with percutaneous atlantoaxial anterior and posterior transarticular screws. Spine J 2012;12:656–62 ( in this issue ).
Evaluating Natural Attentuation with Spreadsheet Analytical Fate and Transport Models

Superposition techniques can extend the capabilities of relatively simple analytical fate and transport models. Complex source geometries, simple aquifer boundaries, and electron acceptor limited biodegradation can be simulated by using superposition techniques in computer spreadsheets. Spreadsheet models are an easily used tool for interpreting sampling results and for estimating attenuation and degradation rates in relatively homogeneous aquifers. Analytical spreadsheet models are based on the Domenico analytical model and can provide results that are in close agreement with the numerical model UIOPLUMH II.
Changes in the Characteristics of Typhoons Crossing the Philippines

Abstract Thirty typhoons (1960–70) are examined to determine the effect of the Philippines an the intensity, speed of movement, and size characteristics of tropical cyclones crossing the Philippines. The results show an average intensity (maximum surface wind) decrease of 33%, a northward perturbation as the storms pass through the Islands, and a decrease of circulation size for weak typhoons. The study also showed an increase in speed of movement as storms approach the Philippines.
Diagnostic applications of ultrasonography to stallion's reproductive tract

Although ultrasound evaluation of the reproductive tract of stallions was introduced to veterinary practice long ago, this examination is not always conducted during routine breeding soundness evaluation. The objective of this study was to investigate the clinical relevance of routine ultrasound evaluation of the stallion's reproductive tract. Breeding soundness evaluation of 113 stallions was performed, including ultrasonography of external and internal genitalia. Various pathological conditions were detected using this technique, with the most frequent being varicocele, thickened vaginal tunics and cystic structures. Varicocele and thickened vaginal tunics were associated with decreased quality of semen, while cysts of the epididymal head, urethra and uterus masculinus were frequently associated with ejaculatory problems. These findings suggested that routine ultrasound evaluation of breeding stallions may be very helpful in detecting pathological conditions that may impact their reproductive career.
Influence of the Lanthanide Ion and Solution Conditions on Formation of Lanthanide Wells–Dawson Polyoxotungstates

Lanthanide complexes of polyoxometalates, including the α2-P2W17O61 10− ligand, have been pioneered by Michael T. Pope, to whom this paper is dedicated. Examination of the solid-state and solution behavior of lanthanide complexes of the α2-P2W17O61 10− ligand are reported here to identify trends that will facilitate rational synthesis of hybrid organic lanthanide polyoxometalate complexes. Therefore, combining our data with that obtained by Pope and others a number of trends come into view. It is clear that there are two structural types for the 1:1 or 2:2 [Ln(H2O)X(α2-P2W17O61)]2 14− species. The early lanthanides show a “cap to cap” structure that allows the Ln ion to be 9 coordinate and accommodates the longer bond lengths. The mid-late lanthanides show a “cap to belt” structure that allows the lanthanides to be 8 coordinate; this structural type is appropriate for the shorter bond lengths of the later lanthanides. The 1:1⇌1:2 equilibrium, that was observed by Pope for the Ce(III) analog is prevalent for the early- mid lanthanides. This equilibrium is slightly dependent on pH; however, cations have a major influence on this equilibrium. Larger, poorly hydrated cations appear to favor the 1:2 species for the early to mid lanthanides. Cations do not appear to influence the equilibrium for the later lanthanides; for all counterions, the 1:1 species was stable with no trace of the 1:2 species. Stability constants, K1 and K2, for the early to mid lanthanides were measured in this study by a competitive method and compared well with other published stability constant determinations. We suggest that the stability constants are not only dependent on the strength of interaction of the Ln with the α2-P2W17O61 10− ligand, but are also significantly influenced by the medium. The medium may bias the equilibria of the early-mid lanthanides and later lanthanides. The log K1/log K2 ratios are very close, suggesting that it is difficult to separate the 1:1 and 1:2 Ln: α2-P2W17O61 10− species.
Internal organs, integral selves, and good communities: opt-out organ procurement policies and the 'separateness of persons'.

Most people accept that if they can save someone from death at very little cost to themselves, they must do so; call this the ‘duty of easy rescue.’ At least for many such people, an instance of this duty is to allow their vital organs to be used for transplantation. Accordingly, ‘opt-out’ organ procurement policies, based on a powerfully motivated responsibility to render costless or very low-cost lifesaving aid, would seem presumptively permissible. Counterarguments abound. Here I consider, in particular, objections that assign a moral distinctiveness to the physical boundaries of our bodies and that concern autonomy and trust. These objections are singled out as they seem particularly pertinent to the stress I place on a distinctive benefit of the particular policy I defend. An opt-out system, resting not on the authority of ‘presumed consent’ but on the recognition of a duty to one another, has the prospect of prompting people to understand more richly the ways in which they are both physically embodied and communally embedded.
Salivary epidermal growth factor levels decrease in patients receiving radiation therapy to the head and neck.

Objective. The objective of this study was to assess changes in salivary epidermal growth factor (EGF) in patients receiving radiation therapy to the head and neck and to determine whether salivary EGF levels correlate with the severity of radiation-induced oral mucositis. Study design. Thirteen patients and 18 control subjects were enrolled in the study. Saliva was collected before, during (weekly), and after radiation therapy. Salivary total protein (TP) and EGF concentrations were measured and correlated with the severity of oral mucositis. The variability in normalized EGF (ngEGF/mgTP) values and mucositis scores were analyzed with analysis of covariance, and the adjusted correlation coefficient was calculated. Results. EGF levels decreased ( P = .004), whereas TP levels increased over time ( P = .039). A strong correlation was seen with decreasing normalized EGF values and more severe mucositis ( P = .0001). Conclusion. A strong negative correlation between normalized EGF and mucositis severity suggests a possible role for EGF in the progression of radiation-induced mucosal breakdown.
Soil background effects on reflectance-based crop coefficients for corn☆

A previously developed reflectance-based crop coefficient (Kcr) for corn, estimated from the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), has been shown to overestimate the basal crop coefficient (Kcb) for corn by 24% or more when used with a dark-colored soil. This overestimation occurs because the NDVI produces larger index values for the same vegetation amount over dark backgrounds. Thus, the purpose of this article was to investigate newer vegetation indices that have been developed to minimize soil background effects and to develop a reflectance-based crop coefficient for corn that applies over a wide range of agricultural soil reflectance. Two soils (light- and dark-colored) with red reflectance of 31% and 13%, respectively, were selected for this study. Reflectance data of the corn canopy were acquired with four combinations of these soils (light, dry; light, wet; dark, dry; and dark, wet) in trays inserted at the same place beneath the corn canopy. The soil adjusted vegetation index (SAVI), with an adjustment factor (L) set to 0.5, was found to adequately minimize soil background influences from sparse to dense vegetation conditions. A linear transformation between the Kcb for corn and the SAVI was used to convert the SAVI into the Kcr. The maximum difference for this Kcr between the light, dry soil background and the dark, wet soil background (extreme cases) was less than 6%. The Kcr based on the SAVI corrects for a wet soil surface and requires no additional calibration to estimate the basal crop coefficient for corn grown on most agricultural soils.
Indications for tracheotomy following thoracic injuries or operations.

Abstract An indication for tracheotomy following thoracic injuries or thoracotomy may arise when there is serious difficulty in raising tracheobronchial secretions. The procedure may be life saving and should be employed promptly when more simple measures are ineffectual in clearing the tracheobronchial tree. Experience with the operation in a group of patients having thoracic injuries is recorded; with one exception all of the patients in this category recovered. The utilization of tracheotomy following thoracic operations is discussed and its more frequent employment following exploratory thoracotomy for bronchogenic carcinoma is suggested. Technical aspects of the operation and aftercare are outlined.
Rats acquire win-stay more readily than win-shift in a water escape situation

Independent groups of Sprague-Dawley rats were found to acquire a win-stay, but not a win-shift, escape resporse in a circular water maze in each of three experiments that varied with respect to swim time and distance prior to escape following an incorrect first choice. The subjects were given pairs of trials: an information trial and a test trial, separated by 10 min. On the information trial the camouflaged escape platform was randomly placed in one of two positions. On the test trial the platform was placed in the same position for the win-stay task and in the opposite position for the win-shift task. Animals that did not acquire either the stay or the shift response perseverated in their responses, consistently going to the same escape location first on both information and test trials. In the fourth experiment, in which win-shift, win-stay, and perseveration all led to escape, all rats perseverated in their responses. It was concluded that response perseveration and win-stay are more natural responses than win-shift for rats in a water escape situation. This finding contrasts with the spontaneous alternation and readily acquired win-shift behavior previously demonstrated in rodents in exploratory and appetitive situations.
Ambiguity and rationality

Recently, several theories of decision making and probability judgment have been proposed that take into account ambiguity (Einhorn and Hogarth, 1985; Gardenfors and Sahlin, 1982). However, none of these theories explains exactly what the psychological causes of ambiguity are or addresses the issue of whether ambiguity effects are rational. In this paper, we define ambiguity as the subjective experience of missing information relevant to a prediction. We show how this definition can explain why ambiguity affects decisions in the ways it does. We argue that there are a variety of rational reasons ambiguity affects probability judgments and choices in the ways it does. However, we argue that the ambiguity effect does not cast doubt on the claim that utility theory is a standard of rational choice. Rather, we suggest that the effect of ambiguity on decisions highlights the fact that utility theory, like any normative model of decision making only prescribes the optimal decision, given what one knows.