cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Bond graphs for vehicle stability analysis

The virtues of bond graph modelling are exploited for analysing ground vehicle stability. A bond graph model is first constructed, in a rather contrived manner, for a rigid body vehicle. From this basic model, transverse load dynamics, wheel compliance, frame bending, and more, can be easily included. The resulting overall model yields first–order state equations in a direct manner. The procedure is demonstrated through several examples.
Bovine herpesvirus 1 productive infection and immediate early transcription unit 1 promoter are stimulated by the synthetic corticosteroid dexamethasone

The primary site for life-long latency of bovine herpesvirus 1 (BHV-1) is sensory neurons. The synthetic corticosteroid dexamethasone consistently induces reactivation from latency; however the mechanism by which corticosteroids mediate reactivation is unclear. In this study, we demonstrate for the first time that dexamethasone stimulates productive infection, in part, because the BHV-1 genome contains more than 100 potential glucocorticoid receptor (GR) response elements (GREs). Immediate early transcription unit 1 (IEtu1) promoter activity, but not IEtu2 or VP16 promoter activity, was stimulated by dexamethasone. Two near perfect consensus GREs located within the IEtu1 promoter were necessary for dexamethasone-mediated stimulation. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays and chromatin immunoprecipitation studies demonstrated that the GR interacts with IEtu1 promoter sequences containing the GREs. Although we hypothesize that DEX-mediated stimulation of IEtu1 promoter activity is important during productive infection and perhaps reactivation from latency, stress likely has pleiotropic effects on virus-infected cells.
Resonant Inelastic X‐ray Scattering

Two resonant inelastic x-ray scattering techniques are discussed: nuclear resonance inelastic x-ray scattering (NRIXS) and resonant inelastic x-ray scattering (RIXS). In NRIXS, the x-ray energy is tuned around the nuclear excited level of the targeted Mossbauer nucleus to quantitatively probe the vibrational dynamics of the respective isotope, regardless of the atoms surrounding it. In RIXS, the incident energy coincides with an electronic absorption edge, probing intrinsic excitations in metals and other materials. We present the characteristics of these two techniques with their experimental requirements and include a few examples from the literature. Keywords: third-generation synchrotron radiation; inelastic X-ray scattering; site-selectiveness; tunability; phonons; photon-in photon-out
Domestic Opposition, Institutions, and Conflict Initiation

Recent research has demonstrated that opposition groups have a constraining effect on decision-makers during crisis bargaining. However, there has been little theoretical or empirical research on how specific institutional arrangements and political processes affect opposition groups' influence and behavior during an international crisis and thereby affect a state's propensity for conflict. We hypothesize that states with domestic institutions that hinder opposition groups (i.e., strong presidential systems and majority parliaments) will be more likely to initiate conflict than are states with institutions that espouse stronger opposition (i.e., weak presidential systems and coalition parliaments). In addition, we expect that dynamic political conditions that provide oppositions with more influence will decrease the probability of conflict. We explore these hypotheses and empirically test whether different types of domestic institutional structures and political conditions are significant predictors of behavior in conflict situations.
The effect of tennis racket stiffness and string tension on ball velocity after impact.

Abstract This study was undertaken to determine influences of string tension and longitudinal flexibility on ball velocity after impact. Three rackets, each of three types classed as Stiff, Average, and Flexible by their manufacturers, were strung with nylon at 40-, 50-, and 60-pound string tensions and subjected to 16 ball/racket impacts. Impact was photographed through a rotating slit disc. Racket head deflection and ball displacement were measured using a Vanguard Analyzer and Digitizer system. Differences in racket head deflection and ball velocity ratio between racket types were investigated using an analysis of variance and Newman-Keuls' post hoc test. Differences in racket head displacement and ball velocity ratio caused by changes in string tension were not independent of differences in longitudinal flexibility. Average flexibility rackets gave significantly less head displacement than Flexible rackets at string tensions of 50 and 60 pounds. Average rackets at 60-pound tension gave significantly l...
Preliminary Flight Measurements of the Total Pressure Recovery of a Split-Wing RAM-Jet Inlet at Mach Numbers from 1.4 to 3.16

From Summary: "Flight tests were made to determine the total-pressure recovery of a split-wing ram-jet inlet with a fixed area exit 20 percent larger than the inlet throat over a Mach number range from 1.4 to 3.16. Total-pressure-recovery measurements at the diffuser exist station indicated abrupt pressure changes in the total-pressure profile throughout the Mach number range. Comparisons of average total-pressure recovery with the theoretical total-pressure recovery showed good agreement."
Mitochondrial Monoamine Oxidase INACTIVATION BY PARGYLINE. ADDUCT FORMATION

Abstract Pargyline (N-benzyl-N-methyl-2-propynylamine), known to react stoichiometrically and irreversibly with the mitochondrial monoamine oxidase of bovine kidney, involving simultaneously the enzyme's flavin component, (Hellerman, L., and Erwin, V. G. (1968) J. Biol. Chem. 243, 5234–5243), has been shown to inactivate by forming a stable adduct with the flavin residue. Thus, the reaction of pargyline with an equivalent quantity of oxidase produced "bleaching" of the flavin at 455 nm and the appearance of a strongly absorbing species at 410 nm. Use of excess [7-14C]pargyline gave a stable 14C-protein product (1.1 residues of inhibitor bound per enzyme equivalent.) Proteolysis of the 14C-labeled protein and chromatographic fractionation of the peptides resulting revealed that most of the 14C label was associated with the fraction containing the altered coenzyme now absorbing maximally at 398 nm with a molar absorptivity of approximately 29,000 cm-1 m-1. Given here also is a procedure for the preparation of monoamine oxidase with twice the activity of the enzyme obtained previously (Erwin, V. G., and Hellerman, L. (1967) J. Biol. Chem. 242, 4230–4238). Based on estimates of enzyme concentration obtained by discontinuous titrations of the enzyme with pargyline, the respective values for the equivalent weight and the catalytic center activity (turnover) were calculated to be 109,000 and 525 for oxidation of benzylamine in air at pH 7.6 and 37°.
Adult cerebellar medulloblastoma: imaging features with emphasis on MR findings.

PURPOSE To describe the MR imaging features of cerebellar medulloblastoma in the adult. MATERIALS AND METHODS The neuroimages and records of 15 adults with proved cerebellar medulloblastoma were retrospectively evaluated. In 12 patients, preoperative MR scans were reviewed; nine had Gd-DTPA-enhanced scans. RESULTS Of the 12 tumors evaluated preoperatively, eight were hemispheric, two hemispheric-vermian, and two vermian. Tumor margins were well demarcated, except in three cases, two of which had large infiltrative tumors. In 10 cases, tumor extended to the brain surface, and in five of these, contiguity with the tentorium or cerebellopontine angle cistern was such than an extraaxial tumor was considered. The tumors were typically hypointense on T1 but a spectrum was seen on T2-weighted images. Enhancement ranged from minimal and patchy to marked. One tumor became isointense after Gd-DTPA. Other features included cystic changes, hemorrhage, exophytic invasion at the cerebellopontine angle, spinal cerebrospinal fluid seeding, intraventricular seeding, and bone metastasis. CONCLUSION Although there is no pathognomonic MR appearance of adult cerebellar medulloblastoma, the finding of a well-demarcated, mild to moderately enhancing hemispheric mass involving the brain surface in a young adult is suggestive of medulloblastoma. Awareness that this tumor may resemble meningioma may avoid misdiagnosis and aid surgical planning.
Uptake and Utilization of S-Adenosyl-l-Methionine and S-Adenosyl-l-Homocysteine in an Adenine Mutant of Saccharomyces cerevisiae

An adenine mutant of Saccharomyces cerevisiae was able to utilize S-adenosyl-l-methionine (SAM), S-adenosyl-l-homocysteine (SAH), or adenine as sources for growth and ribonucleic acid (RNA) synthesis. Exogenous SAM or SAH was degraded after entering the cell, and the adenine moiety was reutilized in the endogenous synthesis of the thionium compounds. Part of this endogenous synthesis proceeds from an undetermined de novo system of purine synthesis which contributes significantly to the synthesis of SAM and less so to the RNA purines. Some of the methyl groups of exogenous SAM-methyl-3H were incorporated into ribosomal and transfer RNA. Methionine partially antagonized this incorporation. The uptake of SAM-adenine-8-14C was not affected by the presence of equal quantities of SAH or adenine in the medium. Exogenous SAM affected the uptake of exogenous SAH-adenine-8-14C or adenine-8-14C. Exogenous SAH inhibited the uptake of exogenous adenine-8-14C.
Animal issues statement of the society for research on biological rhythms.

This statement was prepared by an ad hoc committee on the Society for Research on Biological Rhythms, consisting of Lawrence P. Morin (Chair), Mark S. Bauer, John Dark, Donald I. McEachron, and Herbert Underwood. Dr. Charles C. Middleton, DVM, also assisted in the preparation of this report. This report represents the position of the Society with respect to the care and well-being of animals that are used in experiments involving the study of biological rhythms. The Executive Committee of the Society determined that such a report was necessary, because many experiments involving the study of biological rhythms require special husbandry and housing requirements that are often unique to such studies. Although National Institutes of Health (NIH) and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) guidelines for housing animals are appropriate for animals not in experiments, quite often it is necessary to house animals under experimental conditions for many months in biological rhythms studies, and normal, routine care...
Molecular Modeling of Tetrazene Decomposition

Semi-empirical quantum mechanic code PM3 was used to model the tetrazene decomposition. This was simulated by breaking the bond between the tetrazoyl group and azoaminoguanidinyl group (AAG). One-dimensional and two-dimensional potential energy maps were calculated, from which activation energy and activation entropy were derived. Those calculated values compared favorably to the experimental values. Das semiempirische quantenmechanische Rechenmodell PM3 wurde verwendet zur Modellierung der Tetrazen-Zersetzung. Diese wurde simuliert durch Aufbrechen der Bindung zwischen der Tetrazoyl- und der Azoaminoguanidinyl-Gruppe. Eindimensionale und zweidimensionale Kurvendiagramme fur die potentielle Energie wurden berechnet, aus denen die Aktivierungsenergie und Aktivierungsentropie abgeleitet wurde. Diese daraus berechneten Werte sind gut vergleichbar mit den experimentellen Werten. Le modele de calcul semi-empirique de mecanique quantique PM3 a ete utilise pour modeliser la decomposition du tetrazene. Cette derniere a ete simulee par rupture de la liaison entre les groupes tetrazoyle et azoaminoguanidinyle. On a calcule des courbes unidimensionnelles et bidimensionnelles d’energie potentielle a partir desquelles on a deduit l’energie et l’entropie d’activation. Les valeurs ainsi calculees correspondent bien aux valeurs experimentales.
The chemical synthesis of 2-keto-3-deoxy-octonate and its cleavage by a specific aldolase.

Abstract We have previously reported ( Heath and Ghalambor, 1963 ) the occurrence of 2-keto-3-deoxy-octonate (KDO) as a glycosidically-bound constituent of cell wall lipopolysaccharide (LPS) of Escherichia coli 0111-B4 and the enzymatic synthesis of CMP-KDO ( Ghalambor and Heath, 1963 ). This report presents evidence for the chemical synthesis of KDO and its enzymatic cleavage (KDO-aldolase) to yield equimolar quantities of pyruvate and D-arabinose.
Controversies in Race Relations: Theory and Practice

Despite claims about value‐neutrality, interventions are not undertaken in a vacuum. Interventions in minority communities are no exception. Various controversies in the field of race relations provide the context for interventions. These debates pertain to the rejection of assimilation, the rise of multiculturalism, the acceptance of linguistic diversity, and the cultural critique provided by Afrocentrism. Practitioners who choose to ignore these issues will likely be perceived as irrelevant, or possibly harmful, by minority communities.
Race and opportunity in a public alternative school

This qualitative case-study explores questions about the stratifying role of public alternative schools created for ‘at-risk’ youth by analyzing the school experience of students who attend a single continuation high school and the process of student enrollment and referral to that school. Drawing on the concept of whiteness as property, this article demonstrates how the continuation high school maintained and protected the property functions of whiteness through acts of symbolic violence and the systematic removal of non-white students from the school district’s mainstream high school. Instead, students were placed in a substandard alternative school lacking in material and intellectual resources. Furthermore, teachers, counselors, and administrative staff at the mainstream and continuation high schools alike drew upon the racial ideology of merit to rationalize the overrepresentation of non-white youths at the study school and to ‘deracialize’ the student referral process.
Nutrigenetics, plasma lipids, and cardiovascular risk.

Abstract Cardiovascular disease (CVD) results from complex interactions between genetic and environmental factors. The evidence supports that gene–environment interactions modulate plasma lipid concentrations and potentially CVD risk. Several genes (eg, apolipoprotein A-I and A-IV, apolipoprotein E, and hepatic lipase) are providing proof-of-concept for the application of genetics in the context of personalized nutrition for CVD prevention. The spectrum of candidate genes has been expanding to incorporate those involved in intracellular lipid metabolism and especially those transcription factors (ie, peroxisome proliferator activator receptors) that act as sensors of nutrients in the cell (eg, polyunsaturated fatty acids) to trigger metabolic responses through activation of specific sets of genes. However, current knowledge is still very limited and so is the potential benefit of its application to clinical practice. Thinking needs to evolve from simple scenarios (eg, one single dietary component, a single nucleotide polymorphism and risk factor) to more realistic situations involving multiple interactions. One of the first situations where personalized nutrition is likely to be beneficial is in patients with dyslipidemia who require special intervention with dietary treatment. This process could be more efficient if the recommendations were carried out based on genetic and molecular knowledge. Moreover, adherence to dietary advice may increase when it is supported with information based on nutritional genomics, and a patient believes the advice is personalized. However, a number of important changes in the provision of health care are needed to achieve the potential benefits associated with this concept, including a teamwork approach with greater integration among physicians, food and nutrition professionals, and genetic counselors.
Winds Derived from Radar Measurements in the Arctic Troposphere and Stratosphere

Abstract Using the Chatanika radar near Fairbanks, Alaska, vertical profiles of horizontal wind extending over an altitude range of about 2 to 23 km have been measured. These profiles agree in detail with simultaneous rawinsonde measurements made nearby. The radar also measures vertical motion, a capability which the rawinsonde does not have. Since the radar technique can monitor the winds with good spatial and temporal resolution, the Chatanika radar is an excellent facility for studying various dynamic processes in the troposphere and stratosphere of the Arctic.
Applications of Quantitative Digital Image Analysis to Breast Cancer Research

Our studies of radiogenic carcinogenesis in mouse and human models of breast cancer are based on the view that cell phenotype, microenvironment composition, communication between cells and within the microenvironment are important factors in the development of breast cancer. This is complicated in the mammary gland by its postnatal development, cyclic evolution via pregnancy and involution, and dynamic remodeling of epithelial-stromal interactions, all of which contribute to breast cancer susceptibility. Microscopy is the tool of choice to examine cells in context. Specific features can be defined using probes, antibodies, immunofluorescence, and image analysis to measure protein distribution, cell composition, and genomic instability in human and mouse models of breast cancer. We discuss the integration of image acquisition, analysis, and annotation to efficiently analyze large amounts of image data. In the future, cell and tissue image-based studies will be facilitated by a bioinformatics strategy that generates multidimensional databases of quantitative information derived from molecular, immunological, and morphological probes at multiple resolutions. This approach will facilitate the construction of an in vivo phenotype database necessary for understanding when, where, and how normal cells become cancer.
Ecological species groups for upland forest ecosystems of northwestern Lower Michigan

Multivariate classification and ordination methods were used to develop ecological species groups for upland forest ecosystems of northwestern Lower Michigan. Species groups were based on similarities in ground-flora composition and abundance patterns among 76 sample stands. Nine ecological species groups were identified using 48 herbaceous, woody and moss species. The divisive classification produced six classes of stands: two dominated by northern hardwoods and four dominated by oaks. The distribution patterns typified by Deschampsia flexuosa, Vaccinium angustifolium, Viburnum acerifolium, and Desmodium spp. were important in discriminating among oak stands, whereas patterns typical of Osmorhiza claytonii and Maianthemum canadense distinguished northern hardwood stands. The species groups exhibited a wide range of ecological amplitudes, from highly specific associations with individual ecosystems to broad distributions across a range of site conditions. Within the geographic limits imposed by macroclimate and regional physiography, ecological species groups act to integrate site attributes and can simplify the process of mapping ecological land units.
With whom do we grieve? Social and cultural determinants of grief processing in the United States and China

This research focuses on social and cultural determinants of grief processing among bereaved parents and spouses in the United States and China. Bereaved participants in both countries responded to a brief questionnaire, at 4 months and 18 months post loss, regarding four grief-processing behaviors (thinking about the deceased, searching for meaning in the loss, positive memories about the deceased, and avoiding thinking about the deceased) within three social contexts (family, friends, alone). As predicted, participants reported significantly less frequent grief processing with friends than with family or while alone, with a more pronounced difference at the second wave of data collection. Interactions of culture and lost relationship type were also observed. Implications for the understanding of grief processing and future research on bereavement are discussed.
Interfacial engineering in microelectromechanical systems: Handling and assembly of solids and liquids at the microscale

A well-known outcome of down-scaling into micrometer dimensions is the dominance of surface over bulk phenomena. When designing micro-scale systems, the ability to understand and modify surface properties is of utmost importance. A key concept is the “programmable surface” - an interface whose properties can be controlled with high spatial and temporal resolution. This presentation introduces several kinds of engineered programmable surfaces and shows their application in self-assembling microsystems, protein and cell chips, and droplet-based microfluidic systems.
Effect on Kinetics by Deuterium in the 1,5-Hydrogen Shift of a Cisoid-Locked 1,3(Z)-Pentadiene, 2-Methyl-10-methylenebicyclo[4.4.0]dec-1-ene: Evidence for Tunneling?

Prompted by extensive theoretical interest in the role of tunneling in the intramolecular 1,5-hydrogen shift in 1,3(Z)-pentadienes and the large uncertainty in the published values of the theoretically relevant kinetic deuterium-isotope effect and its dependence on temperature, we have examined a degenerate bicyclic version, 2-methyl-10-methylenebicyclo[4.4.0]dec-1-ene, which is locked into the rearrangement-competent cisoid conformation, in the hope of obtaining more precise and accurate values. From rate constants determined over a range of 33 degrees C from 167.7 to 201.6 degrees C, Arrhenius parameters, Ea = 32.8 +/- 0.4 kcal mol(-1) and log A = 11.1 +/- 0.2, were obtained. An average kinetic isotope effect of 4.2 +/- 0.5 obtained from all values for kH/kD and k-H/k-D may be compared with a value of 5.0 +/- 0.3, recalculated from data in the pioneering publication of Roth and Konig. From a highly problematic extrapolation of the temperature dependence, a value of kH/kD of 16.6 (standard error between 6.5 and 43) is calculated for the kinetic isotope effect at 25 degrees C (Roth and Konig: 12.2). With curvature in Arrhenius plots being one of the three types of experimental evidence considered indicative of tunneling, the kinetic study of the previously published rearrangement of 1-phenyl-5-p-tolyl-1,3(Z)-pentadiene has been extended over a period of 339 days to a range of 108 degrees C (77-185 degrees C) without discerning any deviation from a straight-line Arrhenius plot: Ea = 28.7 +/- 0.5 (kcal mol(-1)) and log A = 9.41 +/- 0.30.
Absolute quantum efficiencies of phosphor CaWO4-Pb

Absolute quantum efficiency of phosphor calcium tungstate-lead under monochromatic far UV illumination
Increasing world incidence of thyroid cancer: Increased detection or higher radiation exposure?

Thyroid cancer is the most common endocrine malignancy with more deaths annually than all other endocrine cancers combined. Medical centers in many parts of the world have noted an increasing frequency of cases of thyroid cancer. The general impression has been that if there is a rising frequency, it was likely due to some environmental cause, namely, greater radiation exposure or some other toxic exposure. This concept was dealt with in the publication of a statistical analysis of data from the Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database by Davies and Welch. This analysis indicated that the ostensible increase was actually due to increasing detection and not to a greater occurrence of papillary thyroid cancer. This review will explore this concept as well as examine the likelihood of an impact of environmental risk factors other than radiation exposure on thyroid cancer.
A semiconductor device for fast- and slow-neutron dosimetry

Quantitative observations of pile-neutron effects in germanium and silicon suggest their use as fast-neutron dosimeters, especially in mixed neutron-γ fields. In order to provide a firm basis for such techniques, or, in other words, to determine neutron-response characteristics of semiconductor materials for general dosimetry applications, more information is needed on the extent to which the damage is actually energy dependent. In the present state of the art, the development of semiconductor dosimeters for fast neutrons of known energy spectrum should be rewarding. On the other hand, it is well known that thermal-neutron captures by lattice nuclei have only a small effect on the electrical properties of germanium or silicon crystals. Slow-neutron reactions yielding fast charged particles or ions may result in enhanced, highly localized damage of practical interest for thermal-neutron dosimetry. A suitable arrangement combining a high-resistivity p-type germanium foil with thin linings of lithium-6 appears to be a convenient tool for the estimation of biologically significant thermal-neutron doses. Analytical and experimental work done on semiconductor dosimeters designed according to the above-mentioned lines is presented.
Quantitative trait loci for individual adipose depot weights in C57BL/6ByJ x 129P3/J F2 mice.

To understand how genotype influences fat patterning and obesity, we conducted an autosomal genome scan using male and female F2 hybrids between the C57BL/6ByJ and 129P3/J parental mouse strains. Mice were studied in middle-adulthood and were fed a low-energy, low-fat diet during their lifetime. We measured the weight of the retroperitoneal adipose depot (near the kidney) and the gonadal adipose depot (near the epididymis in males and ovaries in females). An important feature of the analysis was the comparison of linkage results for absolute adipose depot weight and depot weight adjusted for body size, i.e., relative weight. We detected 67 suggestive linkages for six phenotypes, which fell into one of three categories: those specific to absolute but not relative depot weight (Chr 5, 11, and 14), those specific to relative but not absolute depot weight (Chr 9, 15, and 16), and those involving both (Chr 2 and 7). Some quantitative trait loci (QTLs) affected one adipose depot more than another: Retroperitoneal depot weight was linked to Chr 8, 11, 12, and 17, but the linkage effects for the gonadal depot were stronger for Chr 5, 7, and 9. Several linkages were specific to sex; for instance, the absolute weight of gonadal fat was linked to Chromosome 7 in male (LOD = 3.4) but not female mice (LOD = 0.2). Refining obesity as a phenotype may uncover clues about gene function that will assist in positional cloning efforts.
The Use of Iron Lines as Intensity Standards

Groups of iron lines with relative intensities independent of excitation are proposed to serve as intensity standards for rapid and reliable plate calibration. One such group between 3140 and 3240A has been tested under a great variety of conditions and found to be satisfactory for this purpose. Lines of Fe I selected at random in general have their relative intensities changed much more by self-reversal than by changes in excitation. A general quantitative study of self-reversal was made which allows an estimate of the degree of self-reversal of any line under given conditions. Weak or moderately strong lines coming down to all but the lowest levels are free from self-reversal under the conditions at which arcs or sparks are usually operated.
Job perceptions when working with data, people and things

In a national probability sample of the adult working population in the United States, 1515 Americans participated in a structured interview. This survey provided data on individual job perceptions and occupational characteristics. Occupational information was coded using the skill codes employed by the Department of Labor's Dictionary of Occupational Titles: the Data, People, and Thing hierarchies originally developed by Fine (1968). Analysis of the data indicates that perceived job characteristics are correlated with the level of data-oriented and people-oriented skills used in the job. Further, task characteristics such as autonomy and variety correlate more highly with the skill codes than do role characteristics such as conflict and ambiguity. Results also suggest that task characteristics are linearly related to data- and people-oriented skills; but non-linearly related to thing-oriented skills. Based on these results, it is concluded that the type and level of skill used on the job contribute significantly to employee work experiences.
The chemical potential in solutions and the free energy of reaction

Abstract The expression for the chemical potential of a species in a multi-component solution is usually derived by a thermodynamic argument based on ideal gas theory. A direct statistical mechanical derivation is given below, using the methods of the preceding paper. The analysis is formulated in such a way that there is no need to introduce the notion of standard states. It is made clear why certain species (water, H + in buffered systems) may be ignored in calculating the affinity (negative free energy change) of a chemical reaction. The equilibrium constant is expressed in terms of generalized phase integrals or partition functions.
cis-2,4-Di­nitro-6,8-dipropionyl-1H,5H-2,4,6,8-tetra­aza­bi­cyclo­[3.3.0]­octane, a precursor of the energetic compound `bi­cyclo-HMX'

The title compound, C10H16N6O6, belongs to a family of compounds that contain the tetra­aza­bi­cyclo­[3.3.0]­octane ring system, and served as the precursor to the energetic material known as `bi­cyclo-HMX'. Both five-membered rings have envelope conformations, with methyl­ene C atoms displaced from the respective C2N2 planes towards the endo side of the bicyclic system by 0.466 (3) and 0.315 (4) A for the di­nitro- and dipropionyl-substituted rings, respectively. The dihedral angle formed by the C2N2 planes is 118.1 (1)°.
Interleukin-12 Gene Transfer Results in CD8-Dependent Regression of Murine CT26 Liver Tumors

Background: Interleukin (IL)-12 has potent antitumor effects in animal models. We hypothesized that direct transfer of the IL-12 gene to established tumors would result in tumor regression without significant toxicity. Methods: Liver tumors were established by direct injection of CT26, a murine adenocarcinoma, into the livers of BALB/c mice, followed by three transfections with either murine IL-12, murine granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor, or luciferase cDNA using particle-mediated gene transfer. To assess the mechanism of this effect, immunohistochemical staining and depletion experiments with anti-CD4 or -CD8 antibodies were performed. Results: Progressive growth of primary tumors and carcinomatosis were present by day 16 after transfection with luciferase or murine granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor. At 50 days, complete regression of tumor was evident in seven of eight IL-12-treated mice (P < .001). In IL-12-transfected livers, immunohistochemical staining revealed an increase in CD8+ T cells. Selective depletion of CD4+ or CD8+ T cells was performed before and during transfection with murine IL-12. At 50 days, 75% of control mice were tumor-free. Only 46% of CD4+ cell-depleted mice (P = .143) and 7% of CD8+ cell-depleted mice (P < .001) were tumor-free. Conclusions: IL-12 gene transfer using particle-mediated gene transfer results in complete regression of established CT26 liver tumors in 88% of mice; this effect is dependent on CD8+ T cells.
Synthesis and Characterization of Oxidized W6S8L6 Clusters

Cationic [W(6)S(8)L(6)]PF(6) (L = PEt(3) (3), 4-tert-butylpyridine (4)) clusters were successfully synthesized and isolated for the first time by reacting the corresponding neutral W(6)S(8)L(6) (L = PEt(3) (1), 4-tert-butylpyridine (2)) clusters with [Cp(2)Fe]PF(6) as the oxidant. The products 3 and 4 were characterized by NMR spectroscopy, mass spectroscopy, and X-ray crystallography (only for 3) and shown to be the desired oxidized W(6)S(8) clusters with a metal electron count of 19. Magnetic property studies showed that they are paramagnetic compounds with S = (1)/(2). Their chemical properties and stability are also reported. Crystal data for 3.2 THF: space group, R3 (No. 148); a = 13.91170(10) A; c = 32.4106(2) A; Z = 3.
Polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane as a novel plasticizer for poly(vinyl chloride)

Abstract This study focuses on investigating the use of polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSS) to plasticize poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC). Conventional organic plasticizers for PVC, such as dioctyl phthalate (DOP), are somewhat volatile, leading to plasticizer loss and unwanted deterioration of the material properties over time. Previous experimental results indicate that methacryl-POSS, which is much less volatile due to its hybrid organic–inorganic structure, has the ability to plasticize PVC. Methacryl-POSS is miscible in the PVC only up to 15 wt%, thereby limiting its suitability as a plasticizer. However, through the use of ternary compositions it is possible to increase the proportion of methacryl-POSS in PVC substantially. The T g of appropriately formulated ternary PVC/POSS/DOP compounds can be reduced to near room temperature, and these materials exhibit desirable ductile behavior. Binary (PVC/DOP) and ternary (PVC/POSS/DOP) compounds formulated to the same T g values showed considerably different mechanical properties. Such findings reveal the possibility of using POSS to engineer the mechanical properties of plasticized PVC.
Neutralization of methyl cation via chemical reactions in low-energy ion-surface collisions with fluorocarbon and hydrocarbon self-assembled monolayer films

Low-energy ion-surface collisions of methyl cation at hydrocarbon and fluorocarbon self-assembled monolayer (SAM) surfaces produce extensive neutralization of CH3+. These experimental observations are reported together with the results obtained for ion-surface collisions with the molecular ions of benzene, styrene, 3-fluorobenzonitrile, 1,3,5-triazine, and ammonia on the same surfaces. For comparison, low-energy gas-phase collisions of CD3+ and 3-fluorobenzonitrile molecular ions with neutral n-butane reagent gas were conducted in a triple quadrupole (QQQ) instrument. Relevant MP2 6-31G*//MP2 6-31G* ab initio and thermochemical calculations provide further insight in the neutralization mechanisms of methyl cation. The data suggest that neutralization of methyl cation with hydrocarbon and fluorocarbon SAMs occurs by concerted chemical reactions, i.e., that neutralization of the projectile occurs not only by a direct electron transfer from the surface but also by formation of a neutral molecule. The calculations indicate that the following products can be formed by exothermic processes and without appreciable activation energy: CH4 (formal hydride ion addition) and C2H6 (formal methyl anion addition) from a hydrocarbon surface and CH3F (formal fluoride addition) from a fluorocarbon surface. The results also demonstrate that, in some cases, simple thermochemical calculations cannot be used to predict the energy profiles because relatively large activation energies can be associated with exothermic reactions, as was found for the formation of CH3CF3 (formal addition of trifluoromethyl anion).
Saturation of lindane metabolism in chronically treated (YS x VY) F1 hybrid mice.

The organochlorine insecticide lindane (γ‐hexachlorocyclohexane) induces hepatomas in select strains of mice including two of three phenotypic classes of (YS x VY) F 1 hybrid mice. In contrast, lindane does not induce hepatomas in rats and other strains of mice. It has been suggested that variations in the biotransformation of lindane may play a role in the different susceptibility of rodents to lindane‐induced hepatomas. This study reports the effect of chronic treatment with 160 ppm dietary lindane on the comparative metabolism and disposition of this insecticide in obese yellow A vy /a, lean pseudoagouti A vy /a, and lean black a/a phenotypes of (YS × VY) F 1 hybrid female mice at 17, 30, 56, and 86 wk of age. At 24 h prior to necropsy, all mice were dosed po with 18 mg lindane (containing 55 μCi [U‐ 14 C]Iindane)/kg. Urine, feces, and expired air were sampled for analysis. Data indicated that metabolism of lindane and excretion of its metabolites by these mice differ significantly from those of rats t...
A summary of ring rolling technology—II. Recent trends in process modeling, simulation, planning, and control

Abstract A summary of the ring rolling research in process planning, modeling, simulation and control is presented. In this technology survey, recent trends in the application of computers in process planning and control, and research in process modeling and simulation are emphasized. Current research at the Engineering Research Center for Net Shape Manufacturing aimed at reducing defects in rolled rings and increasing the productivity of ring mills via modeling and simulation of the ring rolling process is also briefly included.
Relations between the Sudbury Neutrino Observatory and the Super Kamiokande solar neutrino rates.

We develop a model-independent method for analyzing the SNO and Super Kamiokande solar neutrino experiments simultaneously, and for establishing relations between them. Representing the rates for the two experiments by a point in a two-dimensional rate-space diagram, we determine the regions of the diagram corresponding to different solutions of the solar neutrino problem. We can then use the method to ascertain which theoretical hypotheses are consistent with the observed rates. {copyright} {ital 1996 The American Physical Society.}
A counseling approach to assist near-death experiencers: A response to Bette Furn's paper

In sum, I believe a practitioner's theoretical orientation is a necessary factor for NDErs to consider when choosing a therapist. As stated, I feel that an orientation reflecting a phenomenological, client-centered approach will encourage experiencers to find the personally relevant answers they are seeking. Additionally, it is important that that approach be conceptually clear to the clinician and be congruent with his or her value system. I agree with Furn regarding the need for practitioners to be knowledgeable about NDEs and sensitive to other spiritual and paranormal phenomena. And I believe that if by chance the practitioner is also an experiencer, then the NDEr who has chosen that clinician will have indeed come across a winning combination.
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Soil at Groundwater Level Near an Earthen Pit for Produced Water in the Duncan Oil Field

Abstract Hydrocarbons, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), and alkylated PAH with two to four rings were found in soil at groundwater level down-gradient from an earthen waste disposal pit for produced water, in the Duncan Oil Field of NW New Mexico. Depth to groundwater was only 1 to 1.5m in this flood plain of the San Yuan River. Complex mixtures of hydrocarbons with carbons numbers from 12 to 30 were detected in solvent extracts of soil samples collected 25m and 50m down-gradient from the waste pit. The concentration of total extracted organic mass was as large as 500 ppm at 25m, but a reduction in concentration of 90 to 100% was seen for samples at 50m on the same axes. No similar contamination was found in soil samples located on axes drawn up-gradient from the waste pit. Concentrations for total PAH in soil at 25m distance from the waste pit were as large as 4900 ppb and 37 ppb at 50m on the same axis. Detectable but trace amounts of PAH in samples up-gradient from the pit may be evidence for a ...
Brain abscess: An overview

Intracranial abscess is a formidable entity. Despite the advent of newer antibiotics and surgical strategies, the overall outcome and quality of life issues in brain abscess patients still remain a continuous challenge for the neurosurgical community. It is a direct interplay between the virulence of the offending microorganism and the immune response of the host. An analysis of our experience in the 289 cases of surgically treated pyogenic brain abscess is presented along with an overview of intra-cranial abscess of varied etiology and in different locations. The etiology, pathogenesis, radiological advances and treatment modalities of brain abscess are discussed in light of current literature.
Globalizing Quiescence: Globalization, Union Density and Strikes in 15 Industrialized Countries

This study examines the role played by globalization in the decline of strike rates in industrialized countries after the 1980s. Using a pooled, time-series multiple regression analysis of 15 advanced capitalist countries in North America, Western Europe and East Asia from 1952 to 2001, the author finds a relationship between globalization – measured in terms of international trade, investment and loosened international capital controls – and declining strike rates, but finds that the relationship is non-monotonic and that the level and change of union density plays an intermediary role between globalization and labor quiescence. The findings empirically validate earlier work by Tsebelis and Lange and Shalev, who also demonstrated a non-monotonic relationship between macroeconomic phenomena, labor strength and strikes.
Thick Prescriptions: Toward an Interpretation of Pharmaceutical Sales Practices

Anthropologists of medicine and science are increasingly studying all aspects of pharmaceutical industry practices—from research and development to the marketing of prescription drugs. This article ethnographically explores one particular stage in the life cycle of pharmaceuticals: sales and marketing. Drawing on a range of sources—investigative journalism, medical ethics, and autoethnography—the author examines the day-to-day activities of pharmaceutical salespersons, or drug reps, during the 1990s. He describes in detail the pharmaceutical gift cycle, a three-way exchange network between doctors, salespersons, and patients and how this process of exchange is currently in a state of involution. This gift economy exists to generate prescriptions (scripts) and can mask and/or perpetuate risks and side effects for patients. With implications of pharmaceutical industry practices impacting everything from the personal-psychological to the global political economy, medical anthropologists can play a lead role in the emerging scholarly discourse concerned with critical pharmaceutical studies.
1,100,000-Kva Short-Circuit Transformer in the New High-Capacity Switchgear Testing Laboratory [includes discussion]

This paper describes the design and construction of a particular testing transformer, custom-built to meet requirements imposed by its use in high-voltage short-circuit testing of circuit breakers, fuses, disconnect switches, and so forth, at the new high-capacity switchgear testing laboratory' of the General Electric Company. While some of the problems usually encountered in power transformer designs were reduced to insignificance by specific requirements, others were magnified to the extent that normal construction was out of the question. Consequently, the design is quite special and includes a number of unusual features which are described herein.
Lateralizing Value and Semiology of Ictal Limb Posturing and Version in Temporal Lobe and Extratemporal Epilepsy

Summary: Purpose: Unilateral dystonic limb posturing in partial seizures has been shown to be an accurate lateralizing sign indicating seizure onset in the contralateral hemisphere. However, its clinical utility may be reduced by confusion with other lateralized ictal motor phenomena. In this study, the ictal phenomena of dystonic limb posturing, tonic limb posturing, unilateral immobile limb, and version were distinguished and examined in patients with temporal and extratemporal seizures. Methods: Partial seizures in 54 patients, successfully treated by surgery (34 temporal, 20 extratemporal; 14 frontal, 3 parietal, and 3 occipital), were analyzed blindly by 3 reviewers. Interobserver agreement was tested with kappa indexes and positive predictive value (PPV) was determined for each sign. Results: In patients with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE), dystonic posturing occurred in 35.3% (kappa 0.78, positive predictive value (PPV) for the sign being contralateral to seizure onset 92%); tonic limb posturing occurred in 17.7% (kappa 0.36, PPV 40%); unilateral immobile limb occurred in 11.8% (kappa 0.23, PPV 100%); and version occurred in 35.3% (kappa 0.77, PPV 100%). In patients with extratemporal epilepsy, dystonic posturing occurred in 20.0% (kappa 0.31, PPV 100%); tonic limb posturing occurred in 15.0% (kappa 0.08, PPV 67%); and version occurred in 40.0% (kappa 0.54, PPV 100%). The higher kappa indexes were significant for dystonic posturing (p < 0.001) and tonic limb posturing (p = 0.032) in TLE. Dystonic posturing (p = 0.034), tonic posturing (p = 0.07), and version (p = 0.0038) occurred earlier in extratemporal seizures than in temporal seizures. Conclusions: Of the limb ictal motor phenomena, only dystonic posturing was accurate and had good interobserver agreement.
Comment on “studies on the metastable phase retention and hardness in zirconia ceramics”

Abstract The interesting and useful data of Ramadass et al. have been examined in order to see whether or not a better understanding of the interaction of microstructural and compositional variables could be obtained. While their observation that hardness generally first increased with increasing Y2O3 content and then reached a level plateau is consistent with other data, their subsequent decrease in hardness with increasing Y2O3 content for different firing temperatures is found to be not an intrinsic trend. Instead, porosity is shown to be a major factor in the latter hardness decrease, as well as in most of their other hardness variations, with probable contributions from grain size and phase domain size. In particular, the porosity dependence is found generally to follow an exponential function, giving a b value of the order of 7, consistent with a substantial number of data on other ceramics.
Convection-Permitting Simulations of the Environment Supporting Widespread Turbulence within the Upper-Level Outflow of a Mesoscale Convective System

Abstract Widespread moderate turbulence was recorded on three specially equipped commercial airline flights over northern Kansas near the northern edge of the extensive cirrus anvil of a nocturnal mesoscale convective system (MCS) on 17 June 2005. A noteworthy aspect of the turbulence was its location several hundred kilometers from the active deep convection (i.e., large reflectivity) regions of the MCS. Herein, the MCS life cycle and the turbulence environment in its upper-level outflow are studied using Rapid Update Cycle (RUC) analyses and cloud-permitting simulations with the Weather Research and Forecast Model (WRF). It is demonstrated that strong vertical shear beneath the MCS outflow jet is critical to providing an environment that could support dynamic (e.g., shearing type) instabilities conducive to turbulence. Comparison of a control simulation to one in which the temperature tendency due to latent heating was eliminated indicates that strong vertical shear and corresponding reductions in the l...