cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Paradigm shift in neuroprotection by NMDA receptor blockade: Memantine and beyond

Excessive glutamate receptor activity, principally of theN-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) subtype, contributes to neuronal damage in a large number of neurologic disorders, including dementia. Until recently, however, NMDA receptor antagonists had all failed in clinical trials. Stuart Lipton reviews the mechanism of action that led to the clinical approval of the first NMDA receptor antagonist, memantine, which has become the newest and one of the best-selling drugs for Alzheimer's disease. Neuroprotective drugs tested in clinical trials, particularly those that block N-methyl-D-aspartate-sensitive glutamate receptors (NMDARs), have failed miserably in large part because of intolerable side effects. However, one such drug, memantine, was recently approved by the European Union and the US FDA for the treatment of dementia following our group's discovery of its clinically tolerated mechanism of action. Here, we review the molecular basis for memantine efficacy in neurological diseases that are mediated, at least in part, by overactivation of NMDARs, producing excessive Ca2+ influx through the receptor's associated ion channel and consequent free-radical formation.
The distribution of popular persons in a group

In order to obtain the sociometric choice structure of a group sociologists apparently use two schemes: fixed choice and variable choice. In the former, each person in the group is asked to name a specific number of others in the group with whom they would like to interact. The instructions are often stated in the form, “name your three best friends”. This type of structure has recently been dealt with in papers by Shamir and Upfal (1982) and also by Capobianco (1981). In the variable choice scheme, each person is asked to name all of his friends in the group. We shall be concerned with both type of choice schemes in this paper. Sociologically, one of the important things to study is the phenomena of members of the group who are chosen a lot by the others, i.e., the popular persons. These will undoubtedly have the greatest influence on the group’s opinions and actions. Also, if one or more of them leaves the group, the structure will probably be badly damaged. In this paper, we use digraphs (directed graphs) to represent groups and the sociometric choices made by the members. Therefore, a popular person would be represented by a point which has many arcs going to it, i.e., a point of high indegree. We refer to these as HIPS (High Indegree Points). The next section deals with the specific definition of a HIP, and in the remainder of the paper we present some theorems related to the distribution of HIPS under randomness.
Defining, controlling, and treating a pancreatic fistula.

The Achilles heel of pancreatic surgery is the pancreas. After resection of the pancreatic head, the residual pancreas must be drained into the gastrointestinal tract. This connection is among the most tenuous in surgery. Hundreds if not thousands of publications have been devoted to pancreatic surgical technique based on the hope that some technical innovation will prevent this complication. To summarize this vast literature: as long as an experienced pancreatic surgeon performs the procedure, no method of anastomosis is less likely to result in a pancreatic leak than another. This review will focus on complications of pancreatoduodenectomy. The treatment of a postoperative leak or fistula after distal pancreatectomy is less of a clinical issue but can be diagnosed and treated using similar methods. The diagnosis of a leak will first be defined and then the treatment of both an acute leak and a chronic controlled fistula will be discussed. The difference between a leak and a fistula is control and chronicity. When a leak is controlled and persists, it becomes a fistula. Though leak and fistula are different aspects of the same disease process, the treatment of an acute leak is very different than the treatment of a chronic fistula. The pancreatic anastomosis will leak 15% to 25% of the time. The consequences of a leak have improved over time, but the leak rate has not changed. A leak, thus, cannot be avoided and is best anticipated both by the surgeon and the patient. The failure to recognize this common complication of pancreatic resection leads to delay in treatment and the potential of a fatal outcome. Any change in the clinical course of a patient after pancreatic resection should raise the thought of a pancreatic leak.
Health-related quality of life and estimates of utility in chronic kidney disease.

Health-related quality of life and estimates of utility in chronic kidney disease. Background Health-related quality of life and estimates of utility have been carefully evaluated in persons with end-stage renal disease. Fewer studies have examined these parameters in persons with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Methods To determine the relations among kidney function, health-related quality of life, and estimates of utility, we administered the Kidney Disease Quality of Life Short Form 36 (KDQOL-36™), Health Utilities Index (HUI)-3, and Time Trade-off (TTO) questionnaires to 205 persons with CKD. Persons with CKD stages 4 and 5 (estimated GFR 2 , N = 115) were tested two to eight times over the subsequent two years. The relations among estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and changes in health-related quality of life and utility over time were estimated using mixed effect regression models. Models were adjusted for age, sex, race, and diabetes. Results Mean scores on the KDQOL-36™ generic components, HUI-3, and TTO suggested considerable loss of function and well-being in CKD relative to population norms. On cross-sectional analysis, lower levels of kidney function were associated with significantly lower scores on the SF-12 Physical Health Composite ( P = 0.002), the Burden of Kidney Disease subscale ( P P P = 0.008) and global HUI-3 utility ( P = 0.016) although these associations were attenuated after adjustment for diabetes. A decline in eGFR was associated with a significant increase in the reported Burden of Kidney Disease (5.0 point change per year per mL/min/1.73m 2 decline in eGFR) and with marginally significant changes in the Dexterity and Pain attributes of the HUI-3. Mean HUI-3 scores for persons with CKD stages 4 and 5, absent dialysis, were in the range previously reported for persons with stroke and severe peripheral vascular disease. Conclusion Health-related quality of life and estimates of utility are distressingly low in persons with CKD. Self-reported outcomes should be considered when evaluating health policy decisions that affect this population.
Plasmid-controlled variation in the content of methylated bases in single-stranded DNA bacteriophages M13 and fd

Abstract The N6-methyladenine and 5-methylcytosine contents in the DNA of bacteriophages M13 and fd have been analyzed. The results are summarized as follows. (1) After growth in bacteria harboring the N-3ft− drug resistance-factor, fd and M13 are observed to contain approximately 1 to 2 more 5-methylcytosine residues per DNA molecule than after growth in the parental drug-sensitive host; no effect on the N6-methyladenine content is produced by the plasmid. (2) After growth in bacteria harboring P1 prophage, fd and M13 are observed to contain approximately 2 to 3 more N6-methyladenine residues per DNA molecule than after growth in the parental P1-sensitive host; no apparent effect on the 5-methylcytosine content was produced by the P1 plasmid. (3) In agreement with others, fd carrying B-host specificity (fd·B) is observed to contain 2 more N6-methyladenine residues/DNA molecule than fd·K.
Left Behind? Cultural Destruction, the Role of the International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia in Deterring it and Cultural Heritage Prevention Policies in the Aftermath of the Balkan Wars

The present article deals with the phenomenon of willful destruction of cultural heritage during armed conflicts: more particularly, the article focuses on the Balkan region, a zone that many conflicts ravaged along the centuries, and more specifically, during the Balkan wars, using two iconic cases of destruction of cultural heritage during the above-mentioned conflict: on one hand, the destruction of the Vijecnica in Sarajevo; on the other, the shelling of Dubrovnik, a case that gave rise to the prosecution and judgments of Pavle Strugar and Miodrag Jokic, among others, by the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY). Using official reports, journalistic accounts, and documents from the ICTY and the Global Heritage Fund, the article assesses how even though there is no shortage of instruments (international tribunals) and policies (both local, national and international) to prevent cultural destruction during war times, in the case of the Balkans, these fall short of reaching their objective, and lack of funding and other motives block effective restoration of the damaged cultural heritage. Also, there is no effective law enforcement and punishment for these crimes, denying thus a deterring effect for the perpetrators. All these problems are further enhanced due to the lack of consensus and research on the criminal categorization of the destruction of cultural property during wartimes.
HIV/AIDS: The Next Generation

Like many others, I was swept up in the excitement about the progress we have made in the fight against HIV/AIDS on display at the recent International AIDS Conference in Washington, DC. However, our progress hasn't been universal. In fact, there are a number of areas in which we may be regressing. One is the course of the epidemic among America's youth. Young people between the ages of 13 and 29 have the steepest rise in new HIV infections, compared to stable incidence in other age groups, and account for 39% of all new infections while comprising only 21% of the U.S. population. ([ 1 ][1], [ 2 ][2]). The CDC estimates that overall, 20% of HIV-positive Americans don't know they are infected, but when youth are isolated from the equation, a staggering 60% have no idea they carry the HIV virus ([ 3 ][3]). Who are these youth? As with much of the domestic epidemic in the last decade, new infections occur disproportionately among youth of color, who represent 80% ([ 2 ][2]) of new infections. The disease has also hit hardest among young gay and bisexual men ([ 2 ][2]), which paradoxically results in putting many young women at risk for infection. In my clinic in the Bronx, New York, 50% of the clients who identify as young men who have sex with men report also having sex with women ([ 4 ][4]). By some definitions, there is a new generation every 5 years. Considering that the youth sitting in high school today will be out in the world in as little as 3 years, it's clear that those of us who are called to educate and care for youth must remain vigilant. We must invest in a continually updated and vigorous prevention, testing, and treatment program that evolves to engage each generation of youth. We must be guided by science and not politics. If we maintain the status quo, we risk losing the next generation of youth to apathy and losing our gains through a false hope in the scope of our progress. 1. [↵][5] CDC, “Diagnoses of HIV infection and AIDS in the U.S., 2009” (HIV Surveillance report, 2011), vol. 21. 2. [↵][6] CDC, “HIV among youth fact sheet” (December 2011). 3. [↵][7] CDC, MMWR HIV Surveillance 1981–2008 60, 689 (2011). [OpenUrl][8] 4. [↵][9] 1. A. Fernandez 2. et al ., “YMSM of Color: Perspectives from NYC,” International AIDS Conference, July 2012, Washington, DC. [1]: #ref-1 [2]: #ref-2 [3]: #ref-3 [4]: #ref-4 [5]: #xref-ref-1-1 "View reference 1 in text" [6]: #xref-ref-2-1 "View reference 2 in text" [7]: #xref-ref-3-1 "View reference 3 in text" [8]: {openurl}?query=rft.jtitle%253DMMWR%2BHIV%2BSurveillance%2B1981%253F2008%26rft.volume%253D60%26rft.spage%253D689%26rft.genre%253Darticle%26rft_val_fmt%253Dinfo%253Aofi%252Ffmt%253Akev%253Amtx%253Ajournal%26ctx_ver%253DZ39.88-2004%26url_ver%253DZ39.88-2004%26url_ctx_fmt%253Dinfo%253Aofi%252Ffmt%253Akev%253Amtx%253Actx [9]: #xref-ref-4-1 "View reference 4 in text"
Mixed convection to power-law fluids from two-dimensional or axisymmetric bodies

Abstract Momentum and heat transfer in mixed-convective, power-law fluid flow over arbitrarily shaped two-dimensional or axisymmetric bodies are examined theoretically. The Merk-Chao series expansion technique, with three mixed convection parameters, is used for the analysis. Solutions to the governing equations are obtained as universal functions which are independent of the geometry of the problem. Using the wall derivatives of these universal functions, results are given for the flow over the flat plate, the horizontal circular cylinder and the sphere. The results are compared with the literature for the limiting cases of forced and natural convection.
Sonographic findings in a fatal case of transient myeloproliferative disorder

Transient myeloproliferative disorder is a unique disease in infants with Down syndrome that typically resolves spontaneously. In this report, we present a fatal case of transient myeloproliferative disorder with unusual sonographic findings including adrenal gland enlargement and thickening of the corpus callosum. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2012;
Normality and products of linearly ordered spaces

Abstract Necessary and sufficient conditions are given for the normality of a finite product of locally compact linearly ordered spaces, and for a space which is the uncountable product of a locally compact linearly ordered space with itself. In addition, necessary and sufficient conditions are given for the normality of a product space all of whose factors are ordinal spaces.
Solar cells with graphene and carbon nanotubes on silicon

Graphene and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) represent attractive materials for photovoltaic (PV) devices due to their unique electronic and optical properties. Graphene and single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) layers can be directly configured as energy conversion materials to fabricate thin-film solar cells, serving as both photogeneration sites and charge carrier collecting/transport layers. SWNTs can be modified into either p-type conductor through chemical doping (like acidic purification) or n-type conductor through polymer functionalisation. The solar cells can be simply made of a semitransparent thin film of graphene (or SWNTs) deposited on a proper type of silicon substrate to create high-density Schottky (or p–n) junctions at the interface. The high aspect ratios and large surface area of these carbon nano-structured materials can benefit exciton dissociation and charge carrier transport thus improving the power conversion efficiency.
STRESS-INDUCED THERMAL AND SHRINKAGE STRAINS IN CONCRETE

A previous material model for the increase of creep of concrete caused by simultaneous drying is extended to describe the effect of both drying and wetting, as well as the increase of creep caused by temperature changes, both heating and cooling. By theoretical arguments and comparisons with numerous existing test data, it is shown that the creep increase due to temperature changes, sometimes called the transitional thermal creep, is physically the same phenomenon as the increase of creep due to humidity changes, known as the Pickett effect (or the drying creep effect). In accord with the previous model for drying creep alone, the present extended model explains the increase of creep due to humidity or temperature changes as a consequence of principally two effects: (1) Stress-induced shrinkage (or swelling) or stress-induced thermal expansion (or contraction); and (2) the distributed tensile cracking (or strain-softening) of concrete. The former effect is explained by the previously advanced hypothesis that the creep viscosity depends on the pore humidity rate. The latter effect reduces measured overall deformations, and thus results in the true thermal expansion or shrinkage of uncracked material being considerably larger than observed on load-free companion specimens when significant nonuniformly distributed self-equilibrated stresses are produced by the temperature or humidity change. The proposed material model is suitable for finite-element programs.
Integrated system of optical sensors for plasma monitoring and plasma process control

Real-time plasma etch process monitoring, based on sensors which measure plasma properties which directly relate to the desired wafer features, is critical to the future competitiveness of the U.S. microelectronics industry. This study reports work developing new optical sensors which would serve as a feedback loop for plasma process control by researchers at the University of New Mexico (UNM). The aim of the research, funded by the industry/government consortium known as SEMATECH, is to create a nonperturbing sensor which exploits the information on process results (e.g. etch rate, uniformity, selectivity, etc.) present in plasma optical emission spectra. Both continuing work at UNM and new work at Lam Research Corp. are presented.
Optimal redundancy allocation using log-concave properties

Using log-concave properties, this paper presents an efficient linear-time algorithm to determine optimal redundancy allocations for different subsystems of non-repairable series systems with a single system-level resource constraint. Each subsystem in the system is modeled using a k-out-of-n warm standby redundancy that includes both active and cold standby redundancies as special cases. The key assumption used in the proposed method is that, within each subsystem, all components are identical, but they can have different operational and standby failure rates. However, the components belonging to different subsystems can be different, and they can have different failure rates and different resource consumption rates. The main contributions of this research work are: (1) proving the important log-concave properties associated with warm standby configurations, and (2) effectively utilizing these properties for finding the optimal solutions. The proposed algorithm and log-concave properties are illustrated using numerical examples.
SINGLE CRYSTAL NEUTRON DIFFRACTION FOR THE INORGANIC CHEMIST – A PRACTICAL GUIDE

Advances and upgrades in neutron sources and instrumentation are poised to make neutron diffraction more accessible to inorganic chemists than ever before. These improvements will pave the way for single crystal investigations that currently may be difficult, for example due to small crystal size or large unit cell volume. This article aims to highlight what can presently be achieved in neutron diffraction and looks forward toward future applications of neutron scattering in inorganic chemistry.
DNA dynamics observed with long lifetime metal‐ligand complexes

Measurements of DNA dynamics are typically limited to the nanosecond timescale because of the nanosecond decay times of commonly used fluorophores such as ethidium bromide and acridine derivatives. We show that the time-resolved anisotropy measurements can be extended to the submicrosecond timescale using metal-ligand complexes. The ruthenium complex [Ru(2,2′,-bipyridine)2(dipyrido[3,2-a : 2′,3′-c]phenazine)]2+, or [Ru(bpy)2(dppz)]2+, was found to display high anisotropy near 0.2, at −60°C in 100% glycerol, when excited in its long-wavelength absorption bands. The decay time of [Ru(bpy)2(dppz)]2+ when bound to DNA is over 100 ns, allowing intensity to be measured to over 400 ns. Other Ru complexes display still longer lifetimes to 750 ns when bound to DNA. This class of fluorophores should enable measurement of DNA dynamics over a wide range of times (from 1 ns to several μs), which were previously inaccessible using time-resolved fluorescence. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
DEVELOPMENT OF CARBON/CARBON COMPOSITES FROM PT-30 AS A PRECURSOR MATRIX

The objective of this study was to develop a process for fabricating carbon/carbon composite components using high char yield matrices such PT-30 which can be molded through the RTM process. The process developed during this study involves the initial RTM molding, which is followed by repeated carbonization and densification steps. T300 and T650 fabrics were used in this study. Satisfactory carbon/carbon composite densities can be obtained through the densification process. The tensile properties of the carbon/carbon composite were determined at two of the intermediate processing stages. The tensile properties of the T300 carbon/carbon composites were comparable to the data reported in the literature. However, T650 carbon/carbon composite was found to be significantly weaker. Relatively strong fiber matrix bond between the T650 fibers (which has a fiber surface finish to promote fiber matrix bonding) and carbon matrix may be a reason for the significant loss of strength for this composite material. For all the five material systems, the improvement hi the tensile properties was seen as the result of the densification cycle.
Comparison of Milk Proteolysis by Bacillus subtilis Protease and by Pseudomonas fluorescens

Abstract In preliminary tests using a ninhydrin method as a measure of protein breakdown, proteolysis of milk by a Bacillus subtilis enzyme appeared to differ from that by Pseudomonas fluorescens . Further study showed that with P. fluorescens , ninhydrin values were higher than with the enzyme at comparable nonprotein nitrogen levels, and the differences became greater as nonprotein nitrogen increased. The linear trend for the relationship between ninhydrin value and nonprotein nitrogen was closer for P. fluorescens than for B. subtilis enzyme. Although absorbancy patterns (at 280 m μ ) from fractionation on G-25 Sephadex were basically similar, there were several differences. Due to differences in the breakdown products formed in the two hydrolysates, the ninhydrin method used was not a satisfactory index of protein digestion by the B. subtilis enzyme.
The Tradition of Toughness: A Study of Nonprofessional Nursing Care in Psychiatric Settings

Violence is a significant problem in psychiatric settings; however, nursing research that identifies organizational influences related to violent patient behavior is rare. This paper reports on an exploratory study conducted on the psychiatric units of a metropolitan public hospital. The key concept generated by the data was the "tradition of toughness." Within this psychiatric setting, "control" of patient behavior was emphasized resulting in norms and roles that operationalized the theory. The norms were (a) "The need for physical restraint" and (b) "It's not you we don't trust." The nursing role was labelled "enforcing" and included the strategies of (a) "Policing," (b) "Supermanning," and (c) "Putting on a show."
Alternative Formulations of the Twin Prime Problem

(2000). Alternative Formulations of the Twin Prime Problem. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 107, No. 1, pp. 55-56.
Characterization and application of soybean YACs to molecular cytogenetics

Yeast artificial chromosomes (YACs) are widely used in the physical analysis of complex genomes. In addition to their value in chromosome walking for map-based cloning, YACs represent excellent probes for chromosome mapping using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). We have screened such a library for low-copy-number clones by hybridization to total genomic DNA. Four clones were chosen for chromosome tagging based upon their low or moderate signal. By using degenerate oligonucleotide-primed PCR (DOP-PCR), we were able to use relatively small amounts of soybean YAC DNA, isolated directly by preparative pulsed-field gel electrophoresis, as FISH probes for both metaphase chromosome spreads and interphase nuclei. FISH chromosomal analysis using the three of the clones as probes resulted in relatively simple hybridization patterns consistent with a single homologous locus or two homoeologous loci. The fourth YAC probe resulted in a diffuse hybridization pattern with signal on all metaphase chromosomes. We conclude that YACs represent a valuable source of probes for chromosomal analysis in soybean.
Micropuncture study of tubular transport of albumin in rats with aminonucleoside nephrosis

Micropuncture study of tubular transport of albumin in rats with aminonucleoside nephrosis.The concentration of albumin in proximal tubule fluid and urine of normal and amino-nucleoside nephrotic rats was measured by ultramicrodisc electrophoresis.A 200-fold increase in albumin excretion was found four days after aminonucleoside injection despite a significant reduction in inulin clearance and serum albumin concentration.Renal cortical blood flow was decreased to the same extent as glomerular filtration rate (GFR).Proteinuria did not relate to arterial, renal venous, or proximal tubule hydrostatic pressure which remained unchanged, and, since GFR was significantly reduced, probably was not due to an increase in glomerular capillary pressure.The concentration of albumin in glomerular filtrate of normal rats was estimated to be 0.3mg/100ml and that in animals with aminonucleoside-induced proteinuria was 2.7mg/100ml.The value in normal rats may well have been artifactually high due to trace covert contamination with serum albumin.The concentration of albumin in glomerular filtrate of the proteinuric rats calculated from the urine albumin concentration and plasma:urine 14 C-inulin activity ratio was 2.6mg/100ml, suggesting that relatively little of the filtered albumin was absorbed in transit along the nephron.Despite an estimated 30% decrease in colloid oncotic pressure of peritubular capillary blood, fractional water absorption of the nephrotic rats was no different from that of controls.It appears, therefore, that in aminonucleoside-induced nephrotic animals, at least, alterations in colloid oncotic pressure of the degree obtained in these experiments are not important to the regulation of proximal tubule fractional water absorption.
Cookbooks: Preserving Jewish Tradition

Culinary traditions have played an integral role in the Jewish religion from its very beginning. Families have continually passed down these traditions from one generation to the next as a means to preserve Jewish culture as well as to maintain their Jewish identity. The authors propose that one of the methods of preserving and transmitting these culinary traditions, traditions clearly rooted in oral tradition, has been through the cookbook. While the written cookbook continues to be popular and marketable, traditional cookbook contents are becoming increasingly available online. In saving recipes for future generations, cookbooks preserve religious, cultural, and traditional elements of Jewish life. As important as it is for Jewish libraries to consider the value of cookbooks in preserving Judaism, non-Jewish libraries, from academic to public, and from K-12 to special, can also share in this mission. Passing cookbooks down through genera- tions not only strengthens culinary cuisine and traditions, but also preserves memories, both familial and religious.
Output determination and investment specification in macroeconometric models of open regions

Abstract This article concerns incorporating the ‘regional’ aspect into investment specifications of regional macroeconometric models and the treatment of output determination for sectors whose markets are national rather than local. It presents an approach to modeling output and investment determination that preserves the general Keynesian structure but puts greater emphasis on the supply side and allows for explicit introduction of locational influences. The investment specification is based on factor demand theory, locational theory and a dynamic adjustment process. Output determination depends heavily on the stock of capital and regional factor prices. Comments on empirical implementation are also offered.
Improvements in Light-Load Efficiency and Operation Frequency for Low-Voltage Current-Mode Integrated Boost Converters

This brief presents design techniques to improve both the power efficiency and the operation frequency of low-voltage current-mode boost converters for single-cell NiMH battery applications. For delivering a wide range of load currents, a cross-conduction-free width-switching (CCF-WS) technique is developed to eliminate the short-circuit power loss associated with switching different segments of on-chip power transistors, thereby improving the converter light-load power efficiency. A low-voltage current sensor is also proposed to increase the sensing speed. Hence, the converter operation frequency is improved and the required value of the inductor in the power stage is reduced. A boost converter was implemented in a standard 0.35-μm CMOS process. The converter can accept a minimum input voltage of 1.2 V, deliver a maximum output current of 200 mA, and properly operate at a switching frequency of 1 MHz with only a small inductor of 4.7 μH. The proposed boost converter increases the switching frequency by at least 3.3 times compared with the previously reported low-voltage designs. The converter also achieves a maximum power efficiency of 90% and provides up to 11.5% power efficiency improvement with the CCF-WS technique.
Alpha-adrenoceptor-mediated actions of optical isomers and desoxy analogs of catecholimidazoline and norepinephrine in human platelets: in vitro.

Abstract Adrenoceptor-mediated effects of the enantiomers of optically active imidazoline, 2-(3,4,α-trihydroxybenzyl imidazoline (catecholimidazoline; CI), and norepinephrine (NE), and the corresponding desoxy derivatives, 2-(3,4-dihydroxybenzyl)imidazoline (desoxy-CI) and dopamine, have been investigated in human platelets. Differences between responsiveness of platelets from donor to donor were observed in the presence of the isomers and the desoxy analogs of NE and CI. In certain platelet preparations, all compounds gave concentration-dependent stimulatory responses, whereas in other preparations, only R (−)-NE and R (−)-CI were inducers of platelet aggregation and serotonin release. The rank order of stimulatory potencies ( ec 50 ; μM) for CI and NE was R (−)-NE (1.3) > R (−)-CI (7.5) > S (+)-NE (19) = S (+)-CI (20) = dopamine (22) > desoxy-CI (>35). Unlike R (−)-CI, both S (+)-CI and desoxy-CI were either agonists or antagonists of human platelet function. In preparations unresponsive to the S (+)-isomers or desoxy analogs, the potencies (EC 50 ) for R (-)-NE and R (−)-CI were 1.7 and 7.7 μM respectively. The corresponding inactive CIs [ S (+)-CI and desoxy-CI] were inhibitors of both primary and secondary phases of aggregation and serotonin release responses to R (−)-CI and R (−)-NE, respectively. In contrast, the aggregation responses to ADP, arachidonic acid or U46619 were not blocked by S (+)-CI or desoxy CI. The rank order of inhibitory potencies for selected α-adrenoceptor agents against R (−)-NE was phentolamine > clonidine > desoxy-CI > S (+)-CI. Moreover, the relative inhibitory potencies of phentolamine and desoxy-CI against aggregation responses to R (−)-NE and R (−)-CI, respectively, were the same. These results suggest that (1) the enantiomers and desoxy derivatives of CI and NE mediate their effects in human platelets by an interaction with α-adrenoceptors; (2) catecholamines and imidazolines interact with the same α-adrenoceptors in human platelets; (3) the stereochemical requirements of both chemical classes for stimulatory activity in human platelets adhere to the Easson-Stedman hypothesis in this α 2 -adrenoceptor system; and (4) desoxy-CI possessed the highest potency as an antagonist of α-adrenoceptors which suggests that the hydroxy group at the benzylic carbon atom of these imidazolines may not be required for maximal binding to adrenoceptors in platelets.
Displacement rate effects in void formation

Displacement rate changes are reflected in a variety of explicit and implicit ways in the parameters governing the void formation rate. The nodal line-critical point formalism of Poincare is used to analyze these changes and provide guidance for experimental studies.
Free radical cyclizations in alkaloid synthesis: (+)-heliotridine and (+)-hastanecine

Abstract Treatment of phenylthiolactams 5a–f with tri- n -butyltin hydride and AIBN affords mixtures of reduction and cyclization products. Cyclization products partition between indolizidinones and pyrrolizidinones depending on the terminal alkyne substituent. When the terminal substituent is a trimethylsilyl group, synthetically useful yields of pyrrolizidinones are obtained. Applications of this chemistry to the synthesis of (+)-heliotridine ( 2 ) and ( + )-hastanecine ( 3 ) via the key intermediates 37 and 38 are described.
Marginal Level Dystrophin Expression Improves Clinical Outcome in a Strain of Dystrophin/Utrophin Double Knockout Mice

Inactivation of all utrophin isoforms in dystrophin-deficient mdx mice results in a strain of utrophin knockout mdx (uko/mdx) mice. Uko/mdx mice display severe clinical symptoms and die prematurely as in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) patients. Here we tested the hypothesis that marginal level dystrophin expression may improve the clinical outcome of uko/mdx mice. It is well established that mdx3cv (3cv) mice express a near-full length dystrophin protein at ∼5% of the normal level. We crossed utrophin-null mutation to the 3cv background. The resulting uko/3cv mice expressed the same level of dystrophin as 3cv mice but utrophin expression was completely eliminated. Surprisingly, uko/3cv mice showed a much milder phenotype. Compared to uko/mdx mice, uko/3cv mice had significantly higher body weight and stronger specific muscle force. Most importantly, uko/3cv outlived uko/mdx mice by several folds. Our results suggest that a threshold level dystrophin expression may provide vital clinical support in a severely affected DMD mouse model. This finding may hold clinical implications in developing novel DMD therapies.
The Application of Hall-Effect Devices to the Measurement of Microwave Power Density

A theory is developed that indicates a Hall-effect device should function as both a collector and transducer of microwave electromagnetic energy giving an output dc voltage signal proportional to power density. Results are described of experiments using Hall-effect devices in coaxial lines and free fields. These are concerned with Hall device output voltage and VSWR of the coaxial line as frequency, power density level, and control current lead length were varied independently. Output voltages vary linearly with power density, but show high frequency dependence and the presence of voltage generating effects in addition to the Hall effect. Considerations are given to the identification and separation of these undesired voltages. Conclusions indicate additional research is necessary.
Alternative Medicine in Pediatric Dermatology: What Is the Evidence?

Many patients seek alternative and complementary therapies, particularly when diseases are incurable or when conventional treatments have undesirable side effects that are real or perceived. This article reviews some selective evidence behind alternative therapies utilized in the treatment of three common diseases in pediatric dermatology: atopic dermatitis, acne vulgaris, and cutaneous warts. While some show promise, the treatments discussed vary greatly in the quality and quantity of supporting evidence and should be carefully considered when advising patients on their use.
Structural-surface extraction from 3D laser radar point clouds

Structural segmentation of 3-D point-cloud data is an important step in the acquisition, recognition and visual representation of objects from point data. Associating groups of points that are consistent with structural surface elements allows decision making based on object components that are much more meaningful that the points alone. Processing begins by filtering the 3-D point-cloud data to smooth surfaces and remove noise. Filtering is essential for accurate surface-normal estimation. Our point filtering algorithm steps a 3-D box through the data, using an efficient search algorithm that employs priority queues for sequential sorting in x, y, and z. Filtering is based on the computation of a best planar fit at each box location. After filtering, processing continues by again stepping through the data and computing local surface normals at each filtered point. We then compute a Minimum Spanning Tree (MST) with nodes consisting of the filtered points, edges established by proximity, and edge weights set as the Euclidean distance between local surface normals. A modified range tree that is computed on the fly from unsorted point data is used in implementing the MST. We then employ a novel procedure to determine the edges that should be broken, leaving subgraphs that represent structural surfaces. These surfaces have been used for visual display of 3-D LADAR data, extraction of surfaces for automatic detection of buildings, and differentiation between man-made and natural objects.
FACTORS INFLUENCING JUDGMENTS OF PSYCHOPATHOLOGY

Ss rated the degree of psychopathology of persons described in situations in which the following factors varied: distress associated with a behavior, lack of control over a behavior, instrumental value, frequency, and generalization of a behavior. Judgments of psychopathology were high if the behavior was poorly controlled or produced distress, particularly if it had instrumental value. In addition, behaviors which were mildly pathological and were generalized were judged as more pathological than when the same behaviors were not generalized.
Organic matrix photochemical studies of rhenacarborane nitrosyl complexes. Evidence for linkage isomeric nitrosyl photointermediates

The photochemistry of the rhenacarborane nitrosyl compounds [1,2-R2-3,3-(CO)2-3-NO-closo-3,1,2-ReC2B9H9], where R = H, I, and R = Me, II, has been studied in Nujol and methytetrahydrofuran (MeTHF) frozen glasses at ca. 90K. Visible light photolysis gives rise to a new species that has been assigned to the isonitrosyl linkage isomer, while ultraviolet photolysis gives rise to a second species believed to be the η 2 -NO linkage isomer. In MeTHF high-energy photolysis also gives rise to a CO-loss product. Photolysis of derivatives of I, [3-L-3-L'-3-NO-closo-3,1,2-ReC 2 B 9 H 1 1 ], where L = CO, L' = PMe 3 , III; L = CO, L' = CNC 6 H 3 -Me 2 -2, 6, IV, and L = L' = CNC 6 H 3 Me 2 -2,6,, V, all give rise to a photoproduct believed to be the η 2 -NO lnkage isomer. There was no evidence of the isonitrosyl isomer in these cases. Complexes III and IV also undergo CO loss. Ultraviolet photolysis of [3,3,3-(CO) 3 -closo-3,1,2-RuC 2 B 9 H 1 1 ], VI, in MeTHF results in CO loss and formation of the corresponding [3,3-(CO) 2 -3-MeTHF-closo-3,1,2-RuC 2 B 9 H 1 1 ] derivative. In frozen Nujol, ultraviolet photolysis of VI gives rise to a CO-loss species. Upon visible light back-photolysis or annealing of the sample, this photoproduct gives rise to a second dicarbonyl species of unknown structure.
Effect of reusable rate variation on the performance of remanufacturing systems

In this paper, we investigate the variation in the reusable rate of cores (used products) on the performance of the remanufacturing system. The remanufacturing system considered here consists of three modules; viz., the disassembly and testing module for returned products, the disposition module for non-reusable returns, and the remanufacturing module. Each server in the system is subject to breakdown and has a fmite buffer capacity. Repair times, breakdown times and service times follow exponential distributions. We model the remanufacturing system as an open queueing network and use the decomposition principle and expansion methodology to analyze it
A NUMERICAL STUDY ON THE HYDRODYNAMICS AND HEAT TRANSFER OF A CIRCULAR LIQUID JET IMPINGING ONTO A SUBSTRATE

The problem of convective heat transfer of a circular liquid jet impinging onto a substrate is studied numerically. The objective of the study is to understand the hydrodynamics and heat transfer of the impingement process. The Navier-Stokes equations are solved using a finite-volume formulation. The free surface of the jet is tracked by the volume-of-fluid method. The energy equation is modeled by using an enthalpy-based formulation. The effects of several key parameters on the hydrodynamics and heat transfer of an impinging liquid jet have been examined. The numerical results are in close agreement with experimental data obtained from the literature.
Second derivative estimation using harmonic analysis

Simulation sensitivity analysis is an important problem for simulation practitioners analyzing complex systems. The significance of this problem has resulted in the development of various gradient estimators that can be used to address this issue. Although higher derivative estimators have been discussed concurrently, less attention has been given to assess the efficiency and feasibility of computing such estimators. In this paper, two second derivative estimators are presented. The first estimators, called the HFD estimators, combine harmonic gradient estimators with finite differences second derivative estimators. The resulting hybrid estimators requireO(p) fewer simulation runs to implement compared to the straightforward finite differences approach, wherep is the number of input parameters in the simulation model. The second estimators, called the HA estimators, incorporate harmonic analysis directly, requiring one or two simulation runs to implement, depending on whether a control variate simulation run is made. Expressions for the bias and the variance of the HFD and the HA estimators (with and without variance reduction techniques) are derived. Optimal mean squared error convergence rates are also discussed. In particular, the convergence rates for both these estimators are shown to be the same, though the computational performance of the HFD estimators is better than that for the HA estimators on anM/M/1 queue simulation model. Computational results for the HFD estimators on an (s, S) inventory system simulation model are also included.
Ethical and Philosophical Issues in Developing A Health Promotion Consortium

This case study describes the establishment and operation of a community-based health promotion consortium. The ethical implications of membership criteria, use of mailing lists, public education and policy, and communications are examined. The organization's responses to questions raised in these areas are discussed. Increased communication and sharing of ideas and experiences among health promotion consortia are recommended. Issues in the activities of health promotion consortia which require further philosophical and sociological examination are identified.
Self-consistent generator coordinate method

An optimum continuous representation technique derived in analogy with the self-consistent harmonic approximation in quantum lattice dynamics is discussed and applied to Lipkin's model. The method is based on the variational principle and corresponds to an infinite summation of an expansion of the appropriate Hamiltonian kernel. The overlap kernel is treated exactly. The actual results indicate the removal of the drawbacks of low order perturbation theory previously employed in this connection. (AIP)
Multiparameter resolvents. II

Abstract We give a characterization of generalized multiparameter resolvents based upon a reproducing kernel and asymptotic behavior.
Research Needs: Industrial Spray Processes, Spray Drying, and Heat Transfer

A survey of researchers and of manufacturers of spraying, drying, and spray heat transfer equipment was conducted. Those that responded provided descriptions of processes and devices that need developmental attention. Several of these problems are described here (eg, a unifying theory of how atomization takes place; a method of evaluating the performance of a spray used to dissolve air in water to enhance mass transfer processes; a comprehensive model for predicting heat transfer from high pressure sprays; etc). It is concluded that many research topics can be gleaned from industry as needs develop and innovative ways are found for sprays to replace conventional methods.
Evaluation of the learning curve of total robotic hysterectomy with or without lymphadenectomy for a gynecologic oncology service

We sought to determine the learning curve for total robotic hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (TRH, BSO) with/without lymphadenectomy (LND) for a gynecologic oncology service. Data was collected prospectively and included demographics, surgical data, and timed data points to calculate times for the following categories: total operating room (OR) time, setup time, hysterectomy (HYST) time, lymphadenectomy (LND) time, and console time. Cases were grouped into tens by chronological order and compared. A risk-adjusted cumulative sum (CUSUM) model was used to evaluate learning curves for hysterectomy and lymphadenectomy. The first 155 patients are reported. Average HYST time was 45.2 min and average LND time was 52.4 min. Cases were grouped by each consecutive 10 cases per surgeon (i.e. Group 1 = cases 1–10 for each surgeon). All groups were similar with respect to age, body mass index, stage, grade, cancer type, number of lymph nodes, and uterine weight. All times significantly improved with the increase in number of cases: total OR time (P < 0.001); setup time (P = 0.004); HYST time (P = 0.001); LND time (P = 0.05); console time (P = 0.05). CUSUM analysis demonstrated a learning curve of 14 cases for HYST time and 19 cases for lymphadenectomy. Our data describes the robotic laparoscopic learning curves for both hysterectomy and lymphadenectomy in a gynecologic oncology practice and could be utilized for hospital credentialing. The amount of experience required to achieve maximum time efficiency for robotic lymphadenectomy was greater than that for hysterectomy. A significant improvement was observed in all timed data points collected, and the time to proficiency appears reasonable.
Effect of hollow fiber morphology and compatibility on propane/propylene separation

Abstract With a large specific area, micro-porous membranes in the geometry of hollow fibers become attractive materials for providing an effective contact area between two phases (e.g. liquid–gas and liquid–liquid). In this study, we used hollow fibers as structured packing materials in the propane/propylene distillation. We investigate the effects of morphology and compatibility of hollow fibers on separation efficiency and operation stability in the distillation process. While a hydrophobic micro-porous membrane may seem preferable for this application, an asymmetric membrane with sub-micron pore size on the liquid side may be more suitable for long-term stability of the distillation operation. A stable operation zone without flooding and loading problems is obtained when the pressure drop across the membrane is in a certain range. Typically, the high separation efficiency (HTU
Lipid abnormalities in children with types A and B Niemann Pick disease.

Abstract Objective To characterize the lipid profiles in patients with types A and B Niemann Pick disease (NPD) and determine if lipid abnormalities are associated with evidence of early cardiovascular disease or correlate with genotype. Study design The study was a cross-sectional analysis of 10 patients with NPD type A and 30 patients with NPD type B that was carried out in the General Clinical Research Center. For each patient, fasting lipid profile and glucose, T4, height or length, weight, resting blood pressure, and acid sphingomyelinase deficiency genotype were measured. In type B patients, electrocardiograhic-gated helical computed tomography of the heart also was obtained. Results Lipid abnormalities included low ( 1.0) in 10 of 18 type B patients studied. There was no correlation of the ΔR608 genotype with a milder phenotype for the lipid abnormalities, as has been observed for a number of other NPD manifestations. Conclusions Lipid abnormalities are part of the phenotype in types A and B NPD and may be associated with early atherosclerotic heart disease.