cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Deep water in the late Maastrichtian ocean

[1] Stable isotopic data from benthic foraminifera indicate the occurrence of at least three deepwater masses in the late Maastrichtian ocean. Given mean oceanic δ18Ow of −1.0‰, the temperature of the coolest intermediate-depth waters was 5°–7°C, that of the deepest waters was 10°C, and that of the warmest intermediate waters was 13°–15°C. The cool intermediate-depth water mass probably originated in the high-latitude Southern Ocean. The deepest waters originated at least partly in the northern Atlantic. The source region for the warmest intermediate-depth water mass is unknown. Although much of the late Maastrichtian deep water was probably preconditioned for winter sinking by low- or middle-latitude evaporation, no more than ∼11% of late Maastrichtian deep water could have been directly actuated by low-latitude sea surface evaporation. At least in the southern Atlantic and Indian Oceans, heat transport by upwelling of deep water was not the primary cause of mild sea surface and coastal temperatures.
Developmental Pathways to Substance Abuse

MAGNITUDE OF THE PROBLEM 600 RISK FACTORS 602 Societal and Cultural Factors 602 Interpersonal Factors 603 Psychobehavioral Factors 604 Psychiatric Comorbidity 605 Biological and Genetic Factors 607 Impact of Adolescent Substance Use 609 PROTECTIVE FACTORS 610 MODELS FOR A DEVELOPMENTAL TRAJECTORY TO SUBSTANCE USE AND SUBSTANCE DEPENDENCE 61 1 The Model for Initiation of Substance Use 61 1 The Model for Continued Substance Use and Dependence 612 FUTURE DIRECTIONS 613 Mechanisms of Risk 613 Equifinality and Multifinality 614 Implications for Intervention Research 614 SUMMARY 615 REFERENCES 6 15
Analysis of Axial Loading of Pile Groups in Multilayered Elastic Soil

AbstractThis paper presents a semianalytical solution for axially loaded pile groups in multilayered, linear-elastic soil profiles. The piles in the group can have circular, square, or rectangular cross sections. The soil displacement surrounding a pile group is linked to the axial displacement experienced by each of the piles in the group. The method is based on assigning a displacement decay function to every pile in the group and then summing up for all piles in the group the product of the axial displacement of each pile and its associated decay function. The governing differential equations describing the response of the soil and piles are derived by applying the principle of virtual work and calculus of variations to the pile–soil system. The governing differential equations predicting the response of the piles are solved analytically using the method of eigenvalues and eigenvectors, whereas the differential equations describing the soil decay functions are solved numerically using the finite-differ...
The ‘Scandal’ of Cartesian Interactionism

It is standard fare to object to dualism of a Cartesian stripe on the grounds that, because it would make mind and body utterly diverse in nature, it is unintelligible how mind could act on body or body on mind; for the dualist would make the mind non-extended and immaterial, and how such a thing could conceivably act on something as heterogenous as a physical system is something we are incapable of understanding. In describing 'Descartes' Myth' and arguing it is premised on a 'para-mechanical hypothesis', Ryle wrote:
A boundary layer theory for diffusively perturbed transport around a heteroclinic cycle

We consider a two-dimensional transport equation subject to small diffusive perturbations. The transport equation is given by a Hamiltonian flow near a compact and connected heteroclinic cycle. We investigate approximately harmonic functions corresponding to the generator of the perturbed transport equation. In particular, we investigate such functions in the boundary layer near the heteroclinic cycle; the space of these functions gives information about the likelihood of a particle moving a mesoscopic distance into one of the regions where the transport equation corresponds to periodic oscillations (i.e., a “well” of the Hamiltonian). We find that we can construct such approximately harmonic functions (which can be used as “corrector functions” in certain averaging questions) when certain macroscopic “gluing conditions” are satisfied. This provides a different perspective on some previous work of Freidlin and Wentzell on stochastic averaging of Hamiltonian systems. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Generalization and multirate models of motor adaptation

When subjects adapt their reaching movements in the setting of a systematic force or visual perturbation, generalization of adaptation can be assessed psychophysically in two ways: by testing untrained locations in the work space at the end of adaptation (slow postadaptation generalization) or by determining the influence of an error on the next trial during adaptation (fast trial-by-trial generalization). These two measures of generalization have been widely used in psychophysical studies, but the reason that they might differ has not been addressed explicitly. Our goal was to develop a computational framework for determining when a two-state model is justified by the data and to explore the implications of these two types of generalization for neural representations of movements. We first investigated, for single-target learning, how well standard statistical model selection procedures can discriminate two-process models from single-process models when learning and retention coefficients were systematically varied. We then built a two-state model for multitarget learning and showed that if an adaptation process is indeed two-rate, then the postadaptation generalization approach primarily probes the slow process, whereas the trial-by-trial generalization approach is most informative about the fast process. The fast process, due to its strong sensitivity to trial error, contributes predominantly to trial-by-trial generalization, whereas the strong retention of the slow system contributes predominantly to postadaptation generalization. Thus, when adaptation can be shown to be two-rate, the two measures of generalization may probe different brain representations of movement direction.
Prolonged Cardiac Allograft Survival Using Iodine 131 After Human Sodium Iodide Symporter Gene Transfer in A Rat Model

Background Radioiodine is efficiently concentrated by tissues expressing the human sodium iodide symporter (hNIS). The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of 131I on acute cardiac allograft rejection after hNIS ex-vivo gene transfer in a rat model of cardiac allotransplantation.
Why the Classical and Nonclassical Norbornyl Cations Do Not Resemble the 2-endo- and 2-exo-Norbornyl Solvolysis Transition States(1)(,).

In order to analyze the solvolysis behavior of epimeric norbornyl derivatives, the dissociative mechanisms of protonated 2-exo- (1, X = OH2+) and 2-endo-norbornanol (2, X = OH2+), 1-methyl-2-exo- (7) and 2-endo-norbornanol (8), and 1-phenyl-2-exo- (9) and 2-endo-norbornanol (10) were studied ab initio at the B3LYP/6-311+G*//B3LYP/6-31G* level. In agreement with the experimental solvolysis data, the activation energy (including the 1.2 kcal mol-1 ground state energy difference) for dissociation of exo-1 (X = OH2+) is 3.7 kcal mol-1 lower than that of endo-2 (X = OH2+). This value is much smaller than the 14 kcal mol-1 energy difference favoring the isolated nonclassical (3) over the classical (5) 2-norbornyl cation. That the rate acceleration reflects only a small part of the driving force available poses a general interpretative problem in neighboring group participation. Winstein's hypothesis, that “bridging lags behind ionization” is not the full explanation for this discrepancy. Brown's hypothesis, tha...
Radiographic diagnosis of mandibular fractures: Mode and implications

Proper treatment of fractures of the mandible is dependent on proper diagnosis of the lesion. Panoramic radiography has become the standard of care for the evaluation of mandibular fractures in many institutions. The ability to obtain these views while the patient is in the supine position is a great asset in trauma centers where the patient may be unstable, and in patients for whom the cervical spine (C-spine) has not been cleared. Proper radiologic evaluation of the C-spine may be the most important part of the radiologic workup in the evaluation of mandibular trauma since it influences the options for evaluation of the mandible. Panoramic views with posteroanterior or reverse Towne's views are likely to give a higher yield than the panoramic view alone. The periapical view can be useful to identify specific dental trauma or abscesses. Occlusal views are under utilized, and can be very useful when used intraoperatively on patients with symphyseal and parasymphyseal fractures to avoid splaying of the lingual cortex, and widening of the mandibular width. The use of computed tomography (CT) as a diagnostic tool has been controversial in the past. Early studies comparing the sensitivity of CT to other modalities of the radiographic workup suggested that CT was not as sensitive. More recent studies performed with improved, higher resolution CT suggest that CT is superior to panoramic radiography, both in sensitivity and in offering the surgeon a better understanding of the nature of the fractures. Three-dimensional CT may have an important role in the future for evaluating pre- and postreduction techniques, particularly of subcondylar fractures. New multislice CT technology will further improve the resolution and speed of CT imaging and reconstructions.
Regulation of lumped periodic processes

When a periodic process is disturbed, control action may be necessary to maintain satisfactory performance. Regulating controls to achieve this objective can be synthesized by solving a linear-quadratic optimization problem with periodic coefficient's. Generalized proportional and proportional-integral feedback regulators developed in this manner are tested by simulating a cyclic reactor. Very satisfactory control is achieved for 10% step disturbances in reactor feed conditions although the results are sensitive to the choice of manipulated variables.
Identification of cis Sequences Required for Lytic DNA Replication and Packaging of Murine Gammaherpesvirus 68

Human gammaherpesviruses are associated with lymphomas and other malignancies. Murine gammaherpesvirus 68 (MHV-68) infection of mice has emerged as a model for understanding gammaherpesvirus pathogenesis in vivo. In contrast to human gammaherpesviruses, MHV-68 replicates in permissive cell lines in a robust manner, presenting an efficient model to study the basic mechanisms for DNA replication and recombination processes. In addition, MHV-68 also infects a broad range of cells of different tissue types and from different host species, and the viral genome persists as an episome in infected cells. These features make MHV-68 an attractive system on which to build gene delivery vectors. We have therefore undertaken a study to identify the cis elements required for MHV-68 genome replication and packaging. Here we report that an 8.4-kb MHV-68 genomic fragment between ORF66 and ORF73 conferred on the plasmid the ability to replicate; replication required the presence of either de novo viral infection or viral reactivation from latency. We further mapped the origin of lytic replication (oriLyt) to a 1.25-kb region. Moreover, we demonstrated that the terminal repeat of the viral genome is sufficient for packaging of the replicated oriLyt plasmid into mature viral particles. Functional identification of the MHV-68 oriLyt and packaging signal has laid a foundation for investigating the mechanisms controlling gammaherpesvirus DNA replication during the viral lytic phase and will also serve as a base on which to design gene delivery vectors.
And the Rest Is Sigetik: Silencing Logic and Dialectic in Heidegger's Beiträge zur Philosophie

Faced with the impossibility of saying Being directly given that all language is language of beings, Heidegger proposes an overcoming of logic in favor of what he calls Sigetik: a way of addressing Being in and through silence, i.e., without asserting anything of Being. After considering what such a Sigetik actually involves and how it is possible, this paper asks why Heidegger rejects the alternative of that indirect saying of Being that he identifies with dialectic. It is then argued both that Heidegger's arguments against dialectic are not compelling and that the Beitrage itself, in mostly failing to achieve and sustain the Sigetik it prescribes, cannot fully escape some form of dialectic. Sigetik may prove a lure more threatening to philosophical questioning than the dialectic it seeks, unsuccessfully, to overcome.
Hypoxia inducible factor signaling and experimental persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn.

BACKGROUND: Mitochondrial reactive oxygen species levels and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NFκB) activity are increased in a lamb model of persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN). These events can trigger hypoxia inducible factor (HIF) signaling in response to hypoxia, which has been shown to contribute to pulmonary vascular remodeling in rodent models of pulmonary hypertension. However the role of HIF signaling in chronic intrauterine pulmonary hypertension is not well understood. AIM: To determine if HIF signaling is increased in the lamb model of PPHN, and to identify the underlying mechanisms. RESULTS: PPHN was induced in lambs by antenatal ligation of the ductus arteriosus at 128 days gestation. After 9 days, lungs and pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMC) were isolated from control and PPHN lambs. HIF-1α expression was increased in PPHN lungs and HIF activity was increased in PPHN PASMC relative to controls. Hypoxia increased HIF activity to a greater degree in PPHN vs. control PASMC. Control PASMC were exposed to cyclic stretch at 1Hz and 15% elongation for 24h, as an in vitro model of vascular stress. Stretch increased HIF activity, which was attenuated by inhibition of mitochondrial complex III and NFκB. CONCLUSION: Increased HIF signaling in PPHN is triggered by stretch, via mechanisms involving mitochondrial ROS and NFκB. Hypoxia substantially amplifies HIF activity in PPHN vascular cells. Targeting these signaling molecules may attenuate and reverse pulmonary vascular remodeling associated with PPHN.
El Análisis de la Variación Estacional en Medicina

This is a survey of recent methods for the analysis of seasonal variation in medical research. These methods are effective even when the data show small amplitude and the sample size is small, two characteristics that are often present when one analyzes medical data for seasonal variation. The methods deal with both cases: one group and multiple groups. Also, these methods can be used to analyze different types of seasonal variation. Real-data examples are used to illustrate the application of these techniques.
Follow-up of abnormal screening mammograms among low-income ethnically diverse women: findings from a qualitative study.

Abstract Objective To understand factors that women feel facilitate or hinder their receipt of diagnostic services following an abnormal screening mammogram. Methods This qualitative study used a purposive sampling strategy to identify low-income, ethnically diverse women aged 40 or over who had a recent abnormal mammogram. Working with a community health center, breast evaluation center, and mobile mammography van, 64 women were interviewed to identify salient themes that differentiated women who received timely follow-up from those who did not. Results Prominent themes among women who delayed follow-up included dissatisfaction with communication of results; perceived disrespect on the part of providers and clinic staff; logistical barriers to access of diagnostic services; anxiety and fear about a possible cancer diagnosis; and a lack of information about breast cancer screening and symptoms. Women who received timely care more often reported an appreciation of efforts by providers and clinic staff to support their prompt follow-up; availability of social support that facilitated appointment-keeping; confidence in their ability to advocate for their health; and a high priority placed on self-care. Conclusion A comprehensive approach to improving timely diagnostic follow-up among underserved groups must address patient beliefs and attitudes, provider practices and communication, and practices at the health care systems level. Practice implications Implications and strategies for improving patient education, patient–provider communication, and organizational practices are discussed.
The biology of IL-12: coordinating innate and adaptive immune responses

Abstract Cytokines play critical roles in regulating all aspects of immune responses, including lymphoid development, homeostasis, differentiation, tolerance and memory. Interleukin (IL)-12 is especially important because its expression during infection regulates innate responses and determines the type and duration of adaptive immune response. IL-12 induces interferon-γ (IFN-γ) production by NK, T cells, dendritic cells (DC), and macrophages. IL-12 also promotes the differentiation of naive CD4+ T cells into T helper 1 (Th1) cells that produce IFN-γ and aid in cell-mediated immunity. As IL-12 is induced by microbial products and regulates the development of adaptive immune cells, IL-12 plays a central role in coordinating innate and adaptive immunity. IL-12 and the recently identified cytokines, IL-23 and IL-27, define a family of related cytokines that induce IFN-γ production and promote T cell expansion and proliferation.
Sex Comparisons in Life Satisfaction and Psychosocial Adjustment Scores with an Older Adult Sample: Examining the Effect of Sex Role Differences in Older Cohorts

ABSTRACT The present study examined how sex and other individual-difference factors (i.e., age level, locus of control orientation, and self-actualization subscale scores) relate to older adults' scores on life satisfaction and psychosocial adjustment. Seventy-eight older adults (n = 39 females) were recruited from independent-living retirement communities located in Pennsylvania. Results indicated that females in the sample were not significantly different in mean life satisfaction scores but were significantly lower in mean psychosocial adjustment scores than males in the sample. There were no significant age-level differences in mean scores. Qualitative data from unstructured post-testing interviews revealed that women were more likely to express regret and sometimes frustration toward perceived “missed opportunities” in life (e.g., career) due to expected social roles of being a wife and mother in the decades ranging from the 1920s through the 1960s; these feelings of regret or frustration were not ex...
Towards the prevention of schizophrenia

There is a growing emphasis on attempts to identify the early signs and symptoms of schizophrenia, largely because early detection and treatment of psychosis (i.e., secondary prevention) are associated with relatively favorable clinical outcomes. This raises the issue of whether prevention of psychosis itself is possible. The achievement of this goal will require the identification of a premorbid state that could serve as the foundation for treatment strategies aimed ultimately at the prevention of schizophrenia. Fortunately, evidence for such a state is emerging, in part because schizophrenia may result from a neurodevelopmental disorder that is associated with a variety of clinical, neurobiological, and neuropsychologic features occurring well before the onset of psychosis. These features may serve as both indicators of risk for subsequent deterioration and the foundation of treatment efforts. We reformulated Meehl's term schizotaxia to describe this liability and discuss here how its study could form the basis for future strategies of prevention. We also include a description of our initial attempts to devise treatment protocols for schizotaxia. It is concluded that schizotaxia is a feasible concept on which to base prevention efforts, and that treatment of adult schizotaxia may be among the next steps in the process.
A legendre polynomial nodal model for 3-D diffusion problems

Abstract A 3-D Legendre polynomial nodal model has been developed for the multigroup diffusion equation. The approximation uses a least squares minimization of the trial function over each node. Averaged nodal fluxes and currents are matched on subsurfaces of the interfaces between nodes. The model results were compared to the IAEA benchmark problem. Accuracy of results depended upon the number of nodes of the model. A 760-node model on a minicomputer gave an eigenvalue within 0.012% of the benchmark problem. The peak to average power ratio was within 0.6% of the benchmark. A 456-node model on a microcomputer gave an eigenvalue within 0.11% of the benchmark. The flux traces from this nodal model compared favorably with the benchmark results.
Effects of a high salt diet on blood pressure responses to acoustic stimuli in borderline hypertensive rats (BHR)

The borderline hypertensive rat (BHR) responds to environmental and dietary stressors with elevated blood pressure. The first two months of a high salt diet appear to be the time of greatest sensitivity to salt effects on the blood pressure of BHR. The current study was conducted to examine whether exposure to salt diets varying in duration for up to two months differentially affects baseline blood pressures (systolic, SBP, and diastolic, DBP) and blood pressure responses to novel acoustic stimuli in BHR and normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats. Male BHR and WKY were fed a control (1%) salt diet or a high (8%) salt diet for 1, 1.5, 2.5, or 8.5 weeks. SBP and DBP responses to an acoustic stimulus (85 dB, 3 kHz) were measured upon completion of the diets at 12 weeks of age. Ten acoustic trials (one stimulus/minute) were presented and blood pressure responses were recorded in 2-second blocks spanning the 10 seconds prior to and following stimulus presentation. BHR had higher resting SBP and DBP than WKY, and 8.5 weeks of 8 percent salt increased SBP markedly in BHR. SBP and DBP labilities in the initial trial were greater in BHR than WKY with high salt diet durations of 2.5 and 8.5 weeks producing greater lability in later trials. Few differences were noted in pressor responses, but BHR had more dramatic depressor responses than WKY in early trials, and BHR pressures had a more dramatic return to baseline. It appears that genetic history and salt diet can affect blood pressure lability and recovery in response to novel stimuli in genetically susceptible animals.
Muscularity concerns among men: development of attitudinal and perceptual measures.

Abstract The current study reports the development and psychometrics of a figure rating scale with leanness and muscularity dimensions and a 13-item questionnaire assessing symptoms associated with muscle dysmorphia (MD). Three separate samples of men and women completed the muscle dysmorphic disorder inventory (MDDI), the bodybuilder image grid (BIG) or both to measure 1-week test–retest reliability, internal consistency, convergent and divergent validity and valid placement of BIG figures along interval scales of body fat and lean muscle mass. The MDDI and MDDI subscales (drive for size, appearance intolerance, and functional impairment) had good reliability, internal consistency, convergent and divergent validity. The BIG had good to excellent test–retest reliability, good convergent and divergent validity and validity as an interval scale. Implications for characterizing body image disturbance in men and benefits and limitations of the measures are discussed.
Preparation and Raman analysis of single-phase Y 1-x Pr x Ba 2 Cu 3 O 7-δ

A series ${\mathrm{Y}}_{1\ensuremath{-}x}{\mathrm{Pr}}_{x}{\mathrm{Ba}}_{2}{\mathrm{Cu}}_{3}{\mathrm{O}}_{7\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\delta}}$ materials with $0\ensuremath{\le}x\ensuremath{\le}1$ have been prepared that do not show phase separation and have sharp superconducting transitions for $x\ensuremath{\le}0.45$. These samples have been characterized by x-ray-diffraction, resistivity, field-cooled magnetization, and thermogravimetric analysis. Raman spectra have been obtained for the entire series, including the nonsuperconducting regions. The O(4) stretching mode at \ensuremath{\sim}500 ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$ is seen to harden by 15 ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$, while the Cu(2)-O(2,3) out-of-phase bending mode at \ensuremath{\sim}340 ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$ is seen to soften by 40 ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$ on going from Y${\mathrm{Ba}}_{2}$${\mathrm{Cu}}_{3}$${\mathrm{O}}_{7}$ to Pr${\mathrm{Ba}}_{2}$${\mathrm{Cu}}_{3}$${\mathrm{O}}_{7}$. These changes fall on a universal curve for the Raman shifts of all the compounds $R{\mathrm{Ba}}_{2}{\mathrm{Cu}}_{3}{\mathrm{O}}_{7}$ ($R=\mathrm{rare}\mathrm{earth}$) as a function of the radii of the rare-earth ions. No abrupt changes in the Raman shifts are observed at $x=0.5$, where the superconductivity is destroyed.
Theory of electron spin-echoes in non-viscous liquids

A theory which describes the electron spin-echo for free radicals in non-viscous solution whose steady-state E.S.R. linewidth is inhomogeneously broadened by unresolved intramolecular hyperfine structure is presented. It is found that the two-pulse electron spin-echo for such systems decays at a rate approximately proportional to exp [- tT 2 -1], where T 2 -1 is the ‘intrinsic linewidth’ of an individual spin-packet. The presence of Heisenberg exchange is shown to a good approximation to add to the decay constant so that T 2 -1(ex) ≈ T 2 -1 (0) + ωex, where T 2(ex) is the phase memory time in the presence of exchange, T 2(0) is the phase memory time in the absence of exchange, and where ωex is the Heisenberg exchange frequency. This work indicates that the electron spin-echo technique may be a very important investigative tool for relaxation studies of spin labels in solution.
130 NUCLEOPROTEIN COMPOSITION OF THE HEART OF THE CARDIOMYOPATHIC TURKEY

We examined the possible involvement of nuclear proteins in the pathogenesis of a naturally occurring model of congestive cardiomyopathy(CCM) in turkeys. The protein composition of myocardial nuclei was compared in CCM (n=18) and control (n=9) turkeys, 70-140 days old. CCM hearts as a group had a higher histone content (1.75±0.09(SD) mg/g vs 1.65±0.07 in Con, P<0.01) and histone/non-histone protein ratio (1.07±0.07 vs 0.95±0.02, P<0.01). The latter was independent of age and correlated well (r=0.89) with the degree of cardiac dilation. The electrophoretic pattern of chromatin proteins did not differ in the two experimental groups. In vitro phosphorylation of nuclei was decreased in CCM hearts (9.7± 0.2 vs 12.8±0.1 pmole32/mg prot/15 min, P<0.01). The decrease was due to lower NHP phosphorylation (5.78±1.38 vs 8.33±0.81 pmole 32P/mg prot/15 min, P<0.01). DEAE-Sephacel chromatography separated cyclic AMP-dependent and independent nuclear protein kinases. Lower cAMP-independent activities were present in CCM hearts. There was a significant linear correlation between NHP phosphorylation and degree of cardiac dilation (r=0.75) or contractility as reflected by left ventricular systolic time intervals (r=0.79). SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of phosphorylated nucleoproteins revealed differences in the lower molecular weight species of NHPs between control and CCM hearts. These results suggest that development of this cardiomyopathy is associated with, and may be secondary to, changes in the composition and function of myocardial nucleoproteins.
A simple heat-salt oscillator

Abstract A theoretical study is made of a simple mixed-layer model, in the form of a well-mixed constant-depth layer, forced from above by a heat flux kT(TA−T) and salinity flux kS(SA−S), where TA and SA are two reference values and T and S the temperature and salinity of the layer. The layer has a turbulent exchange of heat and salt with underlying water, kept at constant temperature and salinity, which is small in a statically stable case; large in a statically unstable case. If kT>kS, self-sustained oscillations may occur. In one cycle, a fast temperature rise, a slower salinity increase, and a final relaxation when the layer adjusts to the conditions of the underlying water, are observed.
Single-station time-domain (SSTD) vibration testing technique: Theory and application

Abstract The single-station time-domain (SSTD) technique is proposed as a vibration testing method for the identification of the dynamic characteristics of complex structures. The theoretical part of the study shows that the technique works, in principle, for lumped mass systems and continuous systems when a finite number of modes are included in the response. The idea behind the method is to make use of free vibration time response data—such as acceleration, velocity, displacement, or strain at a station on the structure— to determine unknown natural frequencies and associated viscous damping ratios. The analysis procedure is based on the construction of a mathematical model for the vibrating system from the experimental response data. This model has a number of degrees of freedom equal to the number of modes excited. The solution of the resulting eigenvalue problem identifies the natural frequencies and their damping ratios. Each pair of complex conjugate eigenvalues and eigenvectors corresponds to an underdamped mode, whereas each pair of real eigenvalues and eigenvectors corresponds to a critically or overdamped mode. Also included in the analysis is a study of how to optimize the effects of different parameters introduced in the method, such as sampling rates, frequency bandwidth and number of modes, on the accuracy of the results. An experimental investigation is described, for the identification of the dynamic characteristics of real structures by the SSTD method, in which a single channel was used to measure, filter and record the free acceleration responses at an arbitrary point on the structure after an adequate period of excitation; the excitation need not be measured. With the SSTD method, one can minimize the amount of instrumentation required and more accurate results have been obtained than from other vibration testing techniques under similar circumstances. The results obtained from this laboratory study have indicated that the SSTD method is not sensitive to measurement noise or round-off errors and therefore it shows promise of becoming one of the best techniques for structural identification, especially when the system is complex, has closely spaced natural frequencies, and/or is a heavily damped structure.
A threshold gas Cerenkov counter for a 200 GeV/c beam

Abstract A test of a prototype gas Cerenkov counter is described. The emphasis was on testing various photomultipliers with extended quantum efficiency in the ultraviolet.
Growth and Modification of Diamond Anvils by Chemical Vapor Deposition

Homoepitaxial diamond films were grown on (100) natural type Ia diamond anvils using high density microwave plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (CVD). The growth morphology of the epitaxial films were compared for substrate temperatures from 1075 to 1365°C and thane precursor concentrations of 1 and 2% in a hydrogen plasma at 90 Torr. The diamond layers were polished to near optical flatness using an industrial grade polycrystalline diamond (PCD) disc attached to a high rpm rotating wheel. Diamond anvils with CVD layers on the tips were tested up to a pressure of 74 GPa without any film deformation. The versatility of the diamond polishing apparatus allows damaged or CVD-grown anvils to be shaped into a beveled-tip geometry for use in ultra-high pressure applications.
Adaptation of the centers for disease control guidelines for the prevention of nosocomial infection in a pediatric intensive care unit in Jakarta, Indonesia

We attempted to implement a nosocomial infection control program based on the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines in an urban Indonesian public hospital at the request of Project Hope. Adoption of unmodified CDC guidelines was impeded by a substandard physical plant, absence of an infection control infrastructure, limited sterilization capabilities, lack of clinical microbiologic laboratory support, and the expense of single use medical devices. After on-site evaluations, CDC guidelines were extensively modified so that they were appropriate for local conditions and culture. Strategies included inexpensive architectural modifications, addition of sinks and a commode, introduction of disinfection procedures for reuse of disposable medical devices, and adaptation of available supplies for maintenance of aseptic technique. On subsequent site visits, many physical changes had been accomplished, and handling of reusable and disposable medical devises had improved considerably but adoption of clinical practice policies was incomplete. We conclude that it may be difficult to implement and sustain improvements in clinical practice in the absence of an infection control infrastructure and a strong commitment by hospital clinicians and administrators. Additional research is needed to refine flexible methods for rapidly assessing the specific infection control needs of institutions with widely disparate resources, patient populations, environments, and cultures.
Mechanisms of transcription complex assembly.

Abstract Gene-specific activators control the access of RNA polymerase II (pol II) to promoters in several ways: by chromatin rearrangement involving an ATP-dependent SWI—SNF complex; by the synergistic recruitment of transcription factor IID (TFIID); and by either the sequential recruitment of basal transcription factors and poll II or the recruitment of a preformed pol II holoenzyme which includes most of the basal factors. One of the most significant recent developments has been the demonstration that distinct subunits of TFIID (namely subunits of the the TATA-binding protein associated factor) target different activators, basal factors, and core promoter elements.
T Cell Activation Induces Human Osteoclast Formation via Receptor Activator of Nuclear Factor κB Ligand-Dependent and -Independent Mechanisms

In unstimulated conditions, osteoclast (OC) formation is regulated by stromal cell production of the key osteoclastogenic factors receptor activator of nuclear factor kappaB ligand (RANKL) and macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF). However, the mechanisms of accelerated osteoclastogenesis and bone loss characteristic of inflammatory conditions are poorly understood but appear to involve T cells. In addition, the mechanism by which OCs arise spontaneously in cultures of peripheral blood mononuclear cells in the absence of stromal cells or added cytokines remains unclear. Using a stromal cell free human osteoclast generating system, we investigated the ability of activated T cells to support osteoclastogenesis. We show that when activated by phytohemagglutinin-P (PHA), T cells (both CD4+ and CD8+) stimulate human OC formation in vitro. Although both soluble M-CSF and RANKL were detected in activated T cell supernatants, the presence of M-CSF was not essential for macrophage survival or RANKL-dependent osteoclast formation, suggesting that other soluble T cell-derived factors were capable of substituting for this cytokine. We also found that saturating concentrations of osteoprotegerin (OPG) failed to neutralize 30% of the observed OC formation and that T cell conditioned medium (CM) could superinduce osteoclastogenesis in cultures of purified monocytes maximally stimulated by RANKL and M-CSF. Together, these data suggest that activated T cells support osteoclastogenesis via RANKL-dependent and -independent mechanisms. Although not relevant for T cell-induced osteoclastogenesis, secretion of soluble M-CSF is a previously undescribed property of activated T cells.
Multi-energy imagers for a radiotherapy treatment environment

Over the last ~15 years, the central goal in external beam radiotherapy of maximizing dose to the tumor while minimizing dose to surrounding normal tissues has been greatly facilitated by the development and clinical implementation of many innovations. These include megavoltage active matrix flat-panel imagers (MV AMFPIs) designed to image the treatment beam, and separate kilovoltage (kV) AMFPIs and x-ray sources designed to provide high-contrast projection and cone-beam CT images in the treatment room. While these systems provide clinically valuable information, a variety of advantages would accrue through introduction of the capability to produce clinically useful, high quality imaging information at multiple energies (e.g., kV and MV) from a single detector along the treatment beam direction. One possible approach for achieving this goal involves substitution of the x-ray converters used in conventional MV AMFPIs with thick, segmented crystalline scintillators designed for dual-energy operation, coupled with the addition of x-ray imaging beams that contain a significant diagnostic component. A second approach involves introduction of a large area, monolithic array of photon counting pixels with multiple energy thresholds and event counters, which could provide multi-spectral views of the treatment beam with improved contrast. In this paper, the motivations behind, and the merits of each approach are described. In addition, prospects for such dual-energy imagers and photon counting array designs are discussed in the context of the radiotherapy environment.
Resort development impact on labor and land markets

Abstract Using time series profiles from 1965 to 1990, this article examines the impact of large-scale resort development on the real wages and real land prices on the Big Island of Hawaii, USA. It is found that the wages of labor did not rise in the face of rapid and large-scale development. Land prices responded only weakly to this development. Land prices appreciate more rapidly the closer the land in question is to the resort developments. For labor, the results indicate an elastic supply of labor to this market. For land, this study indicates that development of this type has only a limited impact on land prices.
Ultrastructure of Lobocharacium coloradoense, gen. et sp. nov. (Chlorophyta, Characiosiphonaceae), an unusual coenocyte from Colorado

Light and electron microscopic descriptions are provided for Lobocharacium coloradoense, gen. et sp. nov., a unicellular coenocytic green alga isolated from a power plant's retaining pond in north-central Colorado. Vegetative cells range from 120–230 μm in length and 80–120 μm in diameter in culture. The large vegetative cells are attached to substrates by small discoid attachment pads. The cells are multinucleate and consist of distinct cytoplasmic lobes, with each lobe containing a chloroplast and a basal nucleus. Chloroplasts are somewhat cone-shaped in profile and stellate or lobed when viewed from the surface, and each has a central, basal pyrenoid. Hundreds of these cytoplasmic lobes occur within a cell, and thin cytoplasmic bridges interconnect the lobes. When a vegetative cell matures, each of the cytoplasmic lobes cleaves to form numerous fusiform zoospores or spherical isogametes. The biflagellate isogametes range in size from 4–10 μm, they lack a cell wall, they have a cup-shaped chloroplast with a pyrenoid and stigma, and they have a nucleus close to the basal bodies. Isogametes are incapable of forming vegetative cells. Zoospores are biflagellate and fusiform, measuring 8–12 μm in length and 4–6 μm in diameter. Each zoospore has a cell wall, a single parietal chloroplast with a prominent pyrenoid in the center of the chloroplast, and a long oval stigma. Gamete and zoospore release involves a dissolution of the entire vegetative wall. Released zoospores usually settle and cluster near the vegetative cell from which they were produced, attach to the substrate with their flagella, and, shortly after losing their flagella, extrude mucilage through the flagellar pores in the wall to form a small discoid attachment pad. The incipient vegetative cell is fusiform and uninucleate, but it becomes more rounded and multinucleate as enlargement occurs. Most vegetative cells in culture become dormant, and the chloroplast becomes orange in color. Some cells form single aplanospores that can withstand desiccation, but occasionally numerous aplanospores may also be formed later in the larger vegetative cells.
The WISTAH hand study: A prospective cohort study of distal upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders

Few prospective cohort studies of distal upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders have been performed. Past studies have provided somewhat conflicting evidence for occupational risk factors and have largely reported data without adjustments for many personal and psychosocial factors. A multi-center prospective cohort study was incepted to quantify risk factors for distal upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders and potentially develop improved methods for analyzing jobs. Disorders to analyze included carpal tunnel syndrome, lateral epicondylalgia, medial epicondylalgia, trigger digit, deQuervain’s stenosing tenosynovitis and other tendinoses. Workers have thus far been enrolled from 17 different employment settings in 3 diverse US states and performed widely varying work. At baseline, workers undergo laptop administered questionnaires, structured interviews, two standardized physical examinations and nerve conduction studies to ascertain demographic, medical history, psychosocial factors and current musculoskeletal disorders. All workers’ jobs are individually measured for physical factors and are videotaped. Workers are followed monthly for the development of musculoskeletal disorders. Repeat nerve conduction studies are performed for those with symptoms of tingling and numbness in the prior six months. Changes in jobs necessitate re-measure and re-videotaping of job physical factors. Case definitions have been established. Point prevalence of carpal tunnel syndrome is a combination of paraesthesias in at least two median nerve-served digits plus an abnormal nerve conduction study at baseline. The lifetime cumulative incidence of carpal tunnel syndrome will also include those with a past history of carpal tunnel syndrome. Incident cases will exclude those with either a past history or prevalent cases at baseline. Statistical methods planned include survival analyses and logistic regression. A prospective cohort study of distal upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders is underway and has successfully enrolled over 1,000 workers to date.
The brownfield dual land-use policy challenge: reducing barriers to private redevelopment while connecting reuse to broader community goals

Brownfields are abandoned or under-utilised sites with known or suspected environmental contamination. Public-sector efforts to promote brownfields redevelopment face a dual land-use policy challenge. On the one hand, government agencies must help reduce the barriers to private-sector reuse by addressing the uncertainties created by four major issues: legal liability for contamination; uncertain cleanup standards; availability of funding for redevelopment; and complicated regulatory requirements. On the other hand, brownfields reuse must be connected to wider community efforts to achieve environmental protection, central city revitalisation and reduced suburban sprawl. This involves tackling sustainable development and environmental justice issues: the marketability of brownfields; the social costs and benefits of developing greenfields versus redeveloping brownfields and meaningful community participation. This paper examines the progress by US local, state and federal agencies during the last decade in addressing this dual challenge. It is based on a review of the interdisciplinary brownfields literature, and evidence from Toledo, Ohio, whose experience promoting cleanup and reuse reflects that of many Midwestern and Northeastern cities.
Integrated Multidimensional Analysis Is Required for Accurate Prognostic Biomarkers in Colorectal Cancer

CRC cancer is one of the deadliest diseases in Western countries. In order to develop prognostic biomarkers for CRC (colorectal cancer) aggressiveness, we analyzed retrospectively 267 CRC patients via a novel, multidimensional biomarker platform. Using nanofluidic technology for qPCR analysis and quantitative fluorescent immunohistochemistry for protein analysis, we assessed 33 microRNAs, 124 mRNAs and 9 protein antigens. Analysis was conducted in each single dimension (microRNA, gene or protein) using both the multivariate Cox model and Kaplan-Meier method. Thereafter, we simplified the censored survival data into binary response data (aggressive vs. non aggressive cancer). Subsequently, we integrated the data into a diagnostic score using sliced inverse regression for sufficient dimension reduction. Accuracy was assessed using area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Single dimension analysis led to the discovery of individual factors that were significant predictors of outcome. These included seven specific microRNAs, four genes, and one protein. When these factors were quantified individually as predictors of aggressive disease, the highest demonstrable area under the curve (AUC) was 0.68. By contrast, when all results from single dimensions were combined into integrated biomarkers, AUCs were dramatically increased with values approaching and even exceeding 0.9. Single dimension analysis generates statistically significant predictors, but their predictive strengths are suboptimal for clinical utility. A novel, multidimensional integrated approach overcomes these deficiencies. Newly derived integrated biomarkers have the potential to meaningfully guide the selection of therapeutic strategies for individual patients while elucidating molecular mechanisms driving disease progression.
A lava rock-based biofilter for the treatment of alpha-pinene.

Abstract Biofiltration is an emerging technology in the United States that utilizes microorganisms to biodegrade harmful contaminants in air to carbon dioxide and water. Biofiltration is not only more cost effective, but also more environmentally friendly than traditional technologies such as thermal oxidation and chemical scrubbing. The primary objectives of the study were to operate a lava rock-based laboratory biofiltration system for the removal of alpha-pinene. A consortium of microorganisms to be used as an inoculum was recovered that was able to use alpha-pinene as a sole source of carbon and energy. The removal of alpha-pinene from the laboratory system was monitored with a total hydrocarbon analyzer (THA). Based on THA analysis, elimination capacities as high as 100+ g/m 3 /h were obtained in the laboratory biofilters. Removal efficiencies averaged 99% over a two year period. The solid support maintained a neutral pH with no buffer addition throughout the two year study and microbial levels were maintained between 10 6 and 10 7 colony forming units (CFU)/g of solid support. Bacillus and Rhodococcus species were found to be the majority of the microorganisms in the biofilters over a two year period. This is the first time an organism from either of these genera has been reported to utilize alpha-pinene as a sole source of carbon and energy. Overall, a preselected consortium of microorganisms coupled with lava rock as a biofilter solid support achieved extended alpha-pinene treatment levels that far exceed previously published values.