cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Genetic deletion of the striatum-enriched phosphodiesterase PDE10A: evidence for altered striatal function.

PDE10A is a newly identified phosphodiesterase that is highly expressed by the medium spiny projection neurons of the striatum. In order to investigate the physiological role of PDE10A in the central nervous system, PDE10A knockout mice (PDE10A−/−) were characterized both behaviorally and neurochemically. PDE10A−/− mice showed decreased exploratory activity and a significant delay in the acquisition of conditioned avoidance behavior when compared to wild-type (PDE10A+/+) mice. However, in a variety of other well-characterized behavioral tasks, including the elevated plus maze (anxiety), forced swim test (depression), hot plate (nociception) and two memory models (passive avoidance and Morris water maze), PDE10A−/− mice performed similarly to wild-type mice. When challenged with PCP or MK-801, PDE10A−/− mice showed a blunted locomotor response in comparison to PDE10A+/+ mice. In contrast, PDE10A−/− and PDE10A+/+ mice responded similarly to the locomotor stimulating effects of amphetamine and methamphetamine. Our findings suggest that PDE10A is involved in regulating striatal output, possibly by reducing the sensitivity of medium spiny neurons to glutamatergic excitation. These results are discussed in relationship to the hypothesis that PDE10A inhibition presents a novel treatment for psychosis.
Differences in measurements of the atria of the lateral ventricle: Does gender matter?

Objective: To evaluate possible differences in measurements of the width of atria of the lateral cerebral ventricles of male and female fetuses. Study Design: A p
Green's functions in biological potential problems

Electrical potential problems encountered in biology differ from those usually considered in electrical theory first, because the membranes of tissues satisfy a non-linear relation between current flow and polarization, and second, because the interior of the tissues are not equipotentials. A Green's function suitable for discussing such problems is defined, and a cylindrical illustration of such a function is discussed.
Evaluation of the potential of riddelliine to induce unscheduled DNA synthesis, S‐phase synthesis, or micronuclei following in vivo treatment with multiple doses

Riddelliine (RID) is a pyrrolizidine alkaloid found in plants of the genera Crotalaria, Amsinckia, and Senecio in the United States. RID has been extensively studied in a wide variety of in vitro short-term genotoxicity tests and has yielded positive responses in most test systems; however, there are fewer data available on the effects of RID in in vivo assays and no data under repeat-dose regimens. We have evaluated the ability of RID to induce unscheduled DNA synthesis (UDS) in hepatocytes, S-phase synthesis (SPS) in hepatocytes, and micronuclel in bone marrow from animals dosed for 5 or 30 days in conjunction with prechronic toxicity testing conducted for the National Toxicology Program. Results of this study indicate that RID did not induce an increase in micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes (PCE) in bone marrow of mice after 5 days of dosing or in PCE from rats or mice after 30 days of dosing. RID did not induce an increase in UDS in rat hepatocytes after 5 or 30 days of dosing, but it did induce an equivocal UDS response in male mice after both time points and a positive response in female mice after 30 days of dosing. RID induced significant elevations in SPS in rat hepatocytes after both 5 and 30 days of dosing, even at low doses. An increase in SPS was observed in male and female mouse hepatocytes, but only after 30 days of dosing. Rats and mice of both sexes showed a depression in SPS at higher doses. This effect may be a result of toxicity, which compromises the ability of the liver to regenerate. These results demonstrate that repeated administration of test chemicals may alter the genotoxic response to chemicals. © 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
The laminar-turbulent transition for fluids with a yield stress

The method for predicting the onset of turbulence was extended to the case of semifluids by means of a linear Bingham model. The method was applied to flow in pipes, concentric amuli, and between parallel plates. The pipeflow calculations were compared with literature data and found to agree well for N/sub He/ > (Hedstrom number) 10/sup 5/ are explained as being due to the inadequacy of the simple model at high N/sub He/ values. (D.L.C.)
Social insects: Cuticular hydrocarbons inform task decisions

Social insect colonies are organized without central control, and must not only accomplish many tasks, such as foraging and nest construction, but must also respond to changing conditions by adjusting the number of workers performing each task1,2. Here we use chemically treated, artificial ants to show that cuticular hydrocarbons, which differ according to task, are used by workers of the red harvester ant (Pogonomyrmex barbatus) to recognize the tasks of the ants that they encounter. Encounters with other ants thus inform a worker's decision on whether to perform a particular task.
Interleukin-1β increases basic fibroblast growth factor mRNA expression in adult rat brain and organotypic hippocampal cultures

Abstract In situ hybridization was used to study the effect of IL-1β on acidic fibroblast growth factor (aFGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) mRNA expression in rat brain. Intraventricular injection of recombinant human IL-1β did not affect hybridization to aFGF mRNA but did induce significant and widespread increases in hybridization to bFGF mRNA. IL-1β induced increases in bFGF mRNA were bilaterally distributed and appeared to correspond with the distribution of non-neuronal cells. Thus, hybridization was increased in regions of both gray and white matter (e.g., corpus callosum), the ependymal lining of the third ventricle, and the pia matter. In hippocampus of IL-1β injected rats, hybridization was markedly increased in the molecular layers but not significantly increased in the neuronal cell layers. Elevations in bFGF mRNA were transient, peaking at 8 h postinjection in most areas. To determine if IL-1β effects were independent of activation of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis, and to compare the cellular localization of increases in bFGF mRNA expression induced by IL-1β and bFGF, the regulation of bFGF expression was also studied in organotypic hippocampal slice cultures. Treatment of cultures with either IL-1β or bFGF stimulated the same general distribution of increases in bFGF mRNA as seen after IL-1β treatment in vivo with an additional effect on immature neurons within the hilar side of stratum granulosum; hybridization of bFGF mRNA was not increased in association with the more mature neurons of stratum pyramidale or stratum granulosum. Colocalization of bFGF cRNA hybridization with immunostaining for glial fibrillary acidic protein demonstrated that increases in bFGF mRNA induced both by IL-1β in vivo and in vitro and by bFGF in vitro were largely associated with astroglial cells. These findings suggest that IL-1β inuction of bFGF contributes to the coactivation of these substances following various forms of insult to the CNS and initiates a cascade of trophic interactions that regulates processes of glial proliferation, neurotrophic factor expression, and neuroprotection.
Propylene Oxidation Mechanisms and Intermediates Using in Situ Soft X-ray Fluorescence Methods on the Pt(111) Surface

The oxidation of propylene preabsorbed on the Pt(111) surface has been characterized in oxygen pressures up to 0.02 Torr using fluorescence yield near-edge spectroscopy (FYNES) and temperature-programmed fluorescence yield near-edge spectroscopy (TP-FYNES) above the carbon K edge. During oxidation of adsorbed propylene, a stable intermediate was observed and characterized using these soft X-ray methods. A general in situ method for determining the stoichiometry of carbon-containing reaction intermediate species has been developed and demonstrated for the first time. Total carbon concentration measured during temperature-programmed reaction studies clearly indicates a reaction intermediate is formed in the 300 K temperature range with a surface concentration of 0.55 x 10{sup 15} carbon atoms/cm{sup 2}. By comparing the intensity of the C-H {sigma}* resonance at the magic angle with the intensity in the carbon continuum, the stoichiometry of this intermediate can be determined unambiguously. Based on calibration with molecular propylene (C{sub 3}H{sub 6}) and propylidyne (C{sub 3}H{sub 5}), the intermediate has a C{sub 3}H{sub 5} stoichiometry for oxygen pressures up to 0.02 Torr. A set of normal and glancing angle FYNES spectra above the carbon K edge was used to characterize the bonding and structure of this intermediate. Spectra of known coverages of adsorbed propylenemore » and propylidyne served as standards. The spectra of di-{sigma} propylene, propylidyne, and the intermediate were curve fit as a group with consistent energies and widths of all primary features. Based on this procedure, the intermediate is 1,1,2-tri-{sigma} 1-methylvinyl. The stoichiometry and temperature stability range of the 1-methylvinyl intermediate formed in oxygen pressures up to 0.02 Torr is identical with the stoichiometry and stability of the same intermediate formed during oxidation of preadsorbed propylene by excess coadsorbed atomic oxygen.« less
Multi-bandgap high-efficiency photovoltaics enabled by broadband diffractive optics

We describe a novel approach to improve efficiency of photovoltaics via a microstructured broadband diffractive optic that spectrally splits and concentrates incident sunlight onto multiple laterally separated solar cells of different bandgaps.
BESSEL-WEIGHTED ASYMMETRIES AND TRANSVERSE SPIN EFFECTS

We consider the cross section for semi-inclusive deep inelastic scattering in Fourier space, conjugate to the outgoing hadron's transverse momentum, where convolutions of transverse momentum dependent parton distribution functions and fragmentation functions become simple products. Individual asymmetric terms in the cross section can be projected out by means of a generalized set of weights involving Bessel functions. Advantages of employing these Bessel weights are that they suppress (divergent) contributions from high transverse momentum and that soft factors cancel in (Bessel-) weighted asymmetries. Also, the resulting compact expressions immediately connect to previous work on evolution equations for transverse momentum dependent parton distribution and fragmentation functions and to quantities accessible in lattice QCD. Bessel-weighted asymmetries are thus model independent observables that augment the description and our understanding of correlations of spin and momentum in nucleon structure.
Bursting bacteria by release of gas pressure.

MANY investigations of bacterial metabolism require that the contents of the cell be released. This apparently simple requirement has not yet been met in a completely satisfactory way. The present method differs in principle from previous techniques. It consists of sudden release of applied gas pressure and is very simple, rapid and inexpensive. Under optimum conditions, bursting of well over 90 per cent of the cells is easily attained, and the only substance introduced is a gas which has been shown to be non-injurious to the bacteria.
Internet use by patients in an inflammatory bowel disease specialty clinic.

Background: Patient education is known to improve satisfaction in and participation with treatment. A careful assessment of internet use by inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients to gather information has not been reported. Our aim was to evaluate internet use to gather general health- and disease-specific information in patients presenting to an IBD clinic. Methods: A cross-sectional anonymous survey using a convenience sample of patients (N = 175) at a tertiary-care institution's IBD clinic was performed. Results: In all, 169 surveys (97%) were returned for analysis. The median age was 46 (17–84), 83 men and 81 women (5 missing). In known IBD patients (87%), 85 (50%) had Crohn's disease and 62 (37%) ulcerative colitis; 81% of patients had home internet access. The most common information sources were: gastroenterologists (59%), internet (54%), and primary-care physicians (54%). Ninety-two patients (54%) used the internet to gather IBD-specific information. Age-specific use ( 65) was 73%, 48%, 37.5%, respectively. There was a significant positive association between level of education and internet use (P < 0.0001), but not with income. Internet sites most commonly visited were organization- or institution-specific. Factors that most influenced a user's choice of an internet site were noncommercial status (59%) and ease of use (53%). The majority of patients (57%) rated internet information “trustworthy” to “very trustworthy.” Conclusions: Over half of patients in an IBD clinic used the internet to gather IBD-specific information. Use was inversely associated with age and positively correlated with education level. There was no income association. These findings suggest web-based IBD information may become increasingly important in the future. (Inflamm Bowel Dis 2007)
A stability criterion for the measurement of diffusion coefficients in the zonal ultracentrifuge.

Abstract Experiments have been conducted to determine the onset of droplet sedimentation in diffusion experiments in the zonal ultracentrifuge. The data obtained have been used to provide a guide for the choice of appropriate macromolecular and supporting solute concentrations in such experiments. Comments are made on the effect of introducing perturbed zones into the rotor.
A two dimensional arma model for the simulation of IR backgrounds

At the US Army Ballistic Research Laboratory (BRL), Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md., weapon system analysts use background models in order to: 1) establish ‘clutter’ thresholds for firing algorithms: and, 2) to study the masking and false alarm effect of background in their effort to evaluate the performance of various weapon systems. The BRL has received from US Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station (WES) several large data bases comprised of blackbody temperatures derived from measurements obtained with an IR sensor. The sensor was mounted on a helicopter and scanned in the cross-track direction perpendicular to the direction of flight (in-track). The data consist of temperatures of scene elements (pixels) for a plowed field, a forested area, and a grassy field. The primary objective of this research is to provide a simple mathematical model which provides simulated data that are consistent with descriptive statistics from the original spatially correlated data base. Such statistics include the mean a...
Partisan Cues and the Media: Information Flows in the 1992 Presidential Election

Electoral research acknowledges the growing significance of the mass media in contemporary campaigns, but scholars are divided on the nature of this influence. Using a unique database that includes both media content and public opinion, we examine the flow of partisan information from newspapers to the voters and assess the press's role in electoral politics and citizen learning. We find that the American press does not present clear and singular messages about presidential elections but, rather, multiple messages about the candidates and the campaign. In addition, perception of the information is shaped as much by an individual's political views as by the objective content. Despite the mixed messages, we find that a newspaper's editorial content is significantly related to candidate preferences in 1992. These results challenge the minimal effects interpretation of the media, because local newspapers can play a significant role in providing cues that influence voters' electoral calculus.
Autoimmune arthritis caused by Candida septic arthritis

A 64-year-old woman with spina bifida, chronic paraplegia, chronic renal failure, hypertension, and a history of breast and bladder carcinoma was admitted in August 1991 with fever and chills after an episode in which her permanent catheter was irrigated with urokinase solution. Her initial blood culture grew out Candida tropicalis. Three subsequent blood cultures during the same hospital stay were negative for Candida, and as a result the patient was not treated. The diagnosis was a transient fungaemia. Throughout the next year the patient had intermittent pain in the left shoulder. The pain was not severe enough to require medical attention, and no aspirations of the shoulder were performed. In August 1992, approximately 1 year after the episode of transient fungaemia, the patient presented with progressive swelling, pain, and warmth of the left shoulder. No signs of systemic illness were seen, and no other joints were symptomatic. Routine radiographs were read as normal. Arthrocentesis yielded a large amount of cloudy fluid; Candida tropicalis was grown on culture. This condition was treated with serial aspirations, systemic
Development and implementation of a first-semester hybrid organic chemistry course: Yielding advantages for educators and students

A first-semester organic chemistry course was developed as a hybrid course. The students met face-to-face for one class each week (50 minutes) and the lectures were accessible online via Adobe Connect. Quizzes were scheduled for almost every lecture with access online through ANGEL. In addition, the students had three in-class tests and one final exam. There were 29 students total, from three different semesters, enrolled in the hybrid class. A description of and suggestions for hybrid course development are described.
Usage of Ca45 in Determination of Vitamin D Depletion and Response Time in Chicks

Abstract INFORMATION on the time required to deplete chicks of vitamin D and also time required for a vitamin D depleted chick to respond to supplementary vitamin D is limited. Migicovsky and Nielson (1951) presented data showing that chicks which had been fed a vitamin D deficient ration responded to supplementary vitamin D when 3 days of age. This indicated rapid depletion or small body storage of vitamin D. Reported in this manuscript are data dealing with usage of Ca45 in determination of vitamin D depletion and response time in chicks. EXPERIMENTAL White Leghorn cockerel chicks were used during these studies. The vitamin D depletion time was determined on parental transfer (that which was obtained from the egg) and the time required to deplete a chick which received a single dosage of vitamin D. Four lots of chicks were used during these studies. They were treated as follows: (1) basal ration …
Bounded influence nonlinear signed-rank regression

In this paper we consider weighted generalized-signed-rank estimators of nonlinear regression coefficients. The generalization allows us to include popular estimators such as the least squares and least absolute deviations estimators but by itself does not give bounded influence estimators. Adding weights results in estimators with bounded influence function. We establish conditions needed for the consistency and asymptotic normality of the proposed estimator and discuss how weight functions can be chosen to achieve bounded influence function of the estimator. Real life examples and Monte Carlo simulation experiments demonstrate the robustness and efficiency of the proposed estimator. An example shows that the weighted signed-rank estimator can be useful to detect outliers in nonlinear regression. The Canadian Journal of Statistics 40: 172–189; 2012 © 2012 Statistical Society of Canada Dans cet article, nous considerons les estimateurs bases sur les rangs signes generalises ponderes des coefficients d'une regression non lineaire. Cette generalisation nous permet d'inclure les estimateurs populaires tels que les estimateurs des moindres carres et des moindres deviations absolues, mais qui, par eux-memes, ne conduisent pas a des estimateurs ayant une fonction d'influence bornee. A l'aide d'une fonction de ponderation, nous obtenons des estimateurs ayant une fonction d'influence bornee. Nous donnons des conditions necessaires pour obtenir la coherence et la normalite asymptotique de l'estimateur propose et nous discutons du choix des fonctions de poids permettant a l'estimateur d'avoir une fonction d'influence bornee. Des exemples bases sur des donnees reelles et simulees etablissent la robustesse et l'efficacite de l'estimateur propose. Un exemple illustre que l'estimateur base sur les rangs signes ponderes peut etre utile pour detecter les valeurs aberrantes en regression non lineaire. La revue canadienne de statistique 40: 172–189; 2012 © 2012 Societe statistique du Canada
A solar spicule model based upon calcium II K line radiative transfer studies

Monte Carlo radiative transfer techniques are used to develop a height-dependent spicule model based upon a more realistic configuration than has hitherto been considered. The spicule is represented by a uniform cylinder, of finite length, standing vertically upon a plane chromosphere. The observed, limb-darkened, anisotropic chromospheric flux incident upon the cylinder is incorporated into the transfer calculations. The resulting model is characterized by a random, line broadening velocity of 20 km/sec, with electron temperature increasing from 6 × 103 K at the base to about 1.5 × 104 K at 11500 km above the solar surface. The corresponding values of electron density are 8 × 1011 cm-3 and 4 × 1010 cm-3. Contrast curves of the spicule model against the chromospheric background are computed and indicate that spicules should appear both bright and dark on the disk, depending upon their position with respect to the limb, the spectral frequency of observation and the viewing height.
Segregated in perception, integrated for action: Immunity of rhythmic sensorimotor coordination to auditory stream segregation

Auditory stream segregation can occur when tones of different pitch (A, B) are repeated cyclically: The larger the pitch separation and the faster the tempo, the more likely perception of two separ...
Microsomal drug hydroxylase activity of Tetrahymena pyriformis.

Abstract 1. By spectrophotometric determination the content of cytochrome P450 in the microsomal preparation from Tetrahymena pyriformis (strain WH-14) was estimated to be less than 0.014 nmol/mg protein. Optical absorption spectroscopy at 77°K revealed that the microsomal cytochromes mainly consist of b-type heme protein. 2. The microsomal NADPH-oxidase activity was inhibited by hydroxylase inhibitors such as metyrapone, amphenone B and elipten phosphate to a much lesser extent compared with rat liver microsomal activity. 3. No significant hydroxylation activity of xenobiotics by the protozoan microsomal sample was detected. The activity was not induced by administration of phenobarbital or 3-methylcholanthrene. 4. Nonparasitic protozoon Tetrahymena pyriformis appears to have very low if any cytochrome P450-dependent detoxication mechanism. These observations are in contrast to the observation by Agosin et al., 1976, who reports a weak but detectable activity of drug hydroxylation in parasitic protozoon Trypanosoma cruzi.
Distribución del ingreso y crecimiento en Colombia

La nocion que el crecimiento y los resultados distributivos estan intimamente relacionados, y deben ser explicados de manera simultanea en cualquier contexto teoricamente valido y relevante en terminos de politica economica. La medida de la distribucion del ingreso no debe verse como una medida ex post de la equidad con que el producto se genero y se distribuyo, si no como una parte integral de cualquier teoria positiva del desarrollo. Esto es especialmente cierto en el contexto de una economia mixta de un pais en desarrollo, donde se puede afirmar con algun grado de seguridad, que es muy improbable (por razones politicas y tecnicas) que la redistribucion fiscal afecte sustancialmente los resultados del proceso economico. Por otra parte presenta algunos hechos caracteristicos del desempeno global del crecimiento y la distribucion en Colombia.
Numerical Heliospheric Simulations as Assisting Tool for Interpretation of Observations by STEREO Heliospheric Imagers

The interpretation of multi-spacecraft heliospheric observations and three-dimensional reconstruction of structured and evolving solar wind is challenging. This is especially true for the interpretation of white-light structures observed by the Heliospheric Imagers (HI) onboard STEREO spacecraft since their appearance depends on three-dimensional geometric factors. Numerical simulations can provide global context and suggest what may and may not be observed. We use the heliospheric code ENLIL to simulate various scenarios of well-defined corotating solar wind streams and ejected transient density structures, and we generate from the solutions synthetic white-light images at various locations. We illustrate that corotating interaction regions (CIRs) show up differently in HI-2A and HI-2B and that they may appear as transient structures in HI-2A but not in HI-2B. This asymmetry is caused by differing Thomson scattering responses. Further, we illustrate that a given interplanetary coronal mass ejection (ICME) may exhibit drastically different white-light brightness depending on the observing position and that some ICMEs can eventually reach Earth without being detected by the imagers. Finally, we demonstrate application of the modeling system through simulation of the 24 – 25 January 2007, 31 December 2007 and 26 April 2008 CMEs.
Impacts of pH and ammonia on the leaching of Cu(II) and Cd(II) from coal fly ash

Abstract Many coal-fired power plants are implementing ammonia-based technologies to reduce NOx emissions. Excess ammonia in the flue gas often deposits on the coal fly ash. Ammonia can form complexes with many heavy metals and change the leaching characteristics of these metals. This research tends to develop a fundamental understanding of the ammonia impact on the leaching of some heavy metals, exemplified by Cu(II) and Cd(II), under different pH conditions. Batch results indicated that the adsorption is the main mechanism controlling Cu(II) and Cd(II) leaching, and high concentrations of ammonia (>5000 mg/l) can increase the release of Cu(II) and Cd(II) in the alkaline pH range. Based on the chemical reactions among fly ash, ammonia, and heavy metal ion, a mathematical model was developed to quantify effects of pH and ammonia on metal adsorption. The adsorption constants (log K) of Cu2+, Cu(OH)+, Cu(OH)2, and Cu ( NH 3 ) m 2 + for the fly ash under investigation were respectively 6.0, 7.7, 9.6, and 2.9. For Cd(II), these constants were respectively 4.3, 6.9, 8.8, and 2.6. Metal speciation calculations indicated that the formation of less adsorbable metal–ammonia complexes decreased metal adsorption, therefore enhanced metal leaching.
Identification and Carrier Dynamics of the Dominant Lifetime Limiting Defect in n− 4H‐SiC Epitaxial Layers

The identity and characteristics of the lifetime limiting defects in n-type 4H-SiC epitaxial layers are of particular current interest, due to the suitability of this material for high-power, solid-state switching devices. Much work has been done in the past decade to identify the spectral signature and the local atomic structure of the defect that controls the lifetime in this material. Until recently, it was concluded that two dominant electron traps, Z1/2 and EH6/7, both associated with a carbon vacancy, were controlling the lifetime. DLTS and optical studies show, however, that EH6/7 is not an important minority carrier trap, due to its small capture cross section for holes. Thus, Z1/2 acts alone as the lifetime limiting defect. The details of recombination at this trap have been studied through the injection level and temperature dependence of the carrier lifetime and through carrier dynamics simulations that take into account the complex nature of the defect. The simulations shed light on the processes that dominate the recombination at Z1/2 over a large range of injection level and temperature. (© 2009 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Interfacility Helicopter Ambulance Transport of Neurosurgical Patients: Observations, Utilization, and Outcomes from a Quaternary Level Care Hospital

BACKGROUND The clinical benefit of helicopter transport over ground transportation for interfacility transport is unproven. We sought to determine actual practice patterns, utilization, and outcomes of patients undergoing interfacility transport for neurosurgical conditions. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS We retrospectively examined all interfacility helicopter transfers to a single trauma center during 2008. We restricted our analysis to those transfers leading either to admission to the neurosurgical service or to formal consultation upon arrival. Major exclusion criteria included transport from the scene, death during transport, and transport to any area of the hospital other than the emergency department. The primary outcome was time interval to invasive intervention. Secondary outcomes were estimated ground transportation times from the referring hospital, admitting disposition, and discharge disposition. Of 526 candidate interfacility helicopter transfers to our emergency department in 2008, we identified 167 meeting study criteria. Seventy-five (45%) of these patients underwent neurosurgical intervention. The median time to neurosurgical intervention ranged from 1.0 to 117.8 hours, varying depending on the diagnosis. For 101 (60%) of the patients, estimated driving time from the referring institution was less than one hour. Four patients (2%) expired in the emergency department, and 34 patients (20%) were admitted to a non-ICU setting. Six patients were discharged home within 24 hours. For those admitted, in-hospital mortality was 28%. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE Many patients undergoing interfacility transfer for neurosurgical evaluation are inappropriately triaged to helicopter transport, as evidenced by actual times to intervention at the accepting institution and estimated ground transportation times from the referring institution. In a time when there is growing interest in health care cost containment, practitioners must exercise discretion in the selection of patients for air ambulance transport--particularly when it may not bear influence on clinical outcome. Neurosurgical evaluation via telemedicine may be one strategy for improving air transport triage.
Sandwich ELISA formats designed to detect 17 kDa IL-1β significantly underestimate 35 kDa IL-1β

Abstract The IL-1β precursor (proIL-1β) represents a significant component of total IL-1β production in certain cell types such as keratinocytes, fibroblasts and alveolar macrophages. It has been presumed that immunodetection systems for the mature 17 kDa IL-1β can be used interchangeably for the 35 kDa intracellular proIL-1β. However, during attempts to purify alveolar macrophage proIL-1β, we found that conventional enzyme-linked immunoassays (ELISAs) (using antibodies directed against the 17 kDa mature IL-1β) underestimated the amounts of 35 kDa proIL-1β by at least ten-fold compared to detection by Western blot techniques. This difference was due to the fact that ELISAs, with an antigen capture format (i.e., that use more than one epitope), can more readily see these distinct epitopes on mature or partially processed IL-1β than on the proIL-1β molecule. This problem does not occur with the Western blot technique, either because only one antibody is needed and hence there is no stearic blockade of a second epitope or because it denatures 35 kDa proIL-1β during the immobilization step, presumably better exposing epitopes as expressed on mature 17 kDa IL-1β. The problem with the ELISA can be partially corrected by proteolytic removal of the aminoterminus of 35 kDa proIL-1β with neutrophil elastase. More accurate determinations of proIL-1β by ELISA can be made by using 35 kDa proIL-1β as the reference standard (when the 35 kDa proIL-1β is free of lower molecular weight IL-1β). These data suggest that there are conformational differences between the carboxyterminus of 35 kDa proIL-1β and mature 17 kDa IL-1β which may affect immunodetection when using antibodies directed against mature 17 kDa IL-1β.
Birkhoff's theorem for ghost-free, tachyon-freeR + R 2 +Q 2 theories with torsion

We investigate the conditions under which the class of ghost-free, tachyon-freeR + R2 +Q2 theories with torsion satisfy Birkhoff's theorem. We prove a weakened Birkhoff theorem requiring an additional assumption of parity invariance for two Lagrangians one of which contains torsion squared terms in addition to curvature squared terms. For another Lagrangian, also containing torsion squared terms, a weakened Birkhoff theorem requiring the additional assumptions of parity invariance and constant scalar curvature is proven. A special case of this Lagrangian is shown to satisfy a weakened Birkhoff theorem requiring only the additional assumption of constant scalar curvature. In addition the explicit dependence of torsion on parity noninvariant quantities is displayed.
Dating blueschist metamorphism: A combined 40Ar/39Ar and electron microprobe approach

Abstract 40 Ar 39 Ar and electron microprobe examination of blueschist samples from the Iceberg Lake schist, southern Alaska suggest that phengite inclusions are the source of 40Ar in crossite. Because such finegrained inclusions may be susceptible to argon loss, caution should be exercised in interpreting K-Ar ages from this phase, and possibly other low-K amphiboles from blueschist suites. The estimated blocking temperature for phengite in the matrix (314° to 450°C), however, is close to the estimated peak metamorphic temperatures (325° ± 50°C), suggesting that phengite 40 Ar 39 Ar plateau dates may coincide closely with the time of blueschist metamorphism.
Comparative study of portacaval and mesocaval interposition shunts

Portacaval and mesocaval interposition shunts using vascular prosthetic grafts were compared in 37 cirrhotic patients without portal vein thrombosis who were operated on for previous or active variceal hemorrhage. Operative indications and severity of liver disease were similar in the two groups of patients having one or the other procedure. The major difference in results was that none of the 23 patients with portacaval H-graft shunts had rebleeding, while 4 of 14 had rebleeding from varices after mesocaval interposition shunting. This contributed to the higher operative mortality associated with the latter procedure. The index of operative difficulty, as judged by blood loss and length of operation, and postshunt encephalopathy rates were similar for both procedures. Thus, while the mesocaval interposition shunt offers none of the reported theoretical advantages over portacaval H-graft shunt, it does place patients at greater risk of postoperative variceal rehemorrhage. It is concluded that the portacaval interposition shunt, because of its effectiveness and technical expediency, may be the operation of choice in cirrhotic patients with bleeding varices who are not otherwise candidates for other procedures which reduce portal flow less drastically.
Neptunium incorporation in sodium-substituted metaschoepite

Uranyl oxide hydrate minerals are common in the altered zones of U deposits and are expected to form where spent nuclear fuel is altered in an oxidizing environment. Consistent with all known uranyl oxide hydrate minerals, metaschoepite [(UO 2 ) 4 O(OH) 6 ](H 2 O) 5 , contains sheets of uranyl polyhedra with H 2 O groups located in the interlayer. Several crystals along the series from metaschoepite to Na-substituted metaschoepite (Na-MS), approximate formula Na[(UO 2 ) 4 O 2 (OH) 5 ](H 2 O) 5 , have been synthesized and their structures have been determined. Each contains sheets of uranyl pentagonal bipyramids that are topologically identical to those in metaschoepite, schoepite and fourmarierite. The sheets are electroneutral in metaschoepite, but substitution of O for OH located at the equatorial vertices of the uranyl polyhedra gives a charged sheet that is balanced by incorporation of Na in the interlayer. Synthesis of crystals of Na-MS from a solution containing ~500 ppm Np 5+ , followed by analysis of the crystals using laser-ablation inductively coupled-plasma mass-spectroscopy, demonstrated that the crystals incorporate Np. This is in contrast to earlier studies that showed no incorporation of Np 5+ in synthetic metaschoepite (which has electroneutral sheets), and supports the hypothesis that Np 5+ incorporation is more likely in uranyl oxide hydrates with charged species in the interlayer.
Phase-shift lithography for sub-wavelength patterns of varying aspect ratios

Display Omitted We developed a low-cost mask making process for phase-shift lithography.Multiple exposures can be used to obtain sub-150nm elliptical features.Aspect ratio of features is controlled by changing mask angles between exposures.O2 reactive ion etching can be used to further reduce size of features.This cost-effective alternative allows researchers to pattern nanoscale features. A technique for creating phase shift photolithography masks for use with a stepper or mask aligner, as well as how to achieve sub-150nm features of different aspect ratios is described. The mask utilizes two different regions, one transparent region of only the mask material, and another transparent region of SiO2, which are overlapped to create the pattern. Patterning was done by use of a Canon Stepper. By adjusting the angle between the two mask regions, the aspect ratio, which is defined as the length:width, of features was controlled. Features below 100nm were patterned, and aspect ratios were controllably tuned between 1.1 and 2.6. The feature size was also shown to be able to be reduced by 25-30nm with the use of reactive ion etching.
Actively mode-locked external-cavity semiconductor lasers with transform-limited single-pulse output.

We describe the use of split-contact semiconductor laser diodes to suppress multiple-pulsing phenomena in actively mode-locked external-cavity lasers. The laser-diode length is critical for the elimination of multiple-pulse output. With a grating installed in the external cavity, 11.5-ps pulses are generated that have a time–bandwidth product of only 0.30, an important property for use in soliton transmission systems. By using a broadband mirror in place of the grating, nearly transform-limited single pulses of 1.4-ps duration are generated at a 3-GHz repetition rate.
Algorithm for domestic tranquility

Dependence causes crime. Independence assures domestic tranquillity. Easy access to the economic mainstream is basic to independence. Application of macroeconomic concepts provides two modes of easy access.
Inhibition of anticholinergic drug-induced locomotor stimulation in mice by α-methyltyrosine

Abstract α-Methyltyrosine, administered in the diet to mice, inhibited locomotor stimulation induced by benztropine, scopolamine and atropine. FLA-63, administered in the same manner, did not alter any of the drug-stimulated activities. These results suggest that a dopaminergic system is involved in the pathway mediating anticholinergic drug-induced locomotor stimulation.
The mass media and stakeholders’ beliefs about suburban Wildlife

Abstract Public concern and controversy about humans and wildlife living together in suburban environments is increasing. This study examines how wildlife professionals can use knowledge about suburban residents’ use of the media to improve communication efforts regarding problem‐causing wildlife species. Our study uses data focused on a deer controversy in New York. We use aspects of “uses and gratifications”; theory to describe and categorize people into information‐seeking (i.e., what types of information have they sought regarding a particular species?) and media use (e.g., how often do they use particular types of media?) typologies. We also use cluster analysis to segment audiences uniquely with regard to typical concerns, interests, and preferred media channels. We offer recommendations for planning communication with suburban residents about problem wildlife. Funding and support for the project were provided by the Cornell University Agricultural Experiment Station Hatch Project NYC 403 and New Yo...
Laminar free convection in a nonrectangular inclined cavity

Numerical calculations are presented for two-dimensional natural convection flow in a nonrectangular inclined cavity. The governing equations in the stream function-vorticity formulation are solved using finite differences. Arakawa's differencing scheme is used to represent the convection terms. Flow characteristics are investigated for Grashof numbers and inclination angles in the range of 9.0 x 10 3 to 1.25 x 10 5, and —30 to 30 deg (from the vertical), respectively. A multicellular flow structure is found to exist for all angles of inclination considered. Although steady-state solutions were achieved for all Grashof numbers and angles of inclination considered, the flow structure that was predicted (steady vs unsteady) was found to depend strongly on the initial condition and, in some cases, unsteady flows were predicted if the "wrong" initial condition was specified. Nomenclature a = cavity width d = cavity length Gr = Grashof number, g/3ATa3/v2 Pr = Prandtl number, via T = temperature u' = nondimensional velocity u, v = velocity component in x and y direction v' = nondimensional velocity a — thermal diffusivity j8 = volumetric expansion coefficient £ = nondimensional spatial coordinate 0 = nondimensional temperature # = inclination angle A — cavity aspect ratio, dla v — kinematic viscosity f = nondimensional spatial coordinate p = density T = nondimensional time ty = nondimensional stream function i/r = stream function 11 = nondimensional vorticity a) = vorticity
The Duration of the Transient State in the Settling of Small Particles

The general theory of the settling of small particles in a fluid is used to determine an upper limit for the time required to establish the steady, exponential distribution of density. It is shown that the steady state will, in in any case in which the initial distribution of particles is uniform, be sensibly attained in that length of time required by one of the particles, moving with the velocity given by Stoke's law, to fall two tube lengths. An examination of Burton's experiment (which sought to prove that the exponential distribution law holds for only very small depths below the surface) indicates that the steady state should have been reached in about 37 days. His failure to find any evidence of an exponential distribution of density after 50 days cannot be ascribed to an inadequacy in the time allowed for settling.
Public health practitioners' information access and use patterns in the Maryland (USA) public health departments of Anne Arundel and Wicomico Counties.

Purpose: To increase understanding of the information needs and use of public health practitioners. Setting: From June 2005 to May 2006, the library offered a course in public health information resources to eighteen practitioners in two counties, access to the library's licensed electronic resources through a tailored web portal, and consulting services. Evaluation method: We combined usage statistics from the web portal, self-report and observational data collected during training and shadowing of participants. Conclusions: The data from this project indicate that usage of licensed information resources and services is infrequent but broad ranging. A few users register at the high end of the usage range, but one use of one high quality article can have a significant impact on policy decisions. Time and competing responsibilities often constrain the retrieval and use of resources for evidence-based decision making and an informationist or power-user model may be more appropriate than training all practitioners to integrate searching into their workflow. This study indicates (i) that evidence-based public health practice requires seamless and broadly based information access; and (ii) that the currently existing patchwork does not support the level of use or take into account the time constraints of information needs for public health practice.
National trends and regional variation of open and endovascular repair of thoracic and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms in contemporary practice

Objectives: Successful surgical management of thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAA) and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms (TAAA) has historically relied upon open surgical repair (OSR). More recently, the advent and application of thoracic endovascular stent graft aneurysm repair (TEVAR) permutations have become increasingly performed in contemporary practice. To better determine the effect of TEVAR techniques on OSR, we examined national and regional trends in treatment use. Methods: All Medicare patients from 1998 through 2007 undergoing isolated TAA and TAAA repair were analyzed using a clinically validated algorithm using diagnostic International Classification of Disease 9th revision (ICD-9; 441.1, 441.2, 441.6, 441.7, 441.9) codes and procedural (ICD-9 OSR: 38.35, 38.45 and TEVAR: 39.73, 39.79) codes. Differential rates of OSR and TEVAR were compared across census tract regions during the study interval. Results: Total complex aortic repairs increased by 60%, from 10.8 to 17.8/100,000, between 1998 and 2007 (P < .001). A dramatic increase occurred in TEVAR (not performed in 1998, 5.8/100,000 in 2007) during the study period, but OSR rates remained stable during the same interval (10.7 to 12.0/100,000 in 2007, P = NS). There was substantial regional variation for both OSR and TEVAR. This regional variation was greater in OSR (range, 8.8-16.7/100,000) than in TEVAR (range, 4.5-6.9/100,000). Conclusions: Degenerative TAA and TAAA aneurysms are being repaired in the United States at an increasing rate. This reflects the rapid acceptance of TEVAR, which apparently supplements rather than supplants OSR. There appears to be greater regional variation in OSR compared with TEVAR. These data may have significant implications for those interested in the effect of new technologies on health care and cost containment.
Urinary organic acid profiles in obese (ob/ob) mice: Indications for the impaired ω-oxidation of fatty acids

Abstract As a means of generating an hypothesis to explain genetic obesity of the C57BL/6J ob/ob mouse, we used gas chromatography-mass spectrometry to compare the urinary organic acid profiles of obese (ob/ob) and lean (+/?) mice on both a chow and a chemically simplified diet. More than 60 peaks were found and quantified; 45 peaks were identified. No acid was excreted in greater amounts by lean mice and none was excreted exclusively by either lean or obese mice. When normalized to body weight (obese mice being 40% heavier) and to creatinine excretion (30% greater in obese mice), however, only the daily excretion of malate, 2-hydroxyglutarate, aconitate, 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutarate, oxalate, ethylmalonate, and 4-hydroxyphenylacetate were significantly greater in obese mice. When allowed to eat only an all-fat (Crisco) diet for 4 days, the excretion of adipate rose 10-fold in lean mice, but only threefold in obese mice. Adipate excretion by Zucker rats also increased on the Crisco diet, but was indistinguishable between lean and fatty rats, suggesting that ω-oxidation might be impaired in obese mice but not in fatty rats. This suggestion complements an earlier proposal that a comparative increase in ethylamalonate excretion, which was also characteristic of fatty Zucker rats, might be explained by an increased concentration of butyryl-CoA due to inadequate β-oxidation. An impairment of ω-oxidation in the obese mouse may also explain why urinary 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutarate, which is derived from short chain products of β-oxidation, is increased in obese mice but not in fatty rats. Thus we suggest that ethylmalonate excretion may be increased in both models of rodent obesity because of an increased concentration of its precursor, butyryl-CoA, which is also the optimal primer for fatty acid synthesis.