cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A cross-cultural breakdown of Swedish suicide

In this cross-cultural, nation-wide study including all immigrant groups in Sweden, over 10,000 suicides and undetermined cases occurring during the period 1987-1991 were analysed. Diagnoses of the underlying causes of death were classified according to ICD-9, all of the alternatives E950-E959 and E980-E989 being selected. Definite and overall suicide rates were estimated for each immigrant group represented. We found an overrepresentation of immigrants in the Swedish suicide statistics nation-wide. A total of 15 countries (60% of the immigrant population) manifested more observed than expected suicides and undetermined cases. This overrepresentation was statistically significant among immigrants from Russia, Finland, Germany, Denmark and Norway (the immigrant population of these countries represents nearly 50% of the total population of immigrants in Sweden). Other nationalities with an increased suicide incidence were from Poland, Hungary, Czechoslovakia, Austria, Korea, The Netherlands, France, Spain and Uruguay. The risk of an immigrant dying of a cause related to suicide was found to be 1.5 times higher than that for a native Swede. Furthermore, the increased suicide rates observed among the immigrant groups in Sweden were found to be higher than in the respective countries of origin for 90% of the nationalities investigated, including those characterized by a relatively high refugee flow to Sweden, the rank order being generally the same both in the countries of origin and in Sweden. The immigrant groups with the highest suicide rates in our study were from Russia, Finland and Hungary. Suggestions are made concerning the possible involvement of underlying cultural, anthropological and genetic factors in this phenomenon. Language: en
On the Virtues and Disadvantage of Quantification for Democratic Life

Abstract In this paper, a response to Ed Levy's discussion of medical quantification, I reflect on the ambitions of my book Trust in Numbers. I explore the idealized method of randomized clinical trials, revealed in his case study, as a social technology, one endowed with a persuasive scientific rationale but shaped also by political and social demands. The scholarly study of quantification requires not a choice between blind admiration and sweeping rejection, but a nuanced understanding. This should take into account not only the cognitive aspects of science, but also its role in relation to institutions and customs, examined with some specificity. While history is narrowed and distorted when it is written to support a position on some present issue, historical and social studies of science should at least provide tools of criticism. For this, the historian of science must look beyond narrow communities of specialists, and seek a wider perspective on science as an administrative tool and a bearer of cultural and political values.
Contact time in random walk and random waypoint: Dichotomy in tail distribution

Contact time (or link duration) is a fundamental factor that affects performance in Mobile Ad Hoc Networks. Previous research on theoretical analysis of contact time distribution for random walk models (RW) assume that the contact events can be modeled as either consecutive random walks or direct traversals, which are two extreme cases of random walk, thus with two different conclusions. In this paper we conduct a comprehensive research on this topic in the hope of bridging the gap between the two extremes. The conclusions from the two extreme cases will result in a power-law or exponential tail in the contact time distribution, respectively. However, we show that the actual distribution will vary between the two extremes: a power-law-sub-exponential dichotomy, whose transition point depends on the average flight duration. Through simulation results we show that such conclusion also applies to random waypoint.
Precision and type I error rate in the presence of genotype errors and missing parental data: a comparison between the original transmission disequilibrium test (TDT) and TDTae statistics

Two factors impacting robustness of the original transmission disequilibrium test (TDT) are: i) missing parental genotypes and ii) undetected genotype errors. While it is known that independently these factors can inflate false-positive rates for the original TDT, no study has considered either the joint impact of these factors on false-positive rates or the precision score of TDT statistics regarding these factors. By precision score, we mean the absolute difference between disease gene position and the position of markers whose TDT statistic exceeds some threshold. We apply our transmission disequilibrium test allowing for errors (TDTae) and the original TDT to phenotype and modified single-nucleotide polymorphism genotype simulation data from Genetic Analysis Workshop. We modify genotype data by randomly introducing genotype errors and removing a percentage of parental genotype data. We compute empirical distributions of each statistic's precision score for a chromosome harboring a simulated disease locus. We also consider inflation in type I error by studying markers on a chromosome harboring no disease locus. The TDTae shows median precision scores of approximately 13 cM, 2 cM, 0 cM, and 0 cM at the 5%, 1%, 0.1%, and 0.01% significance levels, respectively. By contrast, the original TDT shows median precision scores of approximately 23 cM, 21 cM, 15 cM, and 7 cM at the corresponding significance levels, respectively. For null chromosomes, the original TDT falsely rejects the null hypothesis for 28.8%, 14.8%, 5.4%, and 1.7% at the 5%, 1%, 0.1% and 0.01%, significance levels, respectively, while TDTae maintains the correct false-positive rate. Because missing parental genotypes and undetected genotype errors are unknown to the investigator, but are expected to be increasingly prevalent in multilocus datasets, we strongly recommend TDTae methods as a standard procedure, particularly where stricter significance levels are required.
Measurement considerations for characterizing mid-infrared fibers for telecommunication applications

Recent advances in mid-IR (2–12 μm) optical fibers require that attention be given to the development of measurement techniques and the design of equipment to characterize these fibers. In this paper, a discussion of the measurement considerations for characterizing mid-IR (MIR) fibers for telecommunication applications is presented. A description of the sources and detectors suitable for use in the measurements is given. Currently employed measurements and measuring systems for infrared fibers are reviewed.
Men as Allies in Feminist Pedagogy in the Undergraduate Psychology Curriculum

This article presents the importance of feminist pedagogy in undergraduate psychology education and proposes the premise that men doing feminist work can be effective allies when they acknowledge their privilege, are actively self-reflective, confront a tendency to conform to masculine norms, and are active in their pursuits of social justice. The article then summarizes four major themes in feminist pedagogy as they apply to undergraduate education. In addition, examples of course scenarios and anecdotes from students are provided to assist in demonstrating some of the attempts the primary author has made to incorporate feminism in his work as an instructor. These initial educational steps are argued to provide a baseline for future endeavors in feminist thought and application.
Dielectric saturation and dielectric friction on an ion in a polar solvent

Abstract The effect of dielectric saturation on the mobility of an ion in a polar solvent is analyzed within the framework of a continuum dielectric friction model. Explicit calculations show that for large ions, polarization saturation results in an increased drag relative to the case of dielectric friction without saturation.
A uniqueness condition for nontrivial periodic solutions to the Lienard equation

The existence and uniqueness of periodic solutions to the equation ~+f(x)ff+q(x)x=O (f(x), q(x) continuous) (1) have been widely discussed during the past thirty-five years, notably by Lienard [l] and by Levinson and Smith [2]. The purpose of the present paper is to present a uniqueness condition for periodic solutions which includes one of those given in the latter paper [2] as a special case. Define the following functions:
Reversal of fortune

A new study shows that normalizing the number of CUG repeat–containing DMPK transcripts in a mouse model of myotonic dystrophy reverses the myotonia and cardiac conduction defects. This discovery suggests new therapeutic approaches for the disease.
Antibiotic-resistant, gram-negative bacillary infections

Summary Compared with their gram-positive brethren, gram-negative bacteria have evolved an exceedingly complex anatomy and physiology in order to adapt and survive in the rather harsh environment of the gastrointestinal tract. Not surprisingly, they also have adopted an intricate, highly integrated, and broad repertoire of antibiotic resistance tactics, many of which build on mechanisms inherently present in the organism. The bacterium can regulate normal nutrient channels to block access of the antibiotic and then upregulate an already functioning efflux system to pump right back out those invaders that slip through the first line of defense. The gram-negative bacteria efficiently line up their assault weaponry (beta-lactamases) in the confines of the periplasmic space “killing field” to destroy those invaders who persist in the assault. If the enemy manages to penetrate the inner realm (cytoplasm), the organism still can disarm the invader by intercepting and inactivating the incoming missiles with modifying enzymes. If all else fails, the organism effectively can camouflage the target, redeploy the supply lines (alternate pathways), or just produce more targets. We just now are beginning to appreciate how superbly organized, integrated, and efficient this defense system really is. Future research must be directed not at bigger and more powerful versions of our current artillery. Researchers must be creative in order to exploit our new understanding of the mechanisms of resistance. Potential strategies might include altering porin proteins to allow increased diffusion of antibiotics, inactivation of efflux systems, and inactivation of inactivating enzymes, among others. In the meantime, it is clear that all resistance strategies in bacteria occur in response to the overuse of antimicrobials in the environment. Clinicians can join in the war against resistance by using this weaponry discretely and aiming it accurately.
Multilevel Educational Program for Emergency Medical Services

To the Editor: I read with interest Wojner-Alexandrov and colleagues’ article1 in the July issue of Stroke , evaluating a multilevel educational program designed to improve both paramedic and hospital performance, and raise community awareness, regarding acute stroke. The authors are to be applauded for this multidisciplinary approach; in particular, the inclusion of emergency medical services personnel reflects recognition of the key role that events …
Depressive Symptoms Are More Strongly Related to Executive Functioning and Episodic Memory Among African American compared with Non-Hispanic White Older Adults

We examined whether the reserve capacity model can be extended to cognitive outcomes among older African Americans. Two hundred and ninety-two non-Hispanic Whites and 37 African Americans over age 54 participated in the normative study for the NIH Toolbox for the Assessment of Neurological and Behavioral Function. Multiple-group path analysis showed that associations between depressive symptoms and cognition differed by race, independent of age, education, reading level, income, health, and recruitment site. Depressive symptoms were associated with slowed processing speed among Whites and worse task-switching, inhibition, and episodic memory among African Americans. African Americans may be more vulnerable to negative effects of depression on cognition than non-Hispanic Whites. Further research is needed to explicate the psychological and neurobiological underpinnings of this greater vulnerability.
Art for the exceptional child: Rapidly expanding job opportunities

There are several forces expanding job opportunities. Increased sophistication in schools and clinics in identifying exceptional children (Reitan & Davison, 1974) and the current trend to mainstream exceptional children (i.e., place them in regular classrooms) mean that many more art therapists and art teachers will have exceptional children in their art programs. More significant, however, is that as of this writing every state, with the single exception of Ohio, has mandated the right to a free public education for, and suitable to the needs of all children, including the handicapped (Allrutz, 1974). Hundreds of thousands of children with mental, physical, learning, emotional and multiple handicaps are going to public school for the first time. In addition, in December of this year, President Ford approved a new federal law stipulating that all handicapped children will have access to a free and appropriate public education, which emphasizes special education and related services i.e., an education geared to their unique needs (A.P.A. Monitor, 1976). For the first time, the federal government will provide major federal aid for the cost of educating the handicapped child which is, by the way, almost double the cost of educating the non-handicapped child. In the past, most of this economic burden fell on parents. Now, however, the states must make the effort to educate handicapped children either in public school classes with nonhandicapped children, or, if the handicap is too severe, the state, aided with federal money and at no cost to the parents, must provide special education classes and services for the child. It is estimated that when the program’ is in full effect the federal government will be contributing about three billion dollars annually toward educating handicapped children (A.P.A. Monitor, 1976). Presently, one out of ten (One Out of Ten, 1974), or about eight million, school-aged children are handicapped (A.P.A. Monitor, 1976). This high percentage does not include the more than four million academically or artistically gifted children or those disadvantaged by social or economic problems (Anderson, 1974). While, as of 1974, fewer than 40 percent of these children were enrolled in public or special schools (One Out of Ten, 1974), the new federal and state laws and monies should raise this percentage significantly. Parents all over the United States are demanding and getting equal, appropriate, and the least restrictive possible education for their exceptional chil-
Some properties of a bacteriophage from Bacillus larvae.

Abstract Cultures of Bacillus larvae isolated from a wide variety of honey-bee sources in the northern plains area were uniformly sensitive to antibiotics regardless of the previous history of the infections. Many strains harbored bacteriophages which were lytic for other strains and a variety of patterns of lysogeny and sensitivity were seen. A single step growth curve of phage on a Saskatchewan strain, 32A, displayed a latent period extending to 120 min and a burst size of 30 infectious particles per cell. The free phage survived 60°C for 1 hr at pH 7.4, but was rapidly inactivated at lower pH levels at 37°C. The phage preparation produced minute plaques on strain 12A but yielded plaques of 1 mm and 2 mm on other host strains tested.
Structural characterization of cis-2,6-(E,E)-bis(ferrocenylidene)-N-methyl-4-piperidone and DFT evaluation of alternative polymorphic modifications via ferrocene rotation

Abstract The molecular structure of cis-2,6-(E,E)-bis(ferrocenylidene)-N-methyl-4-piperidone (1) has been determined by X-ray crystallography. Compound 1 crystallizes in the monoclinic chiral space group P2(1), a = 6.0055(17) A, b = 12.802(4) A, c = 14.465(4) A, β = 95.438(4)°, V = 1107.1(5) A3, Z = 2, and Dcalc = 1.516 Mg/m3; R = 0.0335, Rw = 0.0682 for 4230 reflections with I > 2σ(I). The substituents at the vinyl group of each chalcone moiety exhibit a trans (entgegen) disposition, and the two ferrocene moieties adopt a syn orientation and are located on the side of the piperidone ring opposite of the nitrogen lone electron pair. Molecules of 1 pack in chains along the a axis and exhibit weak intermolecular C-H⋯O hydrogen bonds involving the ferrocene and carbonyl moieties of adjacent molecules. The energy difference between the ferrocene rotational isomers in 1 has been evaluated by DFT, and the lowest energy structure is represented by the solid-state structure. The barriers for the rotational isomerization of the ferrocene groups have been evaluated and are discussed in the context of polymorphic modifications available to 1.
Effect of a Nonsteroidal Antiandrogen, Flutamide, on Androgen Receptor Dynamics and Ornithine Decarboxylase Gene Expression in Mouse Kidney

The mechanisms by which nonsteroidal antiandrogens such as flutamide (alpha, alpha, alpha-trifluoro-2-methyl-4'-nitro-m-propionotoluidide) influence androgen receptor distribution and androgen-regulated gene expression are poorly understood. Therefore, we studied acute and long-term effects of flutamide, administered alone or in combination with testosterone, on androgen receptor dynamics in mouse kidney. Nuclear androgen receptors were measured using 5 mM pyridoxal 5'-phosphate extracts of renal nuclei isolated with the hexylene glycol method. Androgen-regulated ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) and ODC-messenger RNA were used as biological markers for hormone action. A single dose of flutamide increased the measurable concentration of renal nuclear androgen receptors in a dose-dependent manner by 1 h after treatment, although to a lesser extent than a comparable dose of testosterone. When 5 mg flutamide was given concomitantly with a submaximal dose of testosterone (0.1 mg), nuclear androgen receptor concentration was similar to that achieved with flutamide alone; this inhibitory effect of the antiandrogen was reversed by a 10-fold higher dose of testosterone. The influence of flutamide on the steady-state receptor levels in renal nuclei achieved by continuous androgen administration was investigated by giving a single dose of this compound to mice with testosterone-releasing implants. In these animals, flutamide administration decreased nuclear androgen receptor concentration with an initial half-life of about 3.3 h. This half-life was similar to that after cycloheximide administration, but significantly longer than that measured (1.3 h) upon removal of the implant. During treatment of female mice for 8 days with testosterone-releasing implants (40 micrograms/day), both the immunoreactive and catalytically active ODC concentration increased about 300-fold. In contrast, there was no stimulation of ODC during the prolonged administration of flutamide, although this treatment resulted in a dose-dependent increase in the nuclear androgen receptor concentration. However, flutamide (up to 650 micrograms/day) given concomitantly with testosterone (40 micrograms/day) almost completely abolished the testosterone-induced increase in ODC. The changes in ODC-messenger RNA concentration, as measured by hybridization to a complementary DNA probe, paralleled those of the enzyme protein suggesting that flutamide action involves inhibition of transcription of androgen-regulated gene(s). We conclude that 1) nuclear androgen receptor turnover in mouse kidney is a relatively rapid process and 2) nonsteroidal antiandrogens such as flutamide have an intrinsic ability to form
Applications of hyperdifferential operators to quantum mechanics

In this paper, various applications of the theory of hyperdifferential operators to quantum mechanics are discussed. A concise summary of the relevant aspects of the theory is presented, and then used to derive a variety of operator identities, expansions, and solutions to differential equations.
The impact of Purple Heart commendation and PTSD on mortality rates in older veterans

Background: To determine whether having received a Purple Heart (PH) or having been diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) affected mortality in older veterans. Methods: We compared mortality rates of older veterans with a PH but without PTSD (PH+/PTSD-) to veterans with a PH and PTSD (PH+/PTSD+), veterans without a PH but with PTSD (PH-/PTSD+), and a comparison group without a PH or PTSD (PH-/PTSD-). Administrative data from the Veterans Integrated Service Network 16 were collected between 10/01/97 and 09/30/99 for veterans who were 65 years or older. Proportional hazards regression was used to compare the survival times for the four groups (n = 10,255) from entry into the study until death or study termination (9/30/2008). The Charleson co-morbidity index was used to control for potential co-morbid illness burden differences between the groups. Results: Older veterans with a PH (PH+/PTSD- and PH+/PTSD+) had significantly lower mortality rates than PH-/PTSD- veterans (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.6, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.5 to 0.6, P Language: en
Low-Mr hydrocarbons generated during hydrous and dry pyrolysis of kerogen.

The validity of applying laboratory pyrolysis experiments to simulating the maturation of organic matter in sedimentary basins has been vigorously debated19. We report here results from the generation of hydrocarbons of low relative molecular mass (Mr) in both hydrous and dry pyrolysis. A principal difference is that under dry conditions in the presence of montmorillonite, catalysis occurs with respect to generation of low-Mr hydrocarbons10 but no such effect is evident for hydrous conditions, probably because of a reduction in the clay's acidity. In addition, olefins which were previously reported as not being present in the products of hydrous pyrolyses4,6,11 were found to be produced in the C2–C6 range in comparable amounts under both hydrous and dry pyrolyses at 300 °C and may form in the course of kerogen catagenesis in nature but disappear with geologic time due to their instability. These studies have relevance to understanding the interactions between kerogen and minerals in sedimentary rocks and to processes in the formation of natural gas.
New antiarrhythmic drugs: their place in therapy.

Cardiac arrhythmias remain the leading cause of cardiac deaths and disability in patients with heart disease. Therapy is often a challenge for the physician since currently available drugs may be ineffective or cause unpleasant or life-threatening adverse effects, and require frequent administration. Recent advances in monitoring and invasive electrophysiological procedures allow diagnoses to be made more accurately and specific antiarrhythmic drug therapy to be evaluated more closely. Antiarrhythmic agents are classified most frequently according to their effects on the cardiac action potential (Vaughan Williams classification). Class I agents have membrane or quinidine-like effects and decrease the rate of rise of phase 0 of the action potential. They may lengthen or shorten the duration of the action potential. Class II agents are competitive β-blockers, and class III agents increase the action potential duration and may have a non-competitive β-blocking effect. Class IV agents are those that have an antiarrhythmic effect due to their actions as calcium antagonists.
Ribonucleoside triphosphatase in rabbit reticulocytes

Ribonucleoside triphosphatase in rabbit reticulocytes, discussing distribution in extracts, behavior in purification of amino acid and properties
Adoptive chemoimmunotherapy of a syngeneic murine lymphoma with long-term lymphoid cell lines expanded in T cell growth factor.

Recently techniques have been developed for the long-term growth of cytotoxic T-lymphoid cells in vitro with T cell growth factor (TCGF). We have investigated the use of these in vitro-expanded T cells for the immunotherapy of a disseminated syngeneic murine FBL-3 lymphoma. In this model, mice with disseminated tumor were treated on day 5 with 180 mg cytoxan/kg and then 5 h later were given lymphoid cells IP. In vivo-immunized lymphocytes resulted in significantly improved survival in three of three experiments, curing 52% of 38 animals, compared with treatment with cytoxan alone (0 of 31 cured) or cytoxan plus unimmunized cells (0 of 40 cured) (P 4,000 lytic units/106 cells). When adoptively transferred to mice in this chemoimmunotherapy model these cytotoxic clones significantly enhanced survival over that recorded following treatment with cytoxan alone (P<0.00001), though prolongation of survival was small. Implications of these results for application of these techniques to other less antigenic tumors and human cancers are discussed.
Ethiopia: A center of diversity

“ Encompassed on all sides by the enemies of their religion, the Aethio pians slept near a thousand years, forgetful of the world by whom they were forgotten≓ (6).
Nitrogenase activity, nitrogen content, and yield responses to glyphosate in glyphosate-resistant soybean

Abstract Transgenic glyphosate-resistant (GR) soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] expressing a glyphosate-insensitive 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase (EPSPS) enzyme has provided new opportunities for weed control in soybean production. However, glyphosate is toxic to the soybean nitrogen-fixing symbiont, Bradyrhizobium japonicum, as its EPSPS enzyme is sensitive to glyphosate. The effects of glyphosate on symbiotic parameters, nitrogen accumulation, and yield in GR soybean under weed-free conditions were determined in a 3-yr field study during 2002–2004. Four glyphosate (0.84, 1.68, 2.52+2.52, and 0.84+0.84 kg ae/ha) treatments applied at 4 and 6 weeks after planting (WAP) soybean were compared to a no glyphosate, hand weeded (weed-free) control. In 2002 and 2003, soybean plants were harvested at 5, 6, 7, and 8 WAP, and roots assessed for nitrogenase activity (acetylene reduction assay, ARA), root respiration, nodulation, and root biomass. Soybean seed yield, leaf and seed nitrogen content were determined in all three years. No consistent effect of glyphosate was observed on either ARA or root respiration. In 2002, both ARA and respiration were about a third of that in 2003, attributed to early-season drought in 2002. All glyphosate treatments reduced foliar nitrogen content (26–42%) in 2002. In 2003 and 2004, three and two glyphosate treatments, respectively, reduced foliar nitrogen content (8–13%), with the greatest reduction when glyphosate was applied at the highest rate. Soybean yield was reduced by 11% with two applications of 2.52 kg ae/ha glyphosate compared to hand weeded control in 2002, but seed yield was not affected in 2003 and 2004. Total seed nitrogen harvested in 2002 and 2003 was reduced by 32% and 17%, respectively, when two applications of 2.52 kg ae/ha glyphosate were applied compared to hand weeded soybean. These studies indicate that nitrogen fixation and/or assimilation in GR soybean was only slightly affected at label use rate, but was consistently reduced at above label use rates of glyphosate and the greatest reductions occurred with soil moisture stress following glyphosate application.
Studies on the mechanisms of Ni2(+)-induced cell injury: I. Effects of Ni2+ on microtubules.

Cytoskeletal perturbations have been associated with exposures to a variety of toxic agents as well as a number of human pathological conditions. We have observed dramatic alterations in the organization of microtubules (MT), a major component of the cytoskeleton, in 3T3 cells exposed to Ni2+. Severe perinuclear bundling and aggregation of MT occurred in both a time- and dose-dependent fashion, and this MT damage was reversible upon removal of Ni2+ from the culture media. To understand the mechanism of the Ni2+-induced MT change, we investigated the effect of Ni2+ (0.01 to 3.0 mm) on in vitro tubulin polymerization. Ni2+ at lower concentrations (0.01 to 1.0 mm) had little or no significant effect on the kinetics of MT polymerization. In contrast, in the presence of 1.5 to 2.0 mm Ni2+, a significant promoting effect on both the rate and the final extent of polymerization was observed. However, at Ni2+ concentrations higher than 2.0 mm, such stimulatory effect on the rate and the final extent of tubulin polymerization declined. Furthermore, the promoting effects of Ni2+ on MT polymerization were accompanied by a significant decrease in the lag period. Electron microscopic examination of samples of the polymerization product showed that MT, polymerized in the presence of 2.0 mm Ni2+, appeared more numerous and shorter (1.10 ± 1.02 μm) than those of control (3.81 ± 2.29 μm; p < 0.005). This was probably a direct result of an increase in the number of initiation centers in the presence of Ni2+ as a consequence of the decreased critical concentration (7%, p < 0.05) necessary for polymerization to occur. Our results suggest that Ni2+ may exert its toxic effect on MT in cultured cells by altering the normal kinetics of MT polymerization.
An Examination of Inter-Firm Cooperative Arrangements of U.S. Manufacturing Firms

This descriptive study examines inter-firm strategic cooperation over two specific periods: 1987 through 1993, and 1994 through 2002. Inter-firm cooperative arrangements were classified into Domestic and International and further classified by type using Porter's Value Chain framework (1985). Data on inter-firm strategic cooperation were drawn from announcements reported by US-based manufacturing multinationals. Using descriptive statistical analysis, namely, Crosstabs and Independent Two-Sample Tests, we found significant differences in the distribution of inter-firm announcements—Domestic and International and also by type of classification—over the time periods examined. Research implications are discussed
Analytical atomic spectroscopy of plutonium—I. High resolution spectra of plutonium emitted in an inductively coupled plasma

Abstract In the atomic emission spectrum of Pu-242 emitted in an inductively coupled plasma (ICP) 23 lines with detection limits of less than 100 ng ml were identified in the 200–700 nm spectral range. The line at 453.614 nm had the best detection limit of 15 ng ml . The isotopic splittings of several Pu emission lines were resolved with a commercial 1.5m spectrometer. The line at 398.988 nm (Pu-240 wavelength) had the greatest isotope shift, but was interfered with by neighboring Pu lines. Other lines were shown to be useful for Pu isotopic analysis. The hyperfine splitting of some intense Pu-239 lines was measured; the Pu 453.614 nm line exhibited the widest splitting (5.9 pm).
Single-input/single-output analysis of latency and quadrant detector saturation in adaptive optical systems

Feedback control theory offers several useful tools for analysis of adaptive optics systems. The basic tools of single-input-single-output analysis are applied to design first order and optimal filters for a specific loop bandwidth or gain margin as a function of latency and sample rate. Optimizing filter loop band-width as a function of temporal disturbance and noise statistics is addressed with respect to the internal model principles. Latency, due to camera readout and processing time, is shown to be the primary design driver for optical AO system performance. The effects of wavefront sensor saturation are discussed and simulation and experimental results are presented.© (1999) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Noninvasive assessment of metabolism in wounded skin by 31P-NMR in vivo.

Phosphorus-31 nuclear magnetic resonance techniques using shallow penetrating coils have been used to noninvasively monitor severity and metabolic changes over time in skin wounds in rats. Ratios of phosphocreatine (PCr) to inorganic phosphate (Pi) indicate energy status in both thermal wounds and surgical flaps. In partial and full-thickness scald wounds, reductions in PCr/Pi ratios correlated with burn depth and improved over time postiniury, suggesting wound revascularization. No decrease in intracellular pH was noted in these wounds; the phosphate shifts may be primarily the result of tissue degradation followed by restoration of the microvasculature
Familial Mediterranean fever and E148Q pyrin gene mutation in Greece.

Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) is an inherited disease characterized by recurrent inflammatory polyserositis. Although FMF is classically expected only in Middle East populations, it is becoming evident that the disease affects more groups than initially thought.The disease is associated with a number of mutations of the MEFV gene, which codes for a protein named pyrin. The role of E148Q pyrin gene mutation in the development of FMF remains inconclusive. Some authors believe it causes the disease, whereas others favor the concept of a noncausative role. To understand better the role of this mutation, gathering data from different populations may be of value.We studied 60 Greek cases fulfilling the criteria for FMF diagnosis, 30 cases being a definite FMF diagnosis and 30 a probable diagnosis. Twenty-one of the patients, carried mutation E148Q. One was a homozygote (E148Q/E148Q), and 20 carried mutation E148Q in combination with other mutations (compound heterozygotes). In 6 of the 60 cases studied, no mutations were found. Compared with the results for healthy controls, E148Q mutation is significantly frequent. Because different populations may exhibit different patterns of pyrin mutations, association of the E148Q mutation with FMF should be considered in connection with origin data.
Making Educational Reform Hard Times in Detroit 1988-1995

This article examines education reform in Detroit, employing data from over 75 semi structured elite interviews. The research explores the apparent collapse of a local education reform effort in Detroit despite broad dissatisfaction with the current education system. Both collaborative and competitive approaches to reform are investigated through a regime framework Reformers who implemented change were removed from office and yet a business school compact, neighborhood-based empowerment schools, and schools of choice remain as a legacy. This indicates that although short-term political support for change in Detroit did collapse, some long-term institutional impact of the reform remains.
Oral anticoagulation to reduce risk of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation: current and future therapies

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with an increased incidence and severity of strokes. The burden of AF-related stroke is expected to increase in parallel with the aging of the population. Oral anticoagulation with warfarin has been the pharmacologic standard for stroke risk reduction in patients with AF. When used with close attention to dosing and monitoring, warfarin is effective prophylactic therapy against thromboembolic stroke. However, it is underused by physicians, in part because of the known risks of adverse events with warfarin. Consequently, many patients with AF live with an avoidably elevated risk of stroke. New options, ie, oral anticoagulants with novel mechanisms of action, have recently been approved to reduce the risk of stroke in AF, and others are in development. These newer agents may address some of the complexities of warfarin use while providing similar or better efficacy and safety.
On the tones of round choked jets impinging on normal flat plates

An experimental investigation of the sound produced by an axisymmetric supersonic jet impinging on plates with variable size and nozzle-to-plate spacings was performed. Spectral analysis and schlieren photography were used to determine the sound characteristics and flow disturbances associated with the production of discrete tones. Two classes of tones, associated with small and large plates, existed for pressure ratios above 2.70. For lower pressure ratios, however, only large plate tones occurred for all plate sizes with choked jet screech appearing at the largest spacings. Reflector tests indicated that both classes of tones were part of a feedback loop to the nozzle. Schlieren photography revealed both symmetric and asymmetric disturbances in the large plate jet flows which corresponded to symmetrical and helical modes of oscillation in the cross-spectrum studies. In addition to this, both symmetric and asymmetric oscillations of the shock waves occurred in the large plate case while symmetric oscillations of the shock wave occurred in the small plate case.
Concentrations of uric acid in the sweat of control and mongoloid children.

SummaryThe occurrence of uric acid in thermal sweat has been investigated in a series of control and mongoloid children. Appreciable quantities of uric acid were detected using the enzymatic spectrophotometric method in all individuals studied. Significantly higher concentrations were found in a group of mongoloid patients than in control individuals.
Preparatory deployment of attention to motion activates higher-order motion-processing brain regions

We used event-related fMRI to test the hypothesis that preparatory attention modulations occur in higher-order motion-processing regions when subjects deploy attention to internally driven representations in a complex motion-processing task. Using a cued attention-to-motion task, we found preparatory increases in fMRI activity in visual motion regions in the absence of visual motion stimulation. The cue, a brief enlargement of the fixation cross, directed subjects to prepare for a complex motion discrimination task. This preparation activated higher-order and lower-order motion regions. The motion regions activated included temporal regions consistent with V5/MT+, occipital regions consistent with V3+, parietal-occipital junction regions, ventral and dorsal intraparietal sulcus, superior temporal sulcus (STS), posterior insular cortex (PIC), and a region of BA 39/40 superior to V5/MT+ involving the angular gyrus and supramarginal gyrus (A-SM). Consistent with our hypothesis that these motion sensory activations are under top-down control, we also found activation of an extensive frontal network during the cue period, including anterior cingulate and multiple prefrontal regions. These results support the hypothesis that anticipatory deployment of attention to internally driven representations is achieved via top-down modulation of activity in task-relevant processing areas.
Effect of right ventricular function and venous congestion on cardiorenal interactions during the treatment of decompensated heart failure.

Recent reports have demonstrated the adverse effects of venous congestion on renal function (RF) and challenged the assumption that worsening RF is driven by decreased cardiac output (CO). We hypothesized that diuresis in patients with right ventricular (RV) dysfunction, despite decreased CO, would lead to a decrease in venous congestion and resultant improvement in RF. We reviewed consecutive admissions with a discharge diagnosis of heart failure. RV function was assessed by multiple echocardiographic methods and those with ≥2 measurements of RV dysfunction were considered to have significant RV dysfunction. Worsening RF was defined as an increase in creatinine of ≥0.3 mg/dl and improved RF as improvement in glomerular filtration rate ≥25%. A total of 141 admissions met eligibility criteria; 34% developed worsening RF. Venous congestion was more common in those with RV dysfunction (odds ratio [OR] 3.3, p = 0.009). All measurements of RV dysfunction excluding RV dilation correlated with CO (p <0.05). Significant RV dysfunction predicted a lower incidence of worsening RF (OR 0.21, p <0.001) and a higher incidence of improved RF (OR 6.4, p <0.001). CO emerged as a significant predictor of change in glomerular filtration rate during hospitalization in those without significant RV dysfunction (r = 0.38, p <0.001). In conclusion, RV dysfunction is a strong predictor of improved renal outcomes in patients with acute decompensated heart failure, an effect likely mediated by relief of venous congestion.
Iron content of isolated intestinal epithelial cells in relation to iron absorption.

THE iron content of the small intestinal epithelial cell plays an important part in the most probable explanation of the mechanism by which the intestinal mucosa regulates iron absorption1–3. According to this concept: (1) a limited number of iron receptor sites is available within each intestinal epithelial cell; (2) these sites may be occupied by iron from the body or from the diet; (3) iron from the body is incorporated into epithelial cells as they are formed and remains with the cell throughout its life span; (4) the amount of iron absorbed depends on the degree of saturation of the iron receptor mechanism. In iron deficiency the iron receptor mechanism is thought to be relatively unsaturated with iron from the body so that absorption of dietary iron is increased, whereas in iron excess the converse is thought to occur.
Performance analysis of UWB systems in the presence of timing jitter

In this paper, performances of different ultra-wideband (UWB) modulation schemes in the presence of timing jitter are evaluated and compared. Static and Rayleigh fading channels are considered. For fading channels, flat and dispersive channels are assumed. First, bit error rate (BER) performances for each case are derived for a fixed value of timing jitter. Later, a uniform distribution of jitter is assumed to evaluate the performance of the system, and the theoretical results are verified by computer simulations. Finger estimation error is treated as timing jitter and an appropriate model is generated. Furthermore, a worst case distribution that provides an upper bound on the system performance is presented and compared with other distributions. Effects of timing jitter on systems employing different pulse shapes are analyzed to show the dependency of UWB performance on pulse shape. Although our analysis assumes uniform timing jitter, our framework can be used to evaluate the BER performance for any given probability distribution function of the jitter.
Long-term outcomes in high-risk patients with non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction.

Greater use of evidence-based therapies has improved outcomes for patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS) in recent decades. Consequently, more ACS patients are surviving beyond 12 months; however, limited data exist to guide treatment in these patients. Long-term outcomes have not improved in non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) patients at the same rate seen in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction patients, possibly reflecting NSTEMI patients’ more complex clinical phenotype, including older age, greater burden of comorbidities and higher likelihood of a previous myocardial infarction (MI). This complexity impacts clinical decision-making, particularly in high-risk NSTEMI patients, in whom risk–benefit assessments are problematical. This review examines the need for more effective long-term management of NSTEMI patients who survive ≥12 months after MI. Ongoing risk assessment using objective measures of risk (for bleeding and ischemia) should be used in all post-MI patients. While 12 months appears to be the optimal duration of dual antiplatelet therapy for most patients, this may not be the case for high-risk patients, and more research is urgently needed in this population. A recent subgroup analysis from the DAPT study in patients with or without MI who had undergone coronary stenting (31 % presented with MI; 53 % had NSTEMI) and the prospective PEGASUS-TIMI 54 trial in patients with a prior MI and at least one other risk factor (40 % had NSTEMI) demonstrated that long-term dual antiplatelet therapy improved cardiovascular outcomes but increased bleeding. Further studies will help clarify the role of dual antiplatelet therapy in stable post-NSTEMI patients.
Site-specific recombination of temperate Myxococcus xanthus phage Mx8: regulation of integrase activity by reversible, covalent modification.

Temperate Myxococcus xanthus phage Mx8 integrates into the attB locus of the M. xanthus genome. The phage attachment site, attP, is required in cis for integration and lies within the int (integrase) coding sequence. Site-specific integration of Mx8 alters the 3′ end of int to generate the modified intX gene, which encodes a less active form of integrase with a different C terminus. The phage-encoded (Int) form of integrase promotes attP × attB recombination more efficiently than attR × attB, attL × attB, or attB × attB recombination. The attP and attB sites share a common core. Sequences flanking both sides of the attP core within the int gene are necessary for attP function. This information shows that the directionality of the integration reaction depends on arm sequences flanking both sides of the attP core. Expression of the uoi gene immediately upstream of int inhibits integrative (attP × attB) recombination, supporting the idea that uoi encodes the Mx8 excisionase. Integrase catalyzes a reaction that alters the primary sequence of its gene; the change in the primary amino acid sequence of Mx8 integrase resulting from the reaction that it catalyzes is a novel mechanism by which the reversible, covalent modification of an enzyme is used to regulate its specific activity. The lower specific activity of the prophage-encoded IntX integrase acts to limit excisive site-specific recombination in lysogens carrying a single Mx8 prophage, which are less immune to superinfection than lysogens carrying multiple, tandem prophages. Thus, this mechanism serves to regulate Mx8 site-specific recombination and superinfection immunity coordinately and thereby to preserve the integrity of the lysogenic state.
The intramolecular δ15N of lysine responds to respiratory status in Paracoccus denitrificans

Presented here is the first experimental evidence that natural, intramolecular, isotope ratios are sensitive to physiological status, based on observations of intramolecular δ15N of lysine in the mitochondrial mimic Paracoccus denitrificans. Paracoccus denitrificans, a versatile, gram-negative bacterium, was grown either aerobically or anaerobically on isotopically-characterized ammonium as sole cell-nitrogen source. Nitrogen isotope composition of the biomass with respect to source ammonium was \(\Delta^{15}{\rm N}_{{\rm cell}-{\rm NH}_4}={{\delta}}^{15}{\rm N}_{{\rm cell}}-{{\delta}}^{15}{\rm N}_{{\rm NH}_4}\) = −6.2 ± 1.2‰ for whole cells under aerobic respiration, whereas cells grown anaerobically produced no net fractionation (\(\Delta^{15}{\rm N}_{{\rm cell}-{\rm NH}_4}\) = −0.3 ± 0.23‰). Fractionation of 15N between protein nitrogen and total cell nitrogen increased during anaerobic respiration and suggests that residual nitrogen-containing compounds in bacterial cell membranes are isotopically lighter under anaerobic respiration. In aerobic cells, the lysine intramolecular difference between peptide and sidechain nitrogen is negligible, but in anaerobic cells was a remarkable Δ15Np − s = δ15Npeptide − δ15Nsidechain = +11.0‰, driven predominantly by enrichment at the peptide N. Consideration of known lysine pathways suggests this to be likely due to enhanced synthesis of peptidoglycans in the anaerobic state. These data indicate that distinct pathway branching ratios associated with microbial respiration can be detected by natural intramolecular Δδ15N measurements, and are the first in vivo observations of position-specific measurements of nitrogen isotope fractionation.