cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Writing the Fine Print: The Economics of Legalese

The purpose of this paper is to provide a rational choice defense of the persistence of jargon-like "fine print" or "legalese" in contractual agreements. While common arguments for its continued use include creating artificial demand for lawyers, enhancing precision, or simple path-dependence, never has it been defended specifically for its costliness. In this paper I posit an alternative theory of the use of "legalese" in contracts whereby individuals writing contracts are engaged in a game where the threat to enforce the contract needs to be credible under a regime of costly enforcement. Legalese thus acts as a relatively less-costly signal that the writer of the contract is wealthy enough to afford a lawyer or educated enough to write like one, effectively intimidating the signer of the contract into being less likely to renege. Since in the long run both parties would prefer to be able to sign binding contracts, legalese serves as a second best way to make everyone better off.
The Scope and Limits of Scientific Change

Most philosophies of science have supposed that there is something about the scientific enterprise that is either presupposed by that enterprise, and is thus immune to revision or rejection, or else is discovered in the course of that enterprise, and is seen, from that point on, to be immune to revision or rejection. Let us call such beliefs — ones which are allegedly immune to revision or rejection — necessary claims about science. They need not be “propositional,” in the sense of being overt claims about the way things are. Indeed, few philosophers any longer maintain that there are any such necessary propositional claims, the nearest survivor being the view that there are “observational” statements which, insofar as they are truly observational, cannot be modified or rejected. Rather, the focus of modern philosophies of science has been on such allegedly necessary claims as the following: that there is a method, “the scientific method,” by application of which knowledge about the would is obtained, but which, once discovered (by whatever means), is in principle not subject to alteration in the light of any beliefs arrived at by its means; that there are rules of reasoning — rules, for example, of deductive or inductive logic — which are applied in scientific reasoning, but which can never be changed because of any scientific results; or that there are “metascientific” concepts, like ‘evidence,’ ‘theory,’ ‘explanation,’ which are used in talking about scientific concepts, claims, and arguments, which have meanings which are wholly independent of the specific content of ongoing science, and which, collectively, define what science is and always will be.
Exhaustible resources and sustainable development

Abstract Though sustainable development is a relatively recent addition to the public lexicon, concern that resource depletion may threaten the welfare of future generations dates back at least to Thomas Malthus and other classical economists writing nearly two centuries ago. Today the debate over this threat not only continues, but seems more polarized than ever. In one school are the concerned, often ecologists and other scientists and engineers, who contend the earth cannot for long continue to support current and anticipated levels of demand for oil and other exhaustible resources. In the opposing school are the unconcerned, often economists, who claim with equal conviction that the earth with the help of market incentives, appropriate public policies, and new technology can amply provide for society's needs for the indefinite future. That intelligent and informed individuals remain so divided on such an important issue for the future of humanity after years of debate is surprising. The explanation, at least in part, appears to lie with the very different paradigms adopted by the two different groups coupled with quite contrasting views on the beneficence of technology, public policy and the marketplace. The two competing paradigms lead to quite different outlooks on the human condition and in turn on recommendations for public policy.
Genetic variability in the three genomes of Nasonia: nuclear, mitochondrial and Wolbachia

Nasonia consists of three closely related species of parasitoid wasps that are all infected with the endosymbiotic bacteria Wolbachia, a reproductive parasite common in arthropods. This situation presents the opportunity to compare patterns of variation in three associated genomes, Wolbachia and the nuclear and mitochondrial genomes of its host. Furthermore, although Nasonia wasps are emerging as a model for evolutionary and genetic studies, little is known about their genetic variability. Using amplified fragment length polymorphisms (AFLPs), all three species present a relatively high level of nuclear polymorphism and have different patterns of variation, with one of the species, Nasonia giraulti, being divided into two divergent subgroups. In each species, the mitochondrial pattern of variation is different from the nuclear pattern, possibly due to genetic hitchhiking of the mitochondria during (cytoplasmically inherited) Wolbachia sweeps. Mitochondria in Nasonia show a synonymous substitution rate approximately 10-15-fold higher than nuclear genes, probably reflecting an elevated mitochondrial mutation rate that is among the highest found in insects. Finally, all three species are doubly infected with their own strains of Wolbachia, one each from the two major supergroups (A and B). Sequence analysis reveals that each of the three Nasonia species acquired their A and B bacteria independently by horizontal transfer events from other insects with the exception of B type Wolbachia in N. longicornis and N. giraulti, which were acquired prior to speciation and then codiverged with the host. This represents one of the few clear-cut examples of codivergence of Wolbachia during host speciation.
Principles of Federal Jurisdiction

Designed for students in advanced courses and newly revised, this book explains the leading principles of federal jurisdiction. It includes such landmarks as Marbury v. Madison and Bivens v. Six Unknown Named Agents and the rules that govern original and appellate jurisdiction, justiciability and abstention, federal habeas corpus, and sovereign immunity. It discusses the enemy combatant cases, culminating in Boumediene, and recent Supreme Court decisions on such diverse issues as the Antiterrorism and Effective Death Penalty Act, federal ingredient jurisdiction, complete preemption removal, and supplemental jurisdiction. Perhaps most important, the book provides students with a sense of the argumentative possibilities available to lawyers and jurists working within the federal courts' tradition.
Stabilization of Juxta-Physeal Distal Tibial and Fibular Fractures in a Juvenile Tiger Using a Hybrid Circular–Linear External Fixator

OBJECTIVE: To report stabilization of closed, comminuted distal metaphyseal transverse fractures of the left tibia and fibula in a tiger using a hybrid circular-linear external skeletal fixator. STUDY DESIGN: Clinical report. ANIMAL: Juvenile tiger (15 months, 90 kg). METHODS: From imaging studies, the tiger had comminuted distal metaphyseal transverse fractures of the left tibia and fibula, with mild caudolateral displacement and moderate compression. Multiple fissures extended from the fractures through the distal metaphyses, extending toward, but not involving the distal tibial and fibular physes. A hybrid circular-linear external skeletal fixator was applied by closed reduction, to stabilize the fractures. RESULTS: The fractures healed and the fixator was removed 5 weeks after stabilization. Limb length and alignment were similar to the normal contralateral limb at hospital discharge, 8 weeks after surgery. Two weeks later, the tiger had fractures of the right tibia and fibula and was euthanatized. Necropsy confirmed pathologic fractures ascribed to copper deficiency. CONCLUSION: Closed application of the hybrid construct provided sufficient stability to allow this 90 kg tiger's juxta-articular fractures to heal with minimal complications and without disrupting growth from the adjacent physes.
Five-Coordinate Platinum(IV) Complexes

Octahedral organometallic platinum(IV) complexes have been known for more than a century. Mechanistic studies suggest that many reactions of these six-coordinate platinum(IV) complexes proceed through unobservable five-coordinate platinum(IV) intermediates. Only recently have five-coordinate platinum(IV) complexes been isolated and characterized. These novel complexes serve as models for unobserved intermediates in stoichiometric and catalytic reactions involving high oxidation state platinum. The isolation of five-coordinate complexes allows the unique reactivity of these unsaturated species to be investigated directly. This contribution describes the development of five-coordinate platinum(IV) from proposed intermediates to isolable complexes. The syntheses, characterization, and reactivity studies of complexes with this new coordination geometry of platinum(IV) are also presented.
Use of i.v. immune globulin and occurrence of associated acute renal failure and thrombosis.

Purpose. The use trends of i.v. immune globulin (IGIV) and the frequency of acute renal failure (ARF) and thrombosis at one institution were studied. Methods. A retrospective chart review on the indications and dosages of IGIV was conducted with inpatients and outpatients at a Veterans Affairs medical center between May 1, 1998, and June 30, 2003. Patients under 18 years of age were excluded from the study. Patient data were obtained through the center’s computerized patient record system and included patient demographics, comorbidities, frequency of ARF, concomitant therapies, and IGIV therapy courses. ARF was defined as an increase in serum creatinine of ≥0.5 mg/dL within 10 days from the initiation of IGIV therapy. Results. Forty-six patients were identified as receiving at least one cycle of IGIV therapy between May 1, 1998, and June 30, 2003. The three main indications for IGIV therapy were hypogammaglobulinemia, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP). No new cases of thrombosis were found. Six patients (13%) developed ARF after IGIV administration, but none required dialysis. A greater percentage of patients with ARF were 65 years or older, had chronic renal insufficiency or diabetes mellitus, and used nephrotoxic agents, compared with patients who did not develop ARF. No association was observed between ARF and underlying primary disease. Conclusion. A retrospective review of 46 courses of IGIV therapy showed that the therapy was most often used for hematologic, neurologic, and immunologic indications, and the most common diagnoses for which it was used were hypogammaglobulinemia, ITP, and CIDP. ARF developed in 13% of patients, but no case of thrombosis was reported.
Homoharringtonine and Low-Dose Cytarabine in the Management of Late Chronic-Phase Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia

PURPOSE: : To evaluate the efficacy andtoxicity profiles of a combination regimen of homoharringtonine (HHT)and low-dose cytarabine (ara-C) in patients with Philadelphiachromosome (Ph)–positive chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) whohad experienced treatment failure with interferon alfa (IFNα)therapy. PATIENTS AND METHODS: One hundred five patients were treated: 100 in chronicphase (15 with cytogenetic clonal evolution) and five in acceleratedphase. Their median age was 52 years; all had been treatedunsuccessfully with IFNα; 94% were in late chronic phase; 43% hadbeen exposed to ara-C and 11% had been exposed to HHT. Patientsreceived HHT 2.5 mg/m2 by continuousinfusion daily for 5 days and ara-C 15mg/m2 daily in two subcutaneous injectionsfor 5 days every 4 weeks. The outcome of the 100 patients in chronicphase was compared with a previous study group of 73 patients treatedwith HHT alone. RESULTS: Overall, the complete hematologic response (CHR) rate in chronic phasewas 72%; the cytogenetic response rate w...
Semivariograms from a forest transect gap model compared with remotely sensed data

A spatially linked version of a forest gap model, ZELIG, parameterized for the H. J. Andrews Experimental Forest, Oregon, was used to generate structural properties (i.e. biomass, leaf area, and maximum tree height) of young (80 yr), mature (140 yr), and old-growth (450 yr) Pseudotsuga menziesii (Douglas fir) forests. Semivariograms were pro- duced at 10 and 30 m resolution to describe the spatio-tempo- ral patterns of variation of the simulated structural features along a 5 km transect of contiguous 10 m x 10 m grid cells. These semivariograms from the simulations were compared with semivariograms from matrices of pixel digital values obtained from aerial videography of similarly aged stands. Although autocorrelative spatial patterning was absent from both the remotely sensed imagery (except at < 20 m for the 450 yr stand) and the model output, the pixel-to-pixel and plot-to- plot variances exhibited similar patterns across the chronosequence at both resolutions. This suggests that gap models are able to capture temporal aspects of landscape dynamics associated with canopy texture of Pacific Northwest forests.
Children and Trauma: A Post-Katrina and Rita Response.

Many children have struggled to cope with the traumatic experiences brought about by hurricanes Katrina and Rita. This article recounts how the authors intervened in the lives of children and families after the storms.
Physical Activity and Modernization Among Bolivian Amerindians

Background Physical inactivity is a growing public health problem, and the fourth leading risk factor for global mortality. Conversely, indigenous populations living traditional lifestyles reportedly engage in vigorous daily activity that is protective against non-communicable diseases. Here we analyze physical activity patterns among the Tsimane, forager-horticulturalists of Amazonian Bolivia with minimal heart disease and diabetes. We assess age patterns of adult activity among men and women, test whether modernization affects activity levels, and examine whether nascent obesity is associated with reduced activity.
Interaction between β‐amyloid and lens αB‐crystallin

In Alzheimer's disease, beta-amyloid peptides (betaA(1-40) and betaA(1-42)) are deposited on the brain cell surfaces as neurotoxic plaques. Some reports indicate that small heat shock proteins, Hsp27 and alphaB-crystallin, colocalize in the plaques, but their functions are not known. Interaction between betaA and alphaB-crystallin must be determined in order to understand the role of alphaB-crystallin in betaA fibril formation. We used a pyrene (Pyr)-labeled betaA(1-40) in a fluorescence energy transfer experiment. Upon incubation together at 37 degrees C, energy transfer between Trp of alphaB-crystallin and Pyr of Pyr-labeled betaA was observed, indicating that betaA participated in subunit exchange of alphaB-crystallin, which promoted fibril formation.
The relation of humor to depression and personality

The present study focused on an assessment of humor, depression, and personality. 38 male and 91 female college students responded to five self-report questionnaires, i.e., Martin and Lefcourt's Situational Humor Response Questionnaire and Coping Humor Scale, Svebak's Sense of Humor Questionnaire, Zimmerman's Inventory to Diagnose Depression, and the Eysenck Personality Inventory. Analysis indicated that individuals who scored lower on the depression scale tended to score higher on the Coping Humor Scale, Extraversion, and Neuroticism. Also, individuals scoring higher on the humor scales tended to score higher on Extraversion and Emotional Stability. These personality factors appear to be strongly related to the sense of humor construct and depression. Perhaps the personality factors of introversion and neuroticism may be employed to identify a predisposition toward depression.
Spatial variation and interaction of runoff generation and erosion within a semi-arid, complex terrain catchment: a hierarchical approach

Closed erosion plots have been used extensively to investigate soil loss and its spatial variation within a watershed. However, erosion rates measured on closed plots at various locations within a watershed may not reflect the “real world” conditions due to plot boundary problems. The purpose of this study was to identify runoff and sediment sources in a semi-arid, complex terrain catchment by using the data collected from open plots, nested catchments, and tunnel systems. The study catchment, in the Loess Plateau of China, was partitioned into various-level geomorphic units. Runoff and sediment discharges were measured from 55 storm events between 1963 and 1968 on open plots and nested catchments. Storm flows were also monitored in 14 rainfall events from the tunnel systems between 1989 and 1990. This study combined the data collected from the two periods to investigate runoff and sediment sources from the different geomorphic units of the catchment. On the four open plots (S1, S2, S3, and S4) of the hill slope, total runoff depths of 128.5 mm (S1), 84.3 mm (S2), 101.92 mm (S3), and 141.73 mm (S4) were recorded from all the events over the first period, which correspondingly produced total sediment yields of 3.056 kg m−2 (S1), 9.058 kg m−2 (S1), 42.848 kg m−2 (S3), and 97.256 kg m−2 (S4). The number of runoff events also varied due to a non-uniformity in runoff generation among the different geomorphic units of the catchment. Tunnel flows generally had higher mean sediment concentrations than catchment outflows. Three nested catchments located from the headwaters (C1) to the mouth of the catchment (C3) generated total runoff depths of 120.02 mm (C1), 143.92 mm (C2), and 149.43 mm (C3), and correspondingly produced sediments yields of 62.01 kg m−2 (C1), 144.02 kg m−2 (C2), and 123.92 kg m−2 (C3) for the first period. Significant variations in runoff and erosion existed within the catchment. The spatial variation of runoff generation on the hill slopes resulted from the variation of soil infiltration. Sediment produced from the lower hill slope zone was disproportionally higher than that from the upper hill slope zone. Nevertheless, a significant portion of the sediment eroded on the lower slope zone was caused by runoff generated from the upper slope zone. Tunnel erosion also played a significant role in sediment production.
Female sexual dysfunction in postmenopausal women: systematic review of placebo-controlled trials.

Abstract Objective: This systematic review includes all randomized and placebo-controlled trials (RCTs) of treatment for female sexual dysfunction (FSD) in postmenopausal women published since 1990. Study Design: Electronic database and manual bibliography searches were conducted to identify all relevant publications. Results: Only six RCTs have been done to assess the effects of different therapies on sexual function in postmenopausal women: one with sildenafil citrate (Viagra), three with hormone replacement therapy, and two with tibolone. Conclusions: In women with FSD, many treatments that are used in practice are not supported by adequate evidence. Although an improvement of sexual function was reported with tibolone and the combination of estrogen-androgen therapy, it still remains unclear which groups of postmenopausal women with FSD would benefit most from these therapies. The adverse effects of testosterone replacement therapy should be assessed against the effects of placebo in RCTs with larger sample sizes and longer duration. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 2003;188:286-93.)
Novel Therapeutic Strategies for Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma in Advanced Stages

The term cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL), introduced in 1975, was used to describe a spectrum of skin-based malignant tumors of T-cell origin. Immunological studies identified the complex interaction of cytokines released from infiltrating accessory or malignant cells and how such cytokines aid in the maintenance and proliferation of malignant cells. Though the etiology remains unknown, an association with rare retrovirus in some cases has been described. The mainstay of therapy has been to control the cutaneous presentation with topical therapies in patients with early limited-stage disease. However, a significant number of patients develop refractory disease to skin-directed therapies with or without clinical progression to advanced stages requiring systemic therapy. Over the last two decades a wide number of novel agents such as monoclonal antibodies, small molecule inhibitors, and chemotherapy agents have been developed and are used in patients with advanced disease or those who have exhausted topical treatment options and/or radiation. In this contribution we review the results of clinical studies evaluating emerging therapeutic strategies for patients with CTCL that had developed from ongoing translational research programs focused on understanding the biology of different subtypes of CTCL and identifying disease-specific biomarkers suitable for targeting.
Do we visit, call, or email?: media matter in close relationships

People use a variety of media to communicate with family and friends, though the evidence is sparse regarding whether differences in the quality of social relationships can be explained, in part, by differences in the media they use. Participants (N=446) in a longitudinal study of household technology use were asked to generate the names of up to 5 family or friends who lived nearby and up to 5 family and friends who lived far away. For each relationship at three points during the course of one year, respondents reported the frequency of face-to-face, phone, and email communication as well as how close they felt toward them. Analyses indicated that an increase in phone communication was most strongly associated with an increase in feelings of closeness, regardless of whether family and friends were nearby or far away.
Implementation of a new DDDR algorithm for tachycardia prevention and treatment utilizing an implantable RAM-based software-controlled pacemaker

Reentry within the atrioventricular node or over accessory pathways are common causes of symptomatic tachycardia. These arrhythmias are frequently initiated by a spontaneous atrial or ventricular premature beat. Appropriately timed atrial or ventricular extrastimuli can, in some patients, render one limb of the reentrant circuit refractory and prevent induction of tachycardia. Currently available implantable devices are not suitable for this application. The authors have implemented a new implantable pacing algorithm capable of extremely short atrial and ventricular refractory periods, rapid triggered ventricular pacing rates, protection against encroachment on the ventricular vulnerable period, protection against tachycardia induction by ventricular premature beats, automated antitachycardia pacing in either atrium and ventricle, as well as an extensive event storage capability. This application has been made possible by a new, RAM-based microprocessor controlled dual chamber pacemaker (Medtronic Prometheus Model 6100). Its use in intraatrial tachycardia with atrioventricular block as well as Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome is demonstrated. This device is capable of prevention of tachycardia induction in some patients. Where prevention is not feasible or fails, it is backed up by automated or manually activated antitachycardia pacing. The great flexibility of a completely reprogrammable software based pacemaker has enabled the implementation of a very complex experimental pacemaker that will permit evaluation in the implanted setting of this new pacing strategy.
Catalyzing the curing reaction of a new benzoxazine‐based phenolic resin

The effect of potential catalysts on the curing reaction of a new type of phenolic resins obtained from benzoxazine precursors is studied. These novel resins solve the shortcomings of traditional phenolics because they cure by a ring-opening mechanism that avoids the release of volatiles. Isothermal and nonisothermal differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) data is used to determine the influence of the catalysts on the curing kinetics. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy is also applied. The benzoxazine chosen for this study is a purified benzoxazine monomer based on bisphenol-A, formaldehyde, and aniline. The as-synthesized benzoxazine precursor is also studied to determine the influence of the dimers and higher oligomers in the curing mechanism. The presence of these structures seems to catalyze the curing reactions. The activation energy and overall reaction order of the as-synthesized precursor are determined. Among the catalysts tested, adipic acid shows the most promising results. For all the cases studied the curing reaction is autocatalyzed up to a diffusion-controlled stage. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
An Institutionalist Vision of a Good Economy

The current crisis in global capitalism and the wide-ranging problems that have been caused by the promulgation of a regime of deregulation of goods, services, and labor markets across the globe, but especially in the United States over the past thirty years, may indeed prove to be the end of the neoliberal era. Thus it is an opportune time to reconsider how the global economy could be restructured along more equitable and progressive lines. This paper will present the institutionalist vision of just such a good economy, building on the ideas of Veblen, Ayres, Commons, and Galbraith. The institutionalist vision of a good economy is productive but also non-invidious, democratic but also pragmatic, egalitarian but also efficient. The good economy must therefore be embedded in key social institutions, and be regulated appropriately to preserve the most beneficial social and cultural institutions. The good economy must, furthermore, be a full-employment economy, with jobs available to all who are capable of making productive contributions to their society and to enable those who labor to work in decent conditions. Finally, the good economy must provision all its members with the necessary means of subsistence for them to achieve their human aims.
Carving Chaos: Genetics and the Classification of Mood and Psychotic Syndromes

Though Kraepelin's century-old division of major mental illness into mood disorder and schizophrenia remains in place, debate abounds over the most appropriate classification. Although these arguments previously rested solely on clinical grounds, they now are rooted in genetics and neurobiology. This article reviews evidence from the fields of genetic epidemiology, linkage, association, cytogenetics, and gene expression. Taken together, these data suggest some overlap in the genes that predispose to bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. One gene, DAOA (D-amino acid oxidase activator, also known as G72), has been repeatedly implicated as an overlap gene, while DISC1 and others may constitute additional shared susceptibility genes. Further, some evidence implicates syndromes of co-occurring mood and psychotic symptoms in association with the putative risk alleles in overlap genes. From a nosologic perspective, the existence of overlap genes, coupled with the genotype-phenotype correlations discovered to date, supports the reality of the much debated schizoaffective disorder. Potential non-overlap syndromes--such as nonpsychotic bipolar disorder or cyclothymic temperament, on the one hand, and negative symptoms or the deficit syndrome, on the other--could turn out to have their own unique genetic determinants. If genotypes are to be the anchor points of a clinically useful system of classification, they must ultimately be shown to inform prognosis, treatment, and prevention. No gene variants have yet met these tests in bipolar disorder or schizophrenia.
Debye Screening in Single-Molecule Carbon Nanotube Field-Effect Sensors

Point-functionalized carbon nanotube field-effect transistors can serve as highly sensitive detectors for biomolecules. With a probe molecule covalently bound to a defect in the nanotube sidewall, two-level random telegraph noise (RTN) in the conductance of the device is observed as a result of a charged target biomolecule binding and unbinding at the defect site. Charge in proximity to the defect modulates the potential (and transmission) of the conductance-limiting barrier created by the defect. In this Letter, we study how these single-molecule electronic sensors are affected by ionic screening. Both charge in proximity to the defect site and buffer concentration are found to affect RTN amplitude in a manner that follows from simple Debye length considerations. RTN amplitude is also dependent on the potential of the electrolyte gate as applied to the reference electrode; at high enough gate potentials, the target DNA is completely repelled and RTN is suppressed.
Institutionalism and Contemporary Price Theory

It is not the province of science to say what values society ought to strive to realize in action, any more than it is in the case of natural science as the basis of technology. Science does not even explicitly tell how to realize any values. But it is its province to show by implication, through description of real and hypothetical courses of events, what would be the results of proposed lines of action-or what lines of action may be expected to produce any results accepted as desirable. F. H. KNIGHT, Freedom and Reform, p. 243.
Effect of Condensed Grape Tannins on the In Vitro Activity of Digestive Proteases and Activation of Their Zymogens

Only at concentrations substantially higher than those likely to occur in human diets did grape tannins have a significant adverse effect on the in virro digestion of bovine serum albumin (BSA). The activities of pepsin and chymotrypsin were at such levels (concentrations greater than 0.1%) significantly reduced. In contrast, that of trypsin increased markedly due to denaturation of BSA by the tannins. Tannin concentrations in excess of 0.5% strongly inhibited the activation of chymotrypsinogen, while the activation of trypsinogen by enterokinase was drastically reduced at concentrations as low as 0.05% due to precipitation of the substrate. BSA digestion was markedly reduced in sequential multizymogen experiments at tannin concentrations of 0.5% but not at 0.1%.
Theoretical investigation of diffusion along columns packed with fully and superficially porous particles.

Abstract Chromatographic columns packed with shell particles are now nearly twice more efficient than columns packed with conventional, fully porous particles. Shell particles are made of a solid core surrounded by a porous shell of constant thickness. Diffusion through the bed of packed columns is complex due to their heterogeneity. It involves diffusion through the external and the internal fluid, and surface diffusion. Six diffusion models are compared that combine these diffusion mechanisms. They involve the external porosity of the bed ( ϵ e ), the ratio of the core to the particle diameters ( ρ ), and the ratio of the shell diffusivity to the bulk diffusion coefficient ( Ω ). Four different theoretical approaches were considered. They are based on (1) the additivity of the mass flux densities modulated by the obstruction factors caused by non-porous spherical inclusions; (2) the effective medium theory of Landauer; (3) the effective medium theory of Garnett for spherical inclusions; and (4) the probabilistic theory of Torquato (for binary composite materials only). The two Landauer models fail because they cannot account for the obstruction factor imposed by the presence of non-porous spherical inclusions. The ternary Garnett model (3) provides an excellent approximation of the actual diffusion mechanism but the most physically relevant model seems to be the one derived from a combination of the Garnett model for a binary core–shell particle and of the Torquato model for random dispersion of contacting spheres in a matrix. Accurate measurements of axial dispersion coefficients are needed to validate or reject the semi-empirical parallel diffusion models and to select the most appropriate one. The results of such measurements made with the peak parking method for various compounds are reported in the companion paper.
Does chorionic villus sampling compromise fetal umbilical blood flow

A possible association of limb reduction defects with chorionic villus sampling (CVS) may be related to compromised umbilical blood flow from the trauma of the procedure. We hypothesized that because CVS may disrupt or compromise umbilical blood flow to the fetus, either by vasoconstriction, bradycardia, or emboli, we would detect these changes using Doppler velocimetry. A cohort of 21 consecutive consenting patients undergoing first-trimester elective CVS for prenatal diagnosis were entered into a prospective longitudinal study. Colour flow Doppler velocimetry was performed on fetal umbilical arterial blood flow immediately before and after CVS to measure the pulsatility index, fetal heart rate, per cent flow time, and maximum flow velocity. Measurements were obtained from three consecutive cardiac cycles in three different umbilical segments and averaged. Potentially confounding variables also recorded included gestational age, method of CVS, number of passes, number of aspirations, placental location, tissue sample size, and operator. Umbilical velocimetry values before and after CVS were compared using the paired t-test and showed no statistically significant differences. No differences were found when data were analysed by gestational age, sample size, method, number of aspirations, placental location, or operator. We were unable to detect any significant change in fetal umbilical arterial blood flow velocimetry or heart rate after performing CVS. Umbilical blood flow does not appear to be routinely compromised by CVS.
Collaborative learning among undergraduate students in community health nursing

Teamwork can benefit students, enhancing their ability to think critically, solve problems creatively, and collaborate effectively. We piloted a collaborative learning project with undergraduate community health nursing students (N = 83) that entailed working in teams to explore epidemiologic data, synthesize the literature, and develop an evidence-based plan for nursing intervention and evaluation pertaining to a public health issue. Project evaluation consisted of pre- and post-project surveys by students, peer evaluation, and formative and summative evaluation by faculty. Having students work in teams, while challenging both for faculty and students, may be a viable strategy for preparing the next generation of nurses for inter- and intraprofessional collaboration. Our experience suggests that instituting a collaborative learning experience as part of an undergraduate course in community health nursing can be an effective way to expose students to constructive approaches to teamwork and prepare them for evidence-based nursing practice in the future.
Oral cortisone in the treatment of hay fever.

Abstract 1.1. Fifty-one patients with hay fever, 10 of whom had seasonal pollen asthma, who had failed to benefit from specific pollen therapy and the antihistaminic drugs or other agents, were treated with one or more four-day courses of oral cortisone. In 42 patients, treatment with cortisone appeared to provide complete to satisfactory relief; 9 patients failed to obtain relief. 2.2. It is concluded that oral cortisone in the dosage used is effective in the treatment of hay fever.
Astrophysical Extended X-Ray Absorption Fine-Structure Analysis

We present an astrophysical extended X-ray absorption fine-structure (EXAFS) analysis (AEA) tool. The AEA tool is designed to generate a numerical model of the modification to the X-ray absorption coefficient due to the EXAFS phenomenon. We have constructed a complete database (elements up to the atomic number 92) of EXAFS parameters: central atom phase shift (2δ1), backscattering phase shift (b), and backscattering amplitude (F). Using the EXAFS parameter data base, the AEA tool can generate a numerical model of any compound when the atomic numbers of neighboring atoms and their distances to the central X-ray-absorbing atom are given.
A study of adenosine 3':5'-cyclic monophosphate, sodium butyrate and cortisol as inducers of HeLa alkaline phosphatase.

Abstract The role of adenosine 3′:5′-cyclic monophosphate in the cortisol-mediated induction of HeLa 65 alkaline phosphatase was investigated. Although growth of these cells with 0.5–1.0 m m N 6 , O 2 ′-dibutyryl adenosine 3′:5′-cyclic monophosphate induces a 5- to 8-fold increase in cellular phosphatase activity after 72 hr, neither cAMP nor theophylline induce at concentrations up to 1 m m . Sodium butyrate induces the enzyme as well as dibutyryl cAMP. Moreover, induction kinetics show sodium butyrate to be a more efficient inducer than dibutyryl cAMP, inducing activity as quickly as cortisol. This suggests that the butyric acid cleaved from dibutyryl cAMP by HeLa cells is the mediator of induction when the cyclic nucleotide derivative is used.
Desensitization of diliganded mouse muscle nicotinic acetylcholine receptor channels.

Nicotinic ACh receptor channels (AChRs) exposed to high concentrations of ACh adopt ‘desensitized’ conformations that have a high affinity for the transmitter and no measurable ion conductance. Single-channel currents elicited by 0.1 or 1 mmACh were recorded from human embryonic kidney (HEK) cells that had been transiently transfected with mouse α, β, δ, and e subunits. On the time scale of ∼0.1 ms to ∼1 h, apparent open intervals are described by a single exponential component, and shut intervals associated with desensitization are described by the sum of four or five exponential components. The kinetic behaviour appeared to be stationary and homogeneous. Desensitization rate constants were estimated by kinetic modelling of currents from cell-attached and outside-out patches (where the number of channels in the patch was measured). A single AChR recovered from the longest-lived desensitized state only after ∼5 min. The occupancy of an AChR for each of the desensitized states was calculated as a function of time after the continuous application of a pulse of saturating ACh. The longest-lived desensitized state accounted for 90 % of the total only after several seconds. The fractional recovery from desensitization (during a 200 ms wash period) decreased as the duration of the desensitizing pulse increased, suggesting that recovery is slower from the longer-lived desensitized states. The free energy landscape for the AChR desensitization reaction in cell-attached patches exhibited an initial destabilization, followed by a plateau region of gradually increasing stability, followed by a deep well.
A quantitative study of forelimb innervation in relation to regenerative capacity in the larval, land stage, and adult forms of Triturus viridescens

The nerve fibers present at the amputation surface of the upper arm of the land stage and larval newt were counted and compared with values previously published by one of us on the adult. When expressed per unit area of surface, it was observed that the limb of the larva and the small land forms is more highly innervated than that of the adult. The values were 75.5, 47.6, and 27.7 fibers per (100 μ)2 respectively for the larval, small land stage, and adult animals. The number of fibers per unit area of the larger land forms resembled that for the adult showing that the innervation ratio stabilizes at a time before the animal returns to water. Calculations were also made of the number of motor and sensory fibers in the individual brachial nerves of the younger animals. Assuming the same quantitative threshold of nerve fibers is required to evoke regeneration of the limb in the young animal as is needed in the adult, it was possible to predict the effectiveness of each nerve and nerve component in supplying the neural requirement for regeneration. For example, we found that nerve 5, ineffective in itself to cause regeneration in adults, should evoke regrowth in younger forms, particularly in larvae. The predicted results correspond with experimental ones already published in the literature. The quantitative studies reported herewith are evaluated and discussed against the background of the important action of the nerve in regeneration of a body part.
FLEXURE OF CRANIAL SUTURES

Beam samples containing cranial sutures were prepared from embalmed and unem- balmed cranial bone and were tested to determine their flexural stiffness and strength. With the aid of layered beam theory, the flexural stiffnesses of beams containing cranial sutures were compared to hypothetical layered cranial bone beams which did not contain sutures. The bend- ing stiffnesses and strengths of cranial sutures were found to be generally the same as compar- able layered cranial bone structures. Embalmed samples were slightly stiffer and stronger in bending than unembalmed samples.
A graphics subroutine package for the Neuroscience Display Processor

The Neuroscience Display Processor (NDP) has been developed at the University of North Carolina for displaying two- and three-dimensional structures, and two-dimensional graphs. To make easy the displaying of graphs and other drawings on a refresh CRT or on a digital plotter, a subroutine package has been produced for the scientist programming in FORTRAN. Various levels of access (implemented as levels in a hierarchy of subroutines) provide increasing flexibility at the cost of increasing programming complexity. At the highest level, and with the least effort (i.e., with a single subroutine call), a programmer may display a graph accompanied by coordinate axes with scales, a title, and axis labels. The programmer may optionally display two such graphs on the CRT simulataneously. He may also display several graphs on the same set of coordinate axes. Graphs may be displayed without coordinate axes, etc., to facilitate the drawing of many superimposed graphs on hard copy.An NDP daslgn assumption that the general-purpose computer refreshes the CRT has far-reaching effects on the software design. That assumption, space and time constraints, the use of FORTRAN, and the provision of various options appropriate for the area of application all result in the programmer's being provided with a single subroutine to be called inside a refresh loop, with many switches as parameters.Where the needs of the application are not net by the capabilities aentloned above, the programmer may replace the single subroutine call by the use of several subroutines at lower levels as building blocks, with which to construct his own graphs or other drawings, thereby sacrificing some ease of programming for increased flexibility. The programmer nay call a subroutine to display a real number or an integer at a specified spot on the screen. He may display a character string. At a still lower level, the programmer say call for the display of a single character. At the lowest level of FORTRAN call, the programmer may specify that either polygons or series of disconnected lines or dots be drawn, nay indicate whether they are to be drawn on the CRT or on the plotter, and may load the rotation-and-translation matrix of the NDP.
Biogeometric guide to groove placement on three-quarter crown preparations

An attempt has been made to establish a practical guide to placing the grooves on a three-quarter crown which fulfills biologic, mechanical, and structural requirements. It is our intention to refine and adjust groove placement to biologic and practical limitations in the hopes of ending some of the confusion and difficulty in partial veneer preparations.
Coupled SelfSim and genetic programming for non-linear material constitutive modelling

In the present study, an improved SelfSim is combined with a recent genetic programming technique called linear GP (LGP) for the inverse extraction of non-linear material behaviour. The SelfSim prepares a comprehensive database including stresses and strains of the structural elements. Then, a steady-state LGP is used to formulate the strain–stress relationship. In this research, a space truss with a reference material model is used as a hypothetical structure. The derived LGP-based formula is very simple and can be employed for design and pre-design purposes. The implementation of LGP-based model is also tested in a general purpose finite element programme. Since the proposed model is an explicit formula, its implementation becomes standard and practically useful. The results show that the procedure is reliable and can be used to derive and formulate the non-linear constitutive material models with a high degree of accuracy.
Analysis of human pituitary tumors by in situ hybridization.

Summary A procedure for performing in situ hybridization histochemistry (ISH) on frozen and paraffin sections of human pituitary tissues is described. The use of oligonucleotide probes for hPRL and hGH labeled with 35 S allowed detection of a specific messenger RNA in frozen and paraffin sections. This technique can be combined with immunochemistry to localize both the gene product and the hormone(s) produced by specific cells and should be very helpful in the characterization of normal and neoplastic human pituitary cells.
Interaction and Loneliness: A Dimensional Analysis of the Social Isolation of a Sample of Older Southern Adults

This study, using data drawn from a sample of 1,879 older Mississippians, demonstrates that social isolation is both complex and multidimensional in nature. Interaction with relatives, feelings of loneliness, and interaction with friends and neighbors composed the three primary dimensions underlying the varying patterns of social isolation found among study respondents. Study findings suggest that certain groups of older people are at greater risk than others of experiencing the potentially harmful effects of social isolation and that human service practitioners must consider the various dimensions of social isolation when designing interven tive strategies that attempt to combat the causes or consequences of this psychosocial phenomenon.
New methods for determining surface structures

Abstract The atomic scale structure of a surface plays a central role in catalysis, defining the available sites for reactions. While there is now an extensive body of information about simple adsorption sites on metal surfaces, for other more complicated system (particularly insulators such as oxides) very little is known. We have recently been able to use classical bulk “direct methods” to determine surface structures with either surface X-ray diffraction or transmission electron diffraction. The method makes no assumptions about the surface structure and is truly ab initio. As a consequence, structures that one might not find or expect using simple chemical arguments can be determined if present. One recent example is the observation of a new chemical species at a surface, cyclic ozone. The basics of the approach as well as other recent results are described.
Assessment of the abiotic transformation of 17β-estradiol in the presence of vegetable matter.

Abstract A study using 17β- 14 C 4 -estradiol ( 14 C-E2) was performed to confirm and characterize the catalytic transformation of estrogens in the presence of a model vegetable matter (namely rabbit food) as a surrogate material for vegetable wastes found in sewage. Results corroborated the occurrence of an abiotic transformation. Unknown transformation byproduct(s) accounted, respectively, for 38% and 9% of the initial radioactivity in liquid and extractable solid phases after 72 h; on the other hand, only 15% and 7% of this radioactivity corresponded to 14 C-E2 in those same matrices. Mass balance was closed including the radioactivity irreversibly bounded to the solid phase. Formation of 14 C 4 -estrone was monitored by Liquid Chromatography with tandem Mass Spectrometry detection; negative results were found in all sampling events. This process could be harnessed to optimize sustainable technologies for the removal of phenolic microcontaminants from wastewater.