cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
THE EFFECT OF ANTI‐THYMOCYTE ANTISERUM IN PROGRESSIVE MY ASTHENIA GRAVIS

The therapeutic effect of goat anti-human thymocyte antiserum globulin (ATG) was assessed in ten patients with myasthenia gravis. Five patients had undergone prior thymectomy. All subjects had far-advanced, debilitating and progressing disease poorly responsive to classic anticholinesterase therapy. Prolonged, low dose ATG therapy was used with 1.0-2.6 grams/protein administered intramuscularly over a 28-73 period. Depression of cellular immunity was observed with anti-thymocyte antiserum was more profound in patients with a prior thymectomy. Therapeutic responses of varying degrees were noted in 8 out of 10 patients. Completion of a course of ATG and discontinuation of the drug did not lead to acute relapse states. Follow-up examinations for over five years have been maintained. A mean remission period of approximately two years was observed. It is suggested that this therapy deserves further evaluation. Subjects with prior thymectomy and progressive disease may represent the most ideal candidates.
Rim Formation on Iowa Highway Concrete Dolomite Aggregate: The Effects of Dedolomitization Reactions

Electron microprobe analysis, as well as scanning electron microscope and petrographic studies, reveal a sequence of rims at dolomite coarse aggregate-cement paste interfaces in Iowa highway concretes. These rims are superimposed on unaltered dolomite aggregate particles (zone A) and cement paste (zone E). Non-durable concretes (service life of 40 years). The compositional variations, mineralogy, and reaction products strongly suggest that rims formed as the result of dedolomitization reactions involving aggregate and cement paste. The present investigation represents one of the first accounts of alkali-carbonate reactions associated with dolomite aggregate in highway concrete rather than with limestone or dolomitic limestone aggregate.
Strain Demand Estimation for Pipelines in Challenging Arctic and Seismically Active Regions

The need to use strain-based design is growing due to potential pipeline projects in environments that include permafrost, offshore ice hazards, active seismic areas and high temperature/high pressure operations. Proper design and construction of such pipelines poses numerous special challenges and requires consideration of some important processes that govern the behavior of soils. ExxonMobil has been conducting research to improve understanding of geotechnical mechanisms that result in large plastic strains in the pipelines, and to develop pipeline strain demand prediction methodologies in harsh arctic and seismically active regions. This paper discusses key challenges in strain demand estimates for Arctic onshore and offshore pipelines and is aimed at promoting industry discussion of strain demand prediction methodologies. The paper highlights ExxonMobil’s efforts in developing predictive technologies for strain demand estimation that forms the basis for the design, testing, and model development in strain-based pipeline applications.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Sphingomyelins of Rat Liver: Biliary Enrichment with Molecular Species Containing 16:0 Fatty Acids as Compared to Canalicular-Enriched Plasma Membranes

We harvested canalicular-enriched plasma membranes of hepatocytes and collected fistula bile from male rats and isolated the sphingomyelins. Following sphingomyelinase hydrolysis, we identified the sphingomyelin molecular species on the basis of their benzoylated ceramide derivatives employing high performance liquid chromatography. Sphingomyelin constitutes ≤3% of total biliary phospholipids (which are mostly sn-1 16:0 long-chain phosphatidylcholines) and approximately 30% of canalicular-enriched membranes. In both cases, the principal molecular species were composed of 16:0, 18:0, 20:0, 22:0, 23:0, 24:0, 24:1 and 24:2 fatty acid classes. However, the 16:0 fatty acid species was enriched in biliary sphingomyelin to a significantly greater degree than in sphingomyelins of canalicular-enriched plasma membranes (46% vs. 25% of total). We argue a physical-chemical case for laterally separated domains of very long chain sphingomyelins on the exoplasmic leaflet of the canalicular membrane. We bolster our hypothesis by the likelihood that the least hydrophobic, e.g., 16:0 sphingomyelin molecular species, are miscible with biliary phosphatidylcholines, and are secreted into bile. Laterally separated domains of very long chain sphingomyelins on the exoplasmic leaflet of the canalicular membrane could provide a means of sequestering cholesterol molecules prior to secretion into bile.
The relation of the weakness of the extraocular muscles and depth perception

This is based upon studies of seventeen cases of early presbyopia and eighteen cases of muscular weakness with good vision. From these conclusions are drawn as to the relation of muscular weakness and depth perception. Presented before the College of Physicians of Philadelphia, Dec. 1923.
Language and National Identity in the Era of Globalization: The Case of English in Switzerland:

This article engages the intersection of language, national identity, nation state, English and discourses of (global) modernization, progress, and the transcendence of the national vis-a-vis an instructive case: Switzerland. It examines the rise of English in multilingual Switzerland and its potential impact on Swiss collective (national) identity. It reflects, as well, on the ways in which English’s spread might influence the ethic of multilingual reciprocity in the Swiss and global contexts. It is contended that despite significant shortcomings, multilingualism has survived and, to a large extent, even thrived in Switzerland precisely because that nation state has legally and normatively codified the protection of linguistic particularism and established multilingualism as a basic component of its national identity. Yet even state-sanctioned and officially codified multilingualisms deeply embedded in national mythology, such as in Switzerland, are potentially threatened by an incessant drive to moderni...
Detonation characteristics of hydrogen‐oxygen mixtures at high initial pressures

Detonation velocities of hydrogen-oxygen mixtures were measured for initial pressures from 14.4 to 1,000 lb./sq. in. abs. and compositions from 40 to 80 mole % molecular hydrogen. Detonation and impact characteristics were computed for essentially the same range of conditions by the use of the elementary theory of detonation. Equilibrium compositions of hydrogen-oxygen mixtures at pressures from 10 to 2,000 atm. and temperatures from 3,000 to 5,000°K. were included in the computations and have been filed with the American Documentation Institute. The effect of nonideal thermodynamic properties on the computed detonation velocities was considered.
A critical analysis of the attention hypothesis of Zeaman and House: problems of parameter interactions in multiparameter models.

Abstract The attention hypothesis of Zeaman and House [in N. R. Ellis (Ed.), Handbook of mental deficiency . New York: McGraw-Hill, 1963 ] was examined through a systematic, computer-simulation analysis of the parameter interactions found in the One-Look model. The hypothesis states that mental retardates and normals differ in their initial attention habits but not in their learning rates in the context of discrimination learning. The analysis showed that possible differences in the learning rates cannot be ruled out. The result was used to suggest how shift designs can unconfound the effect of the attention habits from the effect of the learning rates and maximize chances of observing possible differences in the learning rates between retarded and normal children.
The Modification of Schizophrenic Behavior

The literature on treatment of schizophrenic behavior through operant conditioning, token economy, systematic desensitization, and social skills training was reviewed. Results from these studies in...
Thermally Controlled Release of Anticancer Drug from Self-Assembled γ-Substituted Amphiphilic Poly(ε-caprolactone) Micellar Nanoparticles

A thermo-responsive poly{γ-2-[2-(2-methoxyethoxy)ethoxy]ethoxy-e-caprolactone}-b-poly(γ-octyloxy-e-caprolactone) (PMEEECL-b-POCTCL) diblock copolymer was synthesized by ring-opening polymerization using tin octanoate (Sn(Oct)2) catalyst and a fluorescent dansyl initiator. The PMEEECL-b-POCTCL had a lower critical solution temperature (LCST) of 38 °C, and it was employed to prepare thermally responsive micelles. Nile Red and Doxorubicin (DOX) were loaded into the micelles, and the micellar stability and drug carrying ability were investigated. The size and the morphology of the cargo-loaded micelles were determined by DLS, AFM, and TEM. The Nile-Red-loaded polymeric micelles were found to be stable in the presence of both fetal bovine serum and bovine serum albumin over a 72 h period and displayed thermo-responsive in vitro drug release. The blank micelles showed a low cytotoxicity. As comparison, the micelles loaded with DOX showed a much higher in vitro cytotoxicity against MCF-7 human breast cancer cell...
Reconceptualizing cancer survivorship through veterans' lived experiences.

This study assessed the biopsychosocial impact of cancer on Veteran older adult survivors by garnering their accounts of their illness experiences. A narrative analysis of 73 cancer diagnosis and treatment stories reveals five “paths” Veterans are taking 18 months postdiagnosis. These paths indicate that cancer survivorship cannot be conceptualized as a one-size-fits-all experience but rather is a process of Veterans understanding and making sense of the effects of cancer on their lives. Our future goal is to develop a screening tool to help clinicians identify a patient's “path” to tailor survivorship care to meet specific needs.
Injections into function spaces over ordinals

Abstract We investigate when and how function spaces over subspaces of ordinals admit continuous injections into each other. To formulate our results let τ be an uncountable regular cardinal. We prove, in particular, that: (1) If A and B are disjoint stationary subsets of τ then C p ( A ) does not admit a continuous injection into C p ( B ) ; (2) For A ⊂ ω 1 , C p ω ( A ) admits a continuous injection into C p ω ( ω 1 ) iff A is countable or ω 1 embeds into A (which, in its turn, is equivalent to the statement “ C p ω ( A ) embeds into C p ω ( ω 1 ) ”).
Photoionization of 1-Alkenylperoxy and Alkylperoxy Radicals and a General Rule for the Stability of Their Cations

The photoionization of 1-alkenylperoxy radicals, which are peroxy radicals where the OO moiety is bonded to an sp2-hybridized carbon, is studied by experimental and computational methods and compared to the similar alkylperoxy systems. Quantum chemical calculations are presented for the ionization energy and cation stability of several alkenylperoxy radicals. Experimental measurements of 1-cyclopentenylperoxy (1-c-C5H7OO) and propargylperoxy (CH2CCHOO) photoionization are presented as examples. These radicals are produced by reaction of an excess of O2 with pulsed-photolytically produced alkenyl radicals. The kinetic behavior of the products confirms the formation of the alkenylperoxy radicals. Electronic structure calculations are employed to give structural parameters and energetics that are used in a Franck−Condon (FC) spectral simulation of the photoionization efficiency (PIE) curves. The calculations also serve to identify the isomeric species probed by the experiment. Adiabatic ionization energies (...
A sodium channel enhancer, LY341311, increases myocardial contractile performance without increasing heart rate in conscious normal dogs: A comparison with dobutamine

Abstract Background: Catecholamines and many inotropic agents increase cardiac contractility but also cause excessive myocardial O 2 consumption (MVO 2 ). We determined if the novel Na + channel enhancer LY341311, which increases myocardial contractility independent of β receptors, can produce significant cardiac inotropic effects compared with dobutamine but at lower oxygen cost in conscious dogs. Methods and Results: Mongrel dogs were chronically instrumented for measurement of arterial pressure, left ventricular (LV) pressure and internal diameter, coronary blood flow, and arterial and coronary sinus O 2 content. Both LY341311 and dobutamine produced dose-dependent increases in LV dP/dt, dP/dt/40, fractional shortening, and cardiac stroke work and minute work estimated from the LV pressure-diameter loop. The major difference between LY341311 and dobutamine was an opposing effect on heart rate with LY341311 slightly reducing it but dobutamine markedly increasing it. LY341311 caused a significantly smaller increase in MVO 2 than dobutamine ( P 2 markedly, approaching the same level as with dobutamine. Conclusions: The novel Na + channel enhancer LY341311 caused significant increases in myocardial contractility and contractile performance without increasing heart rate. It had a beneficial energetic effect on the heart with significantly less O 2 cost and improved cardiac mechanical efficiency.
Social and structural constraints on disclosure and informed consent for HIV survey research involving female sex workers and their bar managers in the Philippines.

This qualitative study explored the ethical issues of female sex workers’ (FSWs) participation in HIV prevention research. Twenty female bar/spa workers and 10 venue managers in the Philippines underwent individual semi-structured interviews; three community advisory board meetings informed the study design and interpretation of findings. Results: Informed consent was constrained by perceived government coercion and skepticism that research results would translate into community benefits. Disclosure was constrained by distrust in confidentiality and perceived intrusiveness of survey questions. FSWs and managers were frustrated by the government's inability to stop police from using condoms as evidence of prostitution. Findings suggest HIV interventions move beyond didactic prevention workshops to include FSWs in intervention design and implementation, and to reduce social and structural constraints on participation.
Anti‐inflammatory Effects of α‐Tocopherol

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the western world. Its incidence has been increasing lately in the developing countries. Much evidence suggests a major role for inflammation in all phases of atherosclerosis. Cell adhesion molecules, cytokines, chemokines, and monocytes-macrophages as well as T lymphocytes play a pivotal role in atherogenesis. C-reactive protein (CRP), a downstream marker of inflammation, in addition to being a risk marker for CVD, could contribute to atherosclerosis. Dietary micronutrients with anti-inflammatory properties, specially alpha-tocopherol, may play an important role with regard to the prevention and treatment of CVD. alpha-Tocopherol has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects both in vitro and in vivo. alpha-Tocopherol therapy, especially at high doses, has been shown to decrease release of pro-inflammatory cytokines (such as interleukin-1beta, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha) and the chemokine interleukin-8, and to decrease adhesion of monocytes to endothelium. In addition, alpha-tocopherol has been shown to decrease CRP levels in patients with CVD and having related risk factors for CVD (such as diabetes and smoking). Furthermore, pro-inflammatory cytokines and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) levels have also been shown to be decreased with alpha-tocopherol supplementation in vivo. In this review, our focus will be on anti-inflammatory effects of alpha-tocopherol reported in in vivo studies.
Calcium activation of maize root phospholipase D

Abstract Calcium activation of plant lipases which occurs at relatively high concentrations is poorly understood. The effects of divalent cations on the activities of the soluble and membrane‐bound phospholipase D were compared. Both the soluble and membrane‐bound activities were stimulated by 1 mM Ca and to a lesser extent by 1 mM Ba, but not by 1 mM Mg, Mn, Zn, or Cd. The two enzyme forms differ in the concentration dependence of Ca activation. The membrane‐bound activity exhibited some activity in the absence of Ca, whereas no activity was observed with the soluble enzyme without Ca. Maximal activation was observed at micromolar concentration with the membrane‐bound enzyme compared to millimolar levels for the soluble enzyme. The effects of Ca on the structure of substrate vesicles for the soluble enzyme were determined by following changes in fluorescence of incorporated probes. Calcium had little effects on membrane structure at micromolar concentration, but alter the bilayer structure at millimolar ...
Minimally Invasive Thoracic Microendoscopic Diskectomy: A Tool for All Surgeons?

One of the most common pathologic conditions encountered by spine surgeons is a herniated nucleus pulposus. The incidence of symptomatic thoracic disk herniations is <1%. The relative mobility and range of motion about the ventrally located instantaneous axis of rotation partially accounts for the frequency of herniations in the lumbar and cervical spine. The thoracic spine is comparatively immobile with the sternum and rib cage providing substantial structural support, with a commensurate restriction of motion. Paraspinal muscles also contribute to diminished mobility, whereas the natural kyphosis of the thoracic spine limits the incidence of dorsal disk and annulus bulging. The structures that provide such immobilization making herniated nucleus pulposus less common in the thoracic region also serve as a barrier, of sorts, to the surgeon for surgical intervention. The transthoracic, transthoracic extrapleural, costotransversectomy, and dorsal approaches all are associated with significant drawbacks from an exposure and technical perspective. None of these approaches can be universally employed, and each is associated with approach-specific obstacles. The location, laterality, and characteristics of a disk herniation play a key role in the surgical decision-making process. A central calcified disk is better addressed through a ventral or far lateral approach, whereas a soft lateral disk herniation may be better managed via a dorsolateral approach. Patient presentation may vary, depending on the location and magnitude of the herniation. For far lateral disk herniations, radicular pain may be the presenting complaint. An acute central disk herniation may cause rapid onset of myelopathy. Upper thoracic to midthoracic disk herniations may cause a deep chest pain that can be mistaken for cardiac pain. Midthoracic to lower thoracic disk herniations may masquerade as renal colic or gastrointestinal pain. The ultimate key to the decision-making process is careful physical examination in conjunction with obtaining appropriate imaging studies.
Shape detection via fuzzy morphology

Processing gray-scale realizations of images that are ideally binary (such as gray-scale realizations of printed characters) is problematic due to the fact that gray-scale processing should be consistent with the binary nature of the ideal image. Essentially, any final decision (such as the recognition of a specific character at a specific location) should reflect the content of the ideal image, which is generally unknown. Too often, a gray-scale realization of an ideal binary image is processed using methods appropriate for gray-scale realizations of ideal gray- scale images. These should not be expected to lead to decision procedures appropriate for binary images. Fuzzy morphological algorithms do not assume probabilistic knowledge of the degradation process; however, they mirror the processing that one would have performed were the ideal binary image known. Thus, they lead to decision procedures consistent with those that would have been taken following processing of the ideal binary image. In this paper we discuss the fuzzy hit-or-miss transform based shape detectors that are capable of detecting geometric shapes in the presence of considerable additive as well as subtractive random noise. There exists an infinite number of realizations of this shape detector and the determination of which detector is suitable is application dependant; nevertheless, there exist a general set of heuristics for selecting the appropriate realization. We also carry out extensive noise- sensitivity analysis for a few of these shape detectors.
Presence of β-arrestin-1 immunoreactivity in the cutaneous nerve fibers of rat glabrous skin

Abstract β-Arrestin-1 (βArr1) plays a major role in the desensitization and internalization of G protein-coupled receptors. We previously localized βArr1 in the sensory neurons of rat lumbar 4 and 5 dorsal root ganglia (DRG) and reported the predominant presence of βArr1 in the small-diameter DRG neurons that are often implicated with nociception. Because of βArr1’s crucial role in regulating the initiation of cellular signaling, in the current study we evaluated the distribution of βArr1 in the peripheral sensory terminals where various receptors are present. Western blotting confirmed the presence of βArr1 immunoreactivity in the rat skin. Sciatic nerve ligation demonstrated that βArr1 is transported peripherally from the DRG, and immunohistochemistry showed βArr1 immunoreactivity in the glabrous skin of the rat hindpaw. In the glabrous skin, strong βArr1 immunoreactivity was detected in nerve fibers in the dermal nerve plexus and dermal papillae. Fine varicose immunoreactive fibers were found in the epidermis. In addition, βArr1 was observed in specialized sensory receptors such as Meissner corpuscles. Our observations thus indicate that βArr1 may be involved in modulation of specific tactile stimulation from the skin in addition to nociception.
Some corrections on "Discrete-time positive-real lemma revisited: the discrete-time counterpart of the Kalman-Yakubovitch lemma"

For original paper see K. Premaratne and E.I. Jury, ibid., vol.41, pp.747-50 (1994). In the above paper, a notion that may be considered the discrete-time counterpart of positive realness was presented. The corresponding counterpart to the Kalman-Yakubovitch lemma and algebraic necessary and sufficient conditions were also presented. This note aims to correct some of the inconsistencies that were later realized.
Solution of the comoving-frame equation of transfer in spherically symmetric flows. V - Multilevel atoms

The coupled radiative transfer and statistical equilibrium equations for multilevel ionic structures in the atmospheres of early-type stars are solved. Both lines and continua are treated consistently; the treatment is applicable throughout a transonic wind, and allows for the presence of background continuum sources and sinks in the transfer. An equivalent-two-level-atoms approach provides the solution for the equations. Calculations for simplified He (+)-like model atoms in parameterized isothermal wind models indicate that subordinate line profiles are sensitive to the assumed mass-loss rate, and to the assumed structure of the velocity law in the atmospheres.
Increasing leadership integrity through mind training and embodied learning.

This paper offers foundations for an integrated approach to leadership integrity consultation, melding somatic learning methods with practices for training the mind, known as lojong in Tibetan Buddhism. Embodied learning and mind training are grounded in similar perceptions about the importance of attention and awareness for developing effective, powerful action in the world. Fundamental to both methods is developing the capacity to act with awareness: the capacity to be fully present to what is taking place, rather than being distracted by expectations, habits, or fears about either oneself or others. Experience with coaching leaders suggests that such awareness is essential for leadership integrity, which requires a leader to act with wholeness from deep values in ways that can be sustained over time. The paper describes these methods, identifies how they have been addressed in research, shows how each has been used in consulting, and suggests that they may be used together synergistically within processes of leadership development.
Plasmodium berghei NK65 in the Inbred A/J Mouse: Immunity in the A/J Mouse Naturally Recovered from NK65C and Challenged with NK65E*

SYNOPSIS. Female retired breeder A/J mice were infected with Plasmodium berghei NK65C deme. Those animals which recovered were allowed to recrudesce and were inoculated again with NK65C. Twenty-one weeks after the original challenge, the mice were divided into 2 equal groups. One group was challenged with NK65C and the other with NK65E. Both demes of P. berghei were mosquito derived from NK65. NK65C appeared to give less protection to mice challenged with NK65E deme than to those challenged with the homologous NK65C deme. One mouse which had recovered from infection with NK65C deme died from the NK65E challenge. No definitive conclusions could be drawn regarding antigenic variation and virulence between demes E and C.
A novel mutation in the spastin gene in a family with spastic paraplegia

Abstract Hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP) is a degenerative neuromuscular disease characterized by progressive lower extremity weakness, spasticity and hyperreflexia. Inheritance of HSP is commonly autosomal dominant, spastin was identified as the defective gene in chromosome 2p-linked autosomal dominant hereditary spastic paraplegia (AD-HSP). In a large American family with AD-HSP, we have identified a novel spastin mutation at a splice-acceptor site in intron 6 (1130-1 g→a) and detected a corresponding aberrant transcript generated from a cryptic splice site. This is predicted to cause a frameshift and premature truncation of the abnormal spastin protein. Our data are the first to confirm that a mutation in an acceptor site in the spastin gene results in activation of a cryptic acceptor site and a translational frameshift. The clinical phenotype of this pedigree is also discussed.
Minerals in Martian meteorite illuminate magnetic mysteries

Since magnetic anomalies on Mars were detected in Noachian-aged crust (about 4.4 billion years old) by the Mars Global Surveyor mission in the 1990s, scientists have been searching for their mineral origins. So far, meteorite samples from Mars have not yielded rocks with enough magnetic minerals to account for the anomalies.
Interpolating Unipolar Epicardial Potentials from Electrodes Separated by Increasing Distances

BLANCHARD, S. M., et al.: Interpolating Unipolar Epicardial Potentials from Electrodes Separated by Increasing Distances In cardiac mapping, potentials for unexplored areas are estimated by interpolating values from nearest neighbor electrodes regardless of distances between these sites or wave front orientation. The effects of these variables on interpolated unipolar electrograms were analyzed two ways: with a computer model and with electrograms recorded 9.9 and 14.1 mm apart. For the model, wave fronts (n = 39) were generated from electrograms recorded during right ventricular (RV) activation in five dogs following the RV isolation procedure. Each wave front was assumed to propagate radially at 0.5 m/sec from a site 30 mm from the center of a square array with electrodes located at the center and corners. Each wave front crossed the array with its tangent at an angle of 0°, 45°, or 90° to the diagonal line connecting opposite corner electrodes. Potentials for all five sites were generated from each wave front and were interpolated for the center site from the generated corner potentials. Generated and interpolated center site potentials were compared using correlation coefficients (r) and percent root mean square differences (%RMSD). Mean r values fell below 0.90 for interelectrode distances of 15.6 mm, 2.8 mm, and 1.4 mm at 0°, 45°, and 90° wave front orientations, respectively. For experimentally measured potentials recorded 9.9 mm apart, results from interpolated electrograms were similar to results from the model at 0° propagation. Electrograms interpolated from potentials measured 14.1 mm apart had poorer r and %RMS values than those from the computer model. Thus, with linear interpolation unipolar electrograms can be inaccurately interpolated from electrodes less than 3 mm apart or correctly interpolated from electrodes more than 14 mm apart depending upon wave front orientation.
Educator as designer: Balancing multiple teaching perspectives in the design of community based learning for adults

Complex choices may confront educators in designing community based learning opportunities for adults; decisions will be influenced by their perspectives on teaching and learning.
Cadmium-binding proteins in the blue crab, callinectes sapidus: laboratory-field comparison

Abstract The blue crab, Callinectes sapidus , is distributed along the east coast of the United States from Cape Cod, Mass., through the Gulf of Mexico, including both relatively unpolluted coastal areas and estuaries contaminated with trace metals. Cadmium is of particular concern because it is concentrated in the digestive glands of blue crabs and can be passed on to consumer organisms. Tissue concentrations and partitioning of trace metals from crabs exposed in the laboratory to 10 ppb dissolved cadmium for 40 days were compared with blue crabs collected from two locations on the Hudson River, NY, Foundry Cove and Haverstraw Bay, Foundry Cove and Haverstraw Bay, both of which have elevated trace metal levels relative to estuarine areas near Beaufort, NC. Crab digestive glands, gills and muscle were removed and analyzed for total cadmium, copper, zinc and nickel concentrations using acid digestion and atomic absorption spectrophotometry, and metal-binding (metallothionein-like) proteins were determined by gel-filtration chromatography. In crabs exposed to cadmium in the laboratory, the cytosolic partitioning was similar to previous investigations at our laboratory where higher levels of cadmium (100 ppb) and shorter exposure times (14 days) were used. The similarity in cadmium partitioning from these two separate experiments indicates dose independence. In crabs from polluted environments the digestive glands contained the highest concentrations of trace metals. Chromatograms of the cytosol from the digestive glands and gills from both field and laboratory exposed crabs showed similar distributions of cadmium, copper and zinc. The gills of both field and laboratory-exposed crabs had metal-binding proteins that contained mostly cadmium, and the digestive glands had metallothionein-like proteins that contained cadmium, copper and zinc. Estimated molecular weights for these proteins were similar to the metallothioneins found in other crustaceans and mammals.
Environmental testing of a Q-switched Nd:YLF laser and a Nd:YAG ring laser

A Q-switched Nd:YLF laser (model 110-02) and a Nd:YAG ring laser (model 120-04) from Lightwave Electronics were subjected to thermal and vibration tests similar to what can be expected during launch and flight on a spacecraft. Even though these lasers were not designed for space flight, environmental tests were performed to identify major design weaknesses. Laser performance (output power, energy, pulsewidth, lasing threshold etc.) were measured prior to and after thermal vibration tests. Average output power of the Q-switched laser degraded 15-20 percent after thermal tests and an additional 20-25 percent after vibration tests. Post diagnostic tests revealed that degradation of the Q-switched laser was due to misalignment of pump focusing optics and the laser cavity.
Hyperfine Structure Formulae for the Configuration d 2 s Application to 5 d 2 6 s F 4 States of La I

Hfs interval factor formulae for the states of ${d}^{2}s$ are derived by the method of Breit and Wills. The formulae for intermediate coupling are expressed in two forms: one involving the coefficients $C'\mathrm{s}$, the other the coefficients $K'\mathrm{s}$, corresponding to the representation of the functions of the states in intermediate coupling as a linear combination of the ($\mathrm{jj}$) and the ($\mathrm{LS}$) functions, respectively. The $(\mathrm{LS})\ensuremath{\leftharpoonup}\ensuremath{\rightharpoondown}(\mathrm{jj})$ transformation matrices as well as the interval factor formulae for ($\mathrm{LS}$) and ($\mathrm{jj}$) coupling are also given. As the coefficients are determined from the empirical multiplet separations, the energy matrices in both ($\mathrm{LS}$) and ($\mathrm{jj}$) coupling are listed. The theory is applied to the $5{d}^{2}6s$ $^{4}F$ states of La I and consistently accounts for the relative hfs separations of these states. The values obtained for the interaction constants of the $6s$ and $5d$ electrons are 0.119 and 0.0039 ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$, respectively. The nuclear $g$-factor computed from these is $g(I)=0.71$. The corresponding value of the nuclear magnetic moment is 2.5 nuclear magnetons.
Heavy metal levels in Nucella lapillus (Gastropoda: Prosobranchia) from sites with normal and penis-bearing females from New England.

Pseudohermaphroditism, as manifested by reproductively normal females possessing non-functioning penises, has been reported for more than thirty species of dioecious neogastropods. This anomaly was shown to be unrelated to age or parasitism, but the geographic distribution of this phenomenon indicated that it was environmentally induced rather than genetically controlled. In a survey of N. lapillus populations along the New England Coast, Pondick found abnormal females at sites directly under the influence of industrial discharges, sewage effluent, or vessel-related activities. Histological sections revealed the presence of a penial duct. The purpose of this study was to determine if there were differences in metal levels in the snail populations studied by Pondick, with particular attention to metals associated with boating activity.
Novel Chemically Modified Liquid Medium That Will Support the Growth of Seven Bartonella Species

Bacteria of the genus Bartonella, a member of the Alphaproteobacteria, are fastidious, gram-negative, aerobic bacilli that comprise numerous species, subspecies, and subtypes. In human and veterinary medicine, species isolation remains a vital component of the diagnostic and therapeutic management of Bartonella infection. We describe a novel, chemically modified, insect-based liquid culture medium that supports the growth of at least seven Bartonella species. This medium will also support cocultures consisting of different Bartonella species, and it facilitated the primary isolation of Bartonella henselae from blood and aqueous fluid of naturally infected cats. This liquid growth medium may provide an advantage over conventional direct blood agar plating for the diagnostic confirmation of bartonellosis.
A Policy for the Retention and Extended Examination of Organs at Autopsy

Recent organ retention scandals and law suits have created a focus on the practice of saving postmortem tissues for extended examination or research purposes. The New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator (OMI) established a policy to notify families about organ retention and the subsequent disposition of the tissue. The OMI examined the success of this policy in regards to the retention of brains for extended examination by analyzing data abstracted from verbal consent forms from 2003 to 2006. During this time, 715 cases were identified as needing an extended examination of the brain. The percentages of brains saved in any given year, as a percent of the total number of autopsies performed that year, were: 2003 6.5%, 2004 10.4%, and 2005 11.8%. The disposition was cremation in 79% of cases, release with the body after a determined period of time in 14%, and cut fresh in 4%. In conclusion, the instigation of a policy on the verbal notification of the next of kin when organs are retained can be successfully implemented.
Phase I trial of metronomic oral vinorelbine in patients with advanced cancer

Background Antitubulin agents exhibit antiangiogenic effects in vitro and in vivo. We evaluated the safety and feasibility of administering a metronomic schedule of oral vinorelbine designed to optimize its antiangiogenic effects.
Internal state words : their relation to moral development and to maternal communications about moral development in the second year of life

This paper, through a longitudinal study of four toddlers, examines the regularities in order and age of acquisition of internal state words in relation to emergence of signs of moral awareness and affect. Increases in internal state words occurred after children's peaks in awareness of standards and after the first signs of empathy. Maternal communications about awareness of standards appeared to increase and decrease in a pattern suggesting they were following their children's development. Maternal use of internal state words was rare and did not appear directly to promote children's acquisition of them. Results are discussed in terms of conceptual growth motivating language acquisition.
A simplified wide band model of the cumulative distribution function for carbon dioxide

Abstract An efficient and accurate wide band absorption coefficient cumulative distribution function is used to model the 2.0, 2.7, 4.3, 9.4, 10.4 and 15.0 μm bands of carbon dioxide. Band parameters for these bands are determined, and a study of the accuracy of the formulation is performed over a wide range of pressures and temperatures. The model accurately describes the absorption coefficient distributions compared to existing line-by-line and narrow band results. The simplified formulation of the absorption coefficient provides accurate values for the wide band absorption, generally with differences below 10% when compared to benchmark results.
ASL based myocardial perfusion in mice at 7 Tesla

Background Previously we introduced a signal intensity based arterial spin labeling technique that employed a short TR and a two compartment model of tissue. The feasibility of this method was demonstrated on an ischemia-reperfusion mouse model. Here we used this to measure myocardial perfusion in a mouse model (delta-sarcoglycan null, DSG) that develop cardiac and skeletal muscle histopathological alterations similar to those in humans with limb girdle muscular dystrophy.
Preview based path-following in the presence of input constraints

We develop an algorithm for the design of path-following feedback laws for a feedback linearizable nonlinear systems with input constraints. Our main contribution is a preview based feedback law for the path parameter, which reduces the time necessary to traverse a given interval of the path. In contrast to the time-optimal solution, we require only limited knowledge of the path in the future. We illustrate the proposed algorithm on two examples and compare its performance with the time-optimal solution.
Best Quadratic Unbiased Estimators of Integrated Variance in the Presence of Market Microstructure Noise

We consider the best quadratic unbiased estimators of the integrated variance in the presence of independent market microstructure noise. We establish the asymptotic normality of a feasible best quadratic unbiased estimator under the assumption of constant
Simulating the effects of side-aspect fish orientation on acoustic biomass estimates

Simulation methods were used to investigate the effect of side-aspect fish orientation on estimates of fish biomass derived from acoustic data. Three population-level length distributions (n = 1000 individuals) were simulated (identical, uniform, and age class) and applied to a target strength (TS) function of fish length previously derived for Gulf menhaden (Brevoortia patronus). Systematic manipulation of the TS –length coefficients strongly affected the biomass estimates. Based on simulations, biomass estimates decreased markedly from the true side-aspect to head- or tail-on orientation, with estimates of population biomass decreasing by 80% when orientation deviated by as little as 308 from true side-aspect. Simulated data indicate that biomass estimates generated from surveys may be grossly inaccurate if fish orientation is not taken into account.
Transport in Stochastic Fibrous Networks

Some fundamental issues concerning the design and performance of stochastic porous structures are examined, stemming from application of advanced fibrous electrode substrates in NiMH automotive cells. These electrodes must resist corrosion and local failures under hundreds of charge/discharge cycles. Such fibrous materials can be effectively used as substrates for chemical reactions because of their combinations of high surface area and high conductivity. Key questions concerning the relationships among connectivity and conductivity, scale and variability in material response are addressed. Two techniques are developed and compared for use in predicting these materials' conductivity. The first approach uses a statistical technique in conjunction with an adaptation of classic micromechanical models. The second approach uses the statistical generation technique, followed by an exact calculation of 2D network conductivity. The two techniques are compared with one another and with classic results. Several important conclusions about the design of these materials are presented, including the importance of use of fibers with aspect rations greater than at least 50, the weak effect of moderate alignment for unidirectional conductivity, and the weak power-law behavior of conductivity versus volume fraction over the range of possible behaviors.
Wound Complications after Total Knee Arthroplasty

Some wound complications can be prevented with attention to patient, surgical, and postoperative factors; others develop despite all efforts. Some practices that affect wound healing, such as the use of drains and methods of thromboprophylaxis are contentious. Superficial wound problems must always be discriminated from deep infection, which is not the focus of this article. Wound complications require prompt attention. As there is little morbidity from early irrigation and debridement of problem total knee arthroplasties (Weiss AP, Krackow KA. Persistent wound drainage after primary total knee arthroplasty. J Arthroplasty. 1993;8(3):285-9), early intervention is generally preferred.
Interchangeability of Themis1 and Themis2 in Thymocyte Development Reveals Two Related Proteins with Conserved Molecular Function

Themis1, a recently identified T cell protein, has a critical function in the generation of mature CD4 + CD8 − and CD4 − CD8 + (CD4 and CD8 single-positive [SP]) thymocytes and T cells. Although Themis1 has been shown to bind to the adaptor proteins LAT and Grb2, previous studies have yielded conflicting results regarding whether thymocytes from Themis1 −/− mice exhibit TCR-mediated signaling defects. In this study, we demonstrate that, in the absence of Themis1, TCR-mediated signaling is selectively impaired in CD4 SP and CD8 SP thymocytes but is not affected in CD4 + CD8 + double-positive thymocytes despite high expression of Themis1 in double-positive thymocytes. Like Themis1, Themis2, a related member of the Themis family, which is expressed in B cells and macrophages, contains two conserved cysteine-based domains, a proline-rich region, and a nuclear localization signal. To determine whether Themis1 and Themis2 can perform similar functions in vivo, we analyzed T cell development and TCR-mediated signaling in Themis1 −/− mice reconstituted with either Themis1 or Themis2 transgenes. Notably, Themis1 and Themis2 exhibited the same potential to restore T cell development and TCR-mediated signaling in Themis1 −/− mice. Both proteins were tyrosine phosphorylated and were recruited within Grb2 signaling complexes to LAT following TCR engagement. These results suggest that conserved molecular features of the Themis1 and Themis2 proteins are important for their biological activity and predict that Themis1 and Themis2 may perform similar functions in T and B cells, respectively.
Intrapersonal and Interpersonal Factors Influencing Adolescents' Decisions About Having Sex: A Test of Sufficiency of the Theory of Planned Behavior

This study tested the theory of planned behavior's (TPB) expectation that attitudes, social norms, and self-efficacy would mediate other variables' effects on intention for having sex and probability of having sex. Longitudinal data were collected from 790 high-school-aged adolescents. In an intrapersonal variable model, sensation seeking, alcohol use, hard work, smoking, and moral beliefs had mediated effects, but the last 2 also had direct effects (on intention and behavior, respectively). In an interpersonal model, school attachment had mediated effects, pressure to have sex had a direct effect on behavior, and parent communication and number of sexually active friends had both. Intrapersonal variable effects were better described by the TPB than those of interpersonal variables. Targeting distal psychosocial factors may enhance intervention efficacy.
Public attitudes and expectations in the escalation of health care costs.

Conventional analysis of the escalation ofhealth care costs in America usually includes a discussion of the generic and structural factors, such as inflation, demographic changes, and technological advances, that drive this process. In addition, there are other real generating forces behind rising costs that relate to cultural and political factors. These include, among others, public attitudes and expectations as expressed through political choices, legislative mandates, and government initiatives and regulations, as well as rules promulgated by insurance carriers. The object of this article is to emphasize that this nation has knowingly or unwittingly made certain choices that have propelled the growth of the health care industry and its claim on the national purse. Let us first review those general factors that are partial causes of the problem.
Processing of boron carbide-aluminum composites

The processing problems associated with boron carbide and the limitations of its mechanical properties can be significantly reduced when a metal phase (e.g., aluminum) is added. Lower densification temperatures and higher fracture toughness will result. Based on fundamental capillarity thermodynamics, reaction thermodynamics, and densification kinetics, we have established reliable criteria for fabricating B4C-AI particulate composites. Because chemical reactions cannot be eliminated, it is necessary to process B4C-AI by rapidly heating to near 1200°C (to ensure wetting) and subsequently heat-treating below 1200°C (for microstructural development). [Key words: composites, boron carbide, aluminum, processing, cermets.]
Providing alcohol-related screening and brief interventions to adolescents through health care systems: obstacles and solutions.

Duncan Clark and Howard Moss identify obstacles to alcohol-related screening and treatment for adolescents and propose policy solutions.
2H-NMR Spectroscopy of Solids and Liquid Crystals

Deuteron Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy (2H-NMR) is an extremely powerful technique for investigating molecular structure and dynamics. This aticle covers the last five years (188–93) and reviews the 2H-NMR literature on molecular crystals, disordered materials and surfaces, inclusion compounds, and thermotropic and lyotropic liquid crystals. The current status of conventional experiments, development of new techniques, and applications to representative sytems are discussed, assessed and summarized.