cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Success Rate of Forensic Surface Search for Osseous Remains in a New England, USA, Environment

Human skeletal remains in outdoor forensic sites often are dispersed from their point of initial deposition, making locating isolated bones difficult. Forested areas in particular may obscure remains, as bones stained from soft-tissue and leaf-litter decomposition may blend in with the forest floor or be hidden by understory. Wide skeletal dispersal presents other problems for searchers, including the difficulty in keeping track of which areas have been searched and maintaining proper spacing of searchers to prevent gapping. Little is known about success rates when searching for dispersed skeletal elements and the effects of searcher spacing, searching the same area twice, type of skeletal element, and understory growth. In order to test recovery rates searching through forested areas, isolated postcranial elements of white-tailed deer ( Odocoileus virginianus ) and crania of pigs ( Sus scrofa ) were laid out randomly in a large grid system and searched for. Overall recovery rates for n = 500 elements were 84.0% on the first pass-through and a cumulative total of 90.0% after the second pass-through, with 10.0% missed after both. Significant differences in recovery rates based upon bone type were noted, but no significant difference was found based upon searcher spacing (1 m vs. 2 m) or understory density (low vs. medium). Forensic archaeologists should note that even with careful searching under controlled conditions, exposed surface skeletal elements can be missed, a concern that is likely amplified under real field search conditions. To maximize remains detection, forensic search protocols should include narrow searcher spacing and double passes through search areas wherever possible.
Capture, Storage and Transmission Systems

To bring our world into our display, it is necessary to capture, store and transmit a representation of that world. We seek to discuss the important attributes of this portion of the system before we finally turn our attention to displays. In this chapter, we discuss common components and attributes of digital cameras. Included will be a discussion of sensor technology which illustrates sensors analogous to our multi-primary displays. From the camera, we will discuss image encoding and the assumptions typically made regarding encoding for display and some of the reasons these assumptions are less relevant than they have been in the past. Finally, we will turn our attention to three-dimensional capture as this portion of the discussion will be relevant to our future discussion of virtual and augmented reality displays.
Psychiatric Disorders and Crime in the US Population: Results From the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions Wave III

Objective Current knowledge regarding the intersection of psychiatric disorders and crime in the United States is limited to psychiatric, forensic, and youth samples. This study presents nationally representative data on the relationship of DSM-5 psychiatric disorders, comorbid substance and mental health disorders, and multimorbidity (number of disorders) with criminal behavior and justice involvement among non-institutionalized US adults. Methods Data were drawn from the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions Wave III (NESARC-III; 2012-2013; N = 36,309). Logistic regressions were used to examine the association of specific disorders (eg, mood, anxiety, eating, posttraumatic stress, substance use), comorbid substance use and mental health disorders, and multimorbidity with lifetime criminal behavior, incarceration experience, and past-12-month general, alcohol-related, and drug-related legal problems. Results Overall, 28.5% of participants reported a history of criminal behavior, 11.4% reported a history of incarceration, 1.8% reported current general legal problems, 0.8% reported current alcohol-related legal problems, and 2.7% reported current drug-related legal problems. The presence of any disorder was associated with a 4 to 5 times increased risk of crime outcomes. Drug use disorders were associated with the highest risk of lifetime crime (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 6.8; 95% CI, 6.1-7.6) and incarceration (AOR = 4.7; 95% CI, 4.1-5.3) and current legal problems (AOR = 3.3; 95% CI, 2.6-4.2). Multimorbidity and comorbid substance use and mental health disorders were associated with additional risk. Controlling for antisocial personality disorder did not change the findings. Conclusions Community adults with substance use disorders, comorbid substance use and mental health disorders, and increasing multimorbidity are most at risk of crime and justice involvement, highlighting the importance of community-based addiction treatment.
Asymmetric Ductal Ectasia: An Often Overlooked Sign of Malignancy

OBJECTIVE. The objective of this article is to define the clinical significance of asymmetric ductal ectasia by a review of literature and to describe the imaging findings. CONCLUSION. Asymmetric ductal ectasia has a significant risk for malignancy and high-risk lesions. The findings on conventional imaging may be subtle and easily overlooked. Asymmetric ductal ectasia should be included in the search pattern during image interpretation. Tissue sampling is usually warranted. Ultrasound is critical in identifying ductal abnormalities to guide biopsy.
Genomic introgression through interspecific hybridization counteracts genetic bottleneck during soybean domestication

Evidence of introgression, the transfer of genetic material, between crops and their wild relatives through spontaneous hybridization and subsequent backcrossing has been documented; however, the evolutionary patterns and consequences of introgression and its influence on the processes of crop domestication and varietal diversification are poorly understood. We investigate the genomic landscape and evolution of putative crop-wild-relative introgression by analyzing the nuclear and chloroplast genomes from a panel of wild (Glycine soja) and domesticated (Glycine max) soybeans. Our data suggest that naturally occurring introgression between wild and domesticated soybeans was widespread and that introgressed variation in both wild and domesticated soybeans was selected against throughout the genomes and preferentially removed from the genomic regions underlying selective sweeps and domestication quantitative trait locus (QTL). In both taxa, putative introgression was preferentially retained in recombination-repressed pericentromeric regions that exhibit lower gene densities, reflecting potential roles of recombination in purging introgression. Despite extensive removal of introgressed variation by recurrent selection for domestication-related QTL and associated genomic regions, spontaneous interspecific hybridization during soybean domestication appear to have contributed to a rapid varietal diversification with high levels of genetic diversity and asymmetric evolution between the nuclear and chloroplast genomes. This work reveals the evolutionary forces, patterns, and consequences of putative genomic introgression between crops and their wild relatives, and the effects of introgression on the processes of crop domestication and varietal diversification. We envision that interspecific introgression serves as an important mechanism for counteracting the reduction of genetic diversity in domesticated crops, particularly the ones under single domestication.
Interactive Shared Book Reading with a Narrative and an Informational Book: The effect of genre on parent-child reading

Introduction : Previous studies indicate the dominance of narrative fiction in shared book reading. Theory and research suggests this may contribute to reading difficulties. Purpose of the Study : This study contrasted the impact of two genres on shared book reading based on factors known to maximize children’s literacy development. It also examined the participants’ perspectives regarding their interactive reading behaviors. Methods : Eight parent-child dyads, with children four- and five-years-old, read a non-narrative informational book and a narrative fictional book. The study controlled for the books’ reading levels, Rockets and Spaceships (Guided Reading K, Lexile 520) and A Penguin Pup for Pinkerton (Guided Reading K, Lexile 510). Results : Analysis showed that informational book features such as captions, predictable text, and a glossary supported interactive reading behaviors. Children engaged more with concrete, factual concepts, and answered and asked more questions with the informational book. Implications and Conclusions : Analysis showed that the non-narrative informational text encouraged more children's interactive reading behaviors known to develop emergent literacy skills. The informational text was more engaging for children because of 1) book features/characteristics, and 2) the information presented. Parents were generally unaware of the benefits of reading multiple genres to their children.
Membrane Fluidity as a New Means to Selectively Target Cancer Cells with Fusogenic Lipid Carriers

Lipid-based carriers such as liposomes represent one of the most advanced classes of drug delivery systems. Their clinical success relies on their composition, similar to that of the cell membrane. Their cellular specificity often relies on a ligand-receptor interaction. Although differences in the physicochemical properties of the cell membrane between tumor and nontumor cells have been reported, they are not systematically used for drug delivery purposes. In this report, a new approach was developed to ensure selective targeting based on physical compatibility between the target and the carrier membranes. By modulating the liposome composition and thus its membrane fluidity, we achieved selective targeting on four cancer cell lines of varying aggressiveness. Furthermore, using membrane-embedded and inner core-encapsulated fluorophores, we assessed the mechanism of this interaction to be based on the fusion of the liposome with the cell membranes. Membrane fluidity is therefore a major parameter to be considered when designing lipid drug carriers as a promising, lower cost alternative to current targeting strategies based on covalent grafting.
Length of Neuromuscular Re-education Therapy and Growth Parameters in Premature Infants

OBJECTIVE Neuromuscular re-education (NMRE) therapy including bracing, containment, facilitation techniques, joint compression, weight (WT) bearing, and myofascial release has been shown to improve neurodevelopmental maturation in premature infants. This study aimed to examine the association of NMRE with growth parameters including WT and length (L) at 36 weeks postmenstrual age (PMA) and at discharge. STUDY DESIGN We analyzed data of infants <34 weeks gestational age (GA) or <1,800 g birth weight (BW) to examine the association of NMRE with growth parameters using correlation coefficient analysis. The effect of potential confounders was examined using multilinear regression models. RESULTS Study includes 253 premature infants. Average GA was 300/7 weeks (±23/7) and BW was 1,315 g (±416), 49.8% were females and 65% were African Americans. NMRE has inverse correlation with WT at birth and at 36 weeks PMA, -0.66 (<0.001) and -0.21 (<0.001), respectively, but not at the time of discharge. NMRE has direct correlation with change in WT from birth to 36 weeks PMA and time of discharge, 0.50 (<0.001) and 0.62 (<0.001), respectively, and from the time of starting therapy to 36 weeks PMA or discharge, 0.25 (<0.001) and 0.51 (<0.001), respectively. There was no negative correlation between NMRE with daily WT gain from birth to 36 weeks PMA or to discharge, -0.05 (0.43) and -0.07 (0.23), respectively, or from the time of starting therapy to 36 weeks PMA, -0.09 (0.14). There was an inverse correlation between NMRE with average WT gain per day from the time of starting therapy to discharge, -0.26 (<0.001), Similar findings were found examining the correlation between NMRE and changes in L. Multilinear regression analysis examining the relationship while controlling for GA, BW, sex, and race; socioeconomic variables; and concurrent massage therapy and sensory integration revealed similar results. CONCLUSION NMRE, aimed to enhance neurodevelopmental outcomes of premature infants, may not have a negative impact on their physical growth. KEY POINTS · NMRE has been introduced in the care of premature infants to improve neurodevelopmental outcomes.. · It was hypothesized that NMRE may cause stress and lead to failure to thrive or suboptimal growth.. · The association of the duration of NMRE with length and weight gain in very low birth weight infants was examined, and there was no negative correlation..
Perceptions of Responsibility and Mental Health Help-Seeking Among Psychologically Distressed Older Adults

This study explored the perceptions of responsibility for the cause and the solution of problems and the models of helping (or helping orientations) characterizing a sample of 319 community-dwelling, psychologically distressed older adults. All participants were referred for psychotherapy and had either accepted or rejected their referrals. We investigated whether the models distinguished acceptors and rejecters of psychotherapy referrals and whether they were differentially associated with help-seeking from nontherapist helpers. Results indicated that the preponderance of respondents subscribed to the moral and compensatory models. The compensatory model was associated with rejection of referrals, whereas the moral model was associated with increased help-seeking both from mental health professionals and from other formal and informal helpers. Implications of the findings for promoting older adults' utilization of mental health services are discussed.
Efficiency in Commodity Futures Markets

This paper undertakes an econometric investigation into the efficiency of commodity futures markets. Despite a considerable amount of empirical literature, there is no general consensus on whether or not the markets are efficient. The results of this study suggest that for certain commodities expected excess returns to futures speculation are non-zero, however, it is argued that these results do not necessarily imply that markets are inefficient, or that agents do not act rationally. The implications of the study for the cost of using the futures markets for hedging, and for the power of futures prices to forecast future spot prices, are also noted.
Pessimism and the Poetic Imagination

This chapter demonstrates how poetry entwines epistemological concerns related to uncertainty with affective reactions to possibilities and impossibilities inherent in the search for meaning in a pessimistic context. Poets such as Louise Ackermann write in the wake of the refusal of transcendence and the disappointment of both knowledge and ignorance. Poets portray the end of the world; Leconte de Lisle and Jules Laforgue allow us an imaginative leap into an otherwise unobservable Archimedean perspective on a peaceful extinction of suffering that allows a degree of comfort stemming from the impermanence of existence. What emerges is a “creative destruction” akin to Hannah Arendt’s characterization of thought as a manifestation of the “two in one” of consciousness. As Laforgue and Emile Verhaeren portray, this split self allows for simultaneous tragedy and comedy, forging an imaginative space where laughter and tears coexist.
How to turn up the heat on the cold immune microenvironment of metastatic prostate cancer.

Advanced prostate cancer remains one of the most common and deadly cancers, despite advances in treatment options. Immunotherapy has provided little benefit to a majority of patients, largely due to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment that gives rise to inherently “cold tumors”. In this review, we discuss the immunopathology of the prostate tumor microenvironment, strategies for treating prostate cancer with immunotherapies, and a perspective on potential approaches to enhancing the efficacy of immunotherapies. Databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, and Cochrane, were searched for articles relevant to the immunology of prostate cancer. We discuss the impact of different types of treatments on the immune system, and potential mechanisms through which prostate cancer evades the immune system. The tumor microenvironment associated with prostate cancer is highly immunosuppressive due to (1) the function of regulatory T cells, tumor-associated macrophages, and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), (2) the cytokine milieu secreted by tumor stromal cells and fibroblasts, and (3) the production of adenosine via prostatic acid phosphatase. Both adenosine and tumor growth factor beta (TGF-beta) serve as potent immunosuppressive molecules that could also represent potential therapeutic targets. While there have been many immunotherapy trials in prostate cancer, the majority of these trials have targeted a single immunosuppressive mechanism resulting in limited clinical efficacy. Future approaches will require the integration of improved patient selection as well as use of combination therapies to address multiple mechanisms of resistance. Prostate cancer inherently gives rise to multiple immunosuppressive mechanisms that have been difficult to overcome with any one immunotherapeutic approach. Enhancing the clinical activity of immunotherapies will require strategic combinations of multiple therapies to address the emerging mechanisms of tumor immune resistance.
LATEX-Numeric: Language Agnostic Text Attribute Extraction for Numeric Attributes

In this paper, we present LATEX-Numeric - a high-precision fully-automated scalable framework for extracting E-commerce numeric attributes from unstructured product text like product description. Most of the past work on attribute extraction is not scalable as they rely on manually curated training data, either with or without use of active learning. We rely on distant supervision for training data generation, removing dependency on manual labels. One issue with distant supervision is that it leads to incomplete training annotation due to missing attribute values while matching. We propose a multi-task learning architecture to deal with missing labels in the training data, leading to F1 improvement of 9.2% for numeric attributes over state-of-the-art single-task architecture. While multi-task architecture benefits both numeric and non-numeric attributes, we present automated techniques to further improve the numeric attributes extraction models. Numeric attributes require a list of units (or aliases) for better matching with distant supervision. We propose an automated algorithm for alias creation using unstructured text and attribute values, leading to a 20.2% F1 improvement. Extensive experiments on real world datasets for 20 numeric attributes across 5 product categories and 3 English marketplaces show that LATEX-numeric achieves a high F1-score, without any manual intervention, making it suitable for practical applications. Finally we show that the improvements are language-agnostic and LATEX-Numeric achieves 13.9% F1 improvement for 3 non-English languages.
Epigenetic Reprogramming Mediated by Maternal Diet Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids Protects From Breast Cancer Development in F1 Offspring

Diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids (FA) have been associated with lowered risks of developing certain types of cancers. We earlier reported that in transgenic mice prone to develop breast cancer (BCa), a diet supplemented with canola oil, rich in omega-3-rich FA (as opposed to an omega-6-rich diet containing corn oil), reduced the risk of developing BCa, and also significantly reduced the incidence of BCa in F1 offspring. To investigate the underlying mechanisms of the cancer protective effect of canola oil in the F1 generation, we designed and performed the present study with the same diets using BALB/c mice to remove any possible effect of the transgene. First, we observed epigenetic changes at the genome-wide scale in F1 offspring of mothers fed diets containing omega-3 FAs, including a significant increase in acetylation of H3K18 histone mark and a decrease in H3K4me2 mark on nucleosomes around transcription start sites. These epigenetic modifications contribute to differential gene expressions associated with various pathways and molecular mechanisms involved in preventing cancer development, including p53 pathway, G2M checkpoint, DNA repair, inflammatory response, and apoptosis. When offspring mice were exposed to 7,12-Dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA), the group of mice exposed to a canola oil (with omega 3 FAs)-rich maternal diet showed delayed mortality, increased survival, reduced lateral tumor growth, and smaller tumor size. Remarkably, various genes, including BRCA genes, appear to be epigenetically re-programmed to poise genes to be ready for a rapid transcriptional activation due to the canola oil-rich maternal diet. This ability to respond rapidly due to epigenetic potentiation appeared to contribute to and promote protection against breast cancer after carcinogen exposure.
Donald Winnicott and Stephen Mitchell’s Developmental Tilt Hypothesis Reconsidered

In this paper, the author revisits Stephen Mitchell’s important developmental tilt hypothesis in light of his treatment of Winnicott’s most creative contributions to psychoanalysis. It is the autho...
Optimizing viability and yield and improving stability of Gram-negative, non-spore forming plant-beneficial bacteria encapsulated by spray-drying.

This study investigates methods to commercialize safer alternatives to chemical pesticides that pose risks to human safety and the environment. Spray-drying encapsulation of the plant-protective, antifungal bacterium Collimonas arenae Cal35 in in situ cross-linked alginate microcapsules (CLAMs) was optimized to minimize losses during spray-drying and maximize yield of spray-dried powder. Only inlet temperature significantly affected survival during spray-drying, while inlet temperature, spray rate, and alginate concentration significantly affected yield of spray-dried powder. Lowering inlet temperature to 95 °C provided the greatest survival during spray-drying, while increasing inlet temperature and lowering spray rate and alginate concentration produced the highest yield. Without the CLAMs formulation, Cal35 did not survive spray-drying. When Cal35 was encapsulated in CLAMs in the presence of modified starch, shelf survival was extended to 3 weeks in a low oxygen, low humidity storage environment. Cal35 retained its antifungal activity throughout spray-drying and shelf storage, supporting its potential use as a formulated biofungicide product.
The fine structure of chromaffin cell implants in the pain modulatory regions of the rat periaqueductal gray and spinal cord.

Publisher Summary Adrenal medullary chromaffin cells are ideal candidates for the transplantation studies, because they contain and release several neuroactive substances, which are known to influence pain sensitivity in the central nervous system (CNS). This chapter demonstrates that pain sensitivity can be altered following implantation of adrenal chromaffin cells into some of the CNS regions involved in pain modulation, such as the mid-brain periaqueductal gray (PAG) and the dorsal horn of the spinal cord of adult rats. The results show that morphological findings correlate well with the behavioral studies, whereby pain sensitivity is greatly altered following implantation of chromaffin cells. This implies that reduction in pain sensitivity can be brought about by the implantation of chromaffin cells containing neuroactive substances into appropriate regions of the neuraxis and opens up the possibility for a potentially new approach to pain therapy. An important aspect in this regard is the ability for adrenal chromaffin cells to survive for long periods. Thus, the preliminary studies on rats suggest that these grafts can survive and retain the potential to induce alterations in pain sensitivity for at least twelve months.
Leibniz's Principle of Identity of Indiscernibles, by Gonzalo Rodriguez-Pereyra

Gonzalo Rodriguez-Pereyra has written a superb study of the Principle of Identity of Indiscernibles in Leibniz. He examines Leibniz's principle, its conceptual implications, and Leibniz's arguments...
Electronic states of Ta2C

Abstract Geometries and energy separations of low-lying electronic states of Ta2C+ with isosceles triangular and linear structures have been investigated. Complete active-space multiconfiguration self-consistent field method followed by large-scale multireference singles and doubles configuration interaction (MRSDCI) computations and relativistic configuration interaction that included up to two million configurations were used. The 4A2 electronic state of an isosceles triangular structure was found to be the ground state at the MRSDCI level of calculation. The electronic states of the linear structures were found to be higher.
Nutrition education: a questionnaire for assessment and teaching

It is generally recognized that there is a need for improved teaching of nutrition in medical schools and for increased education of the general population. A questionnaire, derived in part from a study of physician knowledge, was administered to first year medical students in order to assess their knowledge of various aspects of nutrition and metabolism, and as a teaching tool to transmit information about the subject. The performance of first year students was consistent with a generally educated population but there were surprising deficits in some fundamental areas of nutrition. Results of the questionnaire are informative about student knowledge, and immediate reinforcement from a questionnaire may provide a useful teaching tool. In addition, some of the subject matter can serve as a springboard for discussion of critical issues in nutrition such as obesity and markers for cardiovascular disease. A major barrier to improved teaching of nutrition is the lack of agreement on some of these critical issues and there are apparent inconsistencies in recommendations of government and health agencies. It seems reasonable that improved teaching should address the lack of knowledge of nutrition, rather than knowledge of official guidelines. Student awareness of factual information should be the primary goal.
Privatization and social responsibility: A critical evaluation of economic performance

Provides a synthesis and critical evaluation of the results of existing research on privatization utilizing an international review and comparative analysis of relevant factors of economic and social performance. Based on the results of this analysis, it appears that the economic benefits of privatization activities promoted as a panacea by many public and private sector managers, are on average modest at best, while the social benefits are often mixed and uneven. Moreover, it seems that the role of privatization as a means of reforming the public sector has expanded internationally in scope and at such a rapid pace, that in many cases, the importance of objective and balanced measures of its overall effectiveness and impact on the affected communities need to be reexamined. Recommends that those responsible for planning of future privatization activities should refocus the present economic emphasis and strive for a balance of economic and social performance to improve long‐term benefits for all sectors of the affected communities.
Predictors of dental students' belief in the right to refuse treatment to HIV-positive patients

We examined predictors of dental student9s belief that they should be allowed to refuse treatment to HIV-infected persons. We surveyed 181 first; second-, and fourth-year dental students at a large urban university using a 44-item, self-administered anonymous questionnaire and a measure of dispositional optimism. Several composite measures were created and their relationship to belief in the right to refuse treatment was assessed. Regression techniques were used to describe the relationship between the dependent and independent variables. Results indicated that non-professional attitudes, low optimism scores, low levels of comfort with homosexuality, and gender were the best predictors of belief in the right to refuse treatment to HIV-infected patients. Neither knowledge of HIV, year in dental school, or fear of contagion reliably predicted belief in the right to refuse treatment.
Sulfur Dioxide and Ascorbic Acid

In its several commercially available forms, SO2 is widely used in wine and related food indust ries as a chemical antioxidant and inhibitor of microbial activity. Although historically sulfites were generally recognized as safe, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has determined that the presence of unlabeled sulfites in foods and beverages poses a potential health problem to a certain class of asthmatic individuals. As a result, in 1987, the U.S. BATF implemented regulations requiring the declaration in labeling of sulfites present in alcoholic beverages at a level of greater than 10 mg/L (ppm) measured as total sulfur dioxide, by any method sanctioned by the international Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC). The maximum permissible level of total sulfur dioxide for both BAIT and the OIV is 350 mg/L.
Promoting Change in Schools

The central purpose of this chapter is to demonstrate that a primary role of a consultant is to serve as a change agent in the school. By “change,” we are referring to the purposeful alteration of beliefs, attitudes, or behaviors of children, adolescents, and adults who are part of the school setting. Given our definition of school consultation presented in Chap. 1, the consultant acts in a direct, face-to-face manner to change the beliefs, attitudes, or behaviors of the adults who are consultees. In turn, consultees work with students, intervening directly in classroom-based problems. To serve as an effective change agent, the consultant needs to understand interpersonal influence and how it relates to the consultant/consultee relationship.
Charged multiplicity distributions and neutral particle production in 14.75 GeV/c pp interactions

Abstract From an exposure of the Brookhaven National Laboratory 80-inch hydrogen bubble chamber to a 14.75 GeV/ s separated anti-proton beam we have determined an average charged particle multiplicity of 4.12±0.06. We have also studied the inclusive production of γ, K S o , and Λ o particles. The correlations between π ± and π o , K S o , or Λ o are described and the strong correlation observed between π ± and π o is contrasted to the apparent lack of correlation found in other hadron-hadron interactions at similar beam momenta. Invariant cross sections for γ, K S o , and Λ o production are presented as a function of x .
Posture-independent piston valve: a novel valve mechanism that actuates based on intracranial pressure alone.

Object Shunt valves are intended to maintain physiological intracranial pressure (ICP). A variety of mechanisms have been designed to accomplish this goal but have had limited success. Siphoning, in particular, has been a problem not effectively solved by proposed or manufactured valves. Poor control of ICP results in headache, neurological disturbances, decreased cognition, shunt malfunction, slit ventricles, subdural hematomas, decreased cranial volume, and maldevelopment. The authors of this study describe a prototype valve that was machined and tested ex vivo and that actuates based on ICP alone regardless of the presence of a siphon. Their object was to determine if a novel shunt mechanism that actuates perpendicular to the flow of fluid would eliminate the effect of siphoning in a valve for the treatment of hydrocephalus. Methods A posture-independent piston valve (PIPV) was anchored to a graduated reservoir. Opening pressure was measured by noting the fluid level in the reservoir when the piston mo...
Designing complex technology: Understanding it as of, by, and for people: Some dilemmas and what to do about them

Introduction The public tends to recognize that the planning of large-scale systems that deliver social/governmental services is done in the context of a disorderly democratic process that embodies value conflicts. At the same time, the public believes that the process of designing the technology of large-scale systems, such as those for air transportation, communication, manufacturing, and power generation, is essentially objective, orderly, rational (even scientific), and somehow free from value conflict-in other words, that technological design can be separated from social process [ 11. Even worse, many politicians, lawmakers, and systems designers/engineers also believe this because of their training or, one should say, mistraining. Systems engineers often claim to be designing value-neutral technology, letting the politicians, business and market forces, and the user public determine how the technology is used. For those who see technological systems design as an orderly, objective exercise in applied physics, the interfaces to people in the design process and product appear to be the most frustrating. Although most systems engineers have probably heard pleas to be open to multiple perspectives and to seriously consider “the human factor,” they still seem to move ahead naively, as though wearing blinders. Signs of maturity in this appreciation are apparent, however, and there is even hope for more order in the process of humanizing design [2]. One premise of this paper is that, to a much greater extent than systems engineers seem willing to admit, they 1) are designing interpersonal relationships and therefore designing human behavior, 2) are and should be open to extensive influence by people other than themselves in their design decisions, and 3) could be designing to better satisfy real human needs. Another premise is that there are several fundamental design dilemmas that are exacerbated by the new computer-based systems technology; systems engineers must recognize these and deal with them in an overt way.
Comparison of the compression strength of human vertebral bodies with the mass and density of apatite: a study by 31P NMR spectroscopy.

The force needed to fracture individual human thoracic and lumbar vertebral bodies is compared with the mass and density of apatite. 31P NMR spectrometry was used to quantify the apatite, because it permits the mineral content of bone to be determined noninvasively with minimal nonspecific interference from the organic matrix or from variations in composition of the marrow. Experiments were performed with bones of similar structure and function from a single individual with no history of trabecular fractures, to compensate for the effects of the other variables that affect bone strength. The coefficient of correlation between compression strength and the volume density (i.e., g/cm3) of apatite was 0.95. The correlation of strength with the mass (i.e., grams) of apatite in a vertebral body also was reasonably good, r = 0.82, but correlations with areal density (i.e., g/cm2) and linear density (i.e., g/cm) were much poorer.
Prognostic role of antioxidant enzymes in sepsis: preliminary assessment.

The prognostic potential of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) was evaluated in sepsis. Enzyme concentrations were determined in samples obtained from septic patients at time of diagnosis. Statistically significant increases in activities of total plasma SOD (P 10 kU/L were found in 7 of 21 (30%) patients who did not survive their sepsis and that these values did not overlap with any surviving patients or controls. However, while high total plasma SOD activity appears to have some potential as a prognostic indicator, lower values (0.0-8.8 kU/L) do not. For plasma CAT, despite finding statistically significant differences between survivors and nonsurvivors, the substantial overlap in the values obtained for the two groups limits the practical prognostic potential of this enzyme.
Multiway cut for stereo and motion with slanted surfaces

Slanted surfaces pose a problem for correspondence algorithms utilizing search because of the greatly increased number of possibilities, when compared with fronto-parallel surfaces. In this paper we propose an algorithm to compute correspondence between stereo images or between frames of a motion sequence by minimizing an energy functional that accounts for slanted surfaces. The energy is minimized in a greedy strategy that alternates between segmenting the image into a number of non-overlapping regions (using the multiway-cut algorithm of Boykov, Veksler, and Zabih) and finding the affine parameters describing the displacement function of each region. A follow-up step enables the algorithm to escape local minima due to oversegmentation. Experiments on real images show the algorithm's ability to find an accurate segmentation and displacement map, as well as discontinuities and creases, from a wide variety of stereo and motion imagery.
RADIOIMMUNOASSAY OF THE F PROSTAGLANDINS.

ABSTRACT Antibodies to prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) were produced in rabbits immunized with a conjugate of PGF2α covalently linked to bovine serum albumin (BSA) by reaction with carbodiimide reagent. A radioimmunoassay was developed using dextran-coated charcoal to separate the free from antibody-bound PGF2α-3H. The sensitivity of the method was about 100 pg. Butanol was used for extraction of plasma and the various classes of prostaglandins were separated on a small silicic acid column. Recovery of PGF2α-3H through the extraction and separation procedures was 75–85%. Equilibration of PGF1α, PGE2, PGE1 PGA2 and PGB1, with antiserum and PGF2α-3H showed a progressive loss of ability to displace the labeled prostaglandin from the antibodies related to the degree of differences in molecular configuration from the hapten used in the immunization. The method should be sufficiently sensitive, precise, and simple to allow its use in the routine estimation of the F prostaglandins from biological samples.
Growth, survival, and root system morphology of deeply planted Corylus colurna 7 years after transplanting and the effects of root collar excavation

Abstract Urban trees are frequently planted with their root collars and structural roots buried well below soil grade, either because of planting practices, nursery production practices, or both. These deeply planted structural roots can impair tree establishment and are thought to reduce tree growth, lifespan, and stability, although research has provided few and contradictory results on these questions to date. This study examines container-grown (55 L) Turkish hazel trees (Corylus colurna L.), planted either at grade, 15 cm below grade, or 30 cm below grade into a well-drained silt loam soil, over nearly 8 years. Five years after planting, in 2004, remediation treatments (root collar excavations) were performed on two replicates of each below-ground treatment. Subsequently, all trees were subjected to flooding stress by being irrigated to soil saturation for approximately 6 weeks. In 2006, flooding stress was repeated. Trees root systems were partially excavated in 2007, and root architecture was characterized. Deep planting did not affect trunk diameter growth over 8 years. Survival was 100% for the first 5 years; however, one 30 cm below grade tree died after flooding in 2004 and another died after the 2006 flooding. Photosynthesis was monitored during the 2004 flooding and all trees experienced decline in photosynthetic rates. There was an apparent slight delay in the decline for trees with excavated root collars and those planted at grade. Girdling roots reduced trunk taper and occurred primarily on unremediated trees planted 30 cm below grade. Selected individual roots were excavated and followed from the root ball and were observed to gradually rise to the upper soil regions. Analysis of roots emerging from excavation trench faces indicated that vertical root distribution at approximately 1.25 m from the tree trunks was the same regardless of planting depth. Longterm consequences of planting below grade are discussed.
A method for the determination of environmental contaminants in living marine mammals using microscale samples of blubber and blood

As part of a study examining the possible effects of organochlorine compounds on juvenile northern elephant seals (Mirounga angustirostris), blubber and blood samples were taken from animals present on the Ano Nuevo (California) rookery, and from animals admitted for rehabilitation at The Marine Mammal Center (Sausalito CA). Blubber samples were collected from immobilized seals. A pre-cleaned 6 mm K-medic biopsy punch was used to extract the blubber from a 1 cm incision near the hip, near the dorsal mid point. Blood samples were taken from the extradural vein; two mL of serum was analyzed for organochlorine compounds. Blubber samples (approximately 0.1g) were ground with Na2SO4 and extracted with 20 mL hexane:methylene chloride (1:1). Sera samples were extracted using commercially available disposable C18 columns. The extracts were separated on a micro-Florisil column, and analyzed by HRGC-ECD. Lipid determination in the serum was obtained by colorimetric analysis with 20 microliters samples. Results from the analysis of replicates and standard reference materials showed good recoveries, precision, and accuracy for both the blubber and blood methods.
Porphyrin−Retinamides: Synthesis and Cellular Studies

A series of four porphyrin−retinamides containing either all-trans- or 13-cis-retinoid acid residues, directly linked to the para-phenyl position of meso-tetraphenylporphyrin or via a low-molecular-weight PEG spacer, have been synthesized. The biological properties of these conjugates were evaluated in a model cell line, human HEp2, and in neuroblastoma SK-N-DZ cells, which exhibit moderate expression of retinoic acid receptors and retinoic acid-induced differentiation. The directly linked porphyrin−retinamides were taken up by a greater extent (20−50% more) in SK-N-DZ than in HEp2 cells. However, the PEG-containing conjugates accumulated maximally within both cell lines and approximately by the same amount, probably due to their increased amphiphilicity. Among all conjugates, the porphyrin-PEG-13-cis-retinamide accumulated the most in both cell lines (about 5 times more than the non-pegylated conjugates). None of the porphyrin−retinamide conjugates were toxic toward HEp2 cells at concentrations up to 100...
Evaluation of American college of surgeons trauma triage criteria in a suburban and rural setting

In suburban and rural counties, patient transport to specialized facilities such as trauma centers may result in prolonged transport times with the resultant loss of ambulance coverage in the primary service area. We evaluated the American College of Surgeons trauma triage criteria as modified by New York State to determine the ability of these criteria to predict the need for trauma center care in victims of blunt traumatic injury. Blunt trauma patients were retrospectively identified through review of patient care reports for the presence either of mechanism or of physiological criteria for transport to a trauma center. Controls were randomly selected from patients with blunt trauma not meeting any of the criteria. Main outcome parameters were the emergency department (ED) disposition, length of hospital stay, need for intensive care unit (ICU) care, and major nonorthopedic operative interventions. There were 857 patients enrolled. The presence either of mechanism or of physiological criteria increased the likelihood of hospital admission (control, 11%; mechanism, 35%; and physiological, 33%). Relative to patients without any criteria, the presence of mechanism criteria alone did not identify patients who required a prolonged length of stay (67% vs 71%), intensive care unit services (13% vs 19%) or major nonorthopedic operative interventions (0.2% vs 1.6%). The presence of physiological criteria increased the likelihood of requiring all of these services. These comparisons held true for victims of motor vehicle accidents, pedestrians struck by motor vehicles, and people who fell from heights above ground level. Patients with physiologic criteria may benefit from transport directly to a trauma center. Because of the low need for operative intervention and ICU services, patients with no criteria or mechanism criteria at long distances from a trauma center may be initially evaluated at the closest hospital and transferred to a trauma center if hospitalization or ICU care is necessary. Further study to determine the predictive value of certain individual mechanism criteria is warranted.
An isolated tumor perfusion model in mice

The role of stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment has been extensively characterized. We and others have shown that stromal cells may participate in several steps of the metastatic cascade. This protocol describes an isolated tumor perfusion model that enables studies of cancer and stromal cell shedding. It could also be used to study the effects of therapies interfering with the shedding of tumor cells or fragments, circulating (stem) cells or biomarkers. Primary tumors are grown in a microenvironment in which stromal cells express GFP ubiquitously. Tumors are implanted orthotopically or can be implanted ectopically. As a result, all tumor-associated stromal cells express GFP. This technique can be used to detect and study the role of stromal cells in tumor fragments within the circulation in mice. Studying the role of stromal cells in circulating tumor fragments using this model may take 2-10 weeks, depending on the growth rate of the primary tumor.
The Chemistry of Soils, Second Edition

Garrison Sposito. Oxford University Press, 198 Madison Ave., New York, NY 10016. 2008. Hardcover. 344 pp. $89.95. ISBN 978-0-19-531369-7. The Chemistry of Soils, 2nd edition, provides comprehensive coverage of the chemistry of soil constituents and processes. It is intended for use by scientists
Lattice Parameters and Density for Y2O3‐Stabilized ZrO2

Lattice parameter and density data were compiled for Y2O3-Stabilized ZrO2, both from the literature and from experimental measurements. The data are described very well over a wide range of composition by the model of Aleksandrov et al., which assumes Y substitution for Zr in the unit cell with compensating anion vacancies. Effects are noted in two-phase cubic-tetragonal materials which indicate significant lattice strains in the two-phase materials.
Spectral bounds derived from quadratic forms on decomposable tensors

Abstract The problem we study concerns mn-by-mn real symmetric matrices A = [Aij]. The objective is to obtain best possible bounds on the spectrum of A given that the quadratic form on decomposable unit vectors in R has values restricted to the unit interval [0, 1]. We also discuss the relationships between our work and the theory of elliptic partial differential equations, especially to the Legendre-Hadamard condition. In particular, the examples we give to show that our bounds are best possible are related to a classical example in partial differential equations given by De Giorgi in 1968.
Interactive Video Image Digitizer - Application To Interferogram Analysis

A general image processing facility was developed for the chief purpose of analyzing fringe patterns in interferograms. A video image digitizer was connected to a programmable calculator and in turn to an RS232 EIA communications interface. An interactive software package was developed to control the digitizer and communications interface by means of the calculator keyboard. A semi-automatic procedure for locating the positions of fringes was developed. The fringe data are automatically formated and sent to a larger computer over telephone lines for additional processing.