cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Functional trait data for vascular plant species from northeastern North America.

Wisconsin's plant communities are responding to shifting disturbance regimes, habitat fragmentation, aerial nitrogen deposition, exotic species invasions, ungulate herbivory, and successional processes. To better understand how plant functional traits mediate species' responses to changing environmental conditions, we collected a large set of functional trait data for vascular plant species occupying Wisconsin forests and grasslands. We used standard protocols to make 76,213 measurements of 34 quantitative traits. These data provide rich information on genome size, physical leaf traits (length, width, circularity, thickness, dry matter content, specific leaf area, etc.), chemical leaf traits (carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, ash), life history traits (vegetative and flower heights, seed mass), and traits affecting plant palatability (leaf fiber, fat, and lignin). These trait values derive from replicate measurements on 12+ individuals of each species from multiple sites and 45+ individuals for a selected subset of species. Measurements typically reflect values for individuals though some chemical traits involved composite samples from several individuals at the same site. We also qualitatively characterize each species by plant family, woodiness, functional group, and Raunkiaer lifeform. These data allow us to characterize trait dimensionality, differentiation, and covariation among temperate plant species (e.g., leaf and stem economic syndromes). We can also characterize species' responses to environmental gradients and drivers of ecological change. With survey and resurvey data available from >400 sites in Wisconsin, we can analyze variation in community trait distributions and diversity over time and space. These data thus allow us to assess how trait divergence vs. convergence affect community assembly and how traits may be related to half-century shifts in the distribution and abundance of these species. The data set can be used for non-commercial purposes. The data set is licensed as follows: CC-By Attribution 4.0 International. We request users cite both the OSF data set and this Ecology data paper publication.
To Defer or Not to Defer: A Study of Federal Circuit Court Deference to District Court Rulings on State Law

Federal courts of appeals often grant special deference to district court rulings on matters of state law. This practice is important. It is also ill-conceived. This Article explores this "rule of deference." Section I considers the roots and reach of the rule. Together with the Appendices to this Article, it seeks to detail for practitioners, commentators, and judges the way the rule operates in the courts. The remaining sections of this Article consider the wisdom of the rule of deference. Section II argues that the rule lacks a sound rationale and Section III urges that the rule has bad effects not yet considered by the courts. Section IV suggests that the rule of deference offends Erie R.R. Co. v. Tompkins by producing second-rate appellate review of state law rulings in federal court. Section V observes that there may be unspoken-and unacceptable-reasons why judges have retained the rule.A conflict among the circuits now exists on whether there should be any rule of deference. Another intercircuit conflict exists about how much deference the court should afford if the rule applies. Intracircuit disagreements concerning the rule of deference also have emerged. Most significantly, in almost every circuit, different panels have articulated different formulations of the measure of deference applicable under the rule. In this setting, circuit court reevaluation of the rule is both desirable and predictable. Supreme Court consideration also may wait in the wings. The thesis of this Article is that the federal courts should abandon the rule of deference. The discussion that follows seeks to show why.
Morphological Study of the Oesophagus and Stomach of the Gopher Snake Pituophis catenifer

The gastrointestinal tract of the snake has various distinctions from mammals, birds and other reptiles. Five gopher snakes (Pituophis catenifer) were studied in relation to the gross anatomical measurements of visceral organs relative to body length as well as the histology of the oesophagus and the stomach. The oesophagus closely resembles the empty stomach upon gross examination. A small palpable thickening was observed at the junction of the oesophagus with the stomach. In both the oesophagus and the stomach, there were cellular and structural differences observed in the tunica mucosa which can be linked to the feeding habits and natural biology of the snake when compared to those of mammals. Both oesophagus and stomach were lined by simple columnar to pseudostratified columnar epithelium. There were no glands in the wall of the oesophagus. Scattered ciliated triangular cells (brush cells) were present among the columnar epithelial cells in the distal portion of the oesophagus. The stomach can be divided into three portions (proximal, middle and distal). The stomach has a small non-glandular portion with low folds. After this small non-glandular portion, glands started to appear and gradually increase in quantity. The largest quantity of glands appeared in the middle portion of the stomach with more branching folds resulting in a decrease in the lumen diameter. The tunica muscularis increased in thickness at the oesophageal and the pyloric-duodenal junctions. Positive statistical correlations were established in thickness of the tunica muscularis between proximal and distal portions of the oesophagus and the stomach.
The gene encoding peripheral myelin protein zero is located on mouse chromosome 1

We have used somatic cell hybrids to map the gene encoding protein zero (P0), the major structural protein of peripheral myelin. Analysis of Southern blots of DNA obtained from these hybrids allows us to unambiguously assign the P0 gene to mouse chromosome 1. This observation indicates that mutations in the P0 gene do not account for Trembler, a chromosome 11 mutation that specifically affects myelination in the peripheral nervous system.
Modeling and Rendering for Realistic Facial Animation

Rendering realistic faces and facial expressions requires good models for the reflectance of skin and the motion of the face. We describe a system for modeling, animating, and rendering a face using measured data for geometry, motion, and reflectance, which realistically reproduces the appearance of a particular person’s face and facial expressions. Because we build a complete model that includes geometry and bidirectional reflectance, the face can be rendered under any illumination and viewing conditions. Our face modeling system creates structured face models with correspondences across different faces, which provide a foundation for a variety of facial animation operations.
Relationship Between Radiation Response and the Deoxyribonucleic Acid Replication Cycle in Bacteria: Dependence on the Excision-Repair System

Prestarvation of Escherichia coli for required amino acids results in a marked enhancement in both ultraviolet light (UV) or X-ray resistance for selective strains. Preventing protein synthesis by starvation for required amino acids results in completion of the cycle of chromosomal replication then underway. We have investigated the relationship between starvation-induced resistance enhancement (SIRE) and the excision-repair (Hcr) system in several E. coli strains including E. coli B/r hcr(+) and its isogenic mutant E. coli B/r hcr(-). The following observations were made. (i) The Hcr system is the major component of SIRE in UV-irradiated strain B/r. By using the Hcr(+) strain, SIRE increases the 10% survival dose from approximately 400 ergs to approximately 1,200 ergs/mm(2). With the Hcr cells, the increase is from approximately 45 ergs to 60 ergs/mm(2). (ii) Although prestarvation leads to a moderate enhancement of resistance to X irradiation, this effect is not dependent on the Hcr system. (iii) The double mutant, E. coli B(s-1) (hcr(-)exr(-)) is completely unable to express SIRE whether studied with UV or X irradiation. It is concluded that the Hcr system is the major system responsible for SIRE in UV-treated cells, whereas Exr (resistance to X rays) may be involved to a minor extent. The Exr character appears to be required for SIRE expression in X-ray exposed cells.
Ways of coping in adolescents with schizophrenia.

Accessible summary • Coping has been classified as emotion-focused coping and problem-focused coping. Adolescents with schizophrenia frequently used sleep and wishful thinking coping strategies as emotion-focused copings. • Adolescents with schizophrenia endorsed high levels of stress response when compared with the healthy controls. The stress made adolescents with schizophrenia feel anxious/fearful and irritable. For this reason, adolescents who experienced more emotional irritability and anxiety/fear symptoms were likely to mobilize emotion-focused coping. • Although emotion-focused coping may be effective for short periods of time as a temporary means of reducing the impact of stress, adolescents with schizophrenia should learn problem-focused coping as the primary method for long-term ways of coping. Abstract The purpose of this study was to explore ways of coping and its association with specific stress responses in adolescents with schizophrenia. Additionally, subjects and healthy controls were compared to identify stress responses. Forty subjects were drawn from a self-management therapy study for youth with schizophrenia. Thirty community-dwelling controls were selected. A revised Ways of Coping scale and the Symptom of Stress at baseline, 6, 30 and 54 weeks measured coping and stress response. Descriptive statistics, cluster analysis and Pearson correlation provided data analysis. Thirty-two subjects were male, and eight were female. Average age was 17.25 (SD = 1.37) years. Twenty-two (55%) were Caucasian; 18 (45%) were non-Caucasian. Seventeen (57%) of the 30 controls were female. The mean age was 17.10 years old (SD = 1.16). Adolescents with schizophrenia used emotion-focused coping more than problem-focused coping at baseline and 6 weeks (P < 0.01). Subjects reported higher stress than controls (t = 4.73, P < 0.01) and used emotion-focused coping with emotional stress responses (r = 0.34, P = 0.05). Adolescent coping strategies may persist into adulthood unless new skills are introduced. Developing effective coping skills for adolescents with schizophrenia is important for practice and future studies.
125I-fibrin deposition in IgE-dependent immediate hypersensitivity reactions in mouse skin. Demonstration of the role of mast cells using genetically mast cell-deficient mice locally reconstituted with cultured mast cells.

We investigated the clotting associated with IgE-dependent immediate hypersensitivity reactions in the mouse by injecting monoclonal mouse anti-dintrophenyl IgE antibodies i.d. and, the next day, administering 125I-guinea pig fibrinogen i.v. 10 to 30 min before i.v. antigen (2,4-dinitrophenylated human serum albumin) challenge. In normal mice, 2-hr passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) reactions were associated with substantial leakage of 125I-fibrinogen and deposition of 125I-fibrin. Thus, ears injected with IgE contained up to six times the total cpm of 125I and up to 30 times the cross-linked 125I-fibrin-associated cpm of 125I than did control ears. Several lines of evidence indicated that the 125I-fibrin deposition associated with the PCA reactions was dependent on the activity of mast cells: 1) Mast cell degranulation occurred at sites of PCA reactions. 2) Antigen-induced influx of 125I-fibrinogen and deposition of 125I-fibrin were virtually abolished by heating the IgE (56 degrees C, 1 hr) before i.d. injection. 3) Little or no IgE-dependent 125I-fibrinogen influx or 125I-fibrin deposition occurred in mast cell-deficient WBB6F1-W/Wv or WCB6F1-S1/S1d mice X 4) Adoptive transfer of cutaneous mast cell populations into WBB6F1-W/Wv mice (by each of three approaches: i.v. transplantation of normal bone marrow cells or local i.d. injection of cultured, growth factor-dependent mast cells 2 days or 9 to 10 wk before antigen challenge) conferred on the recipients the ability to express the 125I-fibrinogen influx and 125I-fibrin deposition associated with PCA reactions. These data demonstrate that 125I-fibrinogen influx and 125I-fibrin deposition occurs in association with PCA reactions in the mouse, and that the reaction is largely or entirely dependent on the function of cutaneous mast cells. The experiments also demonstrate the utility of a novel model system for the analysis of mast cell function in vivo: WBB6F1-W/Wv mice locally reconstituted with mast cells by the injection of mast cell populations generated in vitro.
Decreasing Newborn Readmissions for Hyperbilirubinemia

Poster Presentation Purpose for the Program Hyperbilirubinemia is the most common indication for hospital readmission of term and late preterm infants. In reviewing our performance, we identified a 12‐month rolling readmission rate of 2.43%, which was greater than the 1.50% benchmark of other large teaching hospitals. Analysis of our data revealed that 25% of newborn readmissions were for hyperbilirubinemia. In an effort to reduce readmission rates, we identified opportunities to update and standardize assessment and management of hyperbilirubinemia. Proposed Change Our previous practice was to perform a transcutaneous bilirubin test at age 30 hours and to notify the infant care provider only if the infant fell into the high‐risk zone (95 th percentile per the Bhutani nomogram). Subsequent testing and treatment was determined by the individual care provider, and there were no standard nursing interventions. A multidisciplinary task force was established to develop and implement an algorithm based on current evidence that focused on assessment, early identification of at‐risk infants, early implementation of interventions, and consistent outpatient management. Simultaneously with this work our facility was implementing the 10 Steps to Successful Breastfeeding in preparation for achieving Baby Friendly Hospital designation. The task force hoped to take advantage of the work in progress to support breastfeeding because a major risk factor for hyperbilirubinemia is inadequate breastfeeding. Implementation, Outcomes, and Evaluation We utilized the plan, do, study, act (PDSA) model to develop and implement the new algorithm. After four cycles with draft algorithms, we agreed on the final version. Nurses and physicians were educated on the algorithm, and it was implemented throughout the newborn service. Physician task force members also educated their peers on criteria for readmission and use of the online BiliTool to standardize treatment. The rolling 12‐month readmission rate in July 2014 was 1.89% which represents a 23% decrease. In evaluating our successful practice changes, we anticipate a continued decrease in the rolling 12‐month rate. The task force continues to review monthly data and analyze the effectiveness of interventions. Implications for Nursing Practice Nurses manage the care of hospitalized newborns and are responsible for assessing newborns, collaborating with health care providers, and implementing interventions, especially those that facilitate successful breastfeeding. The use of this algorithm standardizes practice to ensure that every infant receives appropriate evaluation of risk and intervention to avoid significant hyperbilirubinemia.
Comment on the invariant-envelope solution in rf photoinjectors

The beam envelope equation has been used to address the beam dynamics in rf photoinjectors. A special solution of the envelope equation, known as the invariant envelope, plays a critical role in the theory of emittance compensation. In this comment, I will present a different view of the invariant envelope solution that better delineates its properties and simplifies the picture of beam dynamics.
L-Shell Ionization in High-Z Targets by Carbon and Silicon Ions

L-shell ionization in Ho, Er, Tm, Ta, W, Tl, Pb and Bi by 20 MeV carbon ions and 37.5 MeV silicon ions has been investigated. The observed L?/L? x-ray intensity ratios are compared with the estimates based on PWBA and BEA calculations. The energy shifts in the L?, L?1 and L?4 x rays are attributed to the presence of M shell spectator vacancies.
Control of Root Maggots in Swede Turnips in Newfoundland with Heptachlor and Aldrin and the Effect on Parasites and Overwintering Pupae

Furrow applications of granulated heptachlor at 2,3 and 4 pounds of toxicant per acre gave an average control of 78%. 88% and 89%, respectively, of root maggots in swede turnips in a 3-year period; granulated aldrin at 2,3,4 and 5 pounds 63%, 71%, 76% and 79%. Ninety-one to 100% of the roots in the heptachlor-treated plots and 80% to 98% of those treated with aldrin were marketable; in untreated checks, 29% to 40%. Numbers of overwintering puparia provided a reliable index to the effectiveness of the chemicals. A highly significant correlation was noted between the number of pup aria recovered and the infestation index. Both chemicals, particularly at the higher rates of application evidently caused high mortality in overwintering pupae. The insecticides eliminated the staphylinid parasite, Aleochara bilineata Gyll., and reduced parasitism of the pupae by the cynipid, Trybliographa rapae (West w.), from 9% to less than 2%.
Estradiol inhibition of voltage-activated and gonadotropin-releasing hormone-induced currents in mouse gonadotrophs.

We report the first study of voltage-activated and GnRH-induced plasma membrane currents and their modulation by estradiol (E2) in mouse gonadotrophs. In consideration of the pleiotropic effects of E2 on gonadotrophin secretion and the relationship between plasma membrane electrical excitability and secretion, our objective was to determine the role of E2 in modulating gonadotroph plasma membrane currents. We measured total voltage-activated and GnRH-induced currents using the perforated-patch configuration of the patch-clamp technique, which preserves signaling pathways, including GnRH-induced Ca2+ oscillations. We show that female mouse gonadotrophs are similar to those from other species in that the voltage-activated net current response exhibits an inward fast activating current that is inhibited by tetrodotoxin, which is characteristic of a Na+ current, and a larger magnitude outward current with a profile suggesting the presence of multiple K+ currents. Furthermore, in voltage-clamped mouse gonadotr...
Through the Looking Glass A Positive Inotropic Drug and Ischemic Preconditioning

‘When I use a word,’ Humpty Dumpty said in a rather scornful tone, ‘it means just what I choose it to mean—neither more nor less.’ 1 —Lewis Carroll, Through the Looking Glass But words may mean more or less than we suspect, and affixing a noun or adjective can constrain our thinking. That is a lesson that the Oxford mathematician and logician Charles Dodgson, otherwise known as Lewis Carroll, conveys in his satiric novel Through the Looking Glass , published 125 years ago. When we label a drug a “positive inotropic agent,” does it make it so—neither more nor less? Apparently not. Escaping the constraints of a label, investigators have sought novel mechanisms of action of the drug vesnarinone, which has been under development as a positive inotropic agent for several years. There is no doubt that vesnarinone has positive inotropic effects, but in light of the creative thinking of Kitakaze and colleagues,2 it appears that “vesnarinone” means more than that. Vesnarinone underwent extensive development and testing as a positive inotropic drug for use in congestive heart failure. The initial clinical studies using vesnarinone to treat heart failure demonstrated that in a dose of 60 mg/d, 6 months of therapy with vesnarinone resulted in a clear-cut decrease in morbidity and mortality and improved the quality of life for patients with congestive heart failure.3 However, higher doses of vesnarinone increased mortality, as well as inducing the troublesome side effect of neutropenia. Therefore, as a cardiotonic drug, vesnarinone has shown promise as an orally active agent and perhaps a useful alternative to the only currently FDA-approved orally active positive inotropic drug, digoxin. However, like digoxin, it appears to have a narrow therapeutic index. Because of its distinctive and important properties, it has been approved by the Japanese Ministry of Health …
Genetic studies of two sister species in the Drosophila melanogaster subgroup, D. yakuba and D. santomea.

Summary We performed genetic analysis of hybrid sterility and of one morphological difference (sex-comb tooth number) on D. yakuba and D. santomea, the former species widespread in Africa and the latter endemic to the oceanic island of Sao Tome´ , on which there is a hybrid zone. The sterility of hybrid males is due to at least three genes on the X chromosome and at least one on the Y, with the cytoplasm and large sections of the autosomes having no effect. F1 hybrid females carrying two X chromosomes from either species are perfectly fertile despite their genetic similarity to completely sterile F1 hybrid males. This implies that the appearance of Haldane's rule in this cross is at least partially due to the faster accumulation of genes causing male than female sterility. The larger effects of the X and Y chromosomes than of the autosomes, however, also suggest that the genes causing male sterility are recessive in hybrids. Some female sterility is also seen in interspecific crosses, but this does not occur between all strains. This is seen in pure-species females inseminated by heterospecific males (probably reflecting incompatibility between the sperm of one species and the female reproductive tract of the other) as well as in inseminated F1 and backcross females, probably reflecting genetically based incompatibilities in hybrids that affect the reproductive system. The latter 'innate ' sterility appears to involve deleterious interactions between D. santomea chromosomes and D. yakuba cytoplasm. The difference in male sex-comb tooth number appears to involve fairly large effects of the X chromosome. We discuss the striking evolutionary parallels in the genetic basis of sterility, in the nature of sexual isolation, and in morphological differences between the D. santomea/ D. yakuba divergence and two other speciation events in the D. melanogaster subgroup involving island colonization.
Bias and Efficiency for SEM With Missing Data and Auxiliary Variables: Two-Stage Robust Method Versus Two-Stage ML

This article compares parameter estimates by 2-stage ML (TSML) and a recently developed 2-stage robust (TSR) method for structural equation modeling (SEM) with missing data. In the design, data are missing at random (MAR) after an auxiliary variable (AV) is included, and they are missing not at random (MNAR) otherwise. Results indicate that, when either the substantive variables or the AV is nonnormally distributed, TSR most likely yields more accurate parameter estimates than TSML; TSML is only slightly preferred to TSR when all variables are normally distributed. Including normally distributed AVs with TSML reduces the bias and improves the accuracy in parameter estimates. However, when the distribution of AVs has heavier tails than that of the normal distribution, including them with TSML could result in less accurate parameter estimates. When the sample size N is medium to large, including AVs with TSR most likely yields more accurate parameter estimates. When N is small, missing data rate is low, and...
The fragmentation of the giant dipole resonance in the schematic model

Abstract Brown's schematic model of the giant dipole resonance is generalized in the case of non-closed shell nuclei. Many collective dipole states are predicted with a given spin, parity and isospin. This explains the fragmentation of the GDR of non-closed shell nuclei.
Generalized flux equations for osmotic transport through charged membranes

Abstract The equations for a model of water and solute transport across membranes bearing surface charges are derived. Charged species can be transported actively and by a combination of passive diffusion and convection through pores. Separate pores for each ion can be incorporated. Because convection is present, no simple Goldman-like equation for the overall potential difference across the membrance is obtainable. It is shown that for the range of surface charge densities reported in the literature, the potential drop through the external double layers is a significant portion of the measured transmembrane potential difference.
Effect of inhaled dimethylselenide in the Fischer 344 male rat.

In this project, a total of 60 adult Fischer 344 male rats were exposed to dimethylselenide (DMSe) vapor at 1607, 4499, or 8034 ppm for 1 h (20 rats/group). In addition, 26 unexposed rats were used as controls. The exposed rats were observed frequently during the 7 d following exposure and appeared normal. The animals were sacrificed at either 7 or 7 d after inhalation and the major tissues were grossly examined and weighed. Selenium levels were found to be elevated only in the lung at d 1. At d 1, significant changes in organ weights were an increase in the lung weight at exposure levels of 1607 and 8034 ppm of DMSe and in liver weight at 4499 and 8034 ppm. At d 1, significant changes in the lung were an increase in protein at 1607 and 8034 ppm of DMSe, and an increase in RNA and a reduction in DNA at 4499 ppm DMSe. The only change in the liver was a reduction in DNA at 4499 ppm. At 7 d, the protein content and RNA content of spleen were increased. Lung, liver, kidney, spleen, thymus, lymph nodes, pancre...
Robot-assisted intraocular surgery: development of the IRISS and feasibility studies in an animal model.

Robot-assisted intraocular surgery: development of the IRISS and feasibility studies in an animal model
Peptides and the senescent blood-brain barrier.

Peptides can influence numerous systems known to be altered by aging. They can affect the passage of non-peptide substances across the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and themselves can cross by both saturable and non-saturable transport mechanisms. The passage of peptides across the BBB is influenced by numerous physiological and pathological events, including aging. Taken together, the evidence suggests that alterations in peptide/BBB interactions may play a significant role in sensecence.
On an illusion of visual temporal order

Earlier work of Sekuler and his associates on visual temporal order is replicated, with a similar experimental paradigm. Our results, as those of Sekuler, suggest an internal mechanism that scans visual inputs in a left-to-right order, but also suggest that such internal scans may also proceed in top-to-bottom or bottom-to-top orders.
Gender differences in mate preference among law students: Divergence and convergence of criteria.

Abstract We examined six hypotheses derived from evolutionary theory regarding sex differences in mate-selection criteria. The subjects were 160 law students who viewed color photographs of live models that were paired with different status cues such as costume variation and descriptions of income and occupation. A multivariate analysis of variance and regression analyses revealed highly significant sex differences in the following responses: reported willingness to engage in unqualified sexual relations; reported willingness to have sexual relations with stimulus persons as compared with the willingness to engage in higher investment relationships such as dating and marriage; the effects of stimulus persons' status and physical attractiveness in determining thresholds of initial acceptability; and tradeoffs, that is the ability of high physical attractiveness to compensate for low status, and of high status to compensate for low physical attractiveness. Law students also responded to nine statements conc...
Factors influencing in vitro multiplication and rooting of peach cultivars

Success at propagating peach (Prunus persica (L.) Batsch) scion cultivars in vitro has been limited. This study describes factors influencing in vitro multiplication and rooting of 8 peach scion cultivars and one rootstock, as well as acclimatization and genetic stability of these cultivars. Shoot multiplication was best when 8.8 μM 6-benzylamino purine (BA) was added to the shoot proliferation medium. Maximum rooting occurred when shoots were placed on 1/2-strength Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium, stored in the dark at 4°C for 35 to 40 days and then incubated on rooting medium in the dark at 26°C for 14 days. All cultivars exposed to 1/2-strength MS medium supplemented with 28.5μM of either indoleacetic acid (IAA), indolebutyric acid (IBA) or α-napthaleneacetic acid (NAA) rooted best on NAA medium. A 5-fold reduction in NAA concentration to 5.8 μM, the use of IAA plus phenolic rooting cofactors, and length of time shoots were in vitro prior to rooting each increased the percentage of rooting for most cultivars. No plant loss occurred during acclimatization. Cytogenetic analysis of micropropagated plants indicated that all plants were diploid, 2n=2x=16. Examination of the performance of in vitro propagated plants under field conditions is now in progress.
A multiple modality low-light imaging system

The ability to acquire multiple forms of data using a single imaging system has become increasingly more desirable in biophotonic research. The AZ Box is a projection imaging system capable of low-light chemiluminescence, phosphorescence, fluorescence and gamma ray imaging.
Magnetic properties of sputtered Nd-Fe-B films

Abstract Film samples of the high energy product, Nd 2 Fe 14 B compound, have been synthesized by selectively thermalized sputtering onto heated substrates. Room temperature intrinsic coercive forces, i H c , up to 16 kOe have been observed. For relatively low substrate deposition temperatures, the c -axis texture was predominantly out of the film plane. For higher substrate temperatures the c -axis texture was predominantly in the plane of the substrates.
VENEZIANO-LIKE REPRESENTATION FOR THE PION FORM FACTOR.

A simple Veneziano-like representation for the pion form factor is related to the two-pion unitarity equation and the Veneziano formula for the $\ensuremath{\pi}\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\pi}$ scattering amplitude. Some further approximations to the unitarity equation are also discussed.
A Lockean argument against gene patenting.

Mark Sagoff characterizes the rush of biotechonology companies to patent genes as an affront to the American legal precedent prohibiting the patenting of "products of nature" (Sagoff, unpublished paper). He cites the robust economic incentives for biotech firms to increase their profit margins, the failure of legislators to establish clear laws to regulate or prevent the patenting of products of nature, the inability of the courts to uphold prior decisions disallowing patenting of similar natural objects, and the unwilling ness of bioethicists and environmental ethicists to intervene politically (while armed with philosophical justifications), as the chief causes of the unabated race to patent genes (whether or not we know their function). While Sagoff s observations are warranted and of significant value, they point primarily to inconsistencies in American case law and not so much to a priori principles to prevent gene patenting. My objective then is to flesh out a possible philosophical justification for prohibiting gene patenting, and allowing only for the patenting of specific methods and innovations tied to genetic research. My approach is three-fold: (1) I identify preliminary reasons (perceived harms) that are claimed to result from gene patenting; (2) I lay out Lockean limits to property ownership, his implicit distinction between inventions and discoveries of objects in nature, and then construct an argument against gene patenting that rests on this
Biatrial approach to cardiac myxomas: A 30-year clinical experience

Early surgical intervention for atrial myxomas mitigates morbidity and usually offers cure. The operative approach to resect these tumors is controversial. The purpose of this study was to review our experience with the biatrial approach between 1964 and 1994. The location of the myxoma was left atrium in 17 and right atrium in 3. Mean preoperative New York Heart Association functional classification was 2.7. Surgical approach to the tumor was biatrial in all patients. There were no perioperative strokes, myocardial infarctions, or deaths. Mean follow-up was 7.5 years (range, 2 mo to 27 years) with a postoperative New York Heart Association functional classification of 1.4. One late death occurred, which was unrelated to the myoxma. Advantages of biatrial approach include (1) definition of tumor pedicle by direct visualization, (2) minimal manipulation of the tumor, (3) adequate margins of excision, (4) inspection of all heart chambers, and (5) secure closure of the atrial septal defect. Long-term follow-up demonstrates the efficacy of this operative approach to atrial myxomas.
Dominance and context effects on activation of alternative homophone meanings

Two eyetracking-during-listening experiments showed frequency and context effects on fixation probability for pictures representing multiple meanings of homophones. Participants heard either an imperative sentence instructing them to look at a homophone referent (Experiment 1) or a declarative sentence that was either neutral or biased toward the homophone’s subordinate meaning (Experiment 2). At homophone onset in both experiments, the participants viewed four pictures: (1) a referent of one homophone meaning, (2) a shape competitor for a nonpictured homophone meaning, and (3) two unrelated filler objects. In Experiment 1, meaning dominance affected looks to both the homophone referent and the shape competitor. In Experiment 2, as compared with neutral contexts, subordinate-biased contexts lowered the fixation probability for shape competitors of dominant meanings, but shape competitors still attracted more looks than would be expected by chance. We discuss the consistencies and discrepancies of these findings with the selective access and reordered access theories of lexical ambiguity resolution.
The Origin and Differentiation of the Sex Organs of Tribolium Confusum Duval

The flour beetle, Tribolium confusum Duval, has been used extensively as a test animal for experimental work in autecology. Because of the ease with which the insect may be handled, many of its physiological and ecological peculiarities have been exposed. Among the recent investigations is one carried on by Holdaway (1930). In the course of this study he decided that he was able to control the sex ratio of Tribolium by a manipulation of the relative humidity and nutrition. The development of the sex organs is intimately connected with these experiments and thus a study of their embryonic history was suggested by Professor W. A. Riley. Such a study has been made to serve as a basis for a further investigation of the possibility of a transitional sexual condition.
UV-initiated self-healing of oxolane-chitosan-polyurethane (OXO-CHI-PUR) networks

These studies show that oxolane–chitosan–polyurethane (OXO–CHI–PUR) networks exhibit self-repairing behavior upon exposure to UV light. Spectroscopic analysis revealed that molecular level processes responsible for the self-repairing mechanism of OXO–CHI–PUR networks are driven by free radical catalyzed polyurea-to-polyurethane conversion, formation of linear –C–O–C– segments via ring opening of OXO rings, as well as chair-to-boat conformational changes of glycosine units of the CHI backbone macromonomer. Incorporation of the OXO five-member ring instead of OXE (four-member) into polyurethane networks facilitates slower but equally effective self-healing characteristics. The role of protic conditions inside the scratch showed that highly acidic environments favor scratch expansions instead of self-healing. Similar to self-healing of OXE–CHI–PUR networks, as a result of mechanical damage, glass transition temperature (Tg) is lowered within the damaged area, resulting in the formation of smaller macromolecular oligomeric entities with enhanced mobility. The repair mechanisms measured by the thermo-mechanical response inside and outside the scratch showed that upon UV light exposure the damaged area is repaired by the frontal growth reactions from the bottom of the scratch to the top, and the mass flow is facilitated by the lower glass transition temperature (Tg) inside the scratch. These studies also show that the presence of hindered amine light stabilizers (HALSs) retards self-healing, which can be compensated by elevated levels of the OXO component in OXO–CHI–PUR networks.
Incidental findings detected on abdomino-pelvic multidetector computed tomography performed in the acute setting☆

Abstract Objective The objective of the study is to determine the prevalence and significance of incidental findings in patients with a chief complaint of abdominal pain presenting to the emergency department (ED) who received abdomino-pelvic multidetector computed tomography. Materials and methods We conducted a retrospective review of data collected for 290 patients over a period of 5 months (April to September 2012) from 3 different university-affiliated EDs. Two board-certified radiologists reviewed the original images independently and recorded the incidental findings. These findings were classified as benign, indeterminate, and worrisome. Only those findings present in the original report were included in the study. If an indeterminate or worrisome incidental finding was identified, the patient's medical records were reviewed to determine if the incidental finding was previously known, whether recommendation was made for further evaluation, and whether this recommendation led to any change in management. Results We identified 283 incidental findings—144 benign (51%), 114 indeterminate (40%), and 25 worrisome (9%) findings. A statistically significant difference was observed in the percentage of patients who experienced a change in management among those who received recommendations as compared with those who did not, in both previously known (87% vs 22%, P = .001) and previously unknown (70% vs 2%, P = .001) indeterminate findings. Conclusion Unlike benign incidental findings, indeterminate and worrisome findings frequently alter the course of management. Recommendation from radiologists appears to significantly contribute to the management of indeterminate incidental findings.
Time-Integral Variational Principles for Nonlinear Nonholonomic Systems

This is a comprehensive treatment of the time-integral variational principles of mechanics for systems subject to general nonlinear and possibly nonholonomic velocity constraints (i.e., equations of the form f(t, q, q) = 0, where t = time and q/q = Lagrangean coordinates/velocities), in general nonlinear nonholonomic coordinates. The discussion is based on the Maurer-Appell-Chetaev-Hamel definition of virtual displacements and subsequent formulation of the corresponding nonlinear transitivity (or transpositional) equations. Also, a detailed analysis of the latter supplies a hitherto missing clear geometrical interpretation of the well-known discrepancies between the equations of motion obtained by formal application of the calculus of variations (mathematics) and those obtained from the principle of d'Alembert-Lagrange (mechanics); i.e., admissible adjacent paths (mathematics) are locally non-virtual ; and adjacent paths built from locally virtual displacements (mechanics) are not admissible. (These discrepancies, although revealed about a century ago, for systems under Pfaffian constraints (Hertz (1894), Holder (1896), Hamel (1904), Maurer (1905), and others) seem to be relatively unknown and/or misunderstood among today's engineers.) The discussion includes all relevant nonlinear nonholonomic variational principles, in both unconstrained and constrained forms of their integrands, and the corresponding nonlinear nonholonomic equations of motion. Such time-integral formulations are useful both conceptually and computationally (e.g., multibody dynamics).
Cognitive rehabilitation versus day treatment in head-injured adults: Is there an impact on emotional and psychosocial adjustment?

Emotional and psychosocial adjustments are typically the most challenging problems faced by the head injured, but there exists a paucity in research as to how affective problems are best ameliorated. In the present analysis, emotional and psychosocial adjustment were evaluated as part of a study comparing the efficacy of cognitive remediation versus day treatment. Out of 24 head-injured patients, half were randomly assigned into either treatment condition, each conducted 4 days a week over an 8-week span. A more favourable outcome for emotional adjustment was postulated for the day-treatment programme, since it was far more nurturing compared with cognitive remediation, which was thought to be more challenging if not confronting. However, our differential hypothesis for the two treatments was not confirmed, because in both groups there was a lessening of depression as measured by the Katz Adjustment Scale. The need is discussed for providing ongoing structured activities for the head injured in order to facilitate their emotional and psychosocial adjustment.
Biomarkers of body iron stores and risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Aim: Iron may contribute to the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) by inducing oxidative stress and interfering with insulin secretion. Elevated ferritin levels are associated with increased DM risk among healthy individuals. However, it is yet unknown if ferritin predicts DM incidence among high-risk individuals with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT). Furthermore, the association between soluble transferrin receptors (sTfR), a novel marker of iron status, and DM risk has not yet been prospectively investigated in these individuals. We conducted this study to evaluate the association between baseline levels of ferritin and sTfR and the risk of developing DM among overweight and obese individuals at high risk of DM. Methods: This nested case–control study (280 cases and 280 matched controls) was conducted within the placebo arm of the Diabetes Prevention Program, is a clinical trial conducted among overweight/obese individuals with IGT. Ferritin and sTfR levels were measured by immunoturbidimetric assays. Incident DM was ascertained by annual 75-g oral glucose tolerance test and semi-annual fasting glucose. Results: Compared with controls, cases had higher sTfR levels (3.50 ± 0.07 vs. 3.30 ± 0.06 mg/l; p = 0.03), but ferritin levels were not statistically different. The multivariable odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) for DM incidence comparing highest with the lowest quartiles of sTfR was 2.26 (1.37–4.01) (p-trend: 0.008). Conclusions: Modestly elevated sTfR levels are associated with increased DM risk among overweight and obese individuals with IGT. Future studies should evaluate factors determining sTfR levels and examine if interventions that lower body iron stores reduce DM incidence.
Selection of Roof Casting Formwork Systems for the Bird Island Project: Case Study

Formwork is a major contributor to profitability—or the lack of it—on most large and complex concrete jobs. Furthermore, formwork has major consequences for the project schedule, as well as all related trades, such as ironworkers and cement finishers. Consequently, selecting a formwork system and planning its field operations must consider the effects of the system on the overall project. However, due to competitive pressures and limited recourses, contractors seldom have the time to think through the construction phase specifics, and enter bids with carryover estimates adjusted for inflation. This may result in significant difficulties in meeting the project requirements. The paper illustrates the complexities involved in the selection and deployment of a formwork system through a study of the concrete formwork selection on the Bird Island Flats Tunnel project. This $290 million project was a part of the Central Artery/Tunnel project in Boston, Massachusetts. Because the conventional shoring methods coul...
An overview of pediatric seizure disorders and epileptic syndromes

Summary: Seizures are common in infants and children and must be differentiated from a wide variety of other neurological and nonneurological disorders which include episodic disturbances of behavior. If the diagnosis is clear, then one must decide if the seizure is an isolated event and unlikely to recur (as are many afebrile generalized convulsive seizures in early childhood), a symptom of underlying cerebral pathology, or part of an epileptic syndrome. The latter may be a potentially lethal neurodegenerative disease or a benign epilepsy with excellent outcome. This review will discuss the various aspects of epilepsy in the pediatric age group, emphasize the benign nature of most seizures in children (including many forms of partial, or focal, seizures), and present an overview of the more serious epileptic syndromes. The myoclonic epilepsies will be used as a model to illustrate the wide scope of epileptic phenomena in infants and children.
The non-breast-cancer death rate among breast cancer patients

Non-breast-cancer deaths currently account for almost half of deaths among breast carcinoma patients in the 15 years following diagnosis. Understanding the trends of non-breast-cancer death is vital for calibrating treatment and survival expectations, and for understanding the consequences of potentially toxic therapies. To observe trends over time in non-breast-cancer relative survival—the non-breast-cancer survival rates of breast cancer patients relative to the non-breast-cancer survival rates of the population as a whole, matched for gender, race, age, region, and year of diagnosis. Non-breast-cancer relative survival between breast carcinoma patients and the general population was measured using SEER public-use data of patients diagnosed with breast carcinoma between 1973 and 2007. Non-breast-cancer relative survival improved significantly from 1973 to the present. From 1986 onward, the non-breast-cancer survival rate among breast carcinoma patients is equal to, or slightly higher than, matched populations who did not have breast carcinoma. This improvement over time occurred across almost all patient stratifications, including race, age, tumor size, and nodal status. However, patients receiving full mastectomies, and patients not receiving radiotherapy experienced no increase in relative survival. The most dramatic relative survival improvements occurred in patients who received radiation and patients receiving partial mastectomies, and such improvements were seen even after controlling for changes in tumor size over time. Non-breast-cancer relative survival among breast carcinoma patients has improved significantly since 1973; breast cancer patients are currently no more likely to die of other causes than the general population.
Role of protein synthesis in interleukin 1α-induced prostaglandin production in ovine astroglia

Experiments were done to determine whether interleukin 1α (IL-1α) induces prostaglandin (PG) synthesis in cultured astroglia and to examine the role of enhanced cyclooxygenase 2 (COX 2) synthesis in these responses. Immunologically identified fetal ovine astrocytes were exposed to IL-1α or to media alone. Application of 10 ng/ml IL-1α increased the production of PGF2α for 2–24 h. Coincubation of IL-1α with actinomycin D (1 μg/ml) or cycloheximide (10 μg/ml) completely blocked the increase in PGF2α. Immunoblot analyses revealed that the synthesis of COX2 was not increased by IL-1α at 4 h. However, with incubation of IL-1α for 8–12 h, COX2 levels were increased. These results indicate that longer periods than 4 h are necessary to increase COX2 protein, suggesting that proteins other than COX2 are involved in early IL-1α-induced PG synthesis.