cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
MR imaging in carotid artery atherosclerosis plaque characterization.

Aim To evaluate the potential role of carotid artery atherosclerosis plaque magnetic resonance (MR) microimaging as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) marker, ex vivo MR images were acquired at optimized parameters on 9.4T Bruker animal imager for occluded tissue resected by carotid endarterectomy (CEA) and corresponding histopathological analysis was made. Methods and materials For imaging, CEA tissues of size 2-6 cm long and 0.5-1.5 cm wide, were transferred to 15 ml co-polymer laboratory culture tubes containing either 10% formalin in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) or in 50% glycerol in PBS. Imaging protocol was set at TE=30 ms, TR=1.5 s, matrix size=265 x 512, NEX=128, slice thickness=1 mm and in-plane resolution=0.1 mm for total sample size 2.5 cm. Soon after imaging done, carotid artery tissues were cut into 5-mm segments and processed for histological section for successive 5-micrometer slices. To compare morphology of 5 mum thin CEA section with that of 1 mm MR slices, registration was obtained between histologic sections and MR slices. Contrast and magnetic resonance relaxation characteristics were analyzed. Results Total carotid artery area computed by MR imaging was correlated with areas determined from histologic sections (r(2)=0.989, p=0.0001). For the lumen area, the correlation between MR images and histologic area was (r(2)=0.942, p=0.0001). Relaxation times and T(2) parametric images of different plaque components were determinant for contrast resolution. Scan parameters were optimized for fibrous cap and atheroma. Scan parameters were characteristic for comparison at 1.5T and 9.4T MR imagers. Conclusion The observed correlation validated MR microimaging to assess morphological features of carotid artery plaques and contrast resolution highlighted the potential of in vivo MR imaging as non-invasive MRI marker to monitor carotid artery plaque morphometry and plaque composition.
In vitro hormone induction of final oocyte maturation in striped bass (Morone saxatilis) follicles is inhibited by blockers of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase activity.

Abstract Oocyte germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD) was induced in striped bass ovarian fragments when tissues were incubated with 100-nM recombinant human insulin-like growth factor-I (rhIGF-I), 25-IU human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) ml −1 , or 290 nM of the maturation-inducing steroid (MIS), 17,20β,21-trihydroxy-4-pregnen-3-one (20β-S). Inhibitors of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI 3-K), wortmannin (100 nM) and LY 294002 (50 μM), inhibited GVBD induced by these hormones. Furthermore, the inhibitors attenuated hCG-induced steroid hormone synthesis. Previous studies report that gap junction uncouplers inhibit GVBD induced by hCG, but not by rhIGF-I, in striped bass. We show that 20β-S-induced GVBD is also attenuated by 1 mM 1-heptanol or 1-octanol without being affected by incubation with 3 mM ethanol. Thus, the effects of inhibiting PI 3-K activity on GtH and MIS actions are similar to effects of uncoupling gap junctions. These data suggest that PI 3-K activity is required for GtH- MIS- and IGF-I induction of GVBD in striped bass. Our data are also consistent with the notion that a ligand that regulates PI 3-K activity, possibly an IGF, participates in maintenance of gap junctional communication required for maximal GtH and MIS action.
Bactericidal activity and poly-L-proline II conformation of the tandem repeat sequence of human salivary mucin glycoprotein (MG2).

The tandem repeat 23-residue sequence [TRS23 (145-167): T-T-A-A-P-P-T-P-S-A-T-T-P-A-P-P-S-S-S-A-P-P-E] of human salivary mucin glycoprotein MG2 was examined for its in vitro bactericidal activity against four oral microorganisms, Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Streptococcus gordonii, and Streptococcus mutans. The conformational features of the proline-rich peptide were determined by circular dichroism (CD) and 600 MHz two-dimensional (2D) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) in aqueous solution. The strains of P. gingivalis (W50 and 381), A. actinomycetemcomitans (Y4 and 67), S. gordonii (DL1), and S. mutans (GS5) are highly sensitive to this peptide at 1.5-3.0 microM concentrations, suggesting that the proline-rich repeat sequence is a potent bactericidal agent for oral pathogens. The assignment of backbone and side-chain proton resonances was accomplished by the combined analysis of 2D total correlated spectroscopy and nuclear Overhauser effect spectroscopy. The temperature dependence of amide NH chemical shifts and the 1H-2H exchange effect on amide NH resonances suggest the absence of intramolecularly hydrogen-bonded NH groups. The coupling constant (JNH-CalphaH) values, conformational restriction offered by the proline residues (phi = -60 degrees +/- 15 degrees), the set of medium- and short-range nuclear Overhauser effects observed for this sequence, and the results of restrained structure calculation using DIANA, the distance geometry algorithm for NMR applications, provide evidence for the existence of a significant population of poly-L-proline II-type helices in aqueous solution. The CD spectra of the peptide in phosphate buffer (pH 7.2) and in methanol are reminiscent of the CD spectrum of the poly-L-proline II helical conformation and are consistent with the NMR data. The bactericidal activity of the proline-rich repeat sequence suggests that bacterial colonization, facilitated by the adsorbed salivary mucins on tooth surface, could be partly controlled and cleared by proteolytically degraded proline-rich peptides of MG2 in saliva before the colonized organisms turn into pathogens. It appears that the poly-L-proline II helix is the biologically active backbone conformation for bactericidal activity of the tandem repeat sequences of salivary MG2.
254 EFFECT OF BETAMETHASONE (B), TRIIODOTHYRONINE (T3) OR B+T3 ON MATERNAL (M) AND FETAL (F) GLUCOSE (GLU)- GLYCOGEN (GLY) METABOLISM

254 EFFECT OF BETAMETHASONE (B), TRIIODOTHYRONINE (T3) OR B+T3 ON MATERNAL (M) AND FETAL (F) GLUCOSE (GLU)- GLYCOGEN (GLY) METABOLISM
Household networks and the security of mutual indebtedness in rural Kazakstan

(1998). Household networks and the security of mutual indebtedness in rural Kazakstan. Central Asian Survey: Vol. 17, Market reforms, social dislocations and survival in post‐Soviet Central Asia, pp. 597-612.
Change in Teacher Education: There Are Dragons to Slay.

Abstract Teacher education programs across the country are responding to calls for reform in the professional preparation of teachers. This article presents a case study of the revision of an elementary teacher education program at a state university. Using a school‐university collaboration, the content and sequence of the program were based on a careful review of literature and the development of a consensus on the requisite characteristics and competencies of excellent elementary teachers. During the university approval process tensions and dilemmas arose related to faculty involvement, power and authority, incentives, and some “sacred cows” of the academy such as academic freedom. Lessons learned about programmatic change within the culture of the university are presented.
Precise bounds for finite time blowup of solutions to very general one-space-dimensional nonlinear Neumann problems

In this paper we analyze the asymptotic finite time blowup of solutions to the heat equation with a nonlinear Neumann boundary flux in one space dimension. We perform a detailed examination of the nature of the blowup, which can occur only at the boundary, and we provide tight upper and lower bounds for the blowup rate for "arbitrary" nonlinear functions F, subject to very mild restrictions.
System and Process for Production of Methanol from Combined Wind-Turbine and Fuel-Cell Power

This study examines the integrated use of wind turbines, natural gas and high temperature fuel cells to produce methanol. The purpose is to produce transportation fuel from national local resources with the least polluting emissions. The fuel would displace petroleum imports and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by converting wind power, natural gas and fuel cell energy. The proposal includes the utilization of waste heat and exhaust gas (CO2) into clean liquid fuel (methanol) thatis compatible with future vehicle technology based on fuel cells. Potential designs are presented and assessed for methanol yield, production cost and emissions reductions. Results show that this process (a) can produce significant amounts of vehicle fuel, comparable to w hatis annually consumed in the U.S. (∼19EJ/y); (b) can minimize emissions; (c) is potentially cost competitive with other technologies that produce methanol; and (d) is compatible with the requirements of a new generation of vehicles based on fuel cells.
SCORES ON SELF-ACTUALIZATION FOR GIFTED JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS

Self-actualization scores of 47 gifted students in Grades 7 and 8 were assessed using the Reflections of Self by Youth (ROSY), the Maslowian Scale, and the Personal Orientation Inventory. No gender differences were observed. Students in Grade 7 scored significantly higher on the ROSY students in Grade 8 scored significantly higher on the Maslowian Scale Psychological subscale and Total score. Scores on the Maslowian Scale Fundamentals and Self-actualization subscales and Personal Orientation Inventory were not different for any group. Correlations among the three measures of self-actualization are presented.
TEM 00 enhancement in CW Nd-YAG by thermal lensing compensation

A technique for the calculation of a thermal-lens aberration compensation in a CW Nd-YAG laser is presented. The results of an empirical verification are also given. An increase from 2 to 25 W in 1.06 μm TEM 00 power output was obtained after the crystal was compensated.
Temperature dependence of the singlet excited state lifetime in alq3

Abstract The temperature dependence of the lifetime of the singlet excited state in thin films of tris(8-hydroxyquinoline) aluminum (Alq 3 ) is investigated. An increase in the excited state lifetime and fluorescence quantum yield with decreasing temperature from 300K to 77K is observed. A diffusion based singlet exciton trapping model is used to explain these results.
Interdisciplinary modeling: a case study of evolutionary economics

Biologists and economists use models to study complex systems. This similarity between these disciplines has led to an interesting development: the borrowing of various components of model-based theorizing between the two domains. A major recent example of this strategy is economists’ utilization of the resources of evolutionary biology in order to construct models of economic systems. This general strategy has come to be called “evolutionary economics” and has been a source of much debate among economists. Although philosophers have developed literatures on the nature of models and modeling, the unique issues surrounding this kind of interdisciplinary model building have yet to be independently investigated. In this paper, we utilize evolutionary economics as a case study in the investigation of more general issues concerning interdisciplinary modeling. We begin by critiquing the distinctions currently used within the evolutionary economics literature and propose an alternative carving of the conceptual terrain. We then argue that the three types of evolutionary economics we distinguish capture distinctions that will be important whenever resources of model-based theorizing are borrowed across distinct scientific domains. Our analysis of these model-building strategies identifies several of the unique methodological and philosophical issues that confront interdisciplinary modeling.
Hypochlorite‐induced white matter damage

The extent and severity of inflammation-mediated white matter destruction correlates with neutrophil infiltration. Although the mechanisms are not fully understood, the generation of vast quantities of hypochlorite (HC) by activated neutrophils may be the major damaging factor. This study was undertaken to determine the toxicity of HC to white matter using brain stem slices from 2 month-old female rats. Because of its high volatility under the incubation conditions (half-life of ∼ 7.5 min), HC was administered every 30 min as 1 mm boluses providing an average concentration of ∼ 0.27 mm. Exposure period (1–3 h) was followed by 1 h recovery in normal medium, and by 2 h labelling with 3H-leucine. Subsequently, slices were homogenized, and myelin was isolated by sucrose gradient ultracentrifugation. HC exposure inhibited total homogenate protein synthesis in the concentration- and time-dependent manner. Thus, following 1, 2 and 3 h of exposure, total homogenate protein synthesis was reduced to ∼ 65, 45 and 30% of control. HC exposure preferentially suppressed the assembly of major structural proteins into the myelin sheath. Thus, 1 h exposure reduced the assembly of proteolipid protein and basic protein to ∼ 30% of control value. A significant amount of 3H-leucine was also incorporated into myelin lipids. Unexpectedly, HC exposure profoundly stimulated 3H-labelling of myelin lipids. Thus, after 1 and 2 h of exposure the labelling of myelin lipids was increased by ∼ 40 and 90% over control, respectively. In contrast, the labelling of nonmyelin lipids decreased to ∼ 50% of control. These results demonstrate that HC drastically alters myelin metabolism, and thus, may underlie neutrophil-mediated inflammatory demyelination in multiple sclerosis. Acknowledgements: Supported by NMSS research grant 3067A1.
No intrinsic depletion layer on a polystyrene thin film at a water interface.

Using neutron reflectivity, we found that there is no intrinsic depletion layer at a deuterated polystyrene (dPS) film and deuterium oxide (D2O) interface. A spun-cast film is susceptible to contamination on its surface from its surroundings during sample preparation. A contamination layer of hydrogenated organic material will be detected as a reduced scattering length density layer at the interface. We demonstrate that, by careful treatment of the film, contamination would be the primary cause of the reduced scattering length density layer at the interface.
High-pressure Apparatus Integrated with Synchrotron Radiation

Synchrotron sources provide X-radiation with high energy and high brilliance that are well suited for high-pressure (HP) research. Powerful micron-sized sampling probes of high energy radiation have been widely used to interact with minute samples through the walls of pressure vessels, to investigate material properties in situ under HP. Since the late 1970s, HP synchrotron research has become a fast growing field. Of mineralogical interests are the abilities for studying structure, elasticity, phase stability/transition, and transport properties of minerals and melts at pressure-temperature conditions corresponding to the deep Earth. The most commonly used HP apparatus are the diamond anvil cell (DAC), the large volume press (LVP), and the shock wave devices. The DAC is capable of generating pressures beyond 4 megabar (1 megabar = 100 GPa) but is limited to small samples, typically less than 10 microns in linear dimensions at the highest pressures. The pressure-temperature ( P - T ) range accessible in the DAC exceeds conditions corresponding the center of the Earth. The LVP is capable of modest pressures (currently less than 100 GPa), but the large sample volume permits a wider variety of bulk physical properties to be measured. The P - T range accessible in the LVP corresponds to those in the Earth’s lower mantle. In shock wave experiments, the sample is subjected to high pressures and temperatures by dynamic processes. Multi-megabar to tera-pascal (TPa) pressures may be generated but for short durations from nano- to femto-seconds (10−9–10−15 s). In this chapter, we begin with synchrotron techniques that are important for HP research, followed by a review of high pressure apparatus and their integration with synchrotron X-ray techniques. We refer readers to the following review articles related to HP synchrotron techniques (Chen et al. 2005; Duffy 2005; Hemley et al. 2005; Wang …
Heavy ion collisions at intermediate energy

Two types of measurement are proposed for the analysis of heavy ion collisions in the range of energy of 20-200 MeV/A. First, measurement of the longitudinal component of the kinetic energy of the collision products characterizes the impact parameter of the collision. The distribution in this quantity allows the dissipation in the theoretical models to be determined. A second kind of measurement is that of the coefficients of a spherical harmonic expansion of the angular distribution of the products. Besides giving independent information on the impact parameter and reaction dynamics, measurement of these coefficients offers the possibility of measuring the stiffness of the equation of state of nuclear matter. These ideas are explored in the context of a hydrodynamic model for the collision. In the purely hydrodynamic model there is a large measurable asymmetry in the angular distribution, but the dependence on the equation of state is small.
Small angle neutron and x-ray scattering studies of concentrated protein solutions. II. Cytochrome C.

Small angle neutron scattering (SANS) and small angle x-ray scattering (SAXS) techniques were used to study two series of concentrated protein solutions containing horse heart cytochrome C (a spherical protein molecule with hydrated diameter σH = 32.6 A and pI = 10.2) at pD = 2.9 and 11.9, respectively. The concentration of the protein ranges from 1.2 to 24 g/dL. A titration experiment was made to determine the protein charge (Zt) for each sample. Since the form factor of the protein was already determined from a previous experiment [C. F. Wu and S. H. Chen (1987) J. Chem. Phys.87, 6199–6205] at pD = 6.8, the present series of experiments was used to test the effect of protein charge on the interparticle structure factor. It is demonstrated that the absolute values of both SANS and SAXS cross sections can be calculated with a theory (called the generalized one-component macroion theory) of the interparticle structure factor, which contains a single unknown parameter, the effective protein charge Zp. Comparison of Zt and Zp thus obtained shows that when the bare surface charge density of the protein calculated by using Zt exceeds about 3 μC/cm2, Zp becomes much smaller than Zt. This is interpreted as a charge renormalization phenomenon similar to that known to occur for highly charged polystyrene latex particles in aqueous solution [S. Alexander, P. M. Chaikin, P. Grant, G. J. Morales, and P. Pincus (1984) J. Chem. Phys. 80, 5776–5781].
An Analysis of Mercosur's Regional Trading Arrangements

After six years of stop-start negotiations, Mercosur is no closer to signing a regional trading agreement (RTA) with the EU, whilst negotiations to finalise a Free Trade of the Americas Agreement (FTAA) have also stalled. This is due to various factors: economic crises in Mercosur, intransigence by member countries and uncertainty surrounding the outcome of the Doha Round. Estimates from the trade literature predict welfare gains to Mercosur from both RTAs whilst only one study assesses the additional benefits of removing non-tariff barrier (NTB) trade costs which have remained largely unchallenged within the multilateral forum. In this paper, we improve the treatment of NTB estimates employing a theoretically consistent gravity specification, where calculated tariff-equivalent estimates are subsequently implemented into a modified computable general equilibrium (CGE) model. Relative to a realistic baseline, and incorporating trade-induced productivity and capital accumulation effects, we reassess the benefits of both regional initiatives to Mercosur, revisiting the claim that NTB trade cost abolition doubles the ‘standard’ welfare estimates. Contrary to previous studies, the results suggest that an FTAA yields greater gains to Mercosur than an EU RTA whilst the claim of Monteagudo and Watanuki (2003) pertaining to trade cost elimination is understated.
Restricted Multidimensional Scaling Models for Asymmetric Proximities.

Restricted multidimensional scaling models [Bentler & Weeks, 1978] allowing constraints on parameters, are extended to the case of asymmetric data. Separate functions are used to model the symmetric and antisymmetric parts of the data. The approach is also extended to the case in which data are presumed to be linearly related to squared distances. Examples of several models are provided, using journal citation data. Possible extensions of the models are considered.
The HCl+ClONO2 reaction rate on various water ice surfaces

Abstract The reaction ClONO 2 +HCl → Cl 2 +HNO 3 on ice surfaces was investigated using a fast flow reactor coupled to a chemical ionization mass spectrometer. Rough and relatively smooth ice surfaces and single-crystal ice particles were employed to investigate the effect of the different surface morphologies on the reaction mechanism. Large reaction probabilities ( γ >0.1), independent of HCl partial pressure in the range from 2×10 −7 to 8×10 −6 Torr, were measured on these three ice surfaces. These results are consistent with an ionic reaction mechanism involving HCl solvation on a liquid-like surface layer.
Conservation or energy development: Consumer perceptions of alternate solutions to the energy crisis

The purpose of this study was to identify segments of the population on the basis of what they believe would ensure energy for the future—conservation or energy/technological development. To the extent that technology is perceived to be the solution, a potential danger exists that consumers will not commit to an energy-conscious lifestyle except as required by increasing energy costs. The respondents were 692 systematically sampled residents of Alabama. A follow-up survey of 73 non-respondents indicated that nonresponse bias was absent in terms of demographic and social-psychological characteristics, perceptions of the energy crisis, and level of energy use. Distinct differences emerged among the segments (energy development, conservation, or neutral) which indicate that policy makers must be concerned with emphasizing that technological breakthroughs are not the solution to the energy crisis.
Discretion and gender disproportionality in police disciplinary systems

Police supervisor decision making with regard to disciplinary action has received scant empirical study in general, and has yet to be examined across gender. In this paper, we use official departmental disciplinary data from the Philadelphia Police Department for the period 1991‐1998 to study the extent to which gender parity exists in the formal disciplinary system. Three questions are investigated: (1) Is there an observable gender disproportionality in the police discipline punishment rates? (2) Is any observed gender disproportionality attributable to gender discrimination in the police disciplinary process or some earlier decision stage? (3) If any observed disproportionality is not attributable to the police disciplinary process, does the aggregate finding mask variation within offense categories? Three findings emanate from our effort. First, the results suggest that there is a minimal observed gender disproportionality. Second, with roughly 100 per cent of the observed gender disproportionality attributable to differential involvement in charging, it appears that the observed disparity can not be attached to the police disciplinary process. Third, the aggregate analysis masks offense‐specific variation in the percentage disproportionality unexplained by differential involvement in charging. Implications for police disciplinary practices and directions for future research are addressed.
Application of a spheroidal-mode approach and a differential evolution algorithm for inversion of magneto-quasistatic data in UXO discrimination

We construct a spheroidal-mode approach for unexploded ordnance (UXO) inversion under time harmonic excitations in the magneto-quasistatic regime. Use of spheroidal modes gives us the ability to deal with a variety of objects from elongated needles to flat plates, with better accuracy than the simple dipole models commonly used. The method can also be used for complex objects whose shape cannot be well approximated by spheroidal surfaces. In this case, we define a spheroidal surface surrounding the objects as a computational device for obtaining the object's scattered field in the spheroidal coordinate system. The coefficients obtained in the spheroidal coordinate system are shown to be the characteristics of the object. Stored in a library, they can produce fast and complete forward models for use in pattern matching inversion. For a single spheroidal object reconstruction, a differential evolution optimization algorithm, combined with the spheroidal mode formulation, inverts success- fully for the object's size, location, orientation, magnetic permeability and conductivity. For more general objects, the system determines the fitness of a candidate relative to a UXO being sought by comparing measured data with its signature.
The Solubility of Antibiotic and Corticosteroid Combinations

The use of collagen shields soaked in various combinations of medications has been advocated to enhance drug delivery to the cornea. Recently, severe corneal toxicity associated with aggregate formation in mixtures of gentamicin and methylprednisolone prompted our study of the effect of drug concentration, pH, and temperature on the solubility of several antibiotic and corticosteroid formulations commonly used to treat ocular disease. Selected combinations of cefazolin, vancomycin, tobramycin, gentamicin, methylprednisolone, and dexamethasone were evaluated. Mixtures of tobramycin and vancomycin produced no precipitates, but many spheroid aggregates were seen when methylprednisolone and gentamicin were combined. Although the effects of precipitate formation on drug bioavailability and toxicity have not been fully determined, until such information is available, the use of combinations of drugs that remain in solution during administration is recommended.
The use of 13C spin lattice relaxation times to study the interaction of α-methyl-d-glucopyranoside with concanavalin A☆

Abstract The spin lattice relaxation rates ( 1 T 1 ) of the natural abundance 13 C of all seven carbons of α-methyl- d -glucopyranoside were measured in the presence of Mn(II)-concanavalin A. The paramagnetic contribution to the relaxation rates was used to calculate the distance between the Mn(II) site and the saccharide. The results are consistent with the binding of the saccharide in a unique configuration on the surface of the protein with the −CH 2 OH (6 carbon) ~9A, the −CH 3 (7 carbon) 14A, and carbons 1–5 about 10A from the Mn(II). Notwithstanding the fact that these distances may be 10% or less in error, these data are in disagreement with a value of greater than 10A between the saccharide and Mn(II) binding sites determined from X-ray diffraction studies by Edelman et al. ((1972) Proc. Nat. Acad. Sci. USA 69 , 2580–2584) and Hardman and Ainsworth ((1972) Biochemistry 11 , 4910–4919).
Bioassay of the chalkbrood fungus Ascosphaera aggregata on larvae of the alfalfa leafcutting bee, Megachile rotundata

Abstract Laboratory-reared larvae of the alfalfa leafcutting bee, Megachile rotundata, were inoculated at various ages with a range of doses of the chalkbrood fungus Ascosphaera aggregata. The calculated LD50 values (range 2.08–3.23) increased and the slopes of the dose-response curves remained the same (range 1.17–1.25) with increasing age at inoculation. For all larvae the time to death decreased with increasing dose (range 4–16 days). Larvae inoculated at 5 days of age took longer to die (average 9.5 days) than larvae inoculated at 1 to 3 days of age (average 6.7 days). A higher percentage of cadavers sporulated (95%) at intermediate doses (approximately 2000 spores/bee) than at both lower and higher doses. For larvae inoculated at 1 to 3 days of age, the weight of sporulated cadavers (an index of the number of spores) decreased as dose increased. For larvae inoculated at 5 days of age, however, dose did not affect percent sporulation or the weight of sporulated cadavers. The size of adults that survived inoculation as larvae, at any dose and age, was not different from controls.
Readmissions after colorectal surgery cannot be predicted

INTRODUCTION: Readmission after discharge from the hospital is an undesirable outcome. In an attempt to prevent unplanned readmissions after abdominal or perineal colon resection, we proposed to identify risk factors associated with return to the hospital. METHODS: Study participants consisted of 249 patients who were operated on from July 1, 1996, to March 30, 1998. All patients who were readmitted within 90 days of discharge from the hospital after surgery were evaluated for the study. A retrospective review of charts was performed to assess whether readmission within 90 days was a direct consequence of the recent operation (unplanned related readmission). These patients were compared with a control group consisting of patients who were never readmitted or who were readmitted with an unrelated problem. RESULTS: Of the 249 patients, 59 (24 percent) were readmitted within 90 days of discharge from the hospital. Twenty-two (9 percent) were unplanned related readmissions. Ten patients were readmitted with unrelated emergencies, and 27 patients were readmitted electively. In the unplanned related group, there was no correlation between age, gender, admission diagnosis, activity status, or postoperative length of stay and the likelihood of readmission. Patients with multiple chronic medical problems or those who developed postoperative complications did not have a higher readmission rate. Patients with ulcerative colitis or those who underwent abdominoperineal resection or total/subtotal colectomy had a higher incidence of readmissions, although the difference was not significant. The mean interval between discharge from the hospital and readmission with a related complication was 19 days. Small-bowel obstruction was the most common reason for readmission, and all cases resolved with conservative management. Mean length of stay during all readmissions was 8 days. CONCLUSION: The incidence of unplanned related readmissions 90 days after abdominal or perineal colon resection is 9 percent, and these readmissions could not be predicted from the postoperative course. Because 82 percent of unplanned readmissions occurred within 30 days, this time frame is suitable for computerized comparative analysis.
The configuration and diffusion of isolated oxygen in silicon and germanium

Abstract Measurements of stress-induced dichroism on the dominant infrared absorption band due to oxygen in silicon (9μ) and in germanium (11.7μ) are presented. These measurements support the view that the oxygen configuration is interstitial. Comparing data on the annealing of the dichroism with internal friction measurements due to Southgate, the activation energies ( E ) and the pre-exponential factors ( D 0 ) for diffusion of oxygen are obtained: Silicon, E = 2·561 ± 0·005 eV, D 0 = 0·23 cm 2 /sec; Germanium, E = 2·076 ± 0·010 eV, D 0 = 0·40 cm 2 /sec. The magnitude of the stress-induced dichroism in silicon is also found to be in satisfactory agreement with the magnitude of the relaxation strength in Southgate's internal friction experiments.
Rapid Acquisition of Bias in Signal Detection: Dynamics of Effective Reinforcement Allocation

We investigated changes in bias (preference for one response alternative) in signal detection when relative reinforcer frequency for correct responses varied across sessions. In Experiment 1, 4 rats responded in a two-stimulus, two-response identification procedure employing temporal stimuli (short vs. long houselight presentations). Relative reinforcer frequency varied according to a 31-step pseudorandom binary sequence and stimulus duration difference varied over two values across conditions. In Experiment 2, 3 rats responded in a five-stimulus, two-response classification procedure employing temporal stimuli. Relative reinforcer frequency was varied according to a 36-step pseudorandom ternary sequence. Results of both experiments were analyzed according to a behavioral model of detection. The model was extended to incorporate the effects of current and previous session reinforcer frequency ratios on current-session performance. Similar to findings with concurrent schedules, effects on bias of relative reinforcer frequency were highest for the current session. However, carryover from reinforcer ratios of previous sessions was evident. Generally, the results indicate that bias can come under control of frequent changes in relative reinforcer frequency in both identification and classification procedures.
Impact of delayed presentation on the efficacy of thromboxane inhibition in the treatment of frostbite

Improved tissue survival after frostbite injury has been demonstrated with immediate postinjury use of a thromboxane inhibitor. However, most patients with frostbite injury present to the hospital hours after their injury and the efficacy of thromboxane inhibition at that time is unknown. The current study evaluated the efficacy of a thromboxane inhibitor on frostbite tissue survival when initiated at the time of injury compared to 4 h postinjury. In a prospective study, three groups of nine rabbits received a standardized frostbite injury using a modified Weatherley–White model. A control group received no pharmacologic therapy; the other two groups were treated with 1 mg kg −1 methimazole initiated orally immediately or 4 h postinjury, respectively. Treatment was given every 8 h for a total of 96 h. Healing was followed until a clear line of demarcation was apparent (10 days). The percentage of viable ear surface area remaining at the end of the study was measured and used to compare the effectiveness of treatments. Analysis of variance was used to determine statistical significance. No significant difference ( p =.388) was observed among the frostbite injury of the control group and either treatment group. Thirty percent of animals did not reach the study end point secondary to an outbreak of Escherichia coli diarrhea, reducing the study power to a 33% ability to detect a 35% difference in tissue survival. Despite the reduced power, this study questions the efficacy of thromboxane inhibition in improving frostbite tissue survival, whether therapy is initiated immediately or is delayed. These data suggest that further investigation is warranted to determine the role of thromboxane inhibition in frostbite injury.
In vivo and in vitro effects of oestradiol‐17β on lipid metabolism in Notemigonus crysoleucas

The effects of oestradiol-17β on the gonosornatic index, liver size, hepatic and body lipid levels in the cyprinid teleost, Notemigonus crysoleucas, were investigated. Administration of oestradiol to female TV. crysoleucas during the gonadal preparatory and prespawning seasons stimulates increases in ovarian size. During the early spawning season oestradiol therapy results in a reduction of ovarian gonosomatic index. Oestrogen treatment of males causes a suppression of testicular growth. In female fish exposed to long (15-5L/8-5D) or intermediate (12L/12D) photoperiods oestradiol increases body fat reserves. At short photoperiods (9L/15D) oestrogen treatment of females results in body fat store depletion Low doses deplete and high doses of oestradiol increase body lipid reserves in male fish. The hepatosomic index increases in both male and female fish following oestrogen treatment. Oestradiol therapy during the gonadal preparatory season, but not during the prespawning season, increases total liver lipids. The in vitro effects of oestradiol on liver lipid and carbohydrate metabolism were also examined. Under the conditions used in these experiments, lipid depletion was observed in liver slices incubated with or without oestradiol. Pretreatment of fish with oestradiol before liver tissue was removed drastically reduced in vitro lipid depletion. Oestradiol retards the gluconeogenesis and glycogenesis seen in liver slices incubated in a hormone-free medium.
Betwixt and between: academic developers in the margins

Previously, the authors developed a theoretical framework drawing on an early sociological study of migration to explore how marginality – being between cultures – might account for academic developers’ ‘hybrid’ academic identities and help them navigate institutional power dynamics. Based on data from semi-structured interviews, this empirical study reports on the extent to which the model captures the structural tensions experienced by developers from multiple countries in their working lives.
Exercise Prescription for Physical Fitness

In this paper, the current guidelines on exercise for physical fitness are examined, and important issues that may influence the updating of the ACSM exercise statement are identified. The current ACSM position stand (1990) on exercise for fitness has been criticized for failing to emphasize that health benefits may result from participation in lower intensity/volume physical activities. The primary difference between exercise prescription for fitness and physical activity for health is that fitness-oriented programs encompass health benefits, whereas guidelines designed specifically to elicit health benefits often do not incorporate the intensity or volume of training necessary to bring about improved fitness. Research is needed to provide more precise recommendations concerning the progression of training and how much should be included in warm-up and cool-down periods. Current and future guidelines will continue to emphasize factors that result in permanent lifestyle change and encourage a lifetime of ...
Cervical and high thoracic epidural anesthesia as the sole anesthetic for breast surgery

In the United States, the current trend towards performing more breast surgeries in an outpatient setting is driven by economic factors. Postoperative nausea and vomiting is probably the single most important factor limiting early discharge of patients from the hospital, because postoperative pain is usually not a major problem after lumpectomy and simple mastectomy. There has been increasing interest in the use of cervical or high thoracic epidural anesthesia in combination with intravenous sedation to avoid nausea and vomiting in these patients. For patients undergoing more extensive reconstructive breast surgery on an in-patient basis and for whom postoperative pain is a concern, the epidural catheter can be used to provide postoperative analgesia. This article discusses the effects of cervical and high thoracic epidural anesthesia on the respiratory and cardiovascular systems, complications of this anesthetic technique, and technical aspects of performance of the block. Emphasis is placed on choice of site of epidural puncture, choice of local anesthetic, expected spread of anesthesia, and intravenous sedation.
Manifestation of quantum resonances and antiresonances in a finite temperature dilute atomic gas.

We investigate the effect of temperature on resonant and antiresonant dynamics in a dilute atomic gas kicked periodically by a standing-wave laser field. Our numerical calculations are based on a Monte Carlo method for an incoherent mixture of noninteracting plane waves, and show that the atomic dynamics are highly sensitive to the initial momentum width of the gas. We explain this sensitivity by examining the time evolution of individual atomic center-of-mass momentum eigenstates with varying quasimomentum, and we determine analytic expressions for the evolution of the second-order momentum moment to illustrate the range of behaviors.
Comparison of Fixed‐Dose Transdermal Nicotine, Tapered‐Dose Transdermal Nicotine, and Buspirone in Smoking Cessation

The authors compared the outcome of 208 smokers treated with fixed-dose transdermal nicotine (n = 69), tapered-dose transdermal nicotine (n = 71), or buspirone (n = 68). At baseline, there were no significant differences among the three treatment groups with regard to age, gender, educational level, duration of smoking, number of cigarettes smoked per day, concomitant disease states or drug use, or Fagerstrom score. All smokers participated in a behavior modification program. Fixed-dose transdermal nicotine was given at a dose of 21 or 22 mg/day for 6 weeks. Tapered-dose transdermal nicotine was given at a dose of 21 or 22 mg/day for 4 weeks, 14 mg/day for 4 weeks and 7 mg/day for 4 weeks. Both transdermal nicotine regimens were initiated on the evening before the attempted quit date. Buspirone was started 21 days before the quit attempt and continued for 7 days after the quit attempt. Buspirone was initiated at 5 mg TID for 7 days and then 10 mg TID for 21 days. Smoking cessation was assessed by patient diaries and random plasma thiocyanate determinations. Dropouts for any reason were considered treatment failures. Quit rates were as shown in the Table I. Discontinuation of treatment for perceived side effects and dropouts for all reasons were not significantly different among the treatment groups. The authors conclude that fixed-dose transdermal nicotine, tapered-dose transdermal nicotine, and buspirone are associated with similar efficacy and safety when combined with behavior modification in smoking cessation.
From the Sidelines to Center Stage: Opportunities to Discover Voice and Empowerment through Web 2.0 and New Media for LGBTQ Adult Learners.

While many adult learners may feel hesitant to voice their opinions in a classroom, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) adults are especially aware that they are functioning in a critical, heteronormative society. However, in a climate of respect and safety they can gain confidence in sharing their true selves and opinions. An additional means of accomplishing this goal is through Web 2.0 technologies. This essay describes how LGBTQ communities have used podcasting to gain voice and empowerment on a mass scale and how lessons learned form this experience can be utilized in our adult learning classrooms. Web 2.0 new media is a vibrant opportunity to change classroom spectators to vital participants, content creators, and empowered adults.
Stability of bacterial leaf spot resistance in peach regenerants under in vitro , greenhouse and field conditions

Phenotypic stability of bacterial leaf spot resistance in peach (Prunus persica (L.) Batsch) regenerants, either selected at the cellular level for insensitivity to a toxic culture filtrate of Xanthomonas campestris pv. pruni or screened at the whole plant level for resistance to X. campestris pv. pruni, was investigated. A detached-leaf bioassay was used to evaluate the original regenerants again after three years in the greenhouse and also after a two to three year cycle of tissue culture propagation. Peach trees derived through micropropagation from the original regenerants were also evaluated after one to three years growth in the field. Although leaf spot resistance was retained in some regenerants over time in the greenhouse, following in vitro propagation, and under field conditions, resistance was either lost or not expressed in others. Regenerants # 19-1 and #156-6, derived from embryo callus of bacterial spot susceptible ‘Sunhigh’, were significantly more resistant than ‘Sunhigh’. High levels of resistance were exhibited in greenhouse plants and field-grown trees of regenerant #122-1, derived from embryo callus of moderately resistant ‘Redhaven’. This research provides additional evidence that selecting or screening for somaclonal variants with disease resistance is a feasible approach to obtaining peach trees with increased levels of bacterial spot resistance.
Diamond, square, and level by level equivalence

We force and construct a model in which level by level equivalence between strong compactness and supercompactness holds, along with certain additional combinatorial properties. In particular, in this model, ♦δ holds for every regular uncountable cardinal δ, and below the least supercompact cardinal κ, □δ holds on a stationary subset of κ. There are no restrictions in our model on the structure of the class of supercompact cardinals.
Non‐invasive Evaluation of Ventricular Function and Volumes During Atrioventricular Sequential and Ventricular Pacing

Thirteen patients who all had previously inserted temporary or permanent pacemakers (6, VVI; 7, A-V sequential) were studied by two-dimensional echocardiography and radionuclide gated blood pool ventriculography (RVG) for non-invasive evaluation of cardiac performance. Patients were paced in both the VVI mode and during sinus/atrial or A-V sequential pacing. Although there was no objective change of the ejection fraction during V-pacing and atrial/A-V sequential pacing or sinus rhythm, as has been previously reported, A-V sequential pacing did result in significant improvement in overall cardiac function and output as judged by radionuclide ventriculography and blood pressure response in most of our patients. An appropriately timed atrial contribution to ventricular systole resulted in improved ventricular function in those individuals with pre-existing systolic or diastolic myocardial dysfunction and/or sick sinus syndrome in whom pacemaker therapy was indicated. Radionuclide ventriculography appears to be a reliable, accurate, non-invasive method that can be used to evaluate patients before implantation of a permanent ventricular or atrioventricular pacemaker in order to decide which pacing mode is best for that particular individual.
Lipids and the Endothelium: Bidirectional Interactions

The endothelium is often viewed solely as the barrier that prevents the penetration of circulating lipoproteins into the arterial wall. However, recent research has demonstrated that the endothelium has an important part in regulating circulating fatty acids and lipoproteins, and is in turn affected by these lipids/lipoproteins in ways that appear to have important repercussions for atherosclerosis. Thus, a number of potentially toxic lipids are produced during lipolysis of lipoproteins at the endothelial cell surface. Catabolism of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins creates free fatty acids that are readily taken up by endothelial cells, and, likely through the action of acyl-CoA synthetases, exacerbate inflammatory processes. In this article, we review how the endothelium participates in lipoprotein metabolism, how lipids alter endothelial functions, and how lipids are internalized, processed, and transported into the subendothelial space. Finally, we address the many endothelial changes that might promote atherogenesis, especially in the setting of diabetes.
Immunocytochemical and physiological characterization of a population of cultured human neural precursors

Human neural precursor cells (HNPC) have recently become commercially available. In an effort to determine the usefulness of these cells for in vitro studies, we have grown cultured HNPCs (cHNPCs) ...
Nitrogen isotopic fractionation in the synthesis of photosynthetic pigments in Rhodobacter capsulatus and Anabaena cylindrica

Nitrogen isotopic discrimination was investigated for a purple nonsulfur bacterium, Rhodobacter capsulatus, during photoheterotrophic and photoautotrophic growth with N2 and ammonia, and compared with nitrogen assimilation in a cyanobacterium. In R. capsulatus, the 15 N values for biomass during growth with N2 fixation and ammonia assimilation, relative to the N-source, ranged fromˇ1.8 toˇ0.8% andˇ12.3 toˇ10.2%, respectively. In the cyanobacterium, Anabaena cylindrica, the 15 N value for biomass resulting from growth on molecular nitrogen wasˇ0.8 to ˇ1.7% relative to N-source. These values are similar to those observed for other microorganisms. Bacteriochlorophyll a in R. capsulatus was depleted in 15 N relative to biomass, whereas chlorophyll a in A. cylindrica was relatively enriched in 15 N. # 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.