cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Magnetic Field Dependence of Spin-Lattice Relaxation in Neodymium Ethylsulfate

Relaxation times for neodymium ethylsulfate have been derived from dispersion curves of the Casimir-duPr\'e form, measured by an audio-frequency self-inductance bridge method at temperatures between 2.4 and 4.2 K and in magnetic fields between 150 and 2870 Oe parallel to the crystal $c$ axis. The temperature dependence of the relaxation rate is described by ${\mathrm{DT}}^{2}+{\mathrm{BT}}^{9}$. The magnetic field dependence of $B$ is satisfactorily fitted by Orbach's theoretical expression $B(H)={B}_{\ensuremath{\infty}}\frac{({H}^{2}+\ensuremath{\mu}{H}_{n}^{2}+\frac{1}{2}{\ensuremath{\mu}}^{\ensuremath{'}}{H}_{d}^{2})}{({H}^{2}+{H}_{n}^{2}+\frac{1}{2}{H}_{d}^{2})}$, with ${B}_{\ensuremath{\infty}}=(5.8\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.4)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}5}$ ${\mathrm{sec}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$ ${\mathrm{K}}^{\ensuremath{-}9}$ and ${10}^{\ensuremath{-}4}\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}(\ensuremath{\mu}{H}_{n}^{2}+\frac{1}{2}{\ensuremath{\mu}}^{\ensuremath{'}}{H}_{d}^{2})=151\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}13$ ${\mathrm{Oe}}^{2}$. Various approximation schemes for estimating the dynamic crystal-field parameters have been used to calculate values of ${B}_{\ensuremath{\infty}}$ and $\ensuremath{\mu}{H}_{n}^{2}+\frac{1}{2}{\ensuremath{\mu}}^{\ensuremath{'}}{H}_{d}^{2}$. Orbach's scheme, with Huang's factors added, gives a better account of the variation of the Raman relaxation rate at low fields and intermediate fields. At high fields either the Orbach-Huang or the Scott-Jeffries approximation schemes give reasonable Raman relaxation rates. A normal-mode theory fails to give agreement with experiment at either high or low fields, probably due to its use of a point-charge model for the crystal field. The direct process is found to be bottlenecked, but neither Orbach's nor Scott and Jeffries's scheme gives a rate coefficient large enough to satisfy the condition for a bottleneck. The bottlenecked direct-process coefficient shows a field dependence, decreasing by a factor of 2 as $H$ increases.
Significance of hydrocarbon seepage relative to petroleum generation and entrapment

Near-surface indications of migrating hydrocarbons provide the petroleum systems analyst critical information about source (organic matter type), maturation (organic maturity), migration (migration pathway delineation), and in selected geologic settings, specific prospect hydrocarbon charge. All petroliferous basins exhibit some type of near-surface signal, but the hydrocarbon leakage to surface is not always detectable with conventional seep detection methods. Understanding the Petroleum Seepage System, hence petroleum dynamics of a basin, is key to understanding and using near-surface geochemical methods for basin assessment and prospect evaluation. The relationships between near-surface hydrocarbon seepage and subsurface petroleum generation and entrapment are often complex. The petroleum seepage system contain four key elements: seepage activity (qualitative expressions of relative leakage rates, active vs passive, and episodic vs continuous), seepage type (concentration of migrated thermogenic hydrocarbon relative to in situ material, macro vs micro), migration focus (major direction of bulk flow leakage relative to the subsurface hydrocarbon generation and/or entrapment), and near-surface seep disturbances (near-surface processes which can greatly alter or block seepage signals). The rate and volume of hydrocarbon seepage to the surface greatly control near-surface geological and biological responses, and thus are the best method of sampling and analysis to detect hydrocarbon leakage effectively. To properly predict subsurface petroleum properties, interpretation of near-surface geochemical data must recognize many potential problems including recent organic matter input, transported hydrocarbons, bacterial alteration, mixing, contamination, and fractionation effects. Surface geochemical data should always be integrated with other geological data. Calibration datasets to determine the utility of near-surface geochemical techniques within particular basinal settings are essential when evaluating prospects for hydrocarbon charge.
Antibody Response to Sheep Red Blood Cells in a Major Histocompatibility (B) Complex Aneuploid Line of Chickens

An integral part of the immune response is the production of antibodies specific for different antigenic challenges. Genes of the MHC encode products that regulate immunity. This study utilized the FCT-15 line of chickens, which is aneuploid for the chromosome containing the ribosomal RNA genes (rDNA) and the MHC or B complex to determine whether an antibody response to SRBC would vary as a function of B complex gene dose. Mating of trisomic parents (B15B15B15) animals produced progeny having either a disomic (B15B15), trisomic (B15B15B15), or tetrasomic (B15B15B15B15) B complex dosage. The number of B/rDNA chromosomes, and thus the B complex dosage was determined by feather pulp nucleolar typing of chicks at hatch. A 5% SRBC antigenic challenge, which induces a T cell-dependent antibody response, was injected at 6 wk of age. Samples taken prior to SRBC injection as well as 5, 8, and 12 d postinjection were assayed for total and mercaptoethanol-resistant antibody. Peak antibody titers (log2), day of peak titer and rate of titer decline were calculated using a quadratic equation for each bird. Differences among the three B complex dosages were evaluated by analysis of variance. Antibody titers rose from 5 to 8 d postinjection and declined thereafter without significant differences among the three B complex doses. Calculations from the quadratic equations showed that B complex dose affected neither peak antibody titer nor day of peak titer. However, trisomic and tetrasomic animals had significantly more rapid rates of decline from the maximum titer. In aneuploid chickens, changes in antigen processing, antigen presentation, or persistence of processed antigen may maintain levels of antibody production found in disomic chickens and explain the more rapid decline of titer.
Kinetic models for coagulation processes: determination of rate coefficients in vivo

Kinetic models of thermal damage in tissues can be used to describe histologic end points obtained with laser irradiation. In this study, thermographic measurements of skin surface temperature distributions during laser impingement were used to derive a temperature history for the lesion site. Lesions were evaluated at 48 h after laser irradiation to determine the radius of purpura formation. The temperature histories at the maximum radius of purpura formation (threshold temperatures) were analyzed and plotted on Arrhenius axes to estimate rate coefficients for the process. As expected, transient in vivo thermal history data yielded a noisy Arrhenius plot; however, estimates of the appropriate rate coefficients for purpura formation in vivo could be made.
Exact finite-difference schemes for two-dimensional linear systems with constant coefficients

An exact finite-difference scheme for a system of two linear differential equations with constant coefficients, (d/dt)x(t)=Ax(t), is proposed. The scheme is different from what was proposed by Mickens [Nonstandard Finite Difference Models of Differential Equations, World Scientific, New Jersey, 1994, p. 147], in which the derivatives of the two equations are formed differently. Our exact scheme is in the form of (1/@f(h))(x"k"+"1-x"k)=A[@qx"k"+"1+(1-@q)x"k]; both derivatives are in the same form of (x"k"+"1-x"k)/@f(h).
The effect of canal preparation on fill length in straight root canals obturated with GuttaCore.

Abstract Introduction A common critique of using thermoplasticized carrier-based obturators is the incidence of overextension. It would be of benefit to clinicians to have a technique for canal preparation that would allow for predictable length control. This study compared straight canals instrumented to a size 40 file using a 0.04 standardized taper preparation (STP) and a varied taper preparation (VTP) by evaluating the extension of GuttaCore (GC) obturators (Dentsply Tulsa Dental, Tulsa, OK). Methods Eighty extracted mature human premolars with single straight canals were randomly divided into 2 experimental groups ( n = 40). The STP group was instrumented to size 40/.04 at the working length (WL). The VTP group was instrumented to size 40/.02 at the WL. Both groups were obturated with a size 40 GC obturator. Extension of the material, in relation to the WL, was evaluated and assessed ordinally. Statistically significant differences were determined by a 2-group chi-square test with a 2-sided P value set at P = .05 and a Fisher exact test of equal proportions. Results Significant differences in extrusion existed between the STP and VTP groups when controlling for the type of apical preparation ( P = .0005). The STP group resulted in a 47.2% incidence of overextension, whereas the VTP group resulted in 10.5% overextension of obturating material. Conclusions The results indicate that when filling straight canals with GC obturators the canal can be instrumented using a varied tapered canal preparation with a low likelihood of overextension.
Properties of pyridine and pyrazine from ab initio molecular orbital wave functions

Various molecular properties have been calculated for pyridine and pyrazine from Gaussian lobe ab initioSCF molecular wave functions. Values are compared with available experimental data. In general, agreement is satisfactory with the exception of the rather sensitive asymmetry parameter of the quadrupole coupling tensor. The distributions of total electronic charge, and of selected molecular orbitals have been displayed as plots of the charge density contours in two dimensions.
SOME THOUGHTS ON THE ROLE OF THE AGRICULTURAL ECONOMICS PROFESSION IN AUSTRALIA

Does the seemingly disproportionate growth in Australia of agricultural economics, relative to other branches of applied economics, represent a misallocation of educational and research resources? Probably not, since (i) it may be better–because of the existence of increasing returns–to concentrate one's limited resources of economist brainpower in a few fields than to spread them widely; and (ii) the growth of agricultural economics has helped to correct certain weaknesses–particularly in micro-economics and econometrics–in the Australian economics profession as a whole. However, it is suggested that in the future agricultural economists might apply their skills increasingly to non-agricultural problems.
Met5-enkephalin-Arg6-Gly7-Leu8 immunoreactivity in rat and human cerebrospinal fluid: influence of neuroleptic drugs and electroconvulsive shock.

Met5-Enkephalin-Arg6-Gly7-Leu8 immunoreactivity was quantitated in both rat and human cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) by radioimmunoassay with a car☐y-terminal directed antiserum. The immunoreactivity in CSF was chromatographically characterized in both species and was found to consist almost exclusively of high molecular weight forms. In human CSF there was approximately 300 fmol/ml and in the rat 1, 500 fmol/ml of immunoreactivity. The possibility of a rostro-caudal gradient was examined in the human by analyzing the first and the twenty-fifth ml of CSF drawn during a lumbar puncture; none was found. The immunoreactivity was fairly stable; no loss of immunoreactivity was observed after 24 h of incubation of rat CSF at 37 °C. Electroconvulsive shock (ECS) produced a significant elevation in CSF content but only after a course of chronic administration; a single acute ECS produced no increase. Human subjects with schizophrenia who were being treated with antipsychotic drugs had elevated levels of immunoreactivity in comparison to non-medicated patients and normals. The high levels of this immunoreactivity in CSF, its stability and the evidence that the content can change with physiological and pharmacological manipulation indicate that Met5-Enkephalin-Arg6-Gly7-Leu8 immunoreactivity can serve as a new and useful CSF marker for investigating the CNS enkephalin system in neurological or psychiatric disorders.
Preparation and Polymerization of Ethylene 2,6-Naphthalenedicarboxylate Cyclic Oligomers

Ethylene 2,6-naphthalenedicarboxylate cyclic oligomers (ENCs) were prepared by the ring/chain equilibration (cyclodepolymerization) of poly(ethylene 2,6-naphthalenedicarboxylate) (PEN) in dilute so...
Pathways from childhood abuse to prospective revictimization: Depression, sex to reduce negative affect, and forecasted sexual behavior

Abstract Research suggests that adverse events in childhood, such as childhood physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, confer risk for later sexual assault. Psychological distress, coping strategies, and sexual behavior may help explain the path from childhood abuse to revictimization. The present study explored how the use of sex to regulate negative affect (SRNA) operates independently, and in combination with other psychosocial factors to increase college women's (N = 541) risk of experiencing prospective adult sexual assault (ASA). Sequential multiple mediator models in Mplus were used to assess the effect of three different forms of childhood abuse on prospective ASA, both independently and while controlling for other forms of childhood abuse. The indirect effect of adolescent sexual assault (AdolSA), depressive symptoms, SRNA, and participants’ response to a sex-related vignette was tested using bias-corrected bootstrapping. In the full path model, childhood emotional abuse and AdolSA predicted ASA, while childhood physical and sexual abuse were directly associated with AdolSA, but not ASA. Additionally, depressive symptoms and participants’ estimate of their likely behavior in a sex-related vignette directly predicted prospective ASA. Results using bootstrapping revealed that a history of childhood abuse predicted prospective ASA via diverse direct and indirect paths, as well as through a similar multiple mediator path. Overall, findings suggest that a combination of affective, coping, and sexual expectancy factors contribute to risk for revictimization in adult survivors of childhood abuse. Future research directions and targets for risk-reduction programming are discussed.
T-Helper Lymphocytes Specific for Myelin Basic Protein: Low-Density Activation Prolongs a Postactivation Refractory Phase Marked by Decreased Pathogenicity and Enhanced Sensitivity to Anergy☆

Regulation of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) in Lewis rats may involve activation-dependent negative feedback pathways of T-helper cells. Previous studies have shown that T-helper cells specific for myelin basic protein exhibit a postactivation refractory phase during which antigenic restimulation elicits proliferation without production of IL-2. Herein, we show that postactivation refractoriness inhibits regeneration of EAE transfer activity and is manifest by a lack of IL-2 mRNA accumulation despite induction of normal levels of IL-4 mRNA. Preactivated refractory T cells were substantially more susceptible than resting T cells to the induction of anergy. Low-density T cell activation or subcloning prolonged the duration of the refractory phase and engendered long-term desensitization of T cells marked by a blockade of IL-2 production and by enhanced susceptibility to anergy. Overall, these results support the concept that postactivation refractoriness controls the pathogenicity and differentiation of T-helper cells.
Simulation evaluation of synthetic vision as an enabling technology for equivalent visual operations

Enhanced Vision (EV) and synthetic vision (SV) systems may serve as enabling technologies to meet the challenges of the Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen) Equivalent Visual Operations (EVO) concept ? that is, the ability to achieve or even improve on the safety of Visual Flight Rules (VFR) operations, maintain the operational tempos of VFR, and even, perhaps, retain VFR procedures independent of actual weather and visibility conditions. One significant challenge lies in the definition of required equipage on the aircraft and on the airport to enable the EVO concept objective. A piloted simulation experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of the presence or absence of Synthetic Vision, the location of this information during an instrument approach (i.e., on a Head-Up or Head-Down Primary Flight Display), and the type of airport lighting information on landing minima. The quantitative data from this experiment were analyzed to begin the definition of performance-based criteria for all-weather approach and landing operations. Objective results from the present study showed that better approach performance was attainable with the head-up display (HUD) compared to the head-down display (HDD). A slight performance improvement in HDD performance was shown when SV was added, as the pilots descended below 200 ft to a 100 ft decision altitude, but this performance was not tested for statistical significance (nor was it expected to be statistically significant). The touchdown data showed that regardless of the display concept flown (SV HUD, Baseline HUD, SV HDD, Baseline HDD) a majority of the runs were within the performance-based defined approach and landing criteria in all the visibility levels, approach lighting systems, and decision altitudes tested. For this visual flight maneuver, RVR appeared to be the most significant influence in touchdown performance. The approach lighting system clearly impacted the pilot's ability to descend to 100 ft height above touchdown based on existing Federal Aviation Regulation (FAR) 91.175 using a 200 ft decision height, but did not appear to influence touchdown performance or approach path maintenance
Periodic Hartree−Fock Study of LixTiS2, 0 ≤ x ≤ 1: The Structural, Elastic, and Electronic Effects of Lithium Intercalation in TiS2

The structural and electronic properties of the intercalation compound LixTiS2, x = 1/4, 3/4, and 1, are investigated at the ab initio, all-electron, periodic Hartree−Fock level, using an extended ...
Hysteresis loops and the inelastic deformation of 0/90 ceramic matrix composites

Hysteresis measurements obtained on 0/90 SiC/CAS and SiC/SiC have been used to analyze the interface responses. Four parameters have been derived from these measurements. These relate to the compliance change caused by matrix cracking, the frictional resistance of the interface, the interface debond resistance, and the residual stress. These parameters have been used to predict the stress/strain curves. Preliminary estimates of stress partitioning between the plies have been used to estimate constituent properties, such as the friction stress.
Preparing the front line for the increase in the aging population: geriatric curriculum development for an emergency medicine residency program.

Abstract Background: Emergency Departments (EDs) are common entry points to the health care system for elders. Emergency Medicine residents need specialized education about geriatric patients to maximize health outcomes. Objectives: To determine whether geriatric education provided to residents in Emergency Medicine results in improved knowledge of and attitudes toward geriatric patients. Method: A pre- and post-intervention survey was conducted in a 3-year university-based residency program in Emergency Medicine. Participants were Emergency Medicine residents (PGY 1–3). The curriculum “Care of the Aging Patient in Emergency Medicine” was introduced. Topic selection was based upon geriatric curriculum recommendations and resident surveys. Before starting the curriculum and at its conclusion, residents completed Geriatric Clinical Decision-making Assessments and the Geriatric Attitude Scale Survey. Pre- and post-assessments were compared. Residents also completed written assessments for each educational activity in the curriculum. Results: After participating in the program, residents demonstrated improved knowledge of the geriatric patient, and their attitudes toward caring for geriatric patients had shifted from negative to neutral or positive. One statistically relevant change centered on the item, “Taking a medical history from an elderly patient is an ordeal” ( p = 0.033) Pre-intervention, 8.3% (n = 3) of residents strongly agreed with the statement. After the intervention, strong disagreement with the statement increased from 2.8% (n = 1) to 11% (n = 4) on the educational surveys. In addition, an increase in the percentage of neutral responses was observed. Conclusions: Using familiar educational formats with heavy emphasis on “hands-on” activities to present the geriatric care curriculum had a positive impact on resident knowledge and confidence in dealing with geriatric patients.
Fast FFT-based algorithm for phase estimation in speckle imaging

This paper describes a fast direct algorithm for obtaining least-squares phase estimates from arrays of noisy phase differences. The algorithm uses the fast Fourier transform to diagonalize and decouple the system of equations which results from the application of the least-squares criterion. It is accurate and stable, and is perhaps an order of magnitude faster than the best iterative method. The effectiveness of the algorithm has been demonstrated by using it in connection with the Knox–Thompson speckle-imaging procedure to restore an optical object perturbed by simulated atmospheric turbulence. Representative results are discussed in the paper.
Selective T cell killing of human lymphocytes by ultraviolet radiation

Abstract The effects of ultraviolet radiation (uv) on human B and T lymphocytes were studied. In vitro studies showed that T lymphocytes were more sensitive to uv than B lymphocytes as assessed by eosin-dye exclusion. Following uv exposure, the viable lymphocytes responded to mitogens (PHA, PWM), and functional B lymphocytes were present at a time when no viable T cells were detected. Varying doses of uv were required to abrogate different in vitro responses (proliferative response to antigen or allogeneic cells, MIF production, and cell-mediated lympholysis). In vivo , uv was able to diminish an established cutaneous delayed hypersensitivity response. In vitro uv treatment of parental mouse spleen cells eliminated a graft-versus-host reaction in F 1 recipients as determined by the spleen index. The basis for the differential effect of uv on B and T lymphocyte viability and functional responses is unknown.
Information theory for key distribution systems secured by mesoscopic coherent states

This work analyzes a key distribution system presented earlier [Phys. Rev. A 68, 052307 (2003)] using elements of information theory. Mutual information functions describing the information content shared by Alice and Bob, the legitimate users, and between Alice and Eve, the attacker, are obtained. These results support the original claims that the overall security level to be obtained with the $M$-ry key distribution system can be made arbitrarily high and thus secure for any practical application. Effects of losses and amplifiers in the optical channel are also analyzed.
A volume adjustable four-coil phased array for high resolution MR imaging of the hip

A four-coil phased array was specifically designed and built for MR imaging of the hip at 1.5 T. Its RF and imaging properties were evaluated using phantom and in-vivo studies and the results were compared to those of three different commercial coils commonly used for hip imaging. Our coil gave a significantly higher S/N at anatomic locations commonly evaluated for hip diagnosis. The increased S/N supports higher image spatial resolution and improves the visualization of fractures and lateral injuries.
A Further Study of the Effect of pH on the Atomic Absorption Analysis of Zinc

Recently it was reported by Dong that for the analysis of zinc by atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS), the percentage absorption of zinc in the flame is a function of the pH of the zinc-containing solution. An examination of the recent literature concerning the atomic absorption analysis of Zn by AAS failed to disclose other reports of pH affecting this determination. Ezell reported that for the determination of Zn in alumina, using a set of standards prepared by adding Zn to solutions of alumina in 2% sodium hydroxide, "The same values [Zn content of alumina samples] have been obtained using either acid or alkaline standards." Fishman made no mention of a pH effect in the analysis of natural waters for Zn and compared his analysis of Zn by AAS to the accepted dithizone extraction method, obtaining comparable values by either method.
Circular dichroism detection of optically active compounds in gas chromatography using vacuum ultraviolet synchrotron radiation

Abstract Circular dichroism has been employed as a detection technique in gas chromatography for specific monitoring of optically active compounds which absorb in the vacuum ultraviolet region. The synchrotron radiation from U9A beamline of National Synchrotron Light Source, Brookhaven National Laboratory, was used as the light source. The detection limit established using this system is at the nanogram level for a selected group of hydrocarbons.
Using on-line Conditional Random Fields to determine human intent for peer-to-peer human robot teaming

In this paper we introduce a system under development to enable humans and robots to collaborate as peers on tasks in a shared physical environment, using only implicit coordination. Our system uses Conditional Random Fields to determine the human's intended goal. We show the effects of using different features to improve accuracy and the time to the correct classification. We compare the performance of the Conditional Random Fields classifiers by testing the classification accuracy with both the full observation sequence, as well as accuracy when the observations are classified as the observations occur. We show that Conditional Random Fields work well for classifying the goal of a human in a box pushing domain where the human can select one of three tasks. We discuss how this research fits into a larger system we are developing for peer-to-peer human robot teams for shared workspace interactions.
Neuroendocrine effects of ovine corticotropin-releasing hormone in panic disorder patients

Abstract A number of neuroendocrine abnormalities have been reported in panic disorder patients: the most extensively studied being disturbances of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal function (Curtis et al. 1982; Leiberman et al. 1983; Uhde et al. 1988). The recent sequencing and synthesis of corticotropin-releasing hormone now allows direct testing of pituitary responsivity to this neuropeptide in affective and panic disorder patients (Holsboer et al. 1984; Gold et al. 1986; Roy-Byrne et al. 1986; Holsboer et al. 1987; Risch et al. 1988). We report the effects of intravenously administered ovine corticotropin-releasing hormone (0.03 μg/kg) on plasma concentrations of adrenocorticotropin hormon (ACTH) and cortisol in a small group of panic disorder patients and age- and sex-matched normal controls.
Expression of c-fos and c-Ha-ras Proto-oncogenes is Induced in Human Chronic Wounds

BACKGROUND. It is known that chronic wounds such as leg ulcers have an increased risk of malignant transformation, mainly to squamous cell carcinoma (reviewed in Reference 1). OBJECTIVES. To better understand the molecular changes responsible for this increased risk of malignant transformation, we examined the expression of c-fos and c-Ha-ras, proto-oncogenes known to be involved in cellular proliferation and transformation, in chronic wounds. RESULTS. The level of both c-fos and c-Ha-ras mRNAs, determined by in situ hybridization, were heavily induced in the basal layer of epidermis in chronic wounds when compared to normal skin and acute wounds, (originated from the edge of wounds created by Moh's surgery). Expression of both proto-oncogenes was not detected in the dermis of any groups. CONCLUSIONS. These results suggest that elevated expression of proto-oncogenes may be partly responsible for the increase susceptibility of chronic wounds to malignant transformation. © 1998 by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, Inc. Dermatol Surg 1998;24:1354-1358.
On stabilized finite element methods for the Stokes problem in the small time step limit

Recent studies indicate that consistently stabilized methods for unsteady incompressible flows, obtained by a method of lines approach may experience difficulty when the time step is small relative to the spatial grid size. Using as a model problem the unsteady Stokes equations, we show that the semi-discrete pressure operator associated with such methods is not uniformly coercive. We prove that for sufficiently large (relative to the square of the spatial grid size) time steps, implicit time discretizations contribute terms that stabilize this operator. However, we also prove that if the time step is sufficiently small, then the fully discrete problem necessarily leads to unstable pressure approximations. The semi-discrete pressure operator studied in the paper also arises in pressure-projection methods, thereby making our results potentially useful in other settings. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Self-Fulfilling Prophecies Through Withdrawal of Care: Do They Exist in Traumatic Brain Injury, Too?

We examined factors associated with withdrawal of care (WOC) in moderate-severe traumatic brain injury (msTBI) patients, and how WOC may affect short-term mortality and receipt of neurosurgery. Variability in msTBI-related outcome prognostication by clinicians from different specialties was also assessed. Rates of WOC, factors associated with WOC, and the relation between WOC and in-hospital case-fatality rate (CFR) and neurosurgery were determined in 232 prospectively enrolled msTBI patients in the ongoing OPTIMISM Study at a level-1 trauma center. In a concomitant web-based survey with clinical vignettes, outcome prognostication comfort, treatment aggressiveness, and WOC recommendations were examined among 106 respondents from neurology, neurocritical care, neurosurgery, trauma and anesthesia/critical care. The average age of the study sample was 53 years, with a median Glasgow Coma Scale of 6. The in-hospital CFR was 36 and 68 % of patients had WOC. Factors independently associated with WOC were advanced age, pupillary reactivity, lower intensive care unit-length-of-stay, pre- and in-hospital cardiac arrest, herniation, intracranial pressure crisis, and pre-existing endocrine disease. Inclusion of WOC in our multivariable regression model predicting in-hospital CFRs negated all other variables. Survey results suggested that in younger patients, some clinicians prognosticated overly pessimistically based upon data available at the time of presentation. In our msTBI cohort, WOC was the most important predictor of in-hospital mortality. We identified several important independent predictors of WOC. Large within-center variability in msTBI outcome prognostication with varying levels of possible clinical nihilism exists, which may form the basis of self-fulfilling prophecies.
ALTERNATIVE FORUMS FOR CITIZEN PARTICIPATION: FORMAL MEDIATION OF URBAN LAND USE DISPUTES

Among the recurrent concerns of urban planners and administrators is the institutionalization of an inclusive, equitable, and effective process of citizen participation. Such is required not only as matter of law but also as instrument of social cohesion. The great majority of urban conduct is a function of voluntarism, consensus, and accommodation. In earlier decades, informal social processes facilitated reconciliation. In more recent decades, formal processes of citizen participation have yielded frustration. For the present decade, both literature and practice suggest a shifting of citizen participation processes toward mediation alternatives. While increasingly popular, all mediation alternatives carry three troublesome concerns: definition of interested parties, openness to information, and role of the public mediator. Unless such alternatives are seen as more inclusive, equitable and effective, they will fail to win social acceptance, leading to increasing community distrust and frustrating the abi...
THE COMPOSITIONAL CLASSIFICATION OF CHONDRITES. VI: THE CR CARBONACEOUS CHONDRITE GROUP

New analytical data combined with recent studies by other researchers allow the definition of a Renazzo (CR) group of carbonaceous chondrites. We analyzed nine CR chondrites (Acfer 187, Acfer 209, El Djouf 001, Elephant Moraine 87747, Elephant Moraine 87770, Elephant Moraine 87847, MacAlpine Hills 87320, PCA91082, and Yamato 793495) constituting at least five independent fall events by instrumental neutron activation analysis for twenty-seven elements. Along with previously analyzed Renazzo, six or more closely related fall events are represented. Key CR properties include refractory lithophile abundances ~1.0 × CI levels, Zn/Mn ratios ~0.3 × CI levels, metal contents of 100–160 mg/g, (unusually high for a carbonaceous chondrite group), relatively large chondrules (mean size ~ 700 μm), and the presence of magnetite framboids. Al Rais is a close relative but too different in chemical and isotopic composition to be considered a normal member of the CR group; we suggest that it be treated as an anomalous member (CR-an), but that its properties not be included in CR ranges and means. MAC87320, PCA91082, EET87770, and Acfer 187 were studied petrographically along with Renazzo and Al Rais. Renazzo has a lineation possibly caused by fluid-lubricated, impact-induced shearing. The CR chondrites experienced some reduction during weak thermal metamorphism; the heating must have taken place prior to hydrothermal alteration. We suggest that formation of magnetite (and framboidal magnetite in particular) in CI and CR chondrites is due to hydrothermal alteration of metal-rich (or opaque-rich) precursors, and that the low abundance of magnetite in CM chondrites relative to CI indicates that the CM precursors were metal poor. Some carbonates in CI and CR chondrites may have formed by H2O reaction with cohenite or poorly crystallized graphite.
Seasonal temperature variations influence isoprene emission

Isoprene (2-methyl-1,3-butadiene) emission from plants is highly temperature dependent. The influence of long-term variations in growth temperature on isoprene emission rates from bur oak (Quercus macrocarpa) leaves was investigated under controlled environmental conditions. Trees were installed in a growth chamber and exposed to a series of daytime temperatures that were varied after a period of 3–6 weeks. Emission capacity (measured at leaf temperature of 25°C and photosynthetic photon flux density of 900 µmol m−2 s−1) doubled when growth temperature was increased from 25 to 30°C. Ten days after the growth temperature was decreased to 20°C, isoprene emission capacity fell to 25 to 50% of its peak value. When growth temperature was returned to 30°C, emission capacity doubled within 5 hours and continued to increase over several days. The observed behavior can be described by modifying existing algorithms.
Epithelial uptake of [18F]1-(2'-deoxy-2'-arabinofuranosyl) cytosine indicates intestinal inflammation in mice.

Background & Aims Uptake of [18F]1-(2′-deoxy-2′-arabinofuranosyl)cytosine (D-FAC) is a trait of activated lymphocytes; its biodistribution predominates in the spleen, thymus, and bone marrow. In addition, D-FAC is taken up at high levels by the intestine. We analyzed the regional specificity of uptake and cell types that mediate it. Methods In mice, 3-dimensional isocontour regions of interest were drawn based on computed tomographic images to quantify intestinal signals from micro–positron emission tomography scans. To ascertain the cell type responsible, intestinal epithelium and immune cells were isolated and D-FAC uptake was analyzed in vitro. Mice deficient in mucosal homing ( β7 integrin-/- ), enteric microbiota (germ-free), or active for immune colitis ( Gαi2-/- CD3+ transferred into Rag-/- recipients) were studied. Results Strong uptake of D-FAC was detected throughout the intestine, with greatest signal per region of interest in the duodenum. Fractionation of intestinal cell types after in vivo uptake revealed that the signal was almost entirely from epithelial cells. Among resident immune cell types, CD4+ T cells showed the greatest per-cell and total uptake. D-FAC uptake increased in both intestinal and systemic lymphoid sites during colitis. Compared with fluorodeoxyglucose, increased uptake of D-FAC in the small and large intestine occurred at an earlier stage of disease development. Conclusions Uptake of D-FAC is a prominent trait of normal mouse intestinal epithelial cells, which is useful for their noninvasive visualization by positron emission tomography. Increased uptake of D-FAC reflects the activity of the epithelium and lymphocytes, providing a unique early marker of intestinal inflammation.
Effects of voltinism, interspecific competition and parasitism on the population dynamics of the hemlock scales, Fiorinia externa and Tsugaspidiotus tsugae (Homoptera: Diaspididae)

. 1 Life tables were constructed for solitary and coexisting populations of univoltine Fiorinia externa Ferris and bivoltine Tsugaspidiotus tsugae (Marlatt) (Homoptera: Diaspididae), two exotic scale pests of eastern hemlock, Tsuga canadensis Carriere, in the northeastern United States. 2 Solitary and coexisting populations of F. externa had similar survivorship and population growth rates resulting in an annual increase in density of 7–16%. Survivorship of solitary and coexisting populations of T. tsugae also was similar, but growth rates differed substantially. While solitary populations increased their density by 68% annually, populations coexisting with F. extema were reduced 74% each year. 3 The annual reduction in T. tsugae density where it coexists with F. externa was due in part to interspecific competition which resulted in higher mortality to nymphs from dispersal and starvation and in lower fecundity of adult females relative to solitary populations. A host shift by the parasitoid, Aspidiotiphagus citrinus (Crawford) (Hymenoptera: Aphenlinidae) from F. externa to T. tsugae in autumn also accounted for 71% of the annual decrease in T. tsugae numbers. Therefore, F. externa adversely affects the growth of T. tsugae populations not only because of its superior competitive ability but also because adult para-sitoids which emerge from it subsequently attack nymphs of T. tsugae in autumn. 4 Parasitism and starvation of nymphs resulting from competition were the key mortality factors in the population dynamics of these exotic hemlock scales.
Interferon as an adjuvant treatment for genital condyloma acuminatum

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the effect of alpha-interferon as an adjuvant to laser or fluorouracil treatment in patients with recurrent genital human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Methods: Sixty-two females and 21 males were treated for recurrent HPV infection, with either fluorouracil (Efudex 5%) cream or laser ablation of the lesions. Half of the patients were then randomly treated with adjuvant alpha-interferon, to the lesions for patients treated with fluorouracil, or beneath areas previously treated by laser, once a week, for 8 weeks. The other half of the patients did not receive interferon adjuvant. Evaluation of both groups was done using colposcopy and acetic acid, to assess recurrence rates up to 1 year after treatment. Results: Of the 83 patients followed for 1 year, colposcopy revealed recurrent anogenital lesions in 3 of 45 receiving interferon, compared with 9 of 38 patients treated without adjuvant interferon. Conclusion: Interferon is effective as adjuvant treatment in controlling the recurrence of genital HPV.
Effect of lead on calcium-mediated cell function in the isolated rat hepatocyte.

Abstract The effect of lead on the regulation of pyruvate kinase by glucagon and epinephrine was studied in the isolated rat hepatocyte in primary cell culture. Hepatocytes were incubated in medium containing 0, 10, 50, or 100 μ m Pb2+. After 20 hr exposure to lead, the cells were stimulated with 1 μ m glucagon or 10 μ m epinephrine, and the activity of pyruvate kinase was measured from 0 to 90 min. The cytotoxicity of lead was evaluated by monitoring the incorporation of radiolabeled precursors into protein and RNA. Incubation in concentrations up to 100 μ m lead acetate for up to 24 hr did not impair protein or RNA synthesis. Return to basal levels of pyruvate kinase activity was delayed or inhibited in lead-intoxicated hepatocytes following epinephrine stimulus but not glucagon, although the unstimulated level of pyruvate kinase and the magnitude of inactivation by the hormones were not affected by lead intoxication. The present study provides evidence that a cell function mediated by Ca2+ ions as a second messenger is affected by lead intoxication.
The restriction endonuclease RflFII, isolated from Ruminococcus flavefaciens FD-1, recognizes the sequence 5′-AGTACT-3′, and is inhibited by site-specific adenine methylation

Molecular studies of the rumen bacterium Ruminococcus flavefaciens are constrained by the lack of stable gene transfer systems. We report here on the characterization of RflFII, a restriction endonuclease isolated from R. flavefaciens FD-1. The enzyme is an isoschizomer of ScaI, and cleavage of the DNA is blunt-ended, between the internal TA dinucleotide sequence of 5'-AGTACT-3'. Chromosomal DNA preparations were used to demonstrate that adenine methylation of DNA within the sequence 5'-GTAC-3' inhibits both RflFII and the restriction endonucleases RsaI and ScaI. Chromosomal DNA from R. flavefaciens FD-1 is also host modified to protect against cleavage by ScaI.
Linking oligodendrocyte and myelin dysfunction to neurocircuitry abnormalities in schizophrenia

Multiple lines of evidence in schizophrenia, from brain imaging, studies in postmortem brains, and genetic association studies, have implicated oligodendrocyte and myelin dysfunction in this disease. Recent studies suggest that oligodendrocyte and myelin dysfunction leads to changes in synaptic formation and function, which could lead to cognitive dysfunction, a core symptom of schizophrenia. Furthermore, there is accumulating data linking oligodendrocyte and myelin dysfunction with dopamine and glutamate abnormalities, both of which are found in schizophrenia. These findings implicate oligodendrocyte and myelin dysfunction as a primary change in schizophrenia, not only as secondary consequences of the illness or treatment. Strategies targeting oligodendrocyte and myelin abnormalities could therefore provide therapeutic opportunities for patients suffering from schizophrenia.
Incidence and progression of mild aortic regurgitation after Tirone David reimplantation valve-sparing aortic root replacement.

Objective The study objective was to determine whether recurrent or residual mild aortic regurgitation, which occurs after valve-sparing aortic root replacement, progresses over time. Methods Between 2003 and 2008, 154 patients underwent Tirone David-V valve-sparing aortic root replacement; 96 patients (62%) had both 1-year (median, 12 ± 4 months) and mid-term (62 ± 22 months) transthoracic echocardiograms available for analysis. Age of patients averaged 38 ± 13 years, 71% were male, 31% had a bicuspid aortic valve, 41% had Marfan syndrome, and 51% underwent aortic valve repair, predominantly cusp free margin shortening. Results Forty-one patients (43%) had mild aortic regurgitation on 1-year echocardiogram. In 85% of patients (n = 35), mild aortic regurgitation remained stable on the most recent echocardiogram (median, 57 ± 20 months); progression to moderate aortic regurgitation occurred in 5 patients (12%) at a median of 28 ± 18 months and remained stable thereafter; severe aortic regurgitation developed in 1 patient, eventually requiring reoperation. Five patients (5%) had moderate aortic regurgitation at 1 year, which did not progress subsequently. Two patients (2%) had more than moderate aortic regurgitation at 1 year, and both ultimately required reoperation. Conclusions Although mild aortic regurgitation occurs frequently after valve-sparing aortic root replacement, it is unlikely to progress over the next 5 years and should not be interpreted as failure of the valve-preservation concept. Further, we suggest that mild aortic regurgitation should not be considered nonstructural valve dysfunction, as the 2008 valve reporting guidelines would indicate. We need 10- to 15-year follow-up to learn the long-term clinical consequences of mild aortic regurgitation early after valve-sparing aortic root replacement.
The Diagnosis of Certain Avian Diseases with the Fluorescent Antibody Technique

Abstract A NUMBER of Mycoplasma species are associated with diseases of poultry. Some are common in mixed poultry infections associated with other pathogens such as Newcastle disease virus (NDV), infectious bronchitis virus (IBV), Haemophilus gallinarum, and Escherichia coli (Osteen, 1962). All of these agents have been differentiated by morphological, biochemical, serological, bird infectivity, and/or lesion characteristics. These manipulations are time-consuming, however, and may still leave doubt (especially with the Mycoplasma spp.) as to the identity and purity of the agent(s) in question. Furthermore, attempts often fail to isolate these agents from infected tissues; where isolation is accomplished there is often doubt as to whether the tissue was contaminated from some other tissue or an external source. It is clear that a rapid test is needed to differentiate these pathogenic agents, especially the Mycoplasma spp., in artificial media and infected tissues. The fluorescent antibody technique was thought of as a possible means…
Intertemporal Substitution and Equity Premium

This article presents a model that incorporates habit formation and long-run risks into the Epstein–Zin preferences, and reveals intertemporal substitution as a distinctive channel, separate from risk aversion, in generating key asset market phenomena. With habit formation, both the risk aversion and intertemporal substitution channels enhance the market price of short-run consumption risk. With long-run risks, intertemporal substitution reduces the market prices of long-run consumption risks, working against risk aversion. The contrasting effects of the intertemporal substitution channel drive key differences in the model implications of habit formation and long-run risks.
Novel Methods for the Estimation of Acceptable Daily Intake

This paper describes two general methods for estimating ADIs that circumvent some of the limitations inherent in current approaches. The first method is based on a graphic presentation of toxicity data and is also shown to be useful for estimating acceptable intakes for durations of toxicant exposure other than the entire lifetime. The second method uses dose-response or dose-effect data to calculate lower CLs on the dose rate associated with specified response or effect levels. These approaches should lead to firmer, better established ADIs through increased use of the entire spectrum of toxicity data.
A Preliminary Examination of the Effect of Cluster Gas on Tailed Radio Galaxies

From a comparison of X-ray and radio data for 20 clusters which contain tailed radio galaxies, we find evidence for the effects of buoyant forces on the low brightness parts of radio tails. In several cases, the width of the tail increases markedly in low gas density regions, strengthening the case for thermal gas confinement of radio tails. Three examples of enhanced X-ray emission around radio galaxies which are further than 2 Mpc from their cluster centers are found.
Second order dynamic element matching technique for low oversampling delta sigma ADC

There has been an increased interest in design of broadband (data rate >1MSPS) delta sigma ADCs with over-sampling ratios (OSR) as low as four. Most of these designs are switched capacitor based and use internal multi-bit DACs. With the widely used first order dynamic element matching, the SNDR of these converters is limited by the inherent capacitor matching. We propose a modified second order dynamic element matching technique to alleviate this problem for broadband ADCs, which target a SNDR greater than 100dB.