cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Surgical treatment of tendosynovial sarcoma.

Tendosynovial sarcoma is notorious for its high rates of local recurrence and metastases after surgical treatment. A retrospective study was made of 109 cases of monobloc wide soft part resection and amputation for primary tumors, and 29 patients who underwent resection of pulmonary metastases. Actuarial five-year survival rates after soft part resection was 70% for untreated, and 61% for previously treated, locally recurrent neoplasms. Corresponding rates after amputation were 47% and 64%. Local tumor recurrence developed in 18% of the primary soft part resections and 4% of the amputations, usually when some basic surgical principle had been violated. 35% five-year survival was achieved with judicious resection of solitary and multiple lung metastases in most cases without chemotherapy. Local control of a tendosynovial sarcoma can be achieved with properly executed surgical procedures which adhere to established tenets of cancer surgery. Resection of pulmonary metastases merits an important position in the management of these patients. Cancer 43:889–897, 1979.
Spatially analysing the impact of a ‘no new nukes’ policy on European natural gas markets

Abstract The recent Chernobyl accident has increased both concerns over the safety of nuclear energy and opposition to its further development. In the event that such opposition led to a moratorium on new nuclear generation it would have a dramatic effect on European natural gas markets. Evaluating total welfare effects of such a policy would require information on the effects in such related markets. In light of these concerns this study quantifies the effects of a moratorium that would allow no new nuclear plants in a number of Western European countries after 1990. To determine the maximum effect on the gas market, it is assumed that all new planned nuclear facilities would be replaced by natural gas facilities. Since the gas market is heavily dependent on the oil market and gas transport is expensive, this moratorium is simulated using a spatial model that includes both gas and oil. In this model econometric estimates of oil and gas demand are combined with supply scenarios and oil and gas transport costs for 13 European demand regions, seven world supply regions for oil, and four supply regions for gas to Western Europe. This two-commodity spatial model is solved by reactive programming to forecast trade flows of oil and gas, prices at both supply and demand nodes for 2000 both with and without a moratorium. The most probable gas price increase from a moratorium was found to be in the range of $25–50/m 3 × 10 3 . It caused a significant reallocation of natural gas with higher oil prices, higher income elasticities, and more variance across elasticities tending to increase the amount of gas reallocated. Aggregate annual net consumer welfare gains for the countries modelled from a moratorium were $1.1 billion for the oil market and $ 912 million for the gas market. Given very different patterns of nuclear development across the countries modelled, spatial modelling finds quite different welfare effects of a moratorium than a similar aggregate model.
Outcome of renal transplantation or dialysis in patients with a history of renal cancer.

BACKGROUND: Therapeutic options for patients with bilateral renal cancer or cancer in a solitary kidney are limited to partial nephrectomy or bilateral radical nephrectomy with subsequent renal transplantation or dialysis. The outcome after partial nephrectomy is well documented, but few reports discuss the long-term survival of patients receiving chronic dialysis or after renal transplantation. Information regarding the long-term prognosis for these patients is important when deciding on the appropriate treatment. METHODS: The authors retrospectively evaluated the long-term prognosis of 23 patients who lost renal function because of surgery for renal cell carcinoma or Wilms' tumor between 1970 and 1990. RESULTS: Twelve patients had renal transplantation (Tx group), and 11 had chronic dialysis (DS group). In the Tx group, four patients had Wilms' tumor and eight had renal cell carcinoma (Stage I, 5 patients; Stage II, 2 patients; Stage III, 1 patient). In the DS group, three patients had Wilms' tumor, and eight had renal cell carcinoma (Stage I, 5 patients; Stage III, 2 patients; Stage IV, 1 patient). Unexpectedly, 9 of 11 (82%) patients from the DS group died of cancer, compared with 1 of 12 (8%) patients who had transplantation (P = 0.0133) despite comparable stages of renal cell carcinoma and Wilms' tumor in the two groups. CONCLUSIONS: For patients who have had bilateral nephrectomy or removal of a solitary kidney, the authors recommend waiting at least 12 months, during which time the patient receives dialysis, before proceeding with transplantation if there is no evidence of recurrent tumor.
Application of random signal correlation techniques to ultrasonic flaw detection

Abstract A system is described and analysed which applies random signal correlation techniques to ultrasonic flaw detection. The use of correlation and time integration techniques gives it a signal-to-noise ratio correlation gain of the order of 10 4 , and the use of a random transmitted signal whose range resolution is independent of its duration permits a peak-to-average transmitted power ratio of the order of unity. It is shown that random signal correlation systems should therefore be capable of much greater range and/or resolution than is possible with current pulse-echo systems.
Properties of composites of fluorinated single walled carbon nanotubes and polyacrylonitrile

Abstract Composites of polyacrylonitrile (PAN ) and single walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) as well as fluorinated SWNTs produced by evaporation of suspensions of PAN and SWNTs while being subjected to sonication are characterized. Raman measurements of the PAN/SWNT composites showed upward shifts of the tangential mode frequency of the SWNT compared to that of the pristine SWNT while in composites of the fluorinated SWNTs the tangential mode shifted down. These results are indicative of interaction between the PAN and the SWNT. Hardness measurements as a function of weight percent SWNTs indicated that composites made from the fluorinated SWNTs had larger tensile strengths than composites made from non functionalized SWNTs having the same number of carbon nanotubes. Composites of the non-functionalized SWNTs were highly conducting while those made of the fluorinated SWNTs were not.
Demographic, social-psychological, and political factors in the politics of aging: a foundation for research in "political gerontology.".

“Political gerontology” is the study of the political aspects of aging and the aged. Although psychology and sociology have research subfields concerning aging, this interest is just beginning to develop systematically within political science. Consequently, this article describes theory and research from several disciplines which together provide a foundation for research in “political gerontology.” Demographic analysis suggests that old people constitute a continuously growing component of the American population. Social-psychological analysis indicates that the aged are likely to engage in substantial political activity. Political analysis suggests that old people are likely to make increasing demands upon the political system. This multidisciplinary knowledge base, combined with the predicted increasing political salience of the aging population, suggests the contours of a research agenda for “political gerontology.”
Using story dictation to support young children's vocabulary development: Outcomes and process

Abstract Creating opportunities for children to apply newly learned vocabulary in meaningful contexts is an important aspect of supporting vocabulary development. However, previous research has not adequately examined how this can be accomplished in preschool classrooms. To address this issue, we explored using story dictation to support preschoolers’ expressive vocabulary development. Thirteen children in a Head Start classroom were videotaped dictating a total of 38 stories. Scribed stories and videos of story dictation sessions were analyzed both qualitatively and quantitatively to examine the outcomes and process. Results indicated that children used and learned target vocabulary during story dictations, and that target word use increased in number and complexity over time. How the teacher supported story dictations and target word use is discussed.
Temporal trends of triclosan contamination in dated sediment cores from four urbanized estuaries: evidence of preservation and accumulation.

Abstract Triclosan is an antimicrobial agent added to a wide array of consumer goods and personal care products. Through its use, it is introduced into municipal sewer systems where it is only partially removed during wastewater treatment. In this study, triclosan was measured in dated sediment cores from four urbanized estuaries in order to reconstruct temporal and spatial trends of accumulation. Measurable concentrations of triclosan first appeared in each of the sediment cores near 1964, which corresponds with the US patent issuance date of triclosan. The presence of triclosan at each of the study sites at or near the patent date indicates that long-term preservation is occurring in estuarine sediments. Temporal trends of triclosan at each location are unique, reflecting between site variability. Concentrations at one site climbed to as high as 400 ng g−1, due in part, to local commercial production of triclosan. At two locations, levels of triclosan rise towards the surface of each core, suggesting increasing usage in recent years. One location adjacent to a major combined sewer overflow had high sediment concentrations of triclosan, confirming their potential as a source of triclosan to estuaries.
THE BLACK BOX RATE OF RETURN

In his de Vries lectures (1963) Solow developed ‘middle-brow’ capital theory, using the social rate of return on investment as the organizing concept. Later, in his famous contribution to the Dobb Festschrift, he took steps towards the elaboration of a highbrow theory. Now Mario Nuti (1974) has provided a masterly summary of neo-Classical highbrow capital theory, together with a brief and brilliant commentary on current controversies as seen by strollers along the banks of the Charles — all the more remarkable for being written while punting on the Cam.
Super PACs and Strong Relationships: The Impact of Digital Interaction on the Political Organization–Public Relationship

Contributing to the development of digital political public relations scholarship, this study examines the political organization–public relationship cultivated via social media. Using Twitter as a vehicle, this posttest-only experimental design looked at whether interaction with a political organization facilitated a relationship. Furthermore, the study examined whether that relationship might manifest into political support. Results indicate active engagement (tweeting at an organization), even for a short term, increases the sense that there is a real conversational exchange, enhancing the organization–public relationship. Internal political disposition such as political cynicism, political information efficacy, or strength of ideology in some cases can help predict organization–public relationship.
On Properties Possessed by Solvable and Nilpotent Groups

The object of this note is to study two properties of groups, which we will denote by (*) and (**). The property (*) is possessed by solvable groups (and in fact, by groups which have a solvable invariant system) and the property (**) is possessed by nilpotent groups (and in fact, by groups which have a central system).
Who let the dogs out? Infection control did: Utility of dogs in health care settings and infection control aspects

Research has substantiated that animals improve human health, both psychologically and physiologically. Therefore, healthcare facilities have begun to implement programs, such as the "Furry Friends Foundation," that bring animals into the facility to improve the quality of life of patients. When implementing these programs, consideration must be given to potential adverse events such as phobias, allergies, and particularly the possibility of zoonotic disease transmission. Santa Clara Valley Medical Centre (SCVMC), a 600-bed county teaching hospital with specialized units (e.g., for burns, rehabilitation, and pediatric care), has implemented programs that incorporate animals into the healthcare setting. This facility allows three categories of dogs to interact with their patients: service dogs, therapy dogs, and pet visitation dogs by the "Furry Friends Foundation." A blurring of the roles of the three categories of dogs occurred when these programs were put into place at SCVMC. The American with Disabilities Act (ADA) states that service animals cannot be prohibited from any area. For example, a "no pet allowed" policy could not apply to these animals. Proof of a person's disability or proof of the service animal's health or training cannot be required. The purpose of this project was to maintain these programs by clarifying the policies regarding animals, specifically dogs, in the healthcare setting. This had to take place to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for the patients and the staff. A comprehensive table was developed to delineate the three categories of dogs and the corresponding policies. Therapy dogs and the visitation animals are more restricted than service dogs. Both therapy dogs and visitation dogs require identification and certification of health and are excluded from certain areas of the facility, including intensive care units and isolation rooms. By complying with the current policies and regulations, the risks from these programs can be minimized. Staff should be educated on the proper terminology and procedures to prevent a blurring of the categories and roles of these animals.
Consumption puzzles and precautionary savings

Abstract When marginal utility is convex, agents accumulate savings as a precautionary measure against labor-income eventualities. This paper shows that precautionary savings can go a long way in making the excess-growth, excess-smoothness and excess-sensitivity features of consumption consistent with the stochastic processes of labor income observed in the U.S. at the microeconomic level.
The virtual design team: A computational model of project organizations

Large scale and multidisciplinary engineering projects (e.g., design of a hospital building) are often complex. They usually involve many interdependent activities and require intensive coordination among actors (i.e., designers) to deal with activity interdependencies. To make such projects more effective and efficient, one needs to understand how coordination requirements are generated and what coordination mechanisms should be applied for given project situations. Our research on the Virtual Design Team (VDT) attempts to develop a computational model of project organizations to analyze how activity interdependencies raise coordination needs and how organization design and communication tools change team coordination capacity and project performance. The VDT model is built based on contingency theory (Galbraith, 1977) and our observations about collaborative and multidisciplinary work in large, complex projects. VDT explicitly models actors, activities, communication tools and organizations. Based on our extended information-processing view of organizations, VDT simulates the actions of, and interactions among actors as processes of attention allocation, capacity allocation, and communication. VDT evaluates organization performance by measuring emergent project duration, direct cost, and coordination quality. The VDT model has been tested internally, and evaluated externally through case-studies. We found three way qualitative consistency among predictions of the simulation model, of organization theory, and of experienced project managers. In this paper, we present the VDT model in detail and discuss some general issues involved in computational organization modeling, including level of abstraction of tasks and actors' reasoning, and model validation.
Database integration for knowledge based groundwater quality assessment

Groundwater is an important source of potable water. In the United States, for example, 30 states obtain over half of their drinking water from groundwater sources (Government Accounting Office, 1988), and in some areas it serves as the only viable source of household water. Because of this widespread dependency, many areas in the United States and other countries (Ademoroti, 1987) have experienced a decline in the quality of groundwater used for human consumption.
A Simple Model for Determining Advertising Appropriations

Profit-maximizing model that requires knowledge of (a) the sales effect of advertising in the current period of different possible levels of advertising; (b) sales in the prior period; (c) the rate at which sales decline in the absence of advertising; and (d) the interest rate for capital for the firm. The applicability of the model to general advertisers with and without monopoly power, established and new products, small and large market shares, and in oligopoly is examined.
Full-aperture laser conditioning of multilayer mirrors and polarizers

The Inertial Confinement Fusion (ICF) program at LLNL is beginning the design of a 1.8 Megajoule, 0.35-{mu}m, laser system called the National Ignition Facility (NIF). In order to reduce cost, and increase performance, high damage threshold optics are essential. As a result of damage initiating defects, only a small percentage of current as-deposited optical coatings can meet the required damage threshold specification. Work has been conducted in the area of understanding the causes of these nodular defects and how they are related to laser damage. While it is not yet possible to produce defect-free coatings, it has been found that the damage threshold of some coatings can be increased by as much as 2 or more times as a result of pre-illumination at incrementally increasing fluences. This process, termed laser conditioning, has been associated with the ejection of the damage-initiating defects. With current damage thresholds, mirrors and polarizers for the NIF will have to be laser conditioned in order to meet the laser requirements for fluence propagation. LLNL has constructed a system dedicated to laser conditioning of meter-sized HfO{sub 2}/SiO{sub 2} multilayer polarizers and mirrors. The optic is moved in a raster pattern through a stationary 10-Hz rep-rated, 1.064 {mu}m beam with 10-ns pulses. A scatter measurement diagnostic allows on-the-fly evaluation of laser-induced damage during a scan. This system has been used to laser condition optics as large as 73 cm {times} 37 cm. Such optics are now being used on the Beamlet laser system at LLNL. A description of the conditioning process, its effect on the optic, and an analysis of its application to large areas is presented.
Influence of Conformational Rigidity on the Stabilization of α‐Ferrocenyl Carbocations: A cis‐Fixed Diferrocenyl Carbenium Ion

The complete manuscript of this communication appears in: Angew. Chem. Suppl. 1982, 686. DOI:10.1002/anie.198206860
Evaluation of a simplified Hueckel edge-line detector

The Hueckel edge detector is one of a class of edge detectors which operate by approximating the image input by a truncated series of orthogonal functions. The number of terms in the expansion determines the accuracy of approximation and also the complexity of the process. In this paper, effects of reducing the terms used for expansion are examined. Experimental results indicate a significant loss in performance by such simplifications.
Front end electronics for the Jet Drift Chamber

The Jet Drift Chamber uses a charge-division readout scheme which requires two amplifiers per sense wire. Since there are 690 sense wires, 1380 amplifiers are needed. It follows that each end cap must accommodate 690 amplifiers, which makes packaging and cooling critical problems. To address these problems, 30 six-layer surface-mount boards, each containing 24 (23 used) amplifiers channels, have been fabricated. Each amplifier can accept up to 2 pC of charge and provide a linear differential output of +or-300 mV, which is used to drive a twisted-pair transmission line up to 70 ft in length. The power dissipation of each board is 1.5 W. >
SCALES OF FOOD AVAILABILITY FOR AN ENDANGERED INSECTIVORE, THE HAWAII AKEPA

Abstract The Hawaii Akepa (Loxops coccineus coccineus) is an endangered bird that has declined dramatically in the last 100 years, and is now rare or absent from many areas that appear to support suitable habitat. Food availability may play a role in these distribution patterns, but differences in food between sites may arise from different sources. I compared prey availability between a site supporting a large, stable Hawaii Akepa population, and a site from which Hawaii Akepa have declined in the last 100 years for unknown reasons. I used three spatial scales to compare food between sites to explore the basis of differences in food between sites. At a scale appropriate for comparing prey population dynamics (scale 1), I found that prey population densities are similar between sites, suggesting that introduced (or native) predators or parasitoids have not affected prey populations differently between sites. At two larger scales incorporating habitat structure, I found that food availability is much lower...
Protein crystal growth results from the United States Microgravity Laboratory-1 mission

Protein crystal growth experiments have been performed on fourteen space shuttle missions between April 1985 and June 1992. These space shuttle missions have been used to grow crystals of a variety of proteins using vapour diffusion, liquid diffusion, and temperature induced crystallization techniques. The United States Microgravity Laboratory-1 mission (june 25-July 9, 1992) was a space lab mission dedicated to experiments involved in materials processing. New protein crystal growth hardware was developed to allow in-orbit examination of initial crystal growth results, the knowledge from which was used on subsequent days to prepare new crystal growth experiments. The hardware developed specifically for the USML-1 mission is discussed along with preliminary experimental results.
A multiple-frequency GPS software receiver design based on a Vector tracking loop

This paper presents the implementation and testing results of a Vector tracking loop (VTL) in the software-based GPS receiver. The VTL is developed based on the extended Kalman filter (EKF) with adaptive covariance matrices. Both scalar tracking loop (STL) and VTL are implemented. Once an error in the scalar loop is detected, the results from the VTL are used to assist the STL. The performance of the VTL is compared with the traditional STL with three different data sets: raw GPS RF data with short signal outages, RF data with strong scintillation impacts collected during the last solar maximum, and high dynamic data with long interval signal outages from a GPS simulator. The results confirm the performance improvement of the VTL over scintillation impacts and show that the VTL can maintain signal lock during long intervals of signal outage if the satellite ephemerides are available and the pseudorange estimation is within one code chip accuracy. The dynamic performance improvement of the VTL is verified as well. The results show the potential of robust tracking based on VTL during scintillation and interference.
Optical and electronic error correction schemes for highly parallel access memories

We have fabricated and tested an optically addressed, parallel electronic Reed-Solomon decoder for use with parallel access optical memories. A comparison with various serial implementations has demonstrated that for many instances of code block size and error correction capability, the parallel approach is superior from the perspectives of VLSI layout area and decoding latency. The demonstrated Reed-Solomon parallel pipeline decoder operates on 60 bit input words and has been demonstrated at a clock rate of 5 MHz yielding a demonstrated data rate of 300 Mbps.
Neurosurgical Clipping Versus Endovascular Coiling of Patients With Ruptured Intracranial Aneurysms

Endovascular coiling of intracranial aneurysms is a technique that has been available for more than 10 years in certain centers. The technique has been FDA approved in the United States since the mid-1990s. A number of publications have demonstrated that endovascular treatment may be effective in reducing rebleeding after subarachnoid hemorrhage due to aneurysmal rupture.1–3 Coils have also been used in unruptured aneurysms. This has typically occurred where direct surgical clipping is thought to be of higher risk. As coil technology has evolved, a steadily increasing number of patients have had aneurysms treated with coils. The question as to whether to clip or coil a specific aneurysm has been the topic of many debates and symposia. In order to shed some light on the use of endovascular coils specifically in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage, a randomized multicenter trial was designed and the results of this trial, the International Subarachnoid Aneurysm Trial (ISAT), were published in The Lancet .4 While this study was highly referenced in the lay press, there are many features of the study that merit careful consideration as conclusions are drawn. The Lancet study provides us with a comparison of neurosurgical clipping versus endovascular coiling in 2143 patients. The study was designed as a prospective randomized trial, and treating centers were required to have between 60 and 200 cases of patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage annually. A total of 43 centers entered patients. Sixteen centers returned complete ascertainment logs (37% of all centers), 16 centers returned incomplete logs (649 patients randomized), and 11 centers did not return logs (64 patients randomized). To be a participating center, endovascular operators had to have done a minimum of 30 aneurysm treatment procedures before they were permitted to treat patients in the trial. There was no minimum number of criteria for …
Stable carbon isotope ratios in lake and swamp sediments as a proxy for prehistoric forest clearance and crop cultivation in the Neotropics

Close correspondence between stable carbon isotope ratios (δ 13 C), pollen, and charcoal profiles in sediment cores from Laguna Zoncho and Machita swamp, Costa Rica, shows that prehistoric forest clearance and crop cultivation can be detected in the stable carbon isotope ratios of total organic carbon (δ 13C TOC ). Analyses of I´ 13C TOC complement evidence from pollen, charcoal, and phytoliths and provide a proxy that is sensitive to the intensity and/or proximity to core sites of prehistoric forest clearance and agriculture in watersheds. Stable carbon isotope analyses are particularly useful in situations in which other evidence of forest clearance and agriculture is limited.
Solution to a Conservation Problem

![Figure][1] Saved by Viagra? African and Asian rhinos are poached for their horns, Asian bears for their gallbladders, tigers for their penises, and the list goes on. Why is there a market for such unusual parts of these rare animals? These animal parts, known in East Asia as “pu” foods
Prostaglandin E2 Suppresses Lipopolysaccharide-Stimulated IFN-β Production

Macrophages activate the production of cytokines and chemokines in response to LPS through signaling cascades downstream from TLR4. Lipid mediators such as PGE2, which are produced during inflammatory responses, have been shown to suppress MyD88-dependent gene expression upon TLR4 activation in macrophages. The study reported here investigated the effect of PGE2 on TLR3- and TLR4-dependent, MyD88-independent gene expression in murine J774A.1 macrophages, as well as the molecular mechanism underlying such an effect. We demonstrate that PGE2 strongly suppresses LPS-induced IFN-β production at the mRNA and protein levels. Poly (I:C)-induced IFN-β and LPS-induced CCL5 production were also suppressed by PGE2. The inhibitory effect of PGE2 on LPS-induced IFN-β expression is mediated through PGE2 receptor subtypes EP2 and EP4, and mimicked by the cAMP analog 8-Br-cAMP as well as by the adenylyl cyclase activator forskolin. The downstream effector molecule responsible for the cAMP-induced suppressive effect is exchange protein directly activated by cAMP (Epac) but not protein kinase A. Moreover, data demonstrate that Epac-mediated signaling proceeds through PI3K, Akt, and GSK3β. In contrast, PGE2 inhibits LPS-induced TNF-α production in these cells through a distinct pathway requiring protein kinase A activity and independent of Epac/PI3K/Akt. In vivo, administration of a cyclooxygenase inhibitor before LPS injection resulted in enhanced serum IFN-β concentration in mice. Collectively, data demonstrate that PGE2 is a negative regulator for IFN-β production in activated macrophages and during endotoxemia.
The calculated circular dichroism of polyproline ii in the polarizability approximation

The circular dichroism (CD) spectrum of polyproline II (PPII) has heretofore been moderately well calculated from exciton theory only at the expense of assuming unreasonable chain conformations and accepting a conservative spectrum in the 180–250-nm region (which is not observed). We have incorporated far uv transitions in the polarizability approximation and, together with the π2π* transition, have calculated the resulting correction to the exciton model. This has been accompanied by a modified assignment of the ππ* transition in PPII, and a simultaneous calculation of the absorption and CD spectra of the α-helix, β structure, PPI, and PPII. We obtain good agreement with the observed CD spectrum of PPII in the 180–250-nm region for acceptable chain conformations. In addition, we predict a negative CD into the far uv, in agreement with recent experimental observations. Our calculations also reproduce features of the far uv CD spectrum of the α-helix, and are in agreement with the CD spectra of the β chain and PPI. The calculated CD of the unordered polypeptide chain is not significantly influenced by far uv contributions, indicating that our previous calculation is valid for such a system. These results demonstrate the importance of incorporating far uv transitions in order to achieve an adequate theoretical explanation of the CD spectra of polypeptides.
Molecular Imaging of Cancer: Applications of Magnetic Resonance Methods

Cancer is a complex disease exhibiting a host of phenotypic diversities. Noninvasive multinuclear magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) provide an array of capabilities to characterize and understand several of the vascular, metabolic, and physiological characteristics unique to cancer. The availability of targeted contrast agents has widened the scope of MR techniques to include the detection of receptor and gene expression. In this paper, we have highlighted the application of several MR techniques in imaging and understanding cancer.
Nondestructive determination of total and soluble solids in fresh prune using near infrared spectroscopy

A nondestructive optical method for determining the total solids content (TSC) and soluble solids content (SSC) of fresh whole prune (Prunus domestica L. ‘French’) was investigated. The method, based upon near infrared spectrophotometric techniques, could predict the TSC (r 2 /0. 98, SEP/0.80% FW) and SSC (r 2 /0. 96, SEP/ 1.02%) of prunes. A low cost ($2500 2002 USD) diode array-type spectrophotometer was used in the study. # 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
Use of the etonogestrel- releasing contraceptive implant

The single-rod, etonogestrel-releasing, subdermal implant (ENG implant) is the most effective, long-acting reversible method of contraception available. The failure rate of the ENG implant is 0.05%, which makes it more effective than female sterilization. It is discreet, easy to insert and remove, has no effect on future fertility and is associated with a number of noncontraceptive health benefits. The ENG implant is safe and effective when used in the postpartum and postabortion setting, and in women who have contraindications to estrogen. The most common reason cited for discontinuation is irregular and unpredictable bleeding. However, structured, preinsertion counseling can increase continuation and user satisfaction.
Linking Employee Misbehavior to Consumer Satisfaction

Abstract A conceptual model of the relationships between employee misbehavior or deviance and consumer satisfaction is developed and presented in this paper. Drawing on previous research, direct causal connections between employee deviant behavior and consumer satisfaction are proposed. Employees' deviant behaviors reduce consumers' perceptions of control and therefore their satisfaction with an exchange. In order to improve consumer satisfaction, it is important to investigate potential causes of deviant behavior. Individuals' perceptions of organizational support and psychological empowerment are described as antecedents to employee deviant behavior. The paper presents arguments for the various relationships proposed in the paper and emphasizes the role of organizational practices including empowerment in improving consumer satisfaction.
Tidal Channel, Levee, and Crevasse-Splay Deposits from a Cambrian Tidal Channel System: A New Mechanism to Produce Shallowing-Upward Sequences

ABSTRACT Two cliff exposures, 1 km and 0.7 km long and 10 m high, of the Middle-Upper Cambrian Waterfowl Formation were mapped in detail on the Costigan Thrust in southwestern Alberta. The formation here comprises 5 rock types: intraformational conglomerate; cross-stratified grainstone; wavy-bedded grainstone-mudstone; massive dolomite mudstone; and prism-cracked, cryptmicrobial-laminated mudstone. These rock types form a grainstone body in the upper 7 m of the outcrops and 4 fining-upwards sequences in the lower 3 m. The grainstone body is divided into 5 storeys, each of which has a basal erosion surface overlain by an intraformational conglomerate with interbedded thrombolites. Storeys contain lateral accretion bedding that is composed of decimeter-thick bedsets which are inclined up to 12 d grees relative to the basal erosion surfaces. The fining-upwards sequences comprise basal cross-stratified grainstone overlain by wavy-bedded grainstone-mudstone that is capped by prism-cracked, cryptmicrobial-laminated mudstones. Three fining-upwards sequences are laterally continuous. However, one fining-upward sequence pinches out along the outcrop face. We interpret the grainstone body as the deposits of laterally migrating, sinuous tidal channels. It is not clear whether the stacking of channel deposits into storeys represents superimposed channel-bar and channel-fill deposits from a single channel belt or superimposed channel-belts. The fining-upwards sequences may be shallowing-upwards sequences in the sense of James (1984) and represent aggrading-prograding tidal flat deposits. A ternatively, these sequences may be crevasse-splay and levee deposits analogous to fluvial overbank flood sequences. In this case, these sequences may not be related to eustatic sea level changes, although they resemble classic shallowing-upwards sequences and "punctuated aggradational cycles."
High incidence of triploidy in in-vitro fertilized oocytes from a patient with a previous history of recurrent gestational trophoblastic disease

The patient described has a history of recurrent gestational trophoblastic disease following spontaneous conception. She subsequently underwent two cycles of in-vitro fertilization (TVF) for management of infertility related to tubal obstruction. IVF of the oocytes retrieved showed a significantly high incidence of abnormal fertilization resulting in the development of triploid embryos. This report explores the possible association of an oocyte defect predisposing to abnormal fertilization, resulting in a high incidence of triploid embryos. Since the development of partial hydatidiform moles is related to the origin of triploidy, this phenomenon is suggested to explain the occurrence of recurrent trophoblastic disease in this patient We propose the use of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) as a therapeutic option to minimize the incidence of triploidy in future IVF cycles; donor oocyte IVF would be another alternative.
Culture-Made Nutritional Inadequacies

The diets of all peoples are determined by the culture of their particular group, and by impinging ecologic aspects (kinds of food regionally available, seasonality) and economic factors (ability to obtain food by own efforts, cash, or barter). No society that has been studied has eaten every potential foodstuff in its surroundings, although a few have nearly done so. The Otomi Indians of the Mezquital Valley of Mexico, geographically separated from outside contact and obliged to exist on edible items in their environment, used most to attain a varied diet and good nutritional status (Anderson et al., 1946). Most groups resemble the !Kung San Bushmen of the Kalahari (Lee, 1973), who selected 23 plant and 17 animal species from a potential of 85 plant and 223 animal foods. Although selections may be conscious, choice is influenced in a variety of ways by the culture in which the individual was reared.
Preliminary study of a correlation based phase-aberration correction algorithm for correcting a single-source image through a refractive medium: The female breast

Correlation based phase-aberration correction algorithms self-calibrate the receiving array for the correlated phase errors. However, they are insensitive to severe amplitude errors. A highly refractive medium between a target and the receiving transducer can cause significant amplitude errors due to the phase cancellations of multiple arrivals at the receiving array. The authors experimentally evaluate the tolerance of the single-lag spatial correction algorithm to measured amplitude errors across the receiving aperture when a single source (single transducer element) is imaged through a refractive medium, the female breast. The amplitude RMS is linearly inversely related to the peak image amplitude and linearly directly related to the peak sidelobe after the phase correction. >
Localization of Relaxin in the Pregnant Rat. Bioassay of Tissue Extracts and Cell Fractionation Studies

Several tissues from pregnant rats were bioassayed to detect relaxin activity. Only the ovary possessed such activity;the highest specific activity was found to be present in corpora lutea. The reason for the presence of some relaxin activityin other ovarian tissueis discussed. No relaxin activity was found in the metrialgland.Cellfractionation studies of luteal cells were conducted to determine which subcellularcomponent storesrelaxin.Fractionswere prepared from lutealcellsby means of differential centrifugation and were characterized by electron microscopy and bioassay methods. The fraction containing a population of granules, previously described in luteal cells of pregnant rats(Long, 1973), showed the highest specific relaxin activity.
Influence of maternal body mass index and gestational age on accuracy of first trimester gender assignment

Objective. To determine the influence of maternal body mass index (BMI) and gestational age on the accuracy of image acquisition, first trimester fetal gender determination, and correct assignment.Methods. Women presenting for first trimester aneuploidy risk assessment at 110 to 136 weeks were prospectively enrolled. A mid-sagittal view of the fetus including the genital tubercle was obtained. The angle of the genital tubercle was measured with male assigned for angle >30°, female <10°, and indeterminate if 10–30°. This was compared with gender at birth. The influence of maternal and pregnancy characteristics on both image acquisition and correct gender assignment were evaluated.Results. A total of 256 women with 260 fetuses undergoing first trimester risk assessment were enrolled. The genital tubercle was identified in 247/260 (95%) of cases. Image acquisition was negatively influenced by increasing maternal BMI and early gestational age (34.8 ± 7.7 vs. 27.0 ± 6.1 kg/m2, p < 0.0001 and 12.3 ± 0.5 vs. 12....
The Relationship between Health and Labor Market Status

Few relationships seem more self-evident than the impact of poor health on labor market behavior. Chronic health conditions that diminish basic physical and mental capabilities are typically expected to disrupt normal work functioning, not only by preventing the performance of some job-related tasks altogether, but also by raising the difficulty or cost of discharging these role responsibilities beyond levels that a reasonable person would judge tolerable. As a result, individuals with impaired health are expected to reduce the amount of time spent in the labor force, the date or age of their complete withdrawal from the job market, and/or the kind of work performed. Because the onset of chronic health problems is not uncommon at any age, and incidence rises steeply with age, health-related work adjustments are likely to be required of most persons at some stage of the life course. In fact, an extensive set of institutional arrangements for retirement and disability insurance benefits has developed over time to cushion the expected losses in market income brought about by these health-induced changes in work effort. Yet, the impact of poor health on labor market status (and the corresponding magnitude of the economic toll exacted by various health problems) is at present neither fully understood nor measured with any precision. Uncertainty about the relation­ ship arises from the difficulty of gauging the extent to which the severity of physical and mental conditions varies across the population in poor health and the degree to which institutional arrangements, such as disability program
Spontaneous echo contrast in the left atrium during paroxysmal atrial fibrillation

Fig. 2. AV nodal blockade produced with superselective injection of 2 ml of iced saline. The ventricular rate represents ventricular pacing at 50 beats/min (cycle length = 1200 msec) while the atria are paced at 115 beats/min (cycle length = 520 msec). Note continued block below the His with no relationship between the AH and the V intervals. I, II, and III are surface electrocardiogram leads. R VA, Right ventricular apex electrogram; RA, right atria1 electrogram; HBE, His bundle electrogram; Si is the pacing stimulus.
Leptodictya tabida (Hemiptera: Tingidae): a potential threat to sugarcane production in Lower Rio Grande Valley of Texas.

Abstract Areawide surveys and replicated cultivar trials were conducted in 2001 and 2002 in sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) fields in the Lower Rio Grande Valley of Texas to assess the distribution and incidence of the sugarcane tingid Leptodictya tabida (Herrich-Schaeffer). L. tabida was found in all fields surveyed during both years, infesting 60 and 68% of the plants, respectively. The average percentage of leaves infested was 11% in 2001 and 15% in 2002. In 2001, ‘CP70-1133’ was the most infested, ‘CP72-1210’ was the least infested, and intermediate infestation levels were evident in ‘CP70-321’ and ‘TCP87-3388’. In 2002, however, TCP87-3388 and CP70-321 were more heavily infested, and CP71-1240 and CP71-1405 were the least infested. Mean densities of L. tabida recovered per plant varied between 1.2 bugs on CP72-1210 and 5.1 on CP70-1133 in 2001, and in 2002, from zero bugs on CP71-1240 and CP71-1405 to 5.3 on CP72-1210. In the cultivar trials, cultivar differences also were evident in both plant and leaf i...
Mapping species distributions: Data for species distribution models: the environmental data

Introduction In general, the suitability of spatial (GIS) environmental data sources for analytical use in ecological modeling (Hunsaker et al ., 1993) has not been given as much attention as other aspect of the SDM problem, such as the species data (Chapter 4) and modeling methods (Chapters 6–8). A few studies have explicitly examined issues of spatial resolution and data quality of predictors on SDMs (Aspinall & Pearson, 1996), have shown that including satellite-derived climate variables with land cover as predictors improves SDMs (Suarez-Seoane et al ., 2004), and have illustrated the impact of predictors derived from digital elevation models on SDMs via error propagation (Van Niel & Austin, 2007). Daly (2006) provided guidelines for assessing the quality of interpolated climate maps used in environmental modeling. However, these efforts, while important, do not give comprehensive guidelines for selecting data to represent environmental gradients related to species distributions. Some software systems developed for SDM include global environmental datasets at 0.01- (mostly 0.5-) 1.0 degree resolution (Hijmans et al ., 2001; Stockwell, 2006), but this is the exception rather than the rule. Usually it is the job of the modeler to select and assemble appropriate predictor data, and consider issues of data quality and resolution; the effort involved is non-trivial. Chapter 3 outlined conceptual models of factors driving species distributions, and in this chapter, I will describe the types of environmental data typically used in SDM to represent those factors, including climate, topography, substrate, land cover and vegetation, disturbance maps, remote sensing-based land surface characterizations, measures of landscape pattern, and information about other species (biotic interactions).
Simulating Forest Landscape Disturbances as Coupled Human and Natural Systems

Anthropogenic disturbances resulting from human land use affect forest landscapes over a range of spatial and temporal scales, with diverse influences on vegetation patterns and dynamics. These processes fall within the scope of the coupled human and natural systems (CHANS) concept, which has emerged as an important framework for understanding the reciprocal interactions and feedbacks that connect human activities and ecosystem responses. Spatial simulation modeling of forest landscape change is an important technique for exploring the dynamics of CHANS over large areas and long time periods. Landscape models for simulating interactions between human activities and forest landscape dynamics can be grouped into two main categories. Forest landscape models (FLMs) focus on landscapes where forests are the dominant land cover and simulate succession and natural disturbances along with forest management activities. In contrast, land change models (LCMs) simulate mosaics of different land cover and land use classes that include forests in addition to other land uses such as developed areas and agricultural lands. There are also several examples of coupled models that combine elements of FLMs and LCMs. These integrated models are particularly useful for simulating human–natural interactions in landscapes where human settlement and agriculture are expanding into forested areas. Despite important differences in spatial scale and disciplinary scope, FLMs and LCMs have many commonalities in conceptual design and technical implementation that can facilitate continued integration. The ultimate goal will be to implement forest landscape disturbance modeling in a CHANS framework that recognizes the contextual effects of regional land use and other human activities on the forest ecosystem while capturing the reciprocal influences of forests and their disturbances on the broader land use mosaic.