cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
RELIGION, TAXES, AND SEX DISCRIMINATION:

Modern liberalism developed out of the strife of post-Reformation religious warfare. Among liberalism's central ideas were those of the individual's right of religious liberty and the separate jurisdictions of secular and religious authority. In societies that accepted these ideas and put them into institutional practice, levels of systemic religious violence were dramatically diminished. Moreover, the liberal principles that helped to build and sustain civil peace could make a strong claim to providing a just framework for addressing religious differences. Yet important normative questions have remained about the policies a liberal state should adopt toward religion.
Functional bowel and anorectal disorders in patients with pelvic organ prolapse and incontinence.

Objective The purpose of this study was 1) to determine the prevalence of functional bowel and anorectal disorders as defined by the Rome II criteria in patients with advanced pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and urinary incontinence (UI), and (2) to determine if the extent of prolapse on gynecologic examination is related to the subtypes of constipation or any functional anorectal pain disorder. Study design Three hundred and two consecutive female subjects presenting to a tertiary urogynecology clinic were enrolled. Demographic, general medical, and physical examination information, including POPQ measurements and a standardized sacral neurologic evaluation, were collected. The prevalence of functional disorders of the bowel, rectum, and anus as defined by the Rome II criteria were collected using the Rome II Modular questionnaire. Relationships of functional disorders to various components of the vaginal examination were reviewed. Results Thirty-six percent (108/302) met the criteria for constipation, including the following subtypes: 19% outlet constipation, 5% functional constipation, 5% constipation predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and 7% IBS-outlet. Nineteen percent (56/302) of subjects had IBS or 1 of its subtypes. Functional diarrhea was seen in 6% (17/302), fecal incontinence in 19% (58/302), and anorectal pain disorders in 25% (77/302). After controlling for age, parity, diabetes, constipating medications, and previous pelvic surgery, there were no differences in the prevalence of constipation or any of its subtypes between patients with UI and those with stage 3 or 4 POP. Fecal incontinence was independently associated with UI (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 6.3; 95% CI 2.6–19.1), but not advanced POP. Neither overall stage of POP nor stage of posterior vaginal prolapse was significantly associated with any of the functional bowel disorders, including constipation and its subtypes. Perineal body measurement was significantly longer in patients with outlet type constipation (mean 3.5 ± 0.6 cm vs 3.1 ± 0.9 cm, P Conclusion There is a high prevalence of constipation and anorectal pain disorders in women with urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse. However, patients with stage 3 or 4 pelvic organ prolapse have similar rates of constipation compared with those with urinary incontinence. Constipation and its subtypes are not related to the stage of pelvic organ prolapse. It appears that either constipation is not a significant contributor to prolapse, or constipation contributes equally to the development of both urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse.
“Snips and snails and puppy dog tails”: Gender of agent, recipient, and observer as determinants of perceptions of discipline

This study examined the role of gender of observer, parent, and child on judgments of the severity, appropriateness, and consequences of various forms of discipline. Young adults read stories describing a disciplinary encounter between parent and child and made required judgments. Consistent gender differences emerged. Females judged the discipline more harshly than males, rating it as more severe, more abusive, less appropriate, and more likely to result in emotional harm. Discipline of daughters was judged to be harsher than identical treatment of sons, particularly when the discipline was administered by the father. The implications of differential judgments are discussed.
Titration of beta-blockers in heart failure. How to maximize benefit while minimizing adverse events.

Despite extensive data supporting the use of β-blockers in patients with chronic heart failure, fewer than one third of eligible patients receive these agents. Furthermore, some patients who do rec...
Distinguishing barriers and asperities in near-source ground motion

We investigate the ground motion produced by rupture propagation through circular barriers and asperities in an otherwise homogeneous earthquake rupture. Using a three-dimensional finite difference method, we analyze the effect of asperity radius, strength, and depth in a dynamic model with fixed rupture velocity. We gradually add complexity to the model, eventually approaching the behavior of a spontaneous dynamic rupture, to determine the origin of each feature in the ground motion. A barrier initially resists rupture, which induces rupture front curvature. These effects focus energy on and off the fault, leading to a concentrated pulse from the barrier region and higher velocities at the surface. Finally, we investigate the scaling laws in a spontaneous dynamic model. We find that dynamic stress drop determines fault-parallel static offset, while the time it takes the barrier to break is a measure of fracture energy. Thus, given sufficiently strong heterogeneity, the prestress and yield stress (relative to sliding friction) of the barrier can both be determined from ground motion measurements. In addition, we find that models with constraints on rupture velocity have less ground motion than constraint-free spontaneous dynamic models with equivalent stress drops. This suggests that kinematic models with such constraints overestimate the actual stress heterogeneity of earthquakes.
Anesthesia for the surgery of gastric cancer

Abstract Ether-oil with preliminary medication is the anesthesia of choice for the following reasons:- 1. (1) Psychic impulses are removed. 2. (2) Patient is ready for operation without undue loss of time. 3. (3) Postoperative awakening is in a state of analgesia and without pain. 4. (4) Nausea and vomiting are eliminated. 5. (5) Leisure for careful surgical dissection is permitted without added discomfort or danger to the patient. 6. (6) Ether-oil anesthesia is safer than inhalation anesthesia.
New Landscapes of Gated Communities: Australia's Sovereign Islands

Abstract The gated community phenomenon is well entrenched in numerous cities around the world. Stimulated by concerns over eroding public safety and legitimated through a discourse of community civility, gated communities are the physical manifestation of complex social anxieties and aspirations. Typically, gated communities rely upon aggressive mechanisms of exclusion, such as gates and walls that are ‘policed’ by private security guards. However, this need not be the case. Socio-spatial exclusion can be established and maintained through the more subtle, but nonetheless effective, creation of landscapes that are so imbued with a sense of prestige that they arguably initiate a process of ‘self-othering’ amongst those beyond their margins. Here, the Sovereign Islands development in Queensland, Australia is examined to explore how the landscapes of gated communities themselves can be physically and discursively constructed so as to obviate the need for aggressive barriers of exclusion.
Upper limits on the rates of dissociation of clathrate hydrates to ice and free gas

The Hertz-Knudsen-Langmuir equation is used to calculate the maximum possible rate at which clathrate hydrates can dissociate. Since hydrate decomposition is endothermic, heat must be added to keep the sample temperature constant. The prediction of the Hertz-Knudsen-Langmuir equation for the rate of dissociation is used to determine the heat flux necessary to keep the sample temperature constant, and thereby maintain this maximum rate of production of gas from the hydrate. Such considerations may be relevant both to the study of the rate of hydrate decomposition and to the eventual efficient production of natural gas from hydrate deposits. In addition, experimental results available in the literature on hydrate decomposition rates and the kinetics of hydrate decomposition are discussed in light of the work done by Langmuir and others on endothermic decomposition reactions. These earlier studies suggest that dissociation experiments in which the sample is exposed to vacuum could help to explore the kinetics involved in hydrate decomposition.
Artemia salina as pabulum for growing Penaeids under laboratory conditions

Abstract Growing interest in Artemia salina Leach is supported by its high protein content, the relative ease of its mass production, and its incompletely utilized potential biomass which is found in saltpans all over the world. Experiments involving the catching of adult brine shrimps by means of a 500 μm nylon net located on the main outflow canal were carried out in Margherita di Savoia saltworks in southeastern Italy preliminarily in August 1980. Replicates during May–July 1981 showed it was possible to collect about 250 g min−1 of adult Artemia. According to the figures of the samples taken, it is reasonable to assume a brine shrimp standing crop of at least 50 tonnes (wet weight) over a 1000 ha surface area. The Artemia collected in this way were tested for feeding Penaeids under laboratory conditions, as sole food and as supplement to a dry selfmade diet. Firstly Penaeid growth supported by mussels was tested in comparison with frozen Artemia diet. The latter gave the best results with 30% daily supply of shrimp body (wet weight). Moreover Artemia were tested as a balancing component of a dry diet to correct a deficit of aminoacids and supply missing highly unsaturated fatty acids (HUFA). With this mixed diet it was enough to supply A. salina 2 days per week to achieve promising results which are considered a good compromise between economics and the growth rate of Penaeus japonicus Bate. Consequently, it is suggested that intensive and/or extensive Penaeid cultures be planted near saltpans, utilizing brine shrimp biomass as a food source which could otherwise be wasted.
Body Mass Index and Employment-Based Health Insurance

Obese workers incur greater health care costs than normal weight workers. Possibly viewed by employers as an increased financial risk, they may be at a disadvantage in procuring employment that provides health insurance. This study aims to evaluate the association between body mass index [BMI, weight in kilograms divided by the square of height in meters] of employees and their likelihood of holding jobs that include employment-based health insurance [EBHI]. We used the 2004 Household Components of the nationally representative Medical Expenditure Panel Survey. We utilized logistic regression models with provision of EBHI as the dependent variable in this descriptive analysis. The key independent variable was BMI, with adjustments for the domains of demographics, social-economic status, workplace/job characteristics, and health behavior/status. BMI was classified as normal weight (18.5–24.9), overweight (25.0–29.9), or obese (≥ 30.0). There were 11,833 eligible respondents in the analysis. Among employed adults, obese workers [adjusted probability (AP) = 0.62, (0.60, 0.65)] (P = 0.005) were more likely to be employed in jobs with EBHI than their normal weight counterparts [AP = 0.57, (0.55, 0.60)]. Overweight workers were also more likely to hold jobs with EBHI than normal weight workers, but the difference did not reach statistical significance [AP = 0.61 (0.58, 0.63)] (P = 0.052). There were no interaction effects between BMI and gender or age. In this nationally representative sample, we detected an association between workers' increasing BMI and their likelihood of being employed in positions that include EBHI. These findings suggest that obese workers are more likely to have EBHI than other workers.
Energy Dependence of the Difference of π +/- p Total Cross Sections and Curvature of the ρ Trajectory

We discuss curvature of the $\ensuremath{\rho}$ Regge trajectory expected at small $|t|$ owing to unitarity effects from the elastic $\ensuremath{\pi}\ensuremath{\pi}$ threshold at $t=4m_{\ensuremath{\pi}}^{}{}_{}{}^{2}$. This curvature may help to reconcile the discrepancy between experimental determinations of energy dependence for the process ${\ensuremath{\pi}}^{\ensuremath{-}}p\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{\ensuremath{\pi}}^{0}n$ and the difference ${\ensuremath{\Delta}}^{\ensuremath{\pi}p}={\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{\mathrm{tot}}^{{\ensuremath{\pi}}^{\ensuremath{-}}p}\ensuremath{-}{\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{\mathrm{tot}}^{{\ensuremath{\pi}}^{+}p}$, both mediated by $\ensuremath{\rho}$ exchange. However, a trajectory function incorporating this curvature by means of a simple threshold expansion of the unitarity expression is unable to accommodate the data and to extrapolate to $\ensuremath{\alpha}=1$ near the ${(\mathrm{mass})}^{2}$ of the $\ensuremath{\rho}$.
Needle cell elongation and maturation timing derived from pine needle cellulose δ18O

Estimates of the timing of Pinus arizonica Engelm. needle development in 1998 and 1999 were derived from the leaf-cellulose delta18O of weekly growth increments. Significant correlations were noted between time series of local humidity and leaf-cellulose delta18O for needles growing near Tucson, Arizona. Correlations with temperature were also significant, but much lower, suggesting these variations in cellulose delta18O were determined mostly by changes in humidity. The timing of all significant correlations lags the timing of the appearance of the new needle growth, and is interpreted as indicating 16-23 d were required for cell enlargement in 1998 and 13-17 d in 1999. Similarly, properties of the environmental time series, when significantly correlated, are interpreted as indicating the duration of cellulose deposition (7-27 d in 1998, 13-21 d in 1999). Variations in stable-isotope back diffusion (the Peclet effect) and the synthesis of cellulose using stored photosynthate are discussed as explanations for departures from a Craig and Gordon-type model of leaf water delta18O. The Peclet effect, use of stored photosynthate, and variations in the growing-season source-water delta18O, probably confound the development of a high-resolution paleohumidity proxy from subfossil needle cellulose delta18O in this region.
Quantitative Assessment of Macromolecular Concentration during Direct Infusion into an Agarose Hydrogel Phantom using Contrast-Enhanced MRI

Convection-enhanced delivery (CED), that is, direct tissue infusion, has emerged as a promising local drug delivery method for treating diseases of the nervous system. Determination of the spatial distribution of therapeutic agents after infusion is important in evaluating the efficacy of treatment, optimizing infusion protocols and improving the understanding of drug pharmacokinetics. In this study, we provide a methodology to determine the concentration distribution of Gd-labeled tracers during infusion using contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). To the best of our knowledge, MR studies that quantify concentration profiles for CED have not been previously reported. The methodology utilizes intrinsic material properties (T(1) and R(1)) and reduces the effect of instrumental factors (e.g., inhomogeneity of MR detection field). As a methodology investigation, this study used an agarose hydrogel phantom as a tissue substitute for infusion. An 11.1-T magnet system was used to image infusion of Gd-DTPA-labeled albumin (Gd-albumin) into the hydrogel. By using data from preliminary scans, Gd-albumin distribution was determined from the signal intensity of the MR images. As a validation test, MR-derived concentration profiles were found comparable to both results measured directly using quantitative optical imaging and results from a computational transport model in porous media. In future studies, the developed methodology will be used to quantitatively monitor the distribution of Gd tracer following infusion directly into tissues.
Li+ Extraction/Insertion Reactions with LiAlMnO4 and LiFeMnO4 Spinels in the Aqueous Phase

Abstract Spinel-type metal oxides, lithium-aluminum-manganese oxide (LiAlMnO4) and lithium-iron-manganese oxide (LiFeMnO4), were prepared by a coprecipitation/thermal crystallization method. The Li+ extraction/insertion reactions with these materials were investigated by X-ray, DTA-TG analyses, FT-IR spectroscopy, pH titration, and Kd measurement. The acid treatments of LiAlMnO4 and LiFeMnO4 caused Li+ extractions of more than 80% and 60%, respectively, while the dissolutions of Al, Fe, and Mn were less than 10%. The acid-treated samples had lithium ion-sieve properties from a microamount to a macroamount of metal ion loading in aqueous solutions. The chemical analysis showed that the Li+ extraction/insertion progressed mainly by an ion-exchange mechanism. The X-ray analyses showed that the spinel structure held during the Li+ extraction/insertion, indicating the topotactic reaction.
Remote sensing and lake eutrophication

An infrared photograph of part of Clear Lake, Cal., shows complex patterns of blue-green algal blooms which were not observed by conventional limnological techniques. Repeated observations of patterns such as these can be used to chart the surface movement of these buoyant algae and can also be used to help control algal scums in eutrophic lakes. Although it is believed that most of the observed patterns resulted from Aphanizomenon (a few were also observed which resulted from suspended sediment), spectral signatures of the algal patterns varied.
Language and national identity in Asia

Language and national identity in Asia, edited by Andrew Simpson, Oxford, Oxford University Press, 2007, x + 466 pp., 75.00/$135.00 (hardback), ISBN 978-0-19-926748-4; 27.50/$55.00 (paperback), ISB...
SUSY normal scalar mass hierarchy reconciles (g−2)μ , b→sγ and relic density

Recent experimental and theoretical determinations of (g−2)μ , Ω CDM h 2 and BF(b→sγ) place exceedingly tight constraints on the minimal supergravity (mSUGRA) model. We advocate relaxing the generational universality of mSUGRA, so that GUT scale third generation scalar masses are greater than the (degenerate) first and second generation scalar masses (a normal scalar mass hierarchy (NMH)). The non-degeneracy allows for a reconciliation of all the above constraints, and also respects FCNC limits from B d − d mixing and b→sγ. The NMH SUGRA model leads to the prediction of relatively light first and second generation sleptons. This yields large rates for multilepton collider signatures at the CERN LHC and also possibly at the Fermilab Tevatron. The spectrum of light sleptons should be accessible to a (s)1/2 = 0.5−1 TeV linear e + e − collider.
Study of solids by use of nonthermalized positrons

We have measured the energy distribution of positrons reemitter from the surfaces of solids after being implanted at low energy. It is shown that this provides a unique possibility to study energy losses of a charged particle down to near thermal energy. Such measurements are used to estimate the positron thermalization time in Al. A dramatic change in this energy distribution was observed after oxidation of the Al surface. We attribute this to the band gap of the oxide. Trapping of epithermal positrons with a remarkably high cross section was observed for both Al and Cu.
Anisotropic strain-dependent material properties of bovine articular cartilage in the transitional range from tension to compression.

Abstract Articular cartilage exhibits complex mechanical properties such as anisotropy, inhomogeneity and tension–compression nonlinearity. This study proposes and demonstrates that the application of compressive loading in the presence of osmotic swelling can be used to acquire a spectrum of incremental cartilage moduli (EYi) and Poisson's ratios (νij) from tension to compression. Furthermore, the anisotropy of the tissue can be characterized in both tension and compression by conducting these experiments along three mutually perpendicular loading directions: parallel to split-line (1-direction), perpendicular to split-line (2-direction) and along the depth direction (3-direction, perpendicular to articular surface), accounting for tissue inhomogeneity between the surface and deep layers in the latter direction. Tensile moduli were found to be strain-dependent while compressive moduli were nearly constant. The peak tensile (+) Young's moduli in 0.15 M NaCl were E+Y1=3.1±2.3, E+Y2=1.3±0.3, E+Y3Surface=0.65±0.29 and E+Y3Deep=2.1±1.2 MPa. The corresponding compressive (−) Young's moduli were E−Y1=0.23±0.07, E−Y2=0.22±0.07, E−Y3Surface=0.18±0.07 and E−Y3Deep=0.35±0.11 MPa. Peak tensile Poisson's ratios were ν+12=0.22±0.06, ν+21=0.13±0.07, ν+31Surface=0.10±0.03 and ν+31Deep=0.20±0.05 while compressive Poisson's ratios were ν−12=0.027±0.012, ν−21=0.017±0.007, ν−31Surface=0.034±0.009 and ν−31Deep=0.065±0.024 . Similar measurements were also performed at 0.015 M and 2 M NaCl, showing strong variations with ionic strength. Results indicate that (a) a smooth transition occurs in the stress–strain and modulus–strain responses between the tensile and compressive regimes, and (b) cartilage exhibits orthotropic symmetry within the framework of tension–compression nonlinearity. The strain-softening behavior of cartilage (the initial decrease in EYi with increasing compressive strain) can be interpreted in the context of osmotic swelling and tension–compression nonlinearity.
Commentary on the Symposium on Social Justice and the Health Professions: Ethical and Experiential Issues

This commentary on the Symposium on Social Justice and the Health Professions is meant to give the reader an overview of the articles in this issue and provide the perspective of an interested observer who attended the conference. The articles in this issue will be especially interesting to anyone who is concerned with the varying lenses through which healthcare may be seen as empowering to those able to access it, frustrating to those who confront bias and stigmatization, and in need of a constant refocusing to assure adequate attention is paid the ethical issues underpinning healthcare.
Formation and annihilation of defects governing flow and diffusion in amorphous metals

Abstract The evolution of a defect population in an amorphous metal is analyzed under two constraints: van den Beukel's relation between viscosity and diffusivity ( νD 2 constant), and the linear increase in the isothermal viscosity with time. The resulting defect population consists of density fluctuations of different sizes: singlets that govern diffusion, doublets that govern flow, triplets that annihilate partially, and quadruplets that annihilate completely. The concentrations of the latter two are negligible.
COLONIZATION AND SUCCESSION OF ALGAE AND SOIL‐ALGAL INTERACTIONS ASSOCIATED WITH DISTURBED AREAS1

The number and abundance of algal species were not significantly different between non-topsoiled areas and top-soiled areas. Successional trends were evident at both sites, since the number of species and their abundance increased over time. Soil-algal interactions were determined by regression analysis. A conceptual model was developed that illustrated the influence of soil chemical properties on algal abundance. Important factors affecting the soil algae were sodium, calcium, potassium, magnesium and certain trace elements. The possible influence of these factors on algal growth is discussed.
Atlantic Major Hurricanes, 1995–2005—Characteristics Based on Best-Track, Aircraft, and IR Images

Abstract The Atlantic major hurricanes during the period of 1995–2005 are examined using best-track data, aircraft-based observations of central pressure, and infrared (IR) satellite images. There were 45 Atlantic major hurricanes (Saffir–Simpson category 3 or higher) during this 11-yr period, which is well above the long-term average. Descriptive statistics (e.g., average, variability, and range) of various characteristics are presented, including intensity, intensification rate, major hurricane duration, location, storm motion, size, and landfall observations. IR images are shown along with IR-derived quantities such as the digital Dvorak technique intensity and IR-defined cold cloud areas. In addition to the satellite intensity estimates, the associated component IR temperatures are documented. A pressure–wind relationship is evaluated, and the deviations of maximum intensity measurements from the pressure–wind relationship are discussed. The Atlantic major hurricane activity of the 1995–2005 period di...
Detection of periods of food intake using Support Vector Machines

Studies of obesity and eating disorders need objective tools of Monitoring of Ingestive Behavior (MIB) that can detect and characterize food intake. In this paper we describe detection of food intake by a Support Vector Machine classifier trained on time history of chews and swallows. The training was performed on data collected from 18 subjects in 72 experiments involving eating and other activities (for example, talking). The highest accuracy of detecting food intake (94%) was achieved in configuration where both chews and swallows were used as predictors. Using only swallowing as a predictor resulted in 80% accuracy. Experimental results suggest that these two predictors may be used for differentiation between periods of resting and food intake with a resolution of 30 seconds. Proposed methods may be utilized for development of an accurate, inexpensive, and non-intrusive methodology to objectively monitor food intake in free living conditions.
Embryonic cell aggregation: absence of galactosyltransferase activity in retina-specific cell-aggregating factor.

Abstract The cell-aggregating glycoprotein factor specific for embryonic neural retina cells was tested for galactosyltransferase activity to determine if this enzyme is responsible for the specific cell-ligand effect of the factor. Galactosyltransferase activity was found in the culture medium, from which the factor was isolated. However, the purified factor lacked both galactosyltransferase activity and receptor activity for this enzyme. Therefore, the specific cell-ligand effect of this factor is due to interactions with the cell surface which do not involve direct participation of galactosyltransferase.
A transient analysis of a bunched beam free electron laser

Abstract We studied the problem of the bunched beam operation of a free electron laser. Assuming the electron beam to be initially monoenergetic, the Maxwell-Vlasov equations describing the system reduce to a third order partial differential equation for the envelope of the emitted light. The Green function corresponding to an arbitrary shape of the electron bunch, which describes the transient behavior of the system, is obtained. We use Green's function to discuss the start-up problem as well as the power output and the power spectrum of self-amplified spontaneous emission.
NMR study of lithium borate glasses with low lithia contents

Abstract We report NMR studies of 7 Li in lithium borate glasses with very low lithia contents. Computer techniques were used to investigate both the second moment of the central line, and the quadrupolar structure of the satellites.
Quality Management Systems/Process Improvement/Adverse Outcomes Use of Latex, All-Silicone, and Silver-Coated All-Silicone Foley Catheters as Options for Indwelling Foley Catheters with the Objective of Lowering Healthcare Acquired Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections: Impact on Quality Objectives

LESSONS LEARNED: The importance of establishing and maintaining compliance with regard to basic ICP cannot be understated. Sustained organizational change has not been fully realized however improvements are occurring gradually over time. The downward trends in HA MRSA have been achieved with an emphasis on fundamental ICP including Standard Universal Precautions, HH and appropriate use of gloves. No resources were vested in active surveillance cultures or Contact Precautions. In conclusion, HH compliance needs ongoing reinforcement. With increased administrative appreciation of and endorsement for the initiatives, sustained organizational behavioral change and further decreases in HAI can occur without the burden of additional healthcare resources.
Notiz über einige Derivate 1.1-disubstituierter Hydrazine

1.1-Disubstituierte Hydrazine reagieren ohne Schwierigkeiten mit Estern, Saureanhydriden, Kaliumcyanat und Phenylisothiocyanat. Es wird die Herstellung einer Anzahl solcher Derivate mitgeteilt.
New AMS dates, stratigraphic correlations and decadal climatic cycles for the past 4 ka at Lake Turkana, Kenya

Abstract New AMS radiocarbon dates and stratigraphic correlations of 7 piston cores recovered from Lake Turkana, East Africa, show that the frequency of cyclic variability is greater than previously reported for a single piston core. Almost 60 new AMS dates of various carbonate fractions indicate that large (150 μm) ostracode carapaces yield the most accurate chronology for the sediment record due to the input of “old” fine-grained carbonate. Stratigraphic correlations among the cores by carbonate abundance and magnetic susceptibility profiles provide supporting evidence for the ostracode-based chronology. This chronology refines earlier estimates of sediment accumulation that impacts the recurrence interval of lamination deposition from one lamination every two years to one lamination per year in two north basin cores. The record of carbonate content within the north basin of the lake reflect its dilution with terrigenous sediments input from the Omo River but direct paleoclimatic interpretations are complicated by lateral migrations of the delta channels with changing lake levels. Time-series analysis of both individual cores and a combined carbonate profile show significant spectral peaks at 1000, 76, 32, 22, 18.6 and 11 yr. The latter three suggest an important link between the sediments accumulating in Lake Turkana and global cycles of climatic variability.
Approximate parametric searching

Abstract We present a technique for approximately maximizing a class of concave functions whose evaluation is NP complete. We assume that there is a polynomial-time approximation algorithm for evaluating a function and use it to design a polynomial-time algorithm for approximating the maximum of the function. Finding the exact maximum is NP complete. Our technique is based on Megiddo's parametric searching technique.
Control of hypertrophic scar growth using selective photothermolysis

Background and Objective Previous studies have shown a clinical improvement of hypertrophic scars (HS) after treatment with a pulsed dye laser. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of variations in pulse wavelength and energy density on HS tissue using human HS implanted in athymic mice. Study Design/Materials and Methods Small pieces (∼1 mm3) of HS tissue were implanted into athymic mice and allowed to grow for 5 days. The implant site was then exposed to a single 450 μs pulse, and implant growth and histology were monitored for an additional 12 days. Laser wavelength and energy density ranges tested were 585–600 nm and 2–10 J/cm2, respectively. Results Using a wavelength of 585 nm, laser treatment inhibited implant growth by 70% at 6 J/cm2 and 92% at 10 J/cm2, respectively. The inhibitory effect decreased as the laser wavelength was increased from 585 to 600 nm. A widespread destruction of the implant microvasculature with a minor effect on surrounding extracellular matrix at the highest light dose were observed. Conclusion Pulsed laser treatment inhibits HS implant growth in nude mice. This effect is likely mediated by selective photothermolysis of the implant microvasculature. Lasers Surg. Med. 21:7–12, 1997. © 1997 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Identification of Serious Congenital Heart Disease in Neonates after Initial Hospital Discharge

Objective. Neonates with congenital heart disease (CHD) frequently require prompt intervention to improve outcomes and limit morbidities. We sought to determine the time to identification for infants with serious CHD admitted to the State of Alabama's neonatal cardiovascular center and to identify types of cardiac lesions associated with an earlier vs. later diagnosis. Design/Setting. Medical record review of all infants admitted to Alabama's cardiovascular referral center over a 3-year period. Patients. Neonates with serious CHD admitted for medical/surgical care. Results. In total, 178 neonates were identified with serious CHD. Of these, 146 (82%) were identified postnatally. Thirty-two (21%) of the postnatally detected infants were identified after initial discharge from the hospital. Neonates with aortic arch anomalies presented at a median age of 7 days. Conclusion. Identification of infants with serious CHD, especially those with aortic arch anomalies is frequently delayed. These findings support the need for improved methods to detect CHD in the newborn.
Modifying the forrest-Tomlin and saunders updates for linear programming problems with variable upper bounds

The author previously described a modification of the simplex method to handle variable upper bounds implicitly. This method can easily be used when the representation of the basis inverse (e.g. a triangular decomposition of the basis) is maintained as a dense matrix in core, but appears to cause difficulties for large problems where secondary storage and packed matrices may be employed. Here we show how the Fonest—Tomlin and Saunders updating schemes, which are designed for such large problems, can be adapted.
Three programs for computing Dunn-Sidák critical values.

The Dunn-Sidak multiple comparison procedure is used to test hypotheses and construct confidence intervals for two or more a priori nonorthogonal contrasts for population means. The procedure uses a levels that are not available in conventional t tables. In 1977 Games prepared a table of two tailed critical values that simplifies using the procedure. Researchers are accustomed to doubling alpha in a two-tailed t table to obtain the critical value in one tail. Unfortunately, doubling alpha in Games's table always gives one tailed critical values that are too small. Computational routines using the t inverse function in Microsoft Excel 98, SAS, and SPSS are presented for obtaining Dunn-Sidak one- and two-tailed critical values for ant familywise error rate, number of contrasts, and error degrees of freedom.
Do internal anal sphincter defects decrease the success rate of anal sphincter repair

Anatomic anal sphincter defects can involve the internal anal sphincter (IAS), the external anal sphincter (EAS), or both muscles. Surgical repair of anteriorly located EAS defects consists of overlapping suture of the EAS or EAS imbrication; IAS imbrication can be added regardless of whether there is IAS injury. The aim of this study was to assess the functional outcome of anal sphincter repair in patients intraoperatively diagnosed with combined EAS/IAS defects compared to patients with isolated EAS defects. The medical records of patients who underwent anal sphincter repair between 1988 and 2000 and had follow-up of at least 3 months were retrospectively assessed. Fecal incontinence was assessed using the Cleveland Clinic Florida incontinence score wherein 0 equals perfect continence and 20 is associated with complete incontinence. Postoperative scores of 0–10 were interpreted as success whereas scores of 11–20 indicated failure. A total of 131 women were included in this study, including 38 with combined EAS/IAS defects (Group I) and 93 with isolated EAS defects (Group II). Thirty-three patients (87%) in Group I had imbrication of a deficient IAS, compared to 83 patients (89%) in Group II. All patients had either overlapping EAS repair (n=121) or EAS imbrication (n=10). Mean follow-up was 30.9 months (range, 3–131 months). There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups relative to age (48.3 vs. 53.0 years; p=0.14), preoperative incontinence score (16.1 vs. 16.7; p=0.38), extent of pudendal nerve terminal motor latency pathology (left, 11.1% vs. 8%; p=0.58; right, 8.6% vs. 15.1%; p=0.84), extent of pathology at electromyography (54.8% vs. 60.1%; p=0.43), and length of follow-up (26.9 vs. 32.5 months; p=0.31). The success rates of sphincter repair were 68.4% for Group I versus 55.9% for Group II (p=NS). Both groups were well matched for incidence of IAS imbrication as well as age, follow-up interval, and physiologic parameters. The success rates of anal sphincter repair were not statistically significant between the two groups. A pre-existing IAS defect does not preclude successful sphincteroplasty as compared to repair of an isolated EAS defect. Thus, patients with combined anal sphincter defects should not be considered as poor candidates for sphincter repair.
Nucleotide-mediated conformational changes of monomeric actin and Arp3 studied by molecular dynamics simulations.

Members of the actin family of proteins exhibit different biochemical properties when ATP, ADP-Pi, ADP, or no nucleotide is bound. We used molecular dynamics simulations to study the effect of nucleotides on the behavior of actin and actin-related protein 3 (Arp3). In all of the actin simulations, the nucleotide cleft stayed closed, as in most crystal structures. ADP was much more mobile within the cleft than ATP, despite the fact that both nucleotides adopt identical conformations in actin crystal structures. The nucleotide cleft of Arp3 opened in most simulations with ATP, ADP, and no bound nucleotide. Deletion of a C-terminal region of Arp3 that extends beyond the conserved actin sequence reduced the tendency of the Arp3 cleft to open. When the Arp3 cleft opened, we observed multiple instances of partial release of the nucleotide. Cleft opening in Arp3 also allowed us to observe correlated movements of the phosphate clamp, cleft mouth, and barbed-end groove, providing a way for changes in the nucleotide state to be relayed to other parts of Arp3. The DNase binding loop of actin was highly flexible regardless of the nucleotide state. The conformation of Ser14/Thr14 in the P1 loop was sensitive to the presence of the γ-phosphate, but other changes observed in crystal structures were not correlated with the nucleotide state on nanosecond timescales. The divalent cation occupied three positions in the nucleotide cleft, one of which was not previously observed in actin or Arp2/3 complex structures. In sum, these simulations show that subtle differences in structures of actin family proteins have profound effects on their nucleotide-driven behavior.
Critical current density and microstructure of melt-processed YBa2Cu3Ox with PtO2 additions

Abstract YBa 2 Cu 3 O x (123) with excess Y 2 BaCuO 5 (211) in the molar ratio of 5:1 (123/211) were processed using the SLMG (“solid-liquid melt growth”) technique. The effect of PtO 2 on the microstructure and properties of samples with coarse (∼ 1–10 μm) and fine 211 precipitates (on the order of 100 nm) was studied. PtO 2 leads to a decrease in the total volume of the coarser 211 precipitates and segregation of these 211 particles, forming “tracks” of the precipitates within a domain. Also, the morphology of the coarse 211 phase changed to a long acicular shape with PtO 2 additions, as compared with approximately spherical particles in undoped samples. TEM studies revealed the presence of 211 particles of ∼ 100 nm size in both doped and undoped samples with a density of 10 13 / cm 2 along with the coarser 1–10 μm 211 particles. The defect density was found to be higher in the case of PtO 2 doped samples. The intragrain J c measured on powdered textured specimens was found to be enhanced by the PtO 2 additions, especially at low temperatures, despite the fact that the coarser 211 precipitates were inhomogeneously distributed. Magnetization measurements on textured domains also showed an improvement of J c ( H ‖ c at 1 T) with PtO 2 doping, corroborating the measurements on the powdered samples.
Detectable Odor Thresholds of Selected Lipid Oxidation Compounds in a Meat Model System

Organic compounds, pentanal, hexanal, t-2-hexenal, t-2-heptanal, t-2-octenal, and t,t-2,4-decadienal, were added individually to lean ground beef. Detectable odor threshold (DOT) was determined by a 10-member sensory panel using triangle tests. Descriptive analysis using category scales measuring intensity was used to assess odor intensities contributed by specific compounds in an effort to relate quantitative differences in qualitative characteristics to oxidized beef. DOT for pentanal was 2.67 ppm ; hexanal was 5.87 ppm ; heptanal was 0.23 ppm ; t-2-hexenal was 7.87 ppm ; t-2-octenal was 4.20 ppm ; and t,t-2,4-decadienal was 0.47 ppm. Common terms used to describe odor of meat containing added compounds were rancid. painty, and herbal.
Lingua realis, lingua universalis und lingua cryptologica: Analogiebildungen bei den Universalsprachen des 16. und 17. Jahrhunderts†

This historical analysis treats the formation of universal languages with the help of analogy in the 16th and 17th centuries. In the early part of the 16th century, abbot Johannes Trithemius suggested a universal language as an extension of a cryptographic system he had proposed. Trithemius's process suggests a triangular relationship among a lingua cryptologica, which stands at the root of his system, a lingua realis – an existing language (almost exclusively Latin) that served as a point of departure, and a lingua universalis, which was developed from that base. Trithemius's ideas remained, however, rather isolated for the balance of the 16th century since other scholars were preoccupied with the search for the lingua Adamica. It was not until Bacon and Descartes discussed the phenomenon of universal communication that new universal languages were proposed. The concept of analogy can be seen in a number of mid-17th century written-communication methods that were based on an existing language. After various Jesuits had devised preliminary systems, Athanasius Kircher, Johann Joachim Becher and the young Leibniz – all going back to Trithemius – began again with a lingua cryptologica, used a lingua realis (Latin) as an intermediary and reference language, and developed a lingua universalis as they understood it. All three universal languages could be expressed in a mathematical-combinatorial system, which Becher transcended by proposing a graphic, binomial method purportedly even more universally acceptable than the simply numerical systems of transmission. In all these instances we are actually dealing with reverse analogies, for what had been conceived as a system of secret communication became adapted to a universal, written exchange, thereby differing substantially from such 19th century creations as Martin Schleyer's Volapuk or Dr. Zamenhof's Esperanto, the only universal language that is widely used in our times.
Retinal Thickness Measurement Obtained with Spectral Domain Optical Coherence Tomography Assisted Optical Biopsy Accurately Correlates with Ex Vivo Histology

Background This study determines ‘correlation constants’ between the gold standard histological measurement of retinal thickness and the newer spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) technology in adult C57BL/6 mice. Methods Forty-eight eyes from adult mice underwent SD-OCT imaging and then were histologically prepared for frozen sectioning with H&E staining. Retinal thickness was measured via 10x light microscopy. SD-OCT images and histological sections were standardized to three anatomical sites relative to the optic nerve head (ONH) location. The ratios between SD-OCT to histological thickness for total retinal thickness (TRT) and six sublayers were defined as ‘correlation constants’. Results Mean (± SE) TRT for SD-OCT and histological sections was 210.95 µm (±1.09) and 219.58 µm (±2.67), respectively. The mean ‘correlation constant’ for TRT between the SD-OCT and histological sections was 0.96. The retinal thickness for all sublayers measured by SD-OCT vs. histology were also similar, the ‘correlation constant’ values ranged from 0.70 to 1.17. All SD-OCT and histological measurements demonstrated highly significant (p<0.01) strong positive correlations. Conclusion This study establishes conversion factors for the translation of ex vivo data into in vivo information; thus enhancing the applicability of SD-OCT in translational research.
Communication Nonaccommodation in Family Conversations About End-of-Life Health Decisions

Furthering our understanding of how communication can improve end-of-life decision making requires a shift in focus from whether people talk to how people talk about end-of-life health decisions. This study used communication accommodation theory to examine the extent to which communication nonaccommodation distinguished more from less successful end-of-life conversations among family members. We analyzed elicited conversations about end-of-life health decisions from 121 older parent/adult child dyads using outside ratings of communication over- and underaccommodation and self-reported conversational outcomes. Results of multilevel linear modeling revealed that outside ratings of underaccommodation predicted self-reported and partner-reported uncertainty, and ratings of overaccommodation predicted self-reported decision-making efficacy and change in concordance accuracy. We discuss the methodological, theoretical, and practical implications of these findings.
PRIP Promotes Tumor Formation through Enhancing Serum-responsive Factor-mediated FOS Expression

PRIP (peroxisome proliferator-activator receptor interacting protein) is a nuclear receptor coactivator required for mammary gland development. To understand the function of PRIP in breast tumorigenesis, we established a mammary tumor cell line with the PRIPLoxp/Loxp genotype. By knocking out the PRIP gene in the tumor cell line, we demonstrated that PRIP deficiency led to inhibited tumor formation without affecting tumor cell proliferation. The PRIP deficiency was associated with decreased cell invasion and migration capabilities. We found that PRIP deficiency substantially reduced FOS gene expression. A chromatin immunoprecipitation assay revealed that PRIP was recruited to the FOS promoter. In addition, we demonstrated that PRIP also directly up-regulated the FOS gene expression in human breast cancer cells. Promoter analysis showed that PRIP acted through serum-responsive factor to regulate FOS gene expression. Finally, by re-expressing the FOS gene, we confirmed that the inhibited tumor formation of PRIP-deficient tumor cells was due to reduced expression of the FOS gene.