cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Age-Related Changes in Light-Induced Jun-B and Jun-D Expression: Effects of Transplantation of Fetal Tissue Containing the Suprachiasmatic Nucleus:

Fos and Jun mRNA and peptide exhibit a daily light-induced rhythm in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). The authors previously have reported that Fos expression in the SCN is elevated prematurely during the dark, light-induced Fos expression is attenuated in middle-aged rats, and transplantation of fetal SCN tissue into the third ventricle of rats of this age restores the daily pattern of Fos expression to that of the young. Using immunocytochemistry, the authors performed the present study to determine whether Jun-B and Jun-D expression in the SCN is altered at the same stage during aging and, if so, whether transplantation of fetal tissue containing the SCN can restore the light-induced rhythms of these two immediate early genes. All groups of rats were transcardially perfused 90 min prior to and after light onset. In young rats, light induced a robust increase in the number of Jun-B positive cells in the SCN, whereas very few cells were labeled before light onset. In middle-aged rats, the light-induced increase in the number of Jun-B positive cells was significantly attenuated. Transplantation of fetal SCN tissue into the middle-aged rats successfully restored light-induced Jun-B expression to the levels of young rats. By contrast, Jun-D exhibited a constitutively high level of expression in the SCN both before and after light onset, and light induced only a slight but significant increase. No age-related changes were detected in the expression of Jun-D either before or after light onset. Transplantation of fetal SCN tissue did not alter the daily pattern of Jun-D expression in the middle-aged rats. These data suggest that (1) light-induced activation of SCN neural activity is blunted during aging, (2) fetal SCN tissue can provide the critical support to allow the host to respond properly to light cues, and (3) the age-related change in Jun-B expression in the middle-aged host SCN can be rescued by fetal SCN transplants.
Interaction of yellow organic acids with calcium carbonate in freshwater1

Large amounts of soluble yellow organic humic acids are removed from lake water with precipitating CaCO3 by adsorption and incorporation into crystals during nucleation.
Metabolic interaction of secondary amines and tertiary amino propiophenones with monoamine oxidase systems

Abstract The metabolic interaction of three secondary amines and three nitrogen containing metabolites of safrole (tertiary amino propiophenones) with rat liver mitochondrial monoaroine oxidase systems was studied in vitro employing [7-14C] benzylamine—HCl as a substrate. The two cyclic secondary amines, piperidine and pyrrolidine, showed hyperbolic competitive inhibition while pure competitive inhibition was observed in case of dimethylamine—HCl and three safrole metabolites. Inhibition characteristics for rat liver, kidney and brain mitochondrial monoamine oxidase with two cyclic secondary amines and tertiary amino propiophenones of safrole and elemicin were investigated manometrically using tyramine and serotonin as the substrates.
The Evolution of Exploitation in Humans: 'Surrounded by Strangers I Thought Were My Friends'

Early humans were obligately social, living in nested kin groups or close associations of related individuals. Theoretical and empirical research has demonstrated that group life is characterized by both costs (e.g. increased likelihood of disease transmission) and benefits (e.g. enhanced predator defense). This paper addresses the evolution of exploitation in humans (e.g. slavery, infanticide) as a response to within-group competition for limiting resources (e.g. food, mates), a potential cost of living in groups. Exploitation is defined as one individual's use of another for selfish ends, in particular, the acquisition and/or use of another's resources for the optimization of inclusive fitness. It is argued that exploitation is most likely to occur in relationships characterized by asymmetries such as dependence, intimacy, and/or differential access to resources. A simple mathematical treatment assesses exploitation as a facultative response to local competition among relatives, providing insights into the conditions favorable and adverse to exploitation of conspecifics. Possible applications of the formulations are discussed, including the conditions under which intraspecific exploitation may be beneficial to both actor and recipient(s). Constraints on the evolution of exploitation in humans are identified, and suggestions are made for testing hypotheses related to the differential costs and benefits of exploitation to conspecifics. Future studies may promote the mitigation of exploitation's deleterious effects in Homo sapiens, a body of research which may apply, as well, to other social mammals.
Long-term storage of a bit stream of solitons.

A combination of amplitude modulation and filtering in a fiber ring, whose loss is compensated by gain, can maintain indefinitely ones represented by solitons and zeros represented by their absence. The spontaneous emission noise of the amplifiers is contained if the system parameters are chosen properly.
Measurement of the second-order molecular hyperpolarizability of fullerene anions by CARS spectroscopy

Abstract We have determined the second-order molecular hyperpolarizability, γ , for the fullerene anions C 60 2− and C 60 3− by use of coherent anti-Stokes Raman spectroscopy (CARS) vibrational lineshape analysis. We observe values that are only 2–3-times greater than the corresponding value for the singly charged anion C 60 − . The behavior of γ with the addition of charge is explained by symmetry considerations. Comparison with similar results for rare earth-containing endohedral fullerenes suggests that increased charge on the cage, and not asymmetric charge distribution due to metal–cage interactions, is the primary reason for increased nonlinearity compared to neutral fullerenes.
Choroidal halo nevus occurring in a patient with vitiligo

A halo nevus of the ocular fundus is described in a patient with vitiligo and history of malignant melanoma of the calf excised six years previously. The significance of halo nevi is discussed.
Studies of the equilibrium metal vapour pressures over the alkaline earth carbides

Abstract Due to difficulties in preparing and handling pure samples of alkaline earth dicarbides, few investigations of their vaporization behaviour have been made. In the present work SrC 2 and BaC 2 have been synthesized in a state of high purity, and using both effusion and mass spectrometric techniques the respective vaporization processes have been studied. Values of the heats of formation of these dicarbides have been derived and compared with previous measurements on CaC 2 .
Microleakage of direct gold restorations: an in vitro study.

lhe adaptation of restorative materials to the walls of cavity preparations has been considered clinically important for many years.’ A chemical bond between a restorative material and tooth structure with no marginal leakage would be ideal. However, at the present time no available material possesses this criterion. Early studies of the microleakage of conventional amalgam alloys, using autoradiographs, showed that the initial sealing properties of amalgam were greatly improved by the use of copal resin cavity liner.‘> ’ More recently, it has been reported that corrosion-resistant amalgam restorations placed after coating the cavity walls with cavity varnish showed no leakage at 48 hours and after 3 months.4 These same authors reported similar results in a study using dogs as experimental animals5 The most recent study of leakage of direct gold restorations used a crystal violet dye technique.” In this study amalgam and compacted gold were found to have less leakage than composite resins using an acid-etch technique. Cohesive gold restorations have long been considered the epitome of clinical restorations in a general practice. Textbooks list adaptation to cavity walls and cavosurface margins as one of the attributes of cohesive direct gold restorations. Pure gold foil, electrolytically deposited mat gold, powdered gold encased in gold foil, and alloyed filling gold are in current use for conservative restorations. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the adaptation to cavity walls of four types of direct filling golds by studying the microleakage around restorations placed with and without a copal resin liner.
Obesity in Rural Youth: Looking Beyond Nutrition and Physical Activity

Contributors to excessive obesity in rural youth include well-documented nutrition and physical activity behaviors. However, emerging research suggests that preventing excessive weight gain and smoking during pregnancy, teen pregnancy, and child abuse also could reduce obesity in this vulnerable population. These traditional and emerging, nontraditional factors need to be addressed within the confines of current challenges faced by rural communities. An enhanced ecological model provides a framework for combining traditional and nontraditional factors into a more comprehensive approach that addresses the complexity of the issues contributing to youth obesity.
Knowledge Based Image Understanding

In state-of-the-art research, the difficult task of image understanding by computer can be organized as a hierarchy of algorithms applied to image data at low, mid, and high levels of processing. This paper discusses aspects of design and implementation of this kind of multilevel system. A project in knowledge-based interpretation of satellite IR data of the Atlantic Ocean illustrates the ideas.
The effects of suppressing thoughts and images about worrisome stimuli

Several investigations have examined the potential role of mentation suppression in various psychological disorders. Existing studies do not, however, differentiate between the effects of suppressing imagery- versus thought-based mentation. This distinction is an especially important one for worry, given the predominantly thought-based nature of the worry process. The present study sought to distinguish between the effects of suppressing thoughts versus images about worrisome versus neutrally valenced topics. Consistent with past studies of worry suppression, results failed to find a rebound effect regardless of valence (worrisome, neutral) or mentation content (thoughts, images). However, results did indicate that a decrease in worrisome mentation across two consecutive expression periods was more pronounced when the worrisome material was imagery-based rather than thought-based in nature. Implications of these findings as they pertain to the perpetuation of worrisome activity and to treatment of generalized anxiety disorder are discussed.
Modeling, Simulation, and Control of Active Pneumatic Suspension System

This paper presents analytical modeling, system identification, and controller design for a “pneumatic-only” vibration isolation system. There exist extensive literature on traditional suspension designs but the literature on purely pneumatic suspension devices is very sparse. This paper presents an extensive modeling and experimental work for characterizing dynamical behavior of the system. The experimental data was used to derive approximate but simple low-order dynamic models using system identification techniques. A solenoid operated orifice mechanism is used to control the flow of air mass between air spring and accumulator. The design of accumulated air spring with controlled orifice constitutes a Continuously Variable Natural Frequency and Damping (CVNFD) device introduced in previous work by the second author. The paper also presents a robust control analysis and design for disturbance rejection problem. The results show promising trends for potential use of such simple and inexpensive system in various vibration isolation applications.© 2010 ASME
Women's Perception of the Divorce Experience: A Qualitative Study

ABSTRACT Divorce is a personal experience, often negative, and each couple experiences it differently. However, the divorce experience may provide opportunities for personal growth. The purpose of this qualitative study was to understand the challenges and growth opportunities women who have divorced experience from their own perspective. Ten women with similar backgrounds participated in personal interviews. Individual interviews revealed the following themes: (a) dating reflections, (b) married life, (c) self-perceptions, (d) support or lack of support, (e) family, (f) personal emotions, (g) personal growth, and (h) the future. Mezirow's (2000) theory of transformational learning was the framework used to organize the findings to understand growth through transitional phases. This article presents the findings of this study and implications for women going through divorce.
James R. Rice Receives 2012 Walter H. Bucher Medal: Response

Thank you, Terry, for those generous remarks, also for easing me into geophysics many years ago at Brown and for the friendship and wonderful exchanges on friction, lab things, faulting, and earthquakes over the years since.
Lagrangian simulation of a thin non-premixed flame in the field of an asymmetric layer

Abstract Development of an analytical, subgrid-scale non-premixed combustion model for simulation of two-dimensional reacting shear flow at conditions of fast chemistry is described. The model is based on generalization of the classical one-dimensional flamelet representation to multi-dimensional flow conditions. and incorporation of resulting combustion model into adaptive, Lagrangian vortex element techniques. Evolution of the external flow field is computed by tracking the motion of vortex elements, while flame front topology is described by a collection of thin flamelets, which are also used to compute the unsteady response of the local flame structure to the prevailing strain. One of the interesting features of the model described herein is that, while maintaining computational efficiency, it does not oversimplify the flame structure and/or flow-field dynamics. In particular, all the essential features of flow-combustion interactions are retained, namely the effect of flow-induced stretch on the local flame structure and burning rates, and the impact of heat release on flow-field divergence and baroclinic vorticity generation. The efficiency of the numerical scheme is guaranteed by adaptively concentrating computational resources along the flame front and regions of finite vorticity. Implementation of the model is illustrated by computing the combustion field of a reacting layer in which the characteristic vorticity length scale is several orders of magnitude larger than the initial flame thickness.
Offline recognition of handwritten cursive words

A robust algorithm for offline cursive script recognition is described. The algorithm uses a generate-and-test paradigm to analyze cursive word images. The generate phase of the algorithm intelligently segments the word after analyzing certain structural features present in the word. The test phase determines the most likely character candidates among the segmentation points by using a recognition algorithm trained on generalized cursive letter shapes. In a sense, word recognition is done by sliding a variable sized window across the word looking for recognizable characters and strokes. The output of this system is a list of all plausible interpretations of the word. This list is then analyzed by a two-step contextual post- processor which first matches all of the interpretations to a supplied dictionary using a string matching algorithm. This eliminates the least likely interpretations. The remaining candidates are then analyzed for certain character spatial relationships (local reference line finder) to finally rank the dictionary. The system has the advantage of not requiring explicit word training yet is able to recognize many handwriting styles. This system is being successfully tested on a database of handwritten words extracted from live mail with dictionary sizes of up to 300 words. Planned extensions include developing a multilevel generate-and-test paradigm which can handle any type of handwritten word.
X-ray structural and electrochemical analysis of η6-p-cymene ruthenium complexes with chelating S∩N ligands derived from 2-(methylthio)aniline and substituted benzaldehydes

Abstract A series of cationic, half-sandwich ruthenium complexes with the general formula [(η 6 - p -cymene)RuCl(S∩N)] + , (S∩N = MeS-C 6 H 4 -2-N CHAr, 1a–f ) have been studied by cyclic voltammetry and X-ray crystallography. The complexes 1a–e undergo irreversible oxidations and the results are compared to related complexes. The molecular structures of 1d [PF 6 ] and 1f [PF 6 ] were determined by X-ray crystallography.
Convergence of the newton process to multiple solutions

In 1870, E.Schroder showed that the convergence of the Newton process of successive approximations to a multiple solution of a scalar equation was geometric in character, and that quadratic convergence could be restored by multiplying the ordinary corrections by a constant. Here, this result is extended to finite systems, and it is shown that there exist various subspaces of the given space in which the convergence is geometric with a rate characteristic of the given subspace. Quadratic convergence may be restored by applying a given fixed linear operator to the ordinary corrections. The conditions under which these results apply to equations in infinite-dimensional Banach spaces are given. Numerical examples involving scalar equations and a simple 2 × 2 system are presented.
The NMDA receptor antagonist MK-801 produces ethanol-like discrimination in the rat

Two groups of rats, one derived from N/Nih stock and the second from the (putatively) serotonin-compromised Fawn-Hooded line, were trained to discriminate ethanol from its vehicle in a drug discrimination paradigm. Once each of the two groups attained discrimination criterion, dose-response relationships with lower doses of ethanol indicated that the Fawn-Hooded rats were less sensitive (ED50 value = 579.5 mg/kg) than the N/Nih rats (ED50 = 371.4 mg/kg). Testing of various doses of the NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) receptor antagonist MK-801 produced complete generalization in each group of animals, with a similar difference in ED50 values between N/Nih and Fawn-Hooded lines. These results extend previous ethanol-to-MK-801 generalization reported in pigeon, and are discussed in light of a possible NMDA-mediated contribution to the ethanol-induced discriminative stimulus cues.
Do deviations from bond enthalpy additivity define the thermodynamic stabilities of diradicals

Deviations from bond enthalpy additivity (ΔBEA) are frequently used to assess the thermodyamic stabilities of diradicals. (U)B3LYP/6-31G* calculations have been performed in order to determine how well ΔBEA values actually do reflect the thermodynamic stabilities of the triplet states of diradicals in which one or both nonbonding electrons occupy a delocalized π orbital. The calculations find that different pathways for forming σ,π-diradicals, such as α,2- and α,4-dehydrotoluene (4 and 6), give ΔBEA values that differ by ca. 1 kcal/mol. The path dependency of the ΔBEA values is computed to be one order of magnitude larger for non-Kekule hydrocarbon diradicals, such as m-benzoquinodimethane (12) and 1,3-dimethylenecyclobutane-2,4-diyl (15), than for σ,π-diradicals. Since the ΔBEA values for forming 4, 6, 12, and 15 are all path dependent, we conclude that ΔBEA values for diradicals with one or two delocalized, nonbonding π electrons do not, in general, uniquely define the thermodynamic stabilities of the d...
Foregut microspines in four families of cockroaches (Blattaria)

Abstract The microspines of the cockroach foregut were investigated in order to determine their fine structure, variation, patterns of distribution, and possible functions. The following were studied: Blaberidae (4 species), Blatellidae (3 species), Blattidae (2 species), and Cryptocercidae (one species). Elongate microspines (over 30 μm), usually several attached to a basal plate, were found in the buccal cavity and anterior and posterior pharynx of blaberids and blattids, whereas moderate (15–20 μm) to short (1–5 μm) microospines were found in 2 regions in the blattellid and cryptocercid cockroaches. Short microspines (1–5 gmm) individually attached to a basal plate occurred in the esophagus, crop, proventriculus and stomodeal valve regions in all families studied. Microspines appear to be useful in understanding systematics and evolution of cockroaches. The possible role of elongate microspines in retaining food particles during regurgitation behavior is postulated.
Nailing Down Arsenic Intoxication

Cas d'un malade presentant une insuffisance cardiopulmonaire, une alteration de l'etat mental et des bandes transversales blanches sur les ongles des pieds
Diet Dynamics of the Juvenile Piscivorous Fish Community in Spirit Lake, Iowa, USA, 1997-1998

– We assessed temporal dynamics and variation among species and age-classes in the diets of age 0 and age 1 piscivorous fish species in Spirit Lake, Iowa, USA during 1997 and 1998. Species included walleye Stizostedion vitreum, yellow perch Perca flavescens, smallmouth bass Micropterus dolomieui, largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides, black crappie Pomoxis nigromaculatus and white bass Morone chrysops. Thirty taxa were identified in diets, including 12 species of fish. We found dramatic differences in diets among species, among age-classes within species and over time. Walleye, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass and white bass were piscivorous at age 0. Black crappie began piscivory at age 1. Yellow perch also began piscivory at age 1, but fish were a very small fraction of age-1 diets. The primary temporal pattern, seen in several species and age-classes, was an increase in piscivory from spring to fall. This pattern was due to the lack of small, age-0 prey fish in spring. Although some patterns were evident, the taxonomic composition of the diets of all species was highly variable over time, making generalizations difficult. A surprising result was the absence of yellow perch in the diet of age-0 walleye, despite their abundance in Spirit Lake and prominence in diets of age-1 walleye and other age 1-piscivores. Age-0 yellow perch were consistently too large to be eaten by age-0 piscivores, which preyed primarily on invertebrates and smaller fish such as johnny darters Etheostoma nigrum and age 0 bluegill Lepomis macrochirus. This finding suggests that predator-prey interactions and resulting population dynamics may be quite different in Spirit Lake than in other systems dominated by walleye and yellow perch.
Enhancing Multiuser MIMO in Practical Cellular Systems

We consider a downlink multi-user multi-input-multi-output (MU-MIMO) fading channel wherein the base station can schedule several user terminals on the same time-frequency resource. A severe practical problem in MU-MIMO is that when computing its feedback report, a user does not have an accurate estimate of the interference it might see (if scheduled) from the signals intended for the other co-scheduled users. This results in a mismatch between the user reported signal-to-interference-plus-noise-ratio (SINR) and the one it actually observes in the aftermath of scheduling. To alleviate this problem we propose to inform each user (in a slow or semi-static manner) about the rank of the precoding matrix that it should report, along with an estimate of the total number of streams that the base station expects to co-schedule on a time-frequency resource. The suggested rank and the expected total number of streams can be user-specific and together convey the expected total number of co-scheduled interfering streams to the intended user. Each user then computes one or more SINRs for all the precoding matrices having the suggested rank and reports its preferred precoding matrix along with the corresponding SINRs. The SINRs are computed after assuming that the co-scheduled interfering streams will be transmitted along vectors isotropically distributed in the orthogonal complement of the range of the precoding matrix being examined. Alternatively, the SINRs can be computed after assuming that the co-scheduled interfering streams will be transmitted along the worst-case choice of mutually orthogonal vectors that lie in the orthogonal complement. We show that the proposed solutions, while requiring negligible additional signalling overhead, mitigate the mismatch problem to a large extent and result in significant improvements in system throughput.
Sphingolipids and ceramides of mouse aqueous humor: Comparative profiles from normotensive and hypertensive DBA/2J mice.

To identify the sphingolipid and ceramide species and their quantitative differences between normotensive and hypertensive intraocular pressure states in DBA/2J mouse aqueous humor (AH).Normotensive and hypertensive AH was sampled from mice by paracentesis. Lipid extraction was performed using modifications of the Bligh and Dyer method. Protein concentration was estimated using the Bradford colorimetric assay. Sphingolipids and ceramides were identified and subjected to ratiometric quantification using appropriate class specific lipid standards on a TSQ Quantum Access Max triple quadrupole mass spectrometer.The comparative profiles of normotensive and hypertensive DBA/2J mouse AH showed several species of sphingomyelin, sphingoid base, sphingoid base-1-phosphate (S1P) and ceramides common between them. A number of unique lipids in each of the above lipid classes were also identified in normotensive AH that were absent in hypertensive AH and vice versa.A number of sphingolipid and ceramide species were found to be uniquely present in normotensive, but absent in hypertensive AH and vice versa. Further pursuit of these findings is likely to contribute towards expanding our understanding of the molecular changes associated with increased intraocular pressure (IOP) and glaucoma.
Failure to Improve Left Ventricular Function After Coronary Revascularization for Ischemic Cardiomyopathy Is Not Associated With Worse Outcome

Background—Preoperative identification of viable myocardium in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy is considered important because CABG can result in recovery of left ventricular (LV) function. However, the hypothesis that lack of improvement of LV function after CABG is associated with poorer patient outcome is untested. Methods and Results—Outcome was compared in patients with ischemic LV dysfunction (LVEF ≤0.30) with and without improvement in LVEF after CABG. Of 135 consecutive patients, 128 (95%) survived CABG and 104 (77%) had pre- and post-CABG LVEF assessment. Of these 104 patients, 68 (65%) had >0.05 increase in LVEF (group A) and 36 (35%) had no significant change, or ≤0.05 decrease in LVEF (group B) compared with pre-CABG LVEF. No significant differences existed in age, gender, comorbidities, baseline symptoms, baseline LVEF, or intraoperative variables between groups A and B. Group A increased LVEF from 0.24±0.05 to 0.39±0.1 (P<0.005). In Group B, LVEF did not change significantly postoperat...
Impact of synechiae after endoscopic sinus surgery on long-term outcomes in chronic rhinosinusitis.

Objectives/Hypothesis Synechiae are one of the most common unwanted outcomes after endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). However, there has been scant investigation into the true significance of synechiae formation after ESS. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of synechiae formation on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) outcomes after ESS in patients with CRS. Study Design Prospective, multi-institutional cohort. Methods Rhinosinusitis Disability Index (RSDI) and Chronic Sinusitis Survey (CSS) scores were measured in adult patients before and after undergoing ESS for CRS. Differences in HRQoL were evaluated between those who developed sinonasal synechiae and those who did not, controlling for demographic factors, medical comorbidities, and measures of disease severity at baseline. Results A total of 286 patients underwent ESS, with 55 (19.2%) developing synechiae in the follow-up period. Patients developing synechiae reported significantly less improvement on the RSDI total scores (13.5 vs. 21.4, P = 0.008), RSDI physical subscores (5.3 vs. 8.3, P = 0.007), RSDI emotional subscores (2.9 vs. 5.8, P = 0.008), CSS total scores (14.5 vs. 21.2, P = 0.093), and CSS symptom subscores (19.9 vs 30.3, P = 0.069) compared to those who did not develop synechiae postoperatively. These differences persisted even after controlling for baseline differences in disease severity. Conclusions Synechiae of the sinonasal cavity commonly occurs following ESS, particularly in those undergoing revision surgeries. Although both groups improve, the degree of HRQoL improvement appears to be less in those who form postoperative synechiae after surgery compared to those who do not. Level of Evidence 2c. Laryngoscope, 123:2615–2619, 2013
Use of the Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment program in Oregon nursing facilities: beyond resuscitation status.

Objectives: Program was designed to communicate resident/surrogate treatment preferences in the form of medical orders. To assess statewide nursing facility use of the Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) and to identify the patterns of orders documented on residents' POLST forms. Design: Telephone survey; on-site POLST form review. Setting: Oregon nursing facilities. Participants: One hundred forty-six nursing facilities in the telephone survey; 356 nursing facility residents aged 65 and older at seven nursing facilities in the POLST form review. Measurements: A telephone survey; onsite POLST form reviews. Results: In the telephone survey, 71% of facilities reported using the POLST program for at least half of their residents. In the POLST form review, do-not-resuscitate (DNR) orders were present on 88% of POLST forms. On forms indicating DNR, 77% reflected preferences for more than the lowest level of treatment in at least one other category. On POLST forms indicating orders to resuscitate, 47% reflected preferences for less than the highest level of treatment in at least one other category. The oldest old (≥85, n=167) were more likely than the young old (65–74, n=48) to have orders to limit resuscitation, medical treatment, and artificial nutrition and hydration. Conclusion: The POLST program is widely used in Oregon nursing facilities. A majority of individuals with DNR orders requested some other form of life-extending treatment, and advanced age was associated with orders to limit treatments.
Narrowband Magnetic Particle Imaging

The magnetic particle imaging (MPI) method directly images the magnetization of super-paramagnetic iron oxide (SPIO) nanoparticles, which are contrast agents commonly used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MPI, as originally envisioned, requires a high-bandwidth receiver coil and preamplifier, which are difficult to optimally noise match. This paper introduces Narrowband MPI, which dramatically reduces bandwidth requirements and increases the signal-to-noise ratio for a fixed specific absorption rate. We employ a two-tone excitation (called intermodulation) that can be tailored for a high-Q, narrowband receiver coil. We then demonstrate a new MPI instrument capable of full 3-D tomographic imaging of SPIO particles by imaging acrylic and tissue phantoms.
Variola Minor in Braganca Paulista County, 1956: Overall description of the epidemic and of its study

An overall description of the epidemic of variola minor (alastrim) affecting Braganca Paulista County (Brazil) in 1956 is given. A total of 484 cases were recorded for 210 households, one hotel and one boarding school. At least 95 per cent of the households with cases of the disease in the capital city were surveyed and 90 per cent of the households in the rural districts. An orphanage, an old folk's home, the County jail and 10 schools operating in the capital city and some other social groups without cases were also surveyed, as well as 125 households without cases but with one or more contacts with the disease. An overall attack rate of 1924 cases, 267 cases and 781 cases per 100,000 inhabitants was obtained, respectively, for the capital city, the rural environment and the whole County. Clinical, epidemiological, serological and environmental surveys were conducted. Evidence on identification of the epidemic disease is presented. Study of the epidemic was made at these levels: the disease itself (frequency and severity); the disease in the individual (association of characteristics of persons with occurrence and clinical severity of variola minor); the disease in social units (occurrence and spread in households and school classes); the disease in small communities (occurrence and spread in housing projects, city blocks and farms); the disease in two large communities with contrasting socio-economic characteristics (the capital city and the rural environment); and the disease in the County as a whole.
FDA study of intraocular lenses.

Abstract The frequency of intraocular lens implantation in the United States has increased dramatically despite Federal regulation. Legal challenges prevented previous release of information. Data collected during the first two years of the FDA study reflect relative safety and effectiveness. Information on over 400,000 implantations reveals a low incidence of adverse reactions (average 1.94%) and visual results equal to or better than control cases (78%, 20/40 or better). Future reports will not reflect the same data base, since adjunct information and information on approved lenses will no longer be available.
Use and effectiveness of transdermal nicotine in primary care settings.

OBJECTIVE To assess the use and effectiveness of transdermal nicotine patches by smokers receiving care in primary care settings. DESIGN Telephone survey of a convenience sample of patients. SETTING Primary care settings in western New York. SUBJECTS Two hundred eighty-four adult members of an independent practice association health maintenance organization who received a prescription for transdermal nicotine between January 1, 1992, and June 30, 1992. MAIN OUTCOMES Patient reports regarding advice received from physicians about the use of the nicotine patch, cessation methods used in addition to the patch, usual daily use of the patch, side effects experienced while wearing the patch, and smoking behavior while using the patch and after discontinuing therapy. RESULTS Most patients reported getting proper advice from their physician about how to use the nicotine patch and possible side effects. The majority of those who used the patch said they used it every day for 24 hours. Side effects associated with using the patch were common but did not cause many subjects to discontinue therapy. Half of the patients who had completed patch therapy were not smoking, including 43% of patients who had not been using the patch for 4 months or longer. CONCLUSION Transdermal nicotine patches appear to be an effective cessation aid for smokers receiving care outside specialized smoking cessation programs. Proper pretreatment screening to identify patients who are motivated to stop smoking is critical to the success of nicotine patch therapy.
2.5D Morphogenesis: Modeling landuse and landcover dynamics in the Ecuadorian Amazon

The Ecuadorian Amazon, lying in the headwaters of the Napo and Aguarico River valleys, is experiencing rapid change in Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) conditions and regional landscape diversity uniquely tied to the spontaneous agricultural colonization of the Oriente region of northeastern Ecuador beginning in the mid to late 1970s. Spontaneous colonization occurred on squattered lands located adjacent to oil company roads and in government development sectors composed of multiple 50 ha land parcels organized into `piano key' shaped family farms or fincas. Portions of these fincas were deforested for agricultural extensification depending upon the age of the finca and several site and situation factors. Because fincas are managed at the household level as spatially discrete, temporally independent units, land conversion at the finca-level is recognized as the chief proximate cause of deforestation within the region. Focusing on the spatial and temporal dynamics of deforestation, agricultural extensification, and plant succession at the finca-level, and urbanization at the community-level, a cell-based morphogenetic model of Land Use and Land Cover Change (LULCC) was developed as the foundation for a predictive model of regional LULCC dynamics and landscape diversity. Here, LULC characteristics are determined using a time-series of remotely sensed data (i.e., Landsat Thematic Mapper (TM) and Multispectral Scanner (MSS)) using an experimental [semi-traditional] (hybrid unsupervised-supervised) classification scheme resulting in a time-series data set including LULC images for 1973, 1986, 1989, 1996, and 1999. Pixel histories of LULC type across the time-series were integrated into LULC trajectories and converted into seed or input data sets for LULC modeling to alternate time periods and for model validation. LULC simulations, achieved through cellular automata (CA) methodologies, were run on an annual basis to the year 2010 using 1973 as the initial conditions and the satellite time-series as the `check points' in the simulations. The model was developed using the Imagine Spatial Modeler of the ERDAS image processing software, and enhanced using the Spatial Modeler Language (SML). The model works by (a) simulating the present by extrapolating from the past using the image time-series, (b) validating the simulations via the remotely sensed time-series of past conditions and through field observations of current conditions, (c) allowing the model to iterate to the year 2010, and (d) comparing model outputs to an autoregressive time-series approach for annual conditions that are compared via paired t-tests of pattern metrics run at the landscape-level to define compositional and structural differences between successive model outputs.
Preservation of H2 production activity in nanoporous latex coatings of Rhodopseudomonas palustris CGA009 during dry storage at ambient temperatures

To assess the applicability of latex cell coatings as an "off-the-shelf' biocatalyst, the effect of osmoprotectants, temperature, humidity and O{sub 2} on preservation of H{sub 2} production in Rhodopseudomonas palustris coatings was evaluated. Immediately following latex coating coalescence (24 h) and for up to 2 weeks of dry storage, rehydrated coatings containing different osmoprotectants displayed similar rates of H{sub 2} production. Beyond 2 weeks of storage, sorbitol- treated coatings lost all H{sub 2} production activity, whereas considerable H{sub 2} production was still detected in sucrose- and trehalose-stabilized coatings. The relative humidity level at which the coatings were stored had a significant impact on the recovery and subsequent rates of H{sub 2} production. After 4 weeks storage under air at 60% humidity, coatings produced only trace amounts of H{sub 2} (0-0.1% headspace accumulation), whereas those stored at <5% humidity retained 27-53% of their H{sub 2} production activity after 8 weeks of storage. When stored in argon at <5% humidity and room temperature, R. palustris coatings retained full H{sub 2} production activity for 3 months, implicating oxidative damage as a key factor limiting coating storage. Overall, the results demonstrate that biocatalytic latex coatings are an attractive cell immobilization platform for preservation of bioactivity in the dry state.
Increased plasma basic fibroblast growth factor is associated with coronary heart disease in adult type 2 diabetes mellitus

Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) is a potent endothelial and smooth muscle cell mitogen that does not normally circulate. Plasma bFGF-like bioactivity was increased in association with persistent microalbuminuria (a risk marker for cardiovascular disease) in adult type 2 diabetes mellitus. In the present study, we tested whether baseline plasma bFGF immunoreactivity (IR) predicts the occurrence of a subset of cardiovascular disease outcomes in adults with advanced type 2 diabetes mellitus from the Veterans Affairs Diabetes Trial (mean: age, 59 years; diabetes duration, 11 years; baseline hemoglobin A(1c), 9.5%). Plasma bFGF-IR was determined with a sensitive and specific 2-site enzyme-linked immunoassay in 399 patients at the baseline visit. These results were then evaluated as possible predictors of the occurrence of prespecified cardiovascular or coronary heart disease end points. There was a borderline-significant association (P = .07) between plasma bFGF-IR and the main study cardiovascular disease outcome (myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure, cerebrovascular accident, amputation, cardiovascular death, coronary, cerebrovascular or peripheral revascularization, and inoperable coronary artery disease). Plasma bFGF-IR was significantly associated with the occurrence of coronary heart disease (P = .01). After adjusting for clinical risk factors, bFGF (hazard ratio [HR], 1.013; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.007-1.019; P < .0001), prior macrovascular event (HR, 3.55; 95% CI, 2.154-5.839; P < .0001), and duration of diabetes (HR, 1.041; 95% CI, 1.012-1.071; P = .0055) were all significantly associated with time to first postrandomization coronary heart disease occurrence. These results suggest that increased plasma bFGF-IR may be a novel risk marker for coronary heart disease occurrence in adult men with advanced type 2 diabetes mellitus.
A Cost-Shaping LP for Bellman Error Minimization with Performance Guarantees

We introduce a new algorithm based on linear programming that approximates the differential value function of an average-cost Markov decision process via a linear combination of pre-selected basis functions. The algorithm carries out a form of cost shaping and minimizes a version of Bellman error. We establish an error bound that scales gracefully with the number of states without imposing the (strong) Lyapunov condition required by its counterpart in [6]. We propose a path-following method that automates selection of important algorithm parameters which represent counterparts to the "state-relevance weights" studied in [6].
Evaluating host use of an accidentally introduced herbivore on two invasive toadflaxes

Abstract The distribution of phytophagous insects is influenced by their preference for and performance on their host plants. Biological control agents of invasive plants that prefer and perform better on their target hosts are more likely to be both effective and safe. Brachypterolus pulicarius is an herbivore used in North America to combat two invasive plants, yellow toadflax and Dalmatian toadflax ( Linaria vulgaris and Linaria dalmatica ). Adult beetles prefer yellow toadflax over Dalmatian toadflax, and when beetles are redistributed onto Dalmatian toadflax, populations do not consistently establish. This leads to the hypothesis that beetle larvae will perform best on yellow toadflax. A reciprocal transfer experiment was conducted to test this hypothesis. Development rate, pupal mass and percent survival were measured to assess larval performance. Development time was influenced by an interaction between the source host and the test host, a pattern suggesting that it is important to consider both the collection host and redistribution host when releasing this beetle for the control of toadflax. Pupal mass of larvae reared on yellow toadflax was, on average, 13% greater than that of larvae reared on Dalmatian toadflax, supporting the hypothesis. Survival rate was not significantly influenced by source host, test host, or their interaction, suggesting that survival rates will be similar no matter the combination of collection host and redistribution host. These results, along with the preference that adult beetles show for yellow toadflax, do not support the redistribution of B. pulicarius onto Dalmatian toadflax in North America.
Radiology lessons from Greek history.

most prominent 100 Athenian citizens was paid 6,000 drachmas in return for the production of a ship. Given the competitive spirit of the ancient Greeks, each wanted to build the fastest and best ship, at the lowest cost. This was not a government program, as the democracy of Athens really had no formal government at the time. By the time of the Persian invasion of Greece 3 years later, Athens had 200 warships and was well on its way to newfound prosperity. Although not the stated goal of his proposal, Themistocles had envisioned a need for Athens to have a fleet for defense, as another Persian invasion was almost inevitable after the Persians were defeated in a previous attempted invasion of Greece in 492 BC. With the now strong Athenian fleet, a coalition of Greek city-states engaged in taking on the Persians, with real hope of victory, although against daunting odds. The Persians fielded well over a million men, perhaps over 2 million, and had a fleet of 1,200 ships. Even with the 200 ships from Athens, the combined Greek fleet was less than 500, but was more disciplined, better trained, and cohesive in battle strategy. The Greeks did succeed in defeating the Persians in the Battle of Salamis in 480. Before the climactic battle, Athe
Interest Rates and the Bank Risk-Taking Channel

The recent global financial crisis has brought the debate on how interest rates affect bank risk-taking to center stage. Proponents of this new risk-taking channel of monetary policy have argued that the low interest–rate environment in the run-up to the crisis may have created incentives for banks to take on excessive leverage and lower their lending standard, thus weakening bank portfolios. There is growing empirical evidence supporting this view. In contrast, this link has been little studied from a theoretical standpoint, leaving somewhat of a hole in our understanding of why (and how) banks’ decisions concerning the overall risk of their portfolios, and their capital structures, may be influenced by changes in the interest rate environment and, by extension, policy choices (e.g., monetary policy) that affect it. We summarize some of the emerging literature on this topic (both empirical and theoretical), as well as some of the more classical work on related topics. We also present a simple model that ...
Life-Cycle Finance in Theory and in Practice*

This paper draws upon the modern science of finance to address several important practical issues in personal finance. Chief among these is how much to save for retirement and how to invest those savings. The paper suggests ways that advances in the theory of finance combined with innovations in financial contracting technology might be used to improve social welfare by designing and producing a new generation of userfriendly life-cycle products for consumers.
New connection between spinors and geometry

We study those nonlinear infinitesimal realizations ofSL(2,C) that leave invariant the quadratic function $$\dot x_\mu \dot x_\mu $$ of the four-velocity components of a particle. These transformations are defined as maps of a larger manifold, which includes the four-velocity space, into itself in such a way that transformations of the $$\dot x_\mu $$ depend upon other functions in the manifold. The requirement that $$\dot x_\mu \dot x_\mu $$ remain invariant limits the types of other functions that can contribute in the transformation of the $$\dot x_\mu $$ . However, among those allowed are the spinors and a three-dimensional space that transforms nonlinearly and recently associated with electric charge. We point out and explore two interesting aspects of these nonlinear realizations. First, they generally necessitate interactions since $$\ddot x_\mu = 0$$ is not a covariant equation. Second, with superposition of solutions, exact measurement of the four-velocity or space-time position, is impossible. This and related features of nondeterministic measurement inherent to these realizations are discussed.