cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Outcome measurement in sleep medicine practice and research. Part 1: assessment of symptoms, subjective and objective daytime sleepiness, health-related quality of life and functional status

The documentation of treatment outcomes has gained increased importance as those responsible for paying for healthcare focus on the delivery of cost-effective care. The practitioner and researcher, challenged with documenting the clinical significance of their endeavors, must depend on conceptually appropriate, valid and reliable instruments. Outcomes of particular relevance for sleep disorders include self-reported general symptoms, subjective and objective daytime sleepiness, neurobehavior, health-related quality of life (HRQL) or functional status, incidence of accidents and cardiovascular morbidity, and health care utilization and cost. This paper will limit its focus to the outcomes of self-reported general symptoms, subjective and objective daytime sleepiness, and HRQL or functional status. In addition to describing measures that could be applied to evaluate these outcomes, this paper will also discuss factors affecting the selection of outcome measures for use in research and practice, and consider evidence generated with the application of these instruments in research. Reductions in self-reported symptoms, such as snoring and daytime hypersomnolence following treatment, have been documented with the application of measures with strong psychometric properties such as the Survey Screen for Sleep Apnea and Epworth Sleepiness Scale. In addition to statistical reliability, calculation of the effect size and standardized response mean indicate that these changes are also clinically meaningful. Similar improvements have also been demonstrated using the Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT), although the resulting increased latency has not typically been within normal values. Important improvements following treatment have been documented with the Maintenance of Wakefulness Test (MWT). Evidence suggests that the MWT may be more sensitive in situations, such as narcolepsy, where there are high levels of physiologic sleepiness, reserving the MSLT where the physiologic sleep tendency is more restricted, such as in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Patients>> perceptions of the benefit of treatment to their daily lives have been documented by such generic measures of HRQL, such as the SF-36 and Nottingham Health Profile. However, the impact of sleep disorders and the benefit of treatment on those aspects of daily behavior likely to be most affected have more clearly been demonstrated with the utilization of disease-specific HRQL measures such as the Functional Outcomes of Sleep Questionnaire and the Calgary Sleep Apnea Quality of Life Index. 2001 Harcourt Publishers Ltd
Global process instrumentation—Issues and problems of a system and control theory framework

Abstract The synthesis/design and operation of large-scale industrial process/systems has as an integral part the selection of systems of measurement and actuation variables. Although the way we measure individual physical variables and act upon them is governed by the traditional instrumentation rules, the selection of systems of measurement and actuation variables has a significant effect on the shaping of the final system and thus it is crucial in defining the control quality properties (process controllability) and operability characteristics of the final design. This paper aims at examining the fundamental issues related to the selection of systems of measurement and actuation variables in the context of integrated process design. It is argued that the theoretical framework for these issues is that of systems and control theory. A number of key problems which are essential in the effort to develop a global instrumentation philosophy and design methodology are introduced.
Efficacy of preoperative home use of 2% chlorhexidine gluconate cloth before shoulder surgery

Hypothesis Deep infection after shoulder surgery is a rare but devastating problem. This study tested the hypothesis that the home application of a 2% chlorhexidine gluconate cloth before shoulder surgery would be more efficacious than a standard shower of soap and water at decreasing the preoperative cutaneous levels of pathogenic bacteria on the shoulder. Materials and methods This randomized, prospective study evaluated 100 consecutive patients undergoing shoulder surgery. Patients were randomly assigned to use 2% chlorhexidine gluconate–impregnated cloths (treatment group) or to shower with soap and water before surgery (control group). Cutaneous cultures were taken from the patients’shoulders in the preoperative holding area. Patients were monitored for 2 months postoperatively for clinical signs of infection. Results In the treatment group vs the control group, the overall positive culture rate was 66% vs 94% ( P = .0008), and the positive culture rate for coagulase-negative Staphylococcus was 30% vs 70% ( P = .0001). The positive culture rate for Propionibacterium acnes was 46% in the treatment group vs 58% in the control group ( P = .32). No infections occurred in any patients at a minimum of 2-months after surgery. Discussion The use of the 2% chlorhexidine cloth was effective at decreasing overall bacterial culture rates before shoulder surgery and was particularly effective at decreasing the quantity of coagulase-negative Staphylococcus , a known causative agent of postoperative shoulder infections. Conclusion Use of chlorhexidine impregnated cloths prior to shoulder surgery may be a useful adjunct to presently used infection prevention strategies.
All-optical processing with molecular switches

A gradual transition from electrical to optical networks is accompanying the rapid progress of telecommunication technology. The urge for enhanced transmission capacity and speed is dictating this trend. In fact, large volumes of data encoded on optical signals can be transported rapidly over long distances. Their propagation along specific routes across a communication network is ensured by a combination of optical fibers and optoelectronic switches. It is becoming apparent, however, that the interplay between the routing electrical stimulations and the traveling optical signals will not be able to support the terabit-per-second capacities that will be needed in the near future. Electrical inputs cannot handle the immense parallelism potentially possible with optical signals. Operating principles to control optical signals with optical signals must be developed. Molecular and supramolecular switches are promising candidates for the realization of innovative materials for information technology. Binary digits can be encoded in their chemical, electrical, or optical inputs and outputs to execute specific logic functions. We have developed a simple strategy to gate optical signals with optical signals by using a photoactive molecular switch. We have demonstrated that NAND, NOR, and NOT operations can be implemented exclusively with optical inputs and optical outputs coupling from one to three switching elements. Our remarkably simple approach to all-optical switching might lead to the development of a new generation of devices for digital processing and communication technology.
Wave‐particle interactions during a dipolarization front event

We present Cluster observations of wave-particle interactions during an earthward propagating dipolarization front (DF) and associated fast plasma bulk flows detected at the central current sheet in Earth's magnetotail. During this period, flux tubes behind the DF frequently contain more energetic or hotter ions than did the preexisting flux tubes ahead of the DF. On the other hand, electrons within the DF flux tubes heat less, or are even colder, than were the preexisting populations and are often accompanied by superposed isolated beams. At the same time, electrostatic emissions are strongly enhanced over a wide range of frequencies (up to several times the electron cyclotron frequency) behind the DFs. This low-frequency electrostatic wave power is well correlated with ion energization. From linear theory, we find two wave modes: a high-frequency beam mode and a low-frequency whistler mode that are associated with the electron beam component. We attribute the generation of whistlers to electron beams that persist for a while before undergoing rapid thermalization. The existence of isolated beam components behind DFs detected during the 4 s Cluster spin period indicates that DFs either provide a continuous source of electron beams or facilitate a physical process that maintains the beams against rapid thermalization. Our analysis suggests that the earthward motion of the DF flux tube, via Fermi acceleration as the magnetic field lines behind the DF shorten, can lead to the persistent electron beams that generate whistler mode waves, which in turn can heat ions. This scenario, by which free energy in electron beams generates waves that then heat ions, accounts for the Cluster observations of different energization behaviors between electrons and ions behind DFs.
Critical Race Theory in Education and Qualitative Inquiry What Each Has to Offer Each Other Now

This introduction presents an overview of the special issue on critical race theory (CRT)/critical race studies (CRS) that appeared in a 2002 issue of Qualitative Inquiry. I then go on to discuss h...
A liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry assay for d-Ala-d-Lac: A key intermediate for vancomycin resistance in vancomycin-resistant enterococci

Vancomycin exerts its antibacterial activity by binding to d-Ala-d-Ala in bacterial cell wall precursors. Vancomycin resistance in vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) is due to an alternative cell wall biosynthesis pathway in which d-Ala-d-Ala is replaced, most commonly by d-Ala-d-Lac. In this study, we extend our recently developed Marfey's derivatization-based liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) assay for l-Ala, d-Ala, and d-Ala-d-Ala to d-Ala-d-Lac and apply it to the quantitation of these metabolites in VRE. The first step in this effort was the development of an effective washing method for removing medium components from VRE cells. Mar-d-Ala-d-Lac was well resolved chromatographically from Mar-d-Ala-d-Ala, a prerequisite for MS/MS quantitation of d-Ala-d-Ala and d-Ala-d-Lac. Mar-d-Ala-d-Lac gave similar detection parameters, sensitivity, and linearity as Mar-d-Ala-d-Ala. l-Ala, d-Ala, d-Ala-d-Ala, and d-Ala-d-Lac levels in VRE were then determined in the presence of variable vancomycin levels. Exposure to vancomycin resulted in a dramatic reduction of d-Ala-d-Ala, with a response midpoint at approximately 0.06μg/ml vancomycin and with a broad response profile up to 128μg/ml vancomycin. In contrast, d-Ala-d-Lac was present in the absence of vancomycin, with its level constant up to 128μg/ml vancomycin. This method will be useful for the discovery, characterization, and refinement of new agents targeting vancomycin resistance in VRE.
Clinical and laboratory evaluation of aids trichopathy

Background. The present study reports the incidence of trichocutaneous disorders studied in 500 patients infected with HIV I in a large university-based setting. Correlation of these findings with immunologic function at the time of diagnosis is presented. Unusual presentations and therapeutic interventions are discussed. Prognosis as related to various trichocutaneous disorders is elaborated. Methods. All patients in this study were hivi positive by Western blot assay. T-cell subsets were evaluated by monoclonal antibodies against T-cell surface markers. Hair disorders were analyzed by means of light hair pull test, hair mount, polarizing microscopy, trichogram, scalp biophsy, and cultures for bacteria, fungi, and mycobacteria as indicated. Trichologic manifestations were classified based upon immunologic correlation of absolute level of helper T cells/mm3. Results. The majority of hair disorders in the study population occurred with helper T cell numbers of less than 150/mm3. Papulosquamous problems including seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis were most commonly noted followed by disorders of cell growth cycle regulation and trichokeratinization, i.e., telogen effluvium and loose anagen syndrome. Conclusions. Multiple trichocutaneous disorders occur in the setting of retroviral infection. Most of these disorders occur in the setting of progressive immunoincompetence. The awareness of the disorders described here will aid the clinician in both the recognition and management of pilar aberrations in the appropriate clinical setting.
Resistance of soil microorganisms to starvation.

Most groups of soil microorganisms died when exposed to prolonged starvation in a carbon-free solution, but the relative abundance of Bacillus and actinomycetes increased with time. Certain nonspore-forming bacteria also persisted. The ability of individual soil isolates to endure starvation in solution was not correlated with their glycogen content or rate of endogenous respiration. However, cells of the resistant populations were rich in poly-beta-hydroxybutyrate, whereas the starvation-susceptible bacteria generally contained little of this substance. Poly-beta-hydroxybutyrate was used rapidly in cells deprived of exogenous sources of carbon.
Oxidative dimerization in metallothionein is a result of intermolecular disulphide bonds between cysteines in the α-domain

Upon storage under aerobic conditions metallothioneins (MTs) form a new species, which is characterized by a molecular mass approximately twice the size of monomeric MT and shifted (113/111)Cd- and (1)H-NMR resonances. The investigation of this oxidative dimerization process by NMR spectroscopy allowed us to structurally characterize this MT species that has been described to occur in vivo and might be synthesized under conditions of oxidative stress. The oxidative dimer was characterized by the formation of an intermolecular cysteine disulphide bond involving the alpha-domain, and a detailed analysis of chemical shift changes and intermolecular nuclear Overhauser effects points towards a disulphide bond involving Cys(36). In contrast to the metal-bridged (non-oxidative) dimerization, the metal-cysteine cluster structures in both MT domains remain intact and no conformational exchange or metal-metal exchange was observed. Also in contrast to the many recently reported oxidative processes which involve the beta-domain cysteine groups and result in the increased dynamics of the bound metal ions in this N-terminal domain, we found no evidence for any increased dynamics in the alpha-domain metals following this oxidation. Therefore these findings provide additional corroboration that metal binding in the C-terminal alpha-domain is rather tight, even under conditions of a changing cellular oxidation potential, compared with the more labile/dynamic nature of the metals in the N-terminal beta-domain cluster under similar conditions.
Specific heat of single crystals of YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7 − δ : Fluctuation effects in a bulk superconductor

Gaussian fluctuations have been observed in the specific heat of two single crystals ${\mathrm{YBa}}_{2}$${\mathrm{Cu}}_{3}$${\mathrm{O}}_{7\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}\mathrm{\ensuremath{\delta}}}$. Deviations from a BCS-type step are well accounted for by 3D Gaussian fluctuations whose amplitude ratio, in the cleaner sample, implies that the number of order-parameter components is 7\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}2. This result is inconsistent with an O(2) Ginzburg-Landau theory.
Effects of noncompetitive N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor antagonists on opiate tolerance and physical dependence

Recent research has demonstrated that N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, a class of excitatory amino acid receptors, may have an important role in opiate tolerance and physical dependence. Much of the evidence for this has arisen from studies that have examined the effects of NMDA receptor antagonists on these phenomena. This article summarizes research from our laboratory on the effects of NMDA receptor antagonists on opiate tolerance and dependence in rats. Noncompetitive NMDA antagonists, including MK-801, ketamine, phencyclidine, and dextrorphan have been found at low doses to inhibit the development, or acquisition, of opiate tolerance and dependence but not the expression. The results suggest that NMDA receptors have a role in the neural plasticity responsible for tolerance and dependence. Selected theoretical and therapeutic implications of these findings are discussed.
Observation of a two-stage soliton breakup

We experimentally demonstrate a two-stage breakup of a pre-chirped soliton optical pulse in optical fiber. Each stage accepts a single input pulse and produces two independent pulses. The stages are cascaded to produce a one-to-four breakup.
Protecting Culture and Marine Ecosystems Under the Law in Micronesia

Traditional culture and marine ecosystems are two important resources that are disappearing at alarming rates worldwide. Islands are places where culture and the marine environment are intertwined and offer the best locales to address this threat. Disasters such as shipwrecks and oil spills damage both culture and the environment, yet the legal system does not permit full recovery. This research advances a new tort theory of cultural and ecosystem damage to compensate victims in marine damage cases. Specifically this research investigates theories of recovery in the Federated States of Micronesia since Micronesia is in an ideal position to recognize this new damage theory. Micronesia can help establish precedents that other jurisdictions can follow to help preserve the culture and the marine ecosystems upon which they rely.
Repetitive bimanual integrative therapy (RABIT) virtual rehabilitation system

Virtual rehabilitation games have gained increased clinical acceptance in the therapy of patients post stroke or traumatic brain injury. This is due to their ability to motivate, as well as intrinsic large number of movement repetitions that are keys to inducing brain plasticity and facilitating recovery. Unfortunately, bi-manual therapy, while potentially more efficacious, is less developed at this time. The novel RABIT system combines physical and cognitive training in integrative game-play sessions. Using the Razer Hydra game interface, the patients playa series of custom games designed to improve focusing, decision making (executive function), short-term and long-term memory, progressing in difficulty over 6 weeks of therapy.
Resilient Security Architecture: A Complementary Approach to Reducing Vulnerabilities

The software industry would benefit from more emphasis on avoiding security mistakes in the first place. That means security requirements analysis and architecting and designing security in, an approach that's currently rare but that provides substantial benefits. The most common approaches to the latent (generally called 0-day) vulnerability problem fall into one of two categories: Do nothing. Wait for vulnerabilities to be discovered after release, and then patch them. Test security in. Implement code with vulnerabilities, and invest in finding or removing as many vulnerabilities as practical before release or production.
Modeling advection and diffusion of oxygen in complex vascular networks.

A realistic geometric model for the three-dimensional capillary network geometry is used as a framework for studying the transport and consumption of oxygen in cardiac tissue. The nontree-like capillary network conforms to the available morphometric statistics and is supplied by a single arterial source and drains into a pair of venular sinks. We explore steady-state oxygen transport and consumption in the tissue using a mathematical model which accounts for advection in the vascular network, nonlinear binding of dissolved oxygen to hemoglobin and myoglobin, passive diffusion of freely dissolved and protein-bound oxygen, and Michaelis–Menten consumption in the parenchymal tissue. The advection velocity field is found by solving the hemodynamic problem for flow throughout the network. The resulting system is described by a set of coupled nonlinear elliptic equations, which are solved using a finite-difference numerical approximation. We find that coupled advection and diffusion in the three-dimensional system enhance the dispersion of oxygen in the tissue compared to the predictions of simplified axially distributed models, and that no “lethal corner,” or oxygen-deprived region occurs for physiologically reasonable values for flow and consumption. Concentrations of 0.5–1.0 mM myoglobin facilitate the transport of oxygen and thereby protect the tissue from hypoxia at levels near its p50 that is, when local oxygen consumption rates are close to those of delivery by flow and myoglobin-facilitated diffusion, a fairly narrow range. © 2001 Biomedical Engineering Society.
Use of Indicators in Ecological Risk Assessments for Persistent, Bioaccumulative Toxicants

This paper synthesizes several presentations on the use of indicators in ecological risk assessments for persistent, bioaccumulative toxicants (PBTs). The presentations were organized around two chemical case studies: (1) mercury, and (2) compounds that exhibit an Ah-receptor based mode-of-action. Presenters summarized the current practice of ecological risk assessment for these compounds and described research on known or suspected impacts. In addition, this paper addresses three special topics that apply broadly to all PBTs: (1) the convergence of ecological assessment and ecological risk assessment, (2) integration of ecological and human health risk assessment, and (3) risk assessments for population-level effects.
Export Management Companies

This article helps to define the services and nature of export management companies in the United States. Specifically, attention is given to the organizational characteristics of these firms. Also discussed are: the breadth of country expertise, the breadth of product expertise, the factors involved in taking on a new line, and the costs that may be expected by manufacturers in using an EMC. Implications for management and for government policy are considered at the end of the article.
Critical Role of S1PR1 and Integrin β4 in HGF/c-Met-mediated Increases in Vascular Integrity

Vascular endothelial cell (EC) barrier integrity is critical to vessel homeostasis whereas barrier dysfunction is a key feature of inflammatory disorders and tumor angiogenesis. We previously reported that hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)-mediated increases in EC barrier integrity are signaled through a dynamic complex present in lipid rafts involving its receptor, c-Met (1). We extended these observations to confirm that S1PR1 (sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor 1) and integrin β4 (ITGB4) are essential participants in HGF-induced EC barrier enhancement. Immunoprecipitation experiments demonstrated HGF-mediated recruitment of c-Met, ITGB4 and S1PR1 to caveolin-enriched lipid rafts in human lung EC with direct interactions of c-Met with both S1PR1 and ITGB4 accompanied by c-Met-dependent S1PR1 and ITGB4 transactivation. Reduced S1PR1 expression (siRNA) attenuated both ITGB4 and Rac1 activation as well as c-Met/ITGB4 interaction and resulted in decreased transendothelial electrical resistance. Furthermore, reduced ITGB4 expression attenuated HGF-induced c-Met activation, c-Met/S1PR1 interaction, and effected decreases in S1P- and HGF-induced EC barrier enhancement. Finally, the c-Met inhibitor, XL880, suppressed HGF-induced c-Met activation as well as S1PR1 and ITGB4 transactivation. These results support a critical role for S1PR1 and ITGB4 transactivation as rate-limiting events in the transduction of HGF signals via a dynamic c-Met complex resulting in enhanced EC barrier integrity.
Constructing educational consensus: international development professionals and the world conference on education for all

Abstract Since the end of World War II, a distinct community of organizations has emerged in high-income countries to promote `development' in the low-income countries of Africa, Asia, and Latin America. This paper examines some of the effects of these organizations and the professionals they have produced on international educational norms and conventions, as typified by the 1990 World Conference on Education for All. I suggest that organizational variables, such as professionalism and resource dependence, rather than nation-state interests and dominance alone, explain the standardization of Western models of mass education in international conventions and declarations.
Vulvar pruritus in a postmenopausal woman

A 62-year-old woman presents with chronic vulvar pruritus. She treated herself for yeast vaginitis without improvement. She has had progressive dyspareunia and intermittent difficulty with defecation, as well as insomnia, which she attributes to ongoing itch. On examination, white vulvar plaques are
Estrogen-triggered delays in mammary gland gene expression during the estrous cycle: evidence for a novel timing system.

During the estrous cycle and beginning in estrus, the mammary gland undergoes pregnancy-like development that depends on transcriptional regulation by the estrogen and progesterone receptors (ER, PR) and Pax-2 as well as the action of the growth factors Wnt-4 and RANKL. In this report, we first describe the decay and delayed expression of ERa, PR, and Pax-2 proteins as well as depression of Wnt-4 and RANKL mRNA coincident with the strong estrogen surge in proestrus. In time-course studies using ovariectomized mice, a single estrogen injection replicated these delays and caused an 18 h delay in Wnt-4 expression. Molecular time-delay systems are at the core of cellular cycles, most notably the circadian clock, and depend on proteasome degradation of transcriptional regulators that exhibit dedicated timing functions. The cytoplasmic dynamics of these regulators govern delay duration through negative transcription/translation feedback loops. A proteasome inhibitor, PS-341, blocked estrogen-stimulated ERa, PR, and Pax-2 decay and proteasome chymotryptic activity, assayed using a fluorogenic substrate, was elevated in proestrus correlating with the depletion of the transcription factors. The 18-h delay in Wnt-4 induction corresponded to the turnover time of Pax-2 protein in the cytoplasm and was eliminated in Pax-2 knockout mammary tissue, demonstrating that Pax-2 has a unique timing function. The patterns of estrogen-triggered ERa, PR, and Pax-2 turnover were consistent with a negative transcriptional feedback. Retarding the expression of ERa, PR, and Pax-2 may optimize preparations for pregnancy by coordinating expression of critical receptors and transcription factors with rising estrogen and progesterone levels in estrus. The estrogen surge in proestrus has no defined mammotropic function. This study provides the first evidence that it is a synchronizing signal triggering proteasome-dependent turnover of mammary gland ERa, PR, and Pax-2. We hypothesize that the delays reflect a previously unrecognized timing system, which is present in all ovarian target tissues. Journal of Endocrinology (2006) 190, 225–239
Isolated single quantum dot emitters in all-epitaxial microcavities

Data are presented on a fabrication approach that places an isolated single quantum dot at the center of a semiconductor microcavity. The microcavity is based on an all-epitaxial mesa-confined design that is mechanically robust and provides the thermal dissipation needed for a single photon source device technology. Microphotoluminescence is used to reveal single quantum dot emission with the essential optical properties of single quantum emitters.
Simulating anisotropic thermal conduction in supernova remnants - II. Implications for the interstellar medium

We present a large number of 2.5D simulations of supernova remnants expanding into interstellar media having a range of densities, temperatures and magnetic field strengths. The simulations include equilibrium cooling and anisotropic, flux-limited thermal conduction along magnetic field lines. The volume of hot gas produced during the remnant’s evolution is shown to be strongly influenced by the inclusion of thermal conduction, supporting prior results by Slavin & Cox and Tilley & Balsara. The magnetic field has also been shown to play an extremely important role in reheating the gas at later epochs when the hot gas bubble collapses on itself. Low-density, strongly magnetized runs show the greatest effect of this reheating. The four-volumes and three-areas of gas with characteristic temperatures that cause it to emit in O VI ,O VII and O VIII have also been catalogued and their dependence on interstellar parameters has been documented. The results reveal the importance of magnetic tension forces as well as the anisotropic thermal conduction along field lines for the production of these ions. Simulated luminosities and linewidths of O VI ,O VII and O VIII as well as their dosages have been catalogued. Simulated linewidths of radioactive species, 26 Al and 60 Fe, ejected by supernovae have also been catalogued and found to be less than 200 km s −1 for most of the remnants’ evolution. These results enable us to understand why INTEGRAL has thus far been unable to detect very large linewidths for these radioactive species in certain star-forming regions.
Fiber optic communication technologies: What's needed for datacenter network operations

In this article we review the growing trend of warehouse-scale mega-datacenter computing, the Internet transformation driven by mega-datacenter applications, and the opportunities and challenges for fiber optic communication technologies to support the growth of mega-datacenter computing in the next three to four years.
Microcomputer-Assisted Relaxation

The present pilot study was designed to test the effectiveness of a microcomputer program developed by the authors to induce relaxation and focused attention, which are common to most clinical stre...
Living in a tinderbox: wildfire risk perceptions and mitigating behaviours

The loss of homes to wildfires is an important issue in the USA and other countries. Yet many homeowners living in fire-prone areas do not undertake mitigating actions, such as clearing vegetation, to decrease the risk of losing their home. To better understand the complexity of wildfire risk-mitigation decisions and the role of perceived risk, we conducted a survey of homeowners in a fire-prone area of the front range of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. We examine the relationship between perceived wildfire risk ratings and risk-mitigating behaviours in two ways. First, we model wildfire risk-mitigation behaviours as a function of perceived risk. Then, we model wildfire risk-mitigation behaviours and perceived risk simultaneously. The results of the simultaneous model suggest that perceived risk and wildfire risk-mitigating behaviours are jointly determined. By correctly specifying the relationship between risk perceptions and mitigating behaviours, we are better able to understand the relationship between other factors, such as exposure to a wildfire-mitigation program and wildfire risk-mitigating behaviours. We also find that having a wood roof, as well as homeowner age, income and previous experience with living in a fire-prone area, are associated with wildfire risk-mitigating behaviours.
Transverse impedance implementation in ORBIT

The transverse stability and broadening of the beam turn out to be the most problematic issues in the Spallation Neutron Source ring operation. The particle simulation code ORBIT, initially written for space charge and halo growth studies, now is able to cover a broad spectrum of the accumulator ring problems. Here we present an implementation of a collective force simulation due, to impedance elements in the vacuum chamber of the ring.
Volumetric Effects in Coal Sorption Capacity Measurements

Many types of materials e.g., rubber, polymer, coal, change their volume and structure after absorption of gaseous and liquid substances. Various kinds of volume changes affect the accuracy of absorption measurements by gravimetric and manometric methods, the two major techniques currently employed. The errors associated with the volumetric effects, specifically, the case of carbon dioxide sorption on coal, were investigated. It was demonstrated that the resulting error in the buoyancy correction in the gravimetric method is equivalent to the corresponding error in the assumed void volume in the manometric method. It is suggested that the integration of the two methods, combined with the binary gas mixture technique of in-situ volume measurement, will contribute to dramatically improve the accuracy of absorption measurements for plastic materials.
Defective Development of γ/δ T Cells in Interleukin 7 Receptor–Deficient Mice Is Due to Impaired Expression of T Cell Receptor γ Genes

Mice lacking the interleukin 7 receptor (IL-7R) generate α/β T cells at a detectable but greatly reduced rate, but γ/δ T cells are completely absent. The special role of IL-7R signaling in γ/δ T cell development has remained unclear. IL-7Rα−/− mice exhibit a paucity of γ gene rearrangements. This striking observation can be explained by a defect in T cell receptor (TCR)-γ gene rearrangement, a defect in TCR-γ gene transcription leading to death of γ/δ lineage cells, and/or a requirement for IL-7R in commitment of cells to the γ/δ lineage. To determine the role of IL-7R signaling in γ/δ T cell development, we examined transcription of a prerearranged TCR-γ transgene in IL-7Rα−/− mice, as well as the effects of IL-7 on transcription of endogenous, rearranged TCR-γ genes in α/β lineage cells. The results demonstrate that IL-7R–mediated signals are necessary for the normal expression of rearranged TCR-γ genes. Equally significant, the results show that the poor expression of TCR-γ genes in IL-7Rα−/− mice is responsible for the selective deficit in γ/δ cells in these mice, since a high copy TCR-γ transgene exhibited sufficient residual expression in IL-7Rα−/− mice to drive γ/δ cell development. The results indicate that the absence of γ/δ T cells in IL-7Rα−/− mice is due to insufficient TCR-γ gene expression.
Effect of Foreclosure Status on Residential Selling Price: Comment

In this comment we examine the conclusion by Forgey, Rutherford and VanBuskirk (1994) “that the foreclosed properties sold at a 23% discount,” using a sample of nearly 2,000 residential property sales from the Las Vagas, Nevada area. We found that when not controlling for location with a set of dummy variables for zip codes, HUD foreclosed properties sold for between 12.18% and 13.96% below a random sample of properties not within one block of foreclosed properties. When controlling for location, using a set of thirty-one dummy variables for zip codes, the foreclosure discount fell to between 8.45% and 9.72%. When controlling for the common characteristics between foreclosed properties and their neighbors, we found foreclosure discounts are very small (between .17% and 2.58%) and no longer statistically significant. We conclude that foreclosure does not provide an opportunity for arbitrage profits, and this study does reinforce the findings of other studies that conclude real estate markets operate effici...
Two-stage technique for optimum fit and stability of light-polymerized record bases.

undergoes shrinkage during polymerization which promotes gap formation in the palatal area. Specifically, gaps form at the midpalatal region of the posterior border and compromise the posterior palatal seal. 5,7 When exposed to visible light, the composite resin material closest to the light source polymerizes first, thus causing lift-off of the material, producing a gap by drawing the material away from the cast as a result of shrinkage. Different methods have been introduced to eliminate the number of defects in an effort to obtain a more accurate fit. These methods include lining the record base with elastic impression materials or silicone resilient materials, 8 vacuum adaptation of the record base, 6 and staged polymerization by covering the palatal portion of the record base. 5 However, resilient liners tend to tear from the record base from repeated seating and removal, resulting in inaccurate seating of the bases. The use of vacuum only improves adaptation without addressing gap formation resulting from polymerization shrinkage. Multiple processing procedures in the polymerizing unit require repeated adaptation and are time consuming and impractical. The edentulous maxilla consists of a relatively flat portion in the middle of the hard palate and an inclined slope toward the residual ridge. Due to the geometric features of the palatal concavity configuration, the shrinkage occurring toward the residual ridge leads to lifting of the record base in the midpalatal region. 7 By dividing the Triad sheet into 2 pieces along the junction of the horizontal and vertical configuration of the palate, the stresses that develop during polymerization can be confined within each segment of the material, shifting the direction of shrinkage from the ridge crest area to 2 separate areas in the middle of the palate and the crest of the ridge. This article describes a simple and accurate 2-stage technique for the fabrication of a light-activated record base to maximize the fit of the record base to the cast. The procedure is versatile, allowing it to be applicable to the various palatal configurations.
Origins of the Gender Gap: Pre-College and College Influences on Differences Between Men and Women

This study examines differences between women and men on 19 outcomes of college and assesses the extent to which those differences are attributable to gender gaps that existed prior to college or to men’s and women’s differential college experiences. The data are drawn from a national longitudinal sample of students (N = 17,637) attending 204 four-year colleges and universities who were surveyed upon entry to college in 1994 and four years later in 1998. Among the 19 outcomes, 5 revealed gender differences that could be accounted for by pre-college variables alone, 2 demonstrated gender differences that were attributable to a combination of pre-college and college variables, and 12 produced gender gaps that were significant despite all control variables.
Response to comments by DiGiovanni and Kevan on "Session V: Estimating Likelihood and Exposure", by Zaida Lentini, Environ. Biosafety Res. 5 (2006) 193-195

DiGiovanni and Kevan (2008, Environ. Biosafety Res. 7 : 105–108) commented extensively on the empirical approach that I and my co-authors took in our previous modeling of pollen-mediated gene flow in maize (Gustafson et al. (2006) Crop Sci. 46 : 2133–2140). As we detailed in that original paper, gene flow is a highly complex process that necessarily requires at least some level of empiricism in order to adequately quantify all of the biological, meteorological, and physical phenomena that are involved. DiGiovanni and Kevan favor a mechanistic modeling approach, and they proposed a number of potential advantages for such a method over our entirely empirical technique. However, the 20 m buffers we had proposed based on our empirical model continue to be supported by the rapidly growing body of experimental data on maize gene flow that has now been collected in Europe and elsewhere around the world. This does not mean there is no place for mechanistic modeling of gene flow, but it does suggest that properly implemented empirical approaches have a valid role to play. They offer a degree of simplicity and practical utility that is not available from more complicated approaches.
Charge correction of the binding energy scale in XPS analysis of polymers using surface deposition of PDMS

A method is described for correcting the binding energy scale for specimen charging that occurs during XPS analysis of insulating samples. A small quantity of polymeric poly (dimethyl silicone) (PDMS) is deposited from solution onto the surface of a series of polymers. After XPS analysis, the binding energy scale is then adjusted to align the Si 2p signal of the adsorbed PDMS to the value observed on conducting samples. A model is proposed that shows that the binding energies of insulating specimens are measured with respect to the sample Fermi level. Using this method, the C 1s binding energy for aliphatic hydrocarbon (CH2)x in polyethylene is measured at 284.97 eV, in excellent agreement with previously reported values based on other correction schemes. Measured energies for 12 other materials are also presented. Copyright © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Initial Conditions in Computer Simulation

A technique is developed for the straightforward simulation of the transfer function of a certain class of linear systems. This method is particularly well adapted to the analysis of systems with fixed transfer function and variable initial conditions and forcing functions. In particular, a single simulation, minimal in its use of integrators, will suffice to handle forcing functions and initial conditions on both input and output.
Management of electrical and chemical burns in children

Background: Pediatric electrical and chemical burns are rare injuries, and the care of these patients varies significantly. We reviewed our experience in management of electrical and chemical burns to analyze the clinical course, management, and outcomes. Methods: A retrospective review was conducted on children with chemical and electrical burns presenting to two large regional pediatric burn centers over a 10-y period (2002 e2012). Clinical data including patient demographics, nature of burns, management, and outcomes were collected and analyzed. Results: There were 50 cases, 25 chemical and electrical burns each. Overall, the mean � standard deviation age was 6.2 � 5.6 y, and the mean total body surface area burn was 4.3 � 3.2%. Chemical burns were larger, had less depth, and shorter length of stay, whereas electrical burns were smaller, deeper, and had a longer length of stay. Two chemical burns and six electrical burns required grafting. Twelve percent of electrical burns required rehabilitation, and 20% required compression garments for hypertrophic scars. Six percent required late surgeries. Conclusions: Pediatric electric and chemical burns are rare and require specialized care. Graft rates are not high but are mostly noted in electrical burns.
Ocular tremor in Parkinson's disease is due to eye, not head oscillation.

to head shaking arising from transmitted armtremor and, in turn, inducing a vestibular ocular reﬂex.Despite their resolve, the authors provide absolutely nosupportive data for this speculation. Most conspicuously, intheir ﬁgure, when the head is fully restrained (evidentby the ﬂat accelerometer reading), the ocular tremorpersists. Thus, the only relevant data refute the authors’hypothesis.Using a magnetic tracker, we consistently recorded nohead tremor in a subset of 20 patients
Subnormal Concentrations of Serum Cobalamin (Vitamin B12) in Cats with Gastrointestinal Disease

The present study sought to determine the spectrum of diseases associated with subnormal concentrations of serum cobalamin in cats undergoing investigation of suspected gastrointestinal problems. The solid-phase boil radioassay (RA) for cobalamin employed in the present study was immunologically specific, precise, and accurate, with a sensitivity of 15 pg/mL. The RA yielded results that strongly correlated with those obtained by bioassay (Spearmann rho = .805; P < .0001), although the absolute values were lower for the RA. Forty-nine of 80 serum samples submitted during the period of January 1996-January 1998 had cobalamin concentrations below the reference range for healthy cats (range 900-2,800 pg/mL; mean +/- SD, 1,775 +/- 535 pg/mL; n = 33). Cats with subnormal cobalamin concentrations (mean +/- SD; 384 +/- 272 pg/mL, range 3-883 pg/mL) were middle-aged or older and were presented for weight loss. diarrhea, vomiting, anorexia, and thickened intestines. Definitive diagnoses in 22 cats included inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), intestinal lymphoma, cholangiohepatitis or cholangits, and pancreatic inflammation. Serum concentrations of cobalamin were particularly low in cats with intestinal lymphoma, three-fifths of whom also had subnormal serum concentrations of folate (< 9 ng/mL). The simultaneous presence of disease in the intestines, pancreas, or hepatobiliary system in many cats made it difficult to determine the cause of subnormal cobalamin concentrations. The circulating half-life of parenteral cyanocobalamin was shorter in 2 cats with IBD (5 days) than in 4 healthy cats (12.75 days). The presence of subnormal serum concentrations of cobalamin in 49 of 80 cats evaluated suggests that the measurement of serum cobalamin may be a useful indirect indicator of enteric or pancreatic disease in cats. The rapid depletion of circulating cobalamin in cats suggests that cats may be highly susceptible to cobalamin deficiency. However, the relationship of subnormal serum cobalamin concentrations to cobalamin deficiency and the effect of cobalamin deficiency on cats remain to be determined.
A proposed taxonomy for characterization and assessment of avian influenza outbreaks

Abstract Purpose The speed and high potential impact of avian influenza's (AI) on local bird populations, poultry economies and human health make timely and coordinated characterization, assessment and response to possible threats essential. To collaborate effectively, stakeholders (public health, medical, veterinary, and agricultural professionals) must be able to communicate and record findings, assessments, and actions in a standard fashion. We seek to discern a taxonomy of concepts and relationships that are important to the stakeholder community when sharing information about the characterization and assessment of an AI outbreak, according to a consistent and common perspective, interpretation, and level of detail. Methods To derive concepts relevant to AI characterization and assessment, we reviewed selected journal articles, reporting and laboratory forms, and public health websites associated with AI case reporting. We mapped concepts to existing medical terminologies within the Unified Medical Language System when possible, using the National Library of Medicine's MetaMap program. Results From 54 distinct information sources, we extracted 1113 concepts, of which 533 mapped to 15 medical terminologies; 580 did not map to specific terminologies. Using a combination of semantic type-relationship matching and expert consensus, we constructed the proposed taxonomy, with linkages to existing terminologies where pragmatic. Conclusion The proposed taxonomy describes core knowledge, data and communication needs for the characterization and assessment of AI outbreaks in the context of existing medical terminologies across different domains. We also describe areas for further work.
Developmental and disease-related influences on self-management acquisition among pediatric liver transplant recipients.

Pediatric LT recipients are vulnerable to disruptions in their healthcare management and transitioning to self-managed care. This study aimed to examine whether age at transplant and indication for transplant (acute vs. chronic liver disease) influence later self-manage- ment skills. Sixty-three LT recipients, aged 14 and older (M = 17.68, s.d. = 3.01), were recruited and asked to complete a healthcare man- agement survey, the Developmentally Based Skills Checklist, adapted for transplant patients, listing 22 behaviors that medically ill adolescents should progressively master. While there were no significant differences between those who received an LT owing to an acute disease vs. those who received an LT owing to a chronic disease, the age at which pa- tients received their transplant did yield significant results, although, overall, these findings were attenuated by current age. However, our findings indicated that males transplanted at a younger age struggled with mastery over their healthcare responsibilities relative to males transplanted later and females in both age groups. There are many possible reasons why the experience of transplant at a younger age could negatively affect or derail healthcare transitions. Future research is necessary to further untangle this relationship; yet, it seems as though longer time living with LT may make transition harder for families.