cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Size dependence of reproductive allocation : the influence of resource availability, competition and genetic identity

1. Resource availability, competition and genetic difference are among the main factors causing size variation in plant populations. These factors also have great effects on the variation in reproductive allocation. We examined the effects of soil nutrient availability, competition and genetic identity on the size dependency of reproductive allocation in Abutilon theophrasti families grown under different conditions of soil nutrient and conspecific competition. 2. Soil nutrients, competition and genetic identity brought about a strong dependency of reproductive allocation on size. However, these factors differed in functional forms and signs of the size dependency. 3. An allometric (log–log) regression between seed mass and vegetative mass fit the data better than a linear regression. The slopes of allometric regressions for each nutrient treatment were lower than 1·0. Therefore, there was a negative relationship between plant size and reproductive allocation. However, the slopes calculated over different nutrient treatments were greater than 1·0 (i.e. positive relationship between plant size and reproductive allocation). We suggest that these two reproductive allometries indicate two different biological relationships: the former represents a physiological trade-off between resource acquisition and reproductive allocation within a plant and the latter represents an allometric response to soil nutrients. 4. Genetic identity showed intrinsic effects on size dependency of reproductive allocation owing to trade-off and not as a result of the allometric response to soil nutrients. 5. Nutrient availability changed the slopes of the allometric regressions. An increase in nutrient availability alleviated the negative relationship between plant size and reproductive allocation. 6. The slopes of the allometric regressions within nutrient treatments were significantly higher in competition treatments than in competition-free treatments, although the slopes of the regressions over different nutrient levels did not differ between the two treatments. These results suggest that the effects of competition on reproductive allocation are owing to indirect effects of size difference on the allometric relationship rather than intrinsic effects.
Potential technology for studying dosimetry and response to airborne chemical and biological pollutants.

Advances in computational, and imaging techniques have enabled the rapid development of 3-dimensional (3-D) models of biological systems in unprecedented detail. Using these advances, 3-D models of the lungs and nasal passages of the rat and human are being developed to ultimately improve predictions of airborne pollutant dosimetry. Techniques for imaging the respiratory tract by magnetic resonance (MR) imaging were developed to improve the speed and accuracy of geometric data collection for mesh reconstruction. The MR imaging resolution is comparable to that obtained by manual measurements but at much greater speed and accuracy. Newly developed software (NWGrid) was utilized to translate imaging data from MR into 3-D mesh structures. Together, these approaches significantly reduced the time to develop a 3-D model. This more robust airway structure will ultimately facilitate modeling gas or vapor exchange between the respiratory tract and vasculature as well as enable linkages of dosimetry with cell response models. The 3-D, finite volume, visco-elastic mesh structures forms the geometric basis for computational fluid dynamics modeling of inhalation, exhalation and the delivery of individual particles (or concentrations of gas or vapors) to discrete regions of the respiratory tract. The ability of these 3-D models to resolve dosimetry at suchmore » a high level of detail will require new techniques to measure regional airflows and particulate deposition for model validation.« less
Estimating regional material flows for LCDs Proceedings of the IEEE international symposium on electronics and the environment ISEE (May 2008)

As LCD monitors increasingly enter the e-waste stream, there is a need to better understand what recyclers might expect in terms of what they will receive and what materials they will need to manage. Here, we identify materials used in the production of key subassemblies, and note uncertainties in the composition of the LCD assembly, film set (comprised of the reflection foil, light guide, prism foil, diffuser, and the brightness enhancement film), and the backlight assembly. Next, we quantify the range of U.S. flows of LC assembly and film set materials and the mercury in the backlight assembly, on the basis of the range of screen diagonals for portable PCs, PC flat screens, and TV flat screens. Finally, we considered computer use statistics presented by the U.S. Census and data on the location of U.S. e-waste and automotive mercury switch recovery programs as a first step in understanding regional preparedness, noting opportunities for improvements in all aspects of our analysis.
Siblings of Children with disabilities: Psychological and behavioural characteristics

Abstract The purpose of the current study was to assess the behavioural and psychological characteristics of siblings of children with disabilities and the perceptions of parents and children regarding sibling relationships. Participants included 32 children between 6 and 13 years of age, one-half with a younger sibling with a disability and one-half with a younger sibling without a disability. Analyses revealed a difference in children's perceptions of maternal partiality, with siblings of children with disabilities perceiving their mothers to be more partial to their siblings than did siblings of children without disabilities. Further, parents of children with disabilities indicated a greater difference in status/power between their child and his/her younger sibling than did parents of children without disabilities. No significant differences were found between groups on measures of behaviour problems, social competence, or self-esteem, supporting other research that has failed to find negative outcomes...
Visualizing the evolution of abnormal metabolic networks in the brain using PET

Abstract By applying novel statistical methods and visualization techniques to PET data obtained from combined groups of patients and normals, we are able to illustrate topographic covariance profiles unique to neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's Disease at various stages of progression. Each profile represents a neuroanatomical network of metabolically covarying regions. The expression of the profile in each patient is characterized by a subject score which can correlate with independent clinical disease severity measures. To visualize these profiles, a semi-automatic routine is used which creates a three-dimensional (3D) animation of the metabolic topography as it evolves from initial to final stages of the disease.
Configurational assignment of 5β-cholestane-3α, 7α, 12α, 23, 25-pentol excreted by patients with cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis (a circular dichroism study)

Abstract The absolute configuration of the C27 pentahydroxy bile alcohol present in bile and feces of two patients with cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis (CTX) was determined by circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy. Under anhydrous conditions CD spectra of 5β-cholestane-3α, 7α, 12α, 23, 25-pentol in the presence of Eu(fod)3[tris (1, 1, 1, 2, 2, 3, 3-hepta fluoro-7, 7-dimethyloctane-4, 6-dionato) europium (III)] exhibited a large induced split Cotton effect at ca. 310 nm. From the induced circular dichroism of 5β-cholestane-3α, 7α, 12α, 23, 25-pentol with Eu(fod)3 it was concluded that the CTX bile alcohol has the 1,3 glycol structure with carbon 23 having the R configuration. This information will be useful in elucidating a structural mechanism for the conversion of 5β-cholestanepentols into bile acids in man and rat.
Plutonium-244 and strange xenon components in the solar system

A number of strange xenon components have been reported in the literature during the past three decades; for example, AVCC (average carbonaceous chondrite), CCF (carbonaceous chondrite fission) xenon, xenon-X, xenon-H, xenon-L, xenon-S, xenon-U, SUCOR (surface correlated xenon), BEOC (Bern Oberflachen-Correliert) xenon, and so on. It is often assumed that they reprsent the isotopic compositions of more or less ‘pure’ or ‘primordial’ components of xenon. If one attempts to interpret the existing xenon isotope data for meteorites and lunar samples, assuming that they are ‘pure’ or ‘primordial’, however, one encounters all sorts of problems and no coherent theory concerning the variation of the isotopic composition of xenon in the solar system emerges. We have therefore re-examined over 4,000 sets of existing xenon isotope data for meteorites and lunar samples. The results indicate that these strange xenon components are mixtures of244Pu fission xenon and atmospheric xenon, whose isotopic compositions have been altered by the processes of a) mass-fractionation, b) spallation and c) neutron-capture reactions.
Application of the impedance tube technique in the measurement of the driving provided by solid propellants during combustion instabilities

Abstract This paper describes the adaptation of the impedance tube technique for the measurement of solid propellant response functions. The experimental setup consists of a tube with a disc-shaped solid propellant sample placed at one end and an additional propellant sample at the side wall of the tube at some distance downstream of the end propellant sample. When the pressure coupled response function is measured only the disc-like sample of the propellant is needed while determination of the velocity coupled response function requires the use of both propellant samples. During an experiment, an acoustic driver located at the opposite end of the tube is utilized to establish a standing wave of a desired frequency within the impedance tube and an array of pressure transducers mounted at preselected locations along the impedance tube walls is utilized to measure the continuously varying wave structure within the tube throughout the course of the experiment. Upon the completion of the experiment, the measured data together with solutions of the impedance tube wave equations are utilized to determine the propellant response function. The paper discusses the different data reduction procedures that have been developed for the determination of both the pressure and velocity coupled response functions. Furthermore, the paper describes the results of pressure coupled response measurements for both aluminized and nonaluminized propellants and the results of a theoretical study that show that the impedance tube method could also be used in the measurement of the velocity coupled response function.
Comparative Influence of Ocean Conditions on Yellowfin and Atlantic Bluefin Tuna Catch from Longlines in the Gulf of Mexico

Directed fishing effort for Atlantic bluefin tuna in the Gulf of Mexico (GOM), their primary spawning grounds in the western Atlantic, has been prohibited since the 1980s due to a precipitous decline of the spawning stock biomass. However, pelagic longlines targeted at other species, primarily yellowfin tuna and swordfish, continue to catch Atlantic bluefin tuna in the GOM as bycatch. Spatial and temporal management measures minimizing bluefin tuna bycatch in the GOM will likely become important in rebuilding the western Atlantic bluefin stock. In order to help inform management policy and understand the relative distribution of target and bycatch species in the GOM, we compared the spatiotemporal variability and environmental influences on the catch per unit effort (CPUE) of yellowfin (target) and bluefin tuna (bycatch). Catch and effort data from pelagic longline fisheries observers (1993–2005) and scientific tagging cruises (1998–2002) were coupled with environmental and biological data. Negative binomial models were used to fit the data for both species and Akaike's Information Criterion (corrected for small sample size) was used to determine the best model. Our results indicate that bluefin CPUE had higher spatiotemporal variability as compared to yellowfin CPUE. Bluefin CPUE increased substantially during the breeding months (March-June) and peaked in April and May, while yellowfin CPUE remained relatively high throughout the year. In addition, bluefin CPUE was significantly higher in areas with negative sea surface height anomalies and cooler sea surface temperatures, which are characteristic of mesoscale cyclonic eddies. In contrast, yellowfin CPUE was less sensitive to environmental variability. These differences in seasonal variability and sensitivity to environmental influences suggest that bluefin tuna bycatch in the GOM can be reduced substantially by managing the spatial and temporal distribution of the pelagic longline effort without substantially impacting yellowfin tuna catches.
Induction with Upcoming Food-Pellet Reinforcement

Abstract Recent studies have shown that rats' rates of lever pressing for low-concentration sucrose reinforcers during the first half of an experimental session are increased when food-pellet, rather than the same sucrose, reinforcers are delivered in the second half of the session (i.e., induction). The present study assessed whether this induction would be influenced by the presence of a discriminative stimulus for the second half of the session (Experiment 1), by varying the point at which the switch in reinforcer type occurred within the session (Experiment 2), and by varying the probability of the switch in reinforcer type (Experiment 3). Results showed that induction was observed in the first half of the session whenever the delivery of food-pellet reinforcement in the second half was certain. The presence or absence of a discriminative stimulus did not alter responding. Varying the point at which the switch occurred within the session did not eliminate induction. However, altering the probability that the switch would occur altered the slope of responding in the first half of the session. The observed induction is possibly the outcome of the addition of anticipatory responses for food pellets and/or of Pavlovian conditioning. However, why induction, and not behavioral contrast, was observed is not clear.
Strain and temperature effects in indium–tin-oxide sensors

Abstract Indium–tin-oxide (ITO) thin films strain gages were prepared by reactive sputtering onto both high purity alumina and lanthanum stabilized zirconia substrates. We report the piezoresistive response of these ITO gages in the temperature range 350–1500 °C up to 1000 microstrain (μe). Strain response and gage factors are reported for ITO in both tension and compression. The data suggest that not only is there an annealing component but also a strain component of the piezoresistive change with time at temperature. The effects in both tension and compression are reported.
Two-stage variable selection for molecular prediction of disease

A two-stage predictor strategy is introduced in the context of high dimensional data (large p, small n). Here the focus application is a medical one: prediction of symptomatic infection given molecular expression levels in blood. The first stage of the two-stage predictor uses the previously introduced method of Predictive Correlation Screening (PCS) to select a subset of genes that are important in the prediction of symptom scores. Selected genes are used in the second stage to learn a predictor for the prediction of symptom scores. Under sampling budget constraints we derive the optimal sample allocation rules to the first and second stages of the two-stage predictor. Superiority of the proposed predictor relative to the well known method of LASSO is shown via experiment.
The recapitulation hypothesis in person retrieval

In retrieving a person from memory, subjects retrace the course of acquaintanceship: they invoke a social stereotype, then apply a personality correction. The present article tests thisrecapitulation hypothesis. In a pair of experiments, subjects saw two serially presented cues and retrieved an acquaintance whom both of the cues described. As hypothesized, retrievals were faster if the first cue was a social category and the second cue a personality category, rather than vice versa. The experiments assess several explanations for this order effect: a social context-personality index explanation, a size difference explanation, and a criterion shift explanation. Results show that the order effect cannot be fully accounted for by differences in the size of social and personality categories, nor by the relaxation of personality criteria. The findings implicate a hierarchical social context-personality index memory structure.
Environmental Tobacco Smoke: Respiratory and Other Health Effects

Involuntary exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) is a serious and entirely preventable public health hazard. It has become clear that ETS adversely affects the health of all who breathe its toxins. Independent of active smoking, ETS exposure is a modifiable risk factor for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The expanding body of research presented in this article provides evidence that the damaging consequences of ETS reach far beyond the lungs. Having been determined the third leading cause of preventable death in this country, this is a problem that must be addressed aggressively.
The “incredible shrinking” P50 event-related potential

Abstract The P50 component of the auditory evoked response has been utilized in studies of sensory gating in schizophrenia for over 15 years. As P50 gating studies have had a greater impact in neuroscience research, investigators have refined several key variables (e.g., filtering) to enhance signal-to-noise ratios. A comprehensive review of P50 reports suggests P50 amplitude has been steadily decreasing over the years. Certain methodological “advances” are suggested as key reasons for this apparent reduction in P50 amplitude. Gating studies continue to yield interesting findings in neuropsychiatric research, especially when ratio vs. absolute difference scores are used.
Cis-selective ring-opening metathesis polymerization with ruthenium catalysts.

Cis-selective ring-opening metathesis polymerization of several monocyclic alkenes as well as norbornene and oxanorbornene-type monomers using a C–H activated, ruthenium-based metathesis catalyst is reported. The cis content of the isolated polymers depended heavily on the monomer structure and temperature. A cis content as high as 96% could be obtained by lowering the temperature of the polymerization.
Radiation exposure to staff members during traction X-rays

BackgroundDetermining the flexibility of a scoliosis curve is impor-tant, during both conservative and surgical management,and traction x-rays of the patient’s spine are frequentlydone as part of this evaluation. The traction x-ray is donewith the patient in the supine position, and with staffmembers pulling on the patient’s arms and legs. The useof staff to produce the traction radiograph has two majordisadvantages: the pull on the arms and legs is not stan-dardized, and the staff is exposed to x-ray each time theyperform a radiograph. Ingegno [1] determined that expo-sure to personnel applying arm traction, for cervical radio-graphs, was 0.01mGy. But there are few studies that assessthe radiation exposure to staff during imaging for AIS. Ithas been determined that a typical spinal radiographexposes the patient to 3.2 (+/-1.6) mGy of radiation. [2]AimThe aim of this study was to measure the amount ofradiation a staff member is exposed to while participat-ing in a traction x-ray of a patient with AIS.MethodsThe x-ray table was set up and a phantom block of plasticwas used to provide the same x-ray scatter as a humanbody. An electronic x-ray survey detector was used at thehead and foot of the table, in the same position that a staffmember’s head would be during traction. Radiographswere taken, and measurements of the amount of scatterwere recorded.ResultsThe scatter produced was 0.003 to 0.009 mGy at thelevel of the staff member’s head. Given that staff wears alead apron, the torso dose would be negligible, so theexposure to the eyes and thyroid would be the mostclinically important.ConclusionThe recommended limit of exposure to the eyes for a staffmember is 150 mGy per year [2]. With the exposure thatwe measured, the staff member would not reach this limituntil they performed 17,000 to 50,000 procedures. How-ever, since this dose of x-ray to the staff member has notherapeutic benefits, it should still be reduced wheneverpossible.
Lubricant Effect on the Microtribological Behavior of Magnetic Coating Formulations 1-aliphatic Lubricants

Magnetic tape industry uses a mixture of fatty acids/fatty acid esters. This lubricant mixture transfers from the tape surface to the recording GMR head whereby they cause fouling the tape and enhances corrosion to the GMR head. The current study aims at finding a substitute lubricant that could make a bond with the binder and has no corrosive effect.
Effects of incubation temperature on behavior of hatchling pine snakes: implications for reptilian distribution

Incubation temperatures in vertebrates affect incubation periods, and in some reptiles incubation temperature determines sex ratios and some limited behavior. Here I present evidence that incubation temperature in pine snakes (Pituophis melanoleucus) affects not only incubation periods and posthatching behavior in the laboratory, but also the behavior of hatchlings required for successful emergence and survival. These behavioral differences have evolutionary implications for selection of hatchlings from particular temperature nests. With increasing temperature, incubation periods decreased in the laboratory. In addition, incubation temperature affected hatching and emergence times as well as movement speed and foraging ability. Hatchlings from medium temperature conditions emerged from nests in the field in less time than hatchlings incubated at high or low temperatures, and hatchlings from low temperatures moved slower and were less able to capture and eat mice in the laboratory than hatchlings incubated at medium or high temperatures. Taken together, these laboratory and field experiments suggest that hatchlings from low temperature nests, compared to those from higher temperature nests, would be less able to emerge, find food, and locate hibernation sites prior to the onset of cold temperatures in the New Jersey Pine Barrens. These results suggest that incubation temperature affects a whole range of behavior and that distributional ranges of reptiles and other poikilotherms could be affected by summer temperatures (via incubation period and subsequent behavior) as well as ambient winter temperatures.
Anesthesiologist involvement in screening colonoscopy: temporal trends and cost implications in the medicare population.

Background & Aims Colonoscopy is a recommended component of screening for colorectal cancer. We conducted a retrospective study of Medicare data to determine the frequency of anesthesiologist involvement and to identify patient and provider characteristics and cost implications associated with anesthesiologist involvement. Methods We used the linked Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Medicare dataset to identify patients without cancer who received a screening colonoscopy examination from July 2001 through 2006 (n = 16,268). The outcome variable was anesthesiologist involvement, which was identified by searching Medicare claims. Logistic regression was used to explore the association between patient and provider characteristics and anesthesiologist involvement. Costs associated with the use of an anesthesiologist were derived based on a cost assessment by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. Results Of the screening colonoscopies assessed, 17.2% involved an anesthesiologist. The screening colonoscopy rate more than doubled during the study period. The frequency of anesthesiologist involvement increased from 11.0% of screening colonoscopies in 2001 to 23.4% in 2006. Surgeons involved an anesthesiologist in 24.2% of colonoscopies, compared with 18.0% of gastroenterologists and 11.3% of primary care providers. The percentage of colonoscopies that involved an anesthesiologist varied among regions, ranging from 1.6% in San Francisco to 57.8% in New Jersey. Anesthesiologist involvement increased the cost by approximately 20% per screening colonoscopy. Conclusions An increase in the involvement of anesthesiologists has significantly increased the cost of screening colonoscopies. Studies are needed to assess the effects of anesthesiologists on risks and benefits of colonoscopy, to determine the most safe and cost-effective approaches .
A fluid queueing model for link travel time moments

We analyze the moments of the random time required for a vehicle to traverse a transportation network link of arbitrary length when its speed is governed by a random environment. The problem is motivated by stochastic transportation network applications in which the estimation of travel time moments is of great importance. We analyze this random time in a transient and asymptotic sense by employing results from the field of fluid queues. The results are demonstrated on two example problems. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics, 2004
Gas Solubilities in Room-Temperature Ionic Liquids

The ability to predict the solubility of gases in room-temperature ionic liquids, RTILs, would be very useful in determining the most efficient RTIL to use in an industrial process. This work uses data from CO2 and C2H4 solubility measurements to show that regular solution theory can be used to model gas solubilities in RTILs at low pressures. This work further discusses how changes in pressure and temperature affect the solubility of gases in RTILs.
Isolation and characterization of 12 microsatellites from the black surfperch, Embiotoca jacksoni, a reef fish that lacks a pelagic larval phase

A set of 12 microsatellite markers was developed from Embiotoca jacksoni genomic DNA and tested for polymorphism using 64 individuals from two populations. All loci were polymorphic with a number of alleles ranging from two to 19 with expected heterozygosities ranging from 0.17 to 0.89. There was no evidence of linkage disequilibrium and all loci were in Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium, except for four loci in one population. High numbers of private alleles were consistent with strong population structure, and very limited dispersal. Six microsatellite markers successfully cross amplified and were polymorphic in closely related species, Embiotoca lateralis and Hyspurus caryi.
The preparation of the bidentate urea complex [Co(urea)4](NO3)2

Abstract The complex [Co(urea)4](NO3)2 was synthesized. Analysis of the infrared and ultraviolet spectra revealed the presence of urea complexed as a monodentate and a bidentate ligand. Tentative band assignments are given for both complexing modes of urea. An unassigned band occurring at 932 cm−1 may be diagnostic for the presence of bidentate urea.
Hypersonic Shock Tunnel

s should be submitted to Meetings Manager, American Rocket Society, 500 Fifth Avenue, New York 36, N.Y. They will be for- warded to the appropriate Technical Committee. Deadline date for reviewed and approved manuscripts is August 17.
Trends and issues of Italian cinema: a mini‐history and bibliography

Looks at the first 100 years of Italian cinema examining its role in Italy’s recent history. Provides a bibliography of major film directors, Italian cinema sources, reference works, histories, themes, theory and criticism and articles in journals.
Neurohumoral control of ionic pumping in molluscan muscle. I: Evidence for an electrogenic sodium pump in ventricular muscle of Aplysia californica

Abstract 1. Abrupt warming induces a transitory hyperpolarization across a sucrose gap in ventricular myocardium of Aplysia californica . 2. Abrupt cooling induces a transitory depolarization. 3. The effects of a sudden change of temperature are reversed in bathing medium lacking potassium. 4. Ouabain counteracts the depolarization induced by cooling. 5. Stepwise reduction in bath potassium has a stepwise depolarizing excitatory effect. 6. Acetylcholine treatment or reduction in bath sodium counteracts the depolarizing effect of reduction in bath potassium. 7. The effects of warming and cooling, which are counteracted by ouabain or potassium deprivation, as well as the depolarizing effects of potassium deprivation, support the presence of an electrogenic sodium pump. The action of acetylcholine in counteracting depolarization is congruent with its hyperpolarizing effect on this muscle.
Localization of leukocytes and cytokines in chorionic villi of normal placentas and complete hydatidiform moles.

Abstract Monoclonal antibodies were used to localize and characterize leukocytes and cytokines in chorionic villi of normal placenta and complete mole. OKT4a reacted with Hofbauer cells in first-, second-, and third-trimester placentas. HLA-DR was expressed on second- and third-trimester placental Hofbauer cells but was not detected in the first trimester. The cytokines, γ-interferon, granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor, interleukin-1α, and tumor necrosis factor α, were all detectable on Hofbauer cells in first-, second-, and third-trimester placentas. None of the tested cytokine antibodies reacted with cellular constituents in complete molar chorionic villi. The absence of cytokine-positive cells in molar chorionic villi may be related to the hyperplastic and unregulated growth of molar villous trophoblast.
Synthesis of polyammonium macrocycles with pendant chains

Abstract A facile route is described for the synthesis of polyazaoxamacrocycles with pendant chains that is applicable for the preparation of a variety of macrocycles of differing ring size and heteroatom substitution.
Implications of simultaneity in a physical damage function

Abstract A modeler must often rely on highly simplified representations of complex physical systems when analyzing associated economic issues. Herein, we consider a management problem in which a bioeconomic system exhibits simultaneity in processes governing productivity and damage. In this case, it may benefit the producer to sacrifice productivity to reduce the costs associated with increased damage. We specify empirically a structural damage relationship that explains the biological process by which an invasive species damages a host and estimate the structural model and its reduced form with an exceptional dataset on infestation of olives by the olive fruit fly. We contrast the results of these models with the approach typically taken in the economic literature, which expresses damage as a function of pest density. The population-based approach introduces significantly greater bias into the individual grower's choice of damage-control inputs than estimates based on the structural model.
Directional-correlation attenuation factors for Ge(Li) detectors: A comparison of experimental and calculated values

Abstract Refinements in measuring technique are utilized to improve a previously described method for experimentally determining the directional-correlation attenuation factors of Ge(Li) γ-ray detectors. Correction factors for a five-sided true coaxial 29 cm 3 Ge(Li) detector and a five-sided trapezoidal 25 cm 3 Ge(Li) detector are determined using this method and agree well with recently available computer calculations for these values. Various sources of error inherent in the method are discussed in some detail.
Neurological Function, Information–Motivation–Behavioral Skills Factors, and Risk Behaviors Among HIV-Positive Alcohol Users

The purpose of this study was to examine neurological impairment in combination with information–motivation–behavioral skills (IMB) variables. The study tests the role of IMB variables as mediators of antecedent variables of demographics, life stress, social support, and neurological impairment with outcome measures of HIV preventive and risk behaviors in a sample of HIV-positive, alcohol-using adults (n = 250) with a history of alcohol abuse/dependence. Neurological impairment was measured with the Color Trails Test (CTT). Average performance on the CTT by the sample was substantially worse than established norms. In a directional latent variable model, neurological impairment directly predicted lower transmission knowledge scores and poorer performance on an observational condom skills assessment. Greater neurological impairment was significantly associated with greater age. Future interventions geared toward HIV+ adults who use alcohol should take into consideration HIV-related and age-related neurological functioning which may impede the facilitation of safe sex behaviors.
Oxidative status in neuroblastoma: a source of stress?

Abstract Aim of Study Reactive oxygen species have been shown to be initiators/promotors of tumorigenesis. Because evidence supports the role of increased oxidative stress in solid tumors, we sought to establish this relationship in neuroblastoma (NB). The aim of the study was to investigate the extent of oxidative DNA damage and antioxidative status in a progressive animal model of human NB. Methods Tumors were induced in the left kidneys of nude mice by the injection of cultured human NB cells (10 6 ). Blood was collected from tumor-bearing mice and controls at 2, 4, and 6 weeks. Peripheral blood leukocyte oxidative DNA damage was determined using single-cell gel electrophoresis (comet assay), and plasma antioxidant capacity was assessed by the Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity method. Main Results Levels of oxidative DNA damage in peripheral blood leukocytes of NB-bearing mice were increased by 166%, 110%, and 87% as compared with healthy controls at 2, 4, and 6 weeks, respectively. Plasma total antioxidant values for tumor-bearing mice were not significantly different from control mice. Conclusions Our results indicate an increase of oxidative stress in an animal model of human NB, especially in the early stages of growth. Yet, we did not observe an appreciable response in plasma antioxidant activity. Because an altered redox status has been implicated in tumor maintenance and progression, these findings support the notion of a complex oxidant-antioxidant imbalance contributing to NB growth.
Effects of elevating [Na]i on membrane currents of canine ventricular myocytes: role of intracellular Ca ions

Objectives: Our first objective was to study how elevating [Na]i can modify the background membrane conductance in canine ventricular myocytes (CVM). In particular, we wanted to find evidence for a Nai-activated K current ( I K,Na) in these cells. The second objective was to compare the effects of elevating [Na]i on membrane currents without and with intracellular Ca buffering. Methods: Whole-cell currents were recorded and [Na]i was elevated either by using a pipette perfusion device that allowed [Na] in the pipette solution to be varied (from 0 to 50 mM), or by 50 μM ouabain. Results: Although an outward current attributable to I K,Na was confirmed in guinea-pig ventricular myocytes (GPVM) under our recording conditions, no such current was seen in 29 CVM examined. With Cai buffering, the main effect of elevating [Na]i on CVM was an increase in inward current around and negative to the resting membrane potential. Based on the dependence of this Nai-induced inward current on K ions and its pharmacological properties, especially the effects of low concentrations of external Ba ions (≤5 μM) at strongly hyperpolarized voltages, we hypothesize that this current was carried by extracellular K ions through the inward rectifier ( I Kl) channels that had been modified by the high level of [Na]i. With Cai buffering, elevating [Na]i by ouabain had few or no effects on the L-type Ca channel current ( I Ca) or the slow delayed rectifier current ( I KS). Without Cai buffering, ouabain induced a rapid reduction of both currents along with an increase in a time-independent outward current at voltages positive to −60 mV. Conclusion: Our data suggest that there are species variations in K channel expression and/or K channel modulation by intracellular Na ions. Furthermore, intracellular Ca ions play a crucial role in mediating the effects of Nai loading on membrane currents in canine ventricular myocytes.
Are new dentures necessary

Abstract Various situations have been noted in which patients would be better served by having their old dentures relined than by having new ones made. Dentists must modify their relining techniques to satisfy the requirements of each situation. Several techniques have been described which may be used to fulfill each specific need. Whatever technique is used, it is important that the basic minimum requirements of a complete denture be met.
Aquaculture, Trade, and Fisheries Linkages: Unexpected Synergies

Abstract Production and trade of wild and farmed fish (finfish and shellfish) are intertwined. While many wild fish stocks have become depleted and total global fisheries catch plateaued, aquaculture production has boomed. At the same time, the global seafood trade has grown dramatically, with a net flow of seafood from poorer to richer nations, and demand for seafood is growing worldwide. Many farmed fish, and especially high value marine species preferred in industrialized countries, received feed inputs made from wild caught fish. About 25–30% of the annual global fish catch is used for animal feed inputs, a majority now to aquaculture. Thus, growing aquaculture production can add to pressures on wild fisheries. Emerging technologies for alternative feed ingredients coupled with private sector incentives for more sustainable production may in the future loosen linkages between wild fisheries and aquaculture, although the extent of this loosening is not yet clear. A Chinese version of this article's abs...
Evaluation of a programme to train Russian émigré nurses

Baj PA. International Journal of Nursing Practice 1997; 3: 40–46 Evaluation of a programme to train Russian emigre nurses This project evaluates a curriculum model designed to specifically help Russian emigre nurses overcome major barriers to employment in the United States of America. Training cycles included: vocational English, basic nursing skills, socialization theory, transcultural care theory, clinical preceptorships, job search workshops and NCLEX-RN preparation. Specific learning objectives and outcome criteria were developed, evaluated and adapted for subsequent training cycles based on pilot programme testing.
An experiment illustrating that gas conversion by solar radiation is a major influence in the diurnal variation of Aitken nucleus concentrations

Abstract A nucleus counter was operated continuously at a field site during the 20-day period surrounding the political time change from Eastern Daylight Saving Time to Eastern Standard Time. A careful calculation shows that the time of diurnal rise did not change as a result of the 1 hr shift of human activity. This indicates that, in sparsely populated areas, the conversion of gases to particles by solar radiation is a major source of Aitken nuclei and the dominating influence in the diurnal trend.
Gamma Rays from Protons on B 10 , and the Excitation Energy of the First Excited State of C 10

The energy of the first excited state of $^{10}\mathrm{C}$ has been measured using the $^{10}\mathrm{B}(p,n\ensuremath{\gamma})^{10}\mathrm{C}$ reaction. The excitation energy was found to be 3.3527 MeV, with an error assignment of 1.5 keV. Also reported are excitation energies for the first four excited states of $^{10}\mathrm{B}$.
Imperatives of the science of operations and supply-chain management

Abstract Although knowledge in operations and supply-chain management (O&SCM) has advanced substantially during the last six decades, our community has not fully utilized the potential for radical innovations. We identify two sets of opportunities for pursuing radical innovations. First, there is an opportunity to pursue all phases of science, including exploratory and qualitative research, developing theories, causation and internal validity, and testing models and theories for external validity (the ability to generalize knowledge to other situations). This would broaden the domain covered by each research effort, minimize the bias resulting from the choice of research paradigm and research domain, to enhance external validity, and to minimize the gap between our research efforts and the real world our community seeks to reshape. Second, there is an opportunity to pursue multiple perspectives because a scientific conclusion valid for a narrow domain may prove to be partially true or even false if one obtains multiple perspectives. Multiple perspectives can be obtained by investigating different parts of the system, by employing different methods of analysis, by using different sources of data, or by using different subsets of the same data. Developing scientific knowledge requires pursuit of all phases of science and of multiple perspectives. In a separate paper, we propose and analyze ways to accomplish it.
Improving the Reliability and Availability of Vehicular Communications Using Voronoi Diagram-Based Placement of Road Side Units

Vehicular Ad-hoc Networks (VANETs) form the basis for critical services that improve traffic safety and alleviate traffic congestion. The reliability of VANET-based services and applications that are based solely on vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communications, however, is hindered due primarily to limited and often fluctuating V2V communications. To address this limitation, Road-Side Units (RSU) have been proposed to complement V2V communications by providing stable event and data brokering capability. Effective placement of the RSUs is a key requirement in improving reliability of VANET services. This poster describes a novel Voronoi network-based algorithm for the effective placement of RSUs. The reliability metric considered in placing the RSUs involves bounding both the delay incurred by communication packets and packet loss, which in turn ensure timeliness and correct operation of the VANET services.
Outcomes of a vascular anatomy course for surgery residents

Abstract Purpose. The purpose of this study was to describe the development, implementation, and outcomes of a vascular anatomy course for general surgery residents. Methods. A vascular anatomy course was developed to include sessions on thoracic and neck anatomy, upper extremity and abdominal region, and lower extremity. Twenty-four PGY3-5 residents were convened in small groups to dissect and explore assigned regions of cadavers. A pre- and posttest for each session included a quiz of relevant anatomy, ratings of confidence, and ratings of anxiety toward independently performing related procedures. Data were analyzed to examine differences between pre- and posttest measures of knowledge, confidence, and anxiety for each session. Results. Results of paired t-tests on the knowledge, confidence, and anxiety measures from each session are displayed in the table below. TABLE—ABSTRACT 63 . Session 1: Neck and Thoracic Anatomy Quiz score Confidence Anxiety Mean diff (post − pre) 2.14 (max = 6) 19.91 (max = 60) −13.03 (max = 60) Paired t-test Results −8.3, P = .0005 (n = 22) −7.2, P = .0005 (n = 20) 3.1, P = .007 (n = 18) Session 2: Upper Extremities and Abdominal Region Mean diff (post − pre) 2.24 (max = 8) 15.72 (max = 50) −8.69 (max = 50) Paired t-test Results −4.7, P = .0005 (n = 17) −10.7, P = .0005 (n = 16) 4.8, P = .0005 (n = 16) Session 3: Lower Extremities Mean diff (post − pre) 3.92 (max = 13) 20.34 (max = 80) −16.40 (max = 80) Paired t-test Results −4.7, P = .001 (n = 13) −3.54, P = .005 (n = 11) 1.32, P = .256 (n = 5) Conclusions. Surgical residents demonstrate significant improvements in knowledge, confidence, and anxiety following a faculty-directed vascular anatomy course.
Eating patterns and dietary composition in relation to BMI in younger and older adults.

To compare relative associations of eating patterns and dietary composition with body mass index (BMI) in younger (aged 20–59 years, n=1792) and older (aged 60–90 years, n=893) participants in the Continuing Survey of Food Intakes by Individuals, collected 1994–1996. Data from two 24-h dietary recalls from individuals reporting physiologically plausible energy intake (within ±22% of predicted energy requirements, based on previously published methods) were used. Mean reported energy intake was 96 and 95% of predicted energy requirements in younger and older subjects, respectively. Older subjects were less likely than younger subjects to skip a meal, but snacking was common in both age groups. Fiber density was significantly higher in the older group. A higher BMI in both age groups was associated with a higher total daily energy intake, and higher energy intakes at all eating occasions. In both age groups, eating frequency was positively associated with energy intake, and eating more than three times a day was associated with being overweight or obese. In the younger group but not the older group, a lower fiber density coupled with higher percentage of energy from fat was independently associated with having a higher BMI. While no one eating occasion contributes more than any other to excess adiposity, eating more often than three times a day may play a role in overweight and obesity in both younger and older persons. A reduced satiety response to dietary fiber in addition to lower energy expenditure may potentially further contribute to weight gain in older persons.
Proteome of H-411E (liver) cells exposed to insulin and tumor necrosis factor-α: Analysis of proteins involved in insulin resistance

Insulin resistance may be modeled in H-411E liver cells in tissue culture with the use of the cytokine tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and insulin. This tissue-culture model nicely mimics IR in human type 2 diabetes mellitus. After incubation of liver cells in tissue culture with INS alone, TNF-alpha alone, and TNF-alpha plus insulin, as well as a control sample, liver-cell extracts were separated on 2D polyacrylamide-gel electrophoresis on the basis of isoelectric point and molecular weight. We analyzed the gel images with the use of PD Quest software (Bio-Rad Laboratories, Hercules, Calif) to identify differentially expressed protein spots (ie, up or down with insulin vs down or up with TNF-alpha plus insulin). In separate experiments, phosphorus-32 incorporation/autoradiography and phosphoprotein staining were used to characterize treatment-induced phosphorylations. Affected protein spots were identified with the use of peptide fingerprinting and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time of flight mass spectrometry. The first series of experiments identified 6 differentially expressed proteins: eukaryotic translation initiation factor-3, subunit 2, regulator of G-protein signaling-5, superoxide dismutase, protein disulfide isomerase A6, proteasome subunit-alpha type 3, and regucalcin. In addition, we observed changes in the phosphorylation of protein disulfide isomerase A6. A second series of experiments identified 7 additional proteins with significantly altered differential expression: cell-division protein kinase-4, kinogen heavy chain, carbonic anhydrase-7, E 3 ubiquitin protein ligase, URE-B1; Rab GDP dissociation inhibitor-beta, Rab GDP dissociation inhibitor-beta2, and MAWDBP. It can be seen that differentially expressed proteins, affected by treatment with insulin or with TNF-alpha plus insulin, include regulators of translation, protein degradation, cellular Ca ++ , G-proteins, and free-radical production. Although one cannot detail the mechanism or mechanisms of TNF-alpha induced IR from this data alone, it is easy to relate all of these proteins to a role in insulin signal transduction and, hence, insulin resistance.