cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
On the Relative Importance of the Driving Forces of Plate Motion

Summary A number of possible mechanisms have recently been proposed for driving the motions of the lithospheric plates, such as pushing from mid-ocean ridges, pulling by downgoing slabs, suction toward trenches, and coupling of the plates to flow in the mantle. We advance a new observational method of testing these theories of the driving mechanism. Our basic approach is to solve the inverse problem of determining the relative strength of the plausible driving forces, given the observed motions and geometries of the lithospheric plates. Since the inertia of the plates is negligible, each plate must be in dynamic equilibrium, so that the sum of the torques acting on a plate must be zero. Thus, our problem is to determine the relative sizes of the forces that minimize the components of net torque on each plate. The results indicate that the forces acting on the downgoing slab control the velocity of the oceanic plates and are an order of magnitude stronger than any other force. Namely, all the oceanic plates attached to substantial amounts of downgoing slabs move with a ' terminal velocity ' at which the gravitational body force pulling the slabs downward is nearly balanced with the resistance acting on the slab; regardless of the other features of the trailing horizontal part of the plates. The drag on the bottom of the plates which resist motion is stronger under the continents than under the oceans.
Pressurized grout applications in fractured tuff for containment of radioactive wastes

Currently under study by the Department of Energy are the geologic and hydrologic characteristics of the ash-flow deposits under Yucca mountain at the Nevada test site. Of interest at this site is the potential for disposal of high-level radioactive wastes in the unsaturated zone of the densely welded portions of the tuffs. These studies include the preformance-assessment of barriers and seals for boreholes, ramps, drifts and shafts at the Yucca mountain site. In-situ tests on standard Type II Portland cement and microfine cement as grout materials have been performed on a similar rock type to Yucca Mountain's near Superior Arizona. The tests were performed in a vertical borehole drilled in highly fractured and densely welded tuff (brown unit of Apache Leap) through a series of pressurized grout applications. Packer flow tests prior to and after each grout application measure the effectiveness of the grout application in reducing the permeability of the rock surrounding the borehole. Overall the grout applications have reduced the permeability of the test hole by three orders of magnitude.
A new species of Batomys (Mammalia: Muridae) from eastern Mindanao Island, Philippines

Abstract Murid rodents of the endemic genus Batomys are diverse and geographically widely distributed in the Philippines. Four species have been recognized: B. dentatus and B. granti on Luzon, B. salomonseni on several islands comprising the Mindanao faunal region, and B. russatus on Dinagat Island. A recent survey of small mammals in eastern Mindanao recorded the presence of Batomys on Mt. Hamiguitan, the only other documented occurrence of this genus on Mindanao Island outside of Mt. Kitanglad. Comparison of external morphology as well as cranial and dental features of the Hamiguitan Batomys with available specimens of congeners indicates that although it is closely allied to B. salomonseni, a number of distinct traits separate it from all its congeners, and we describe it as a new species, B. hamiguitan. This species corroborates the hypothesis that the island of Mindanao is comprised of multiple centers of endemism, of which the southeastern highland of Mt. Hamiguitan is one.
The effects of group composition on achievement, interaction, and learning efficiency during computer-based cooperative instruction

This study investigated the effects of cooperative group composition, student ability, and learning accountability on achievement, interaction, and instructional efficiency during computer-based instruction. A total of 125 sixth- and seventh-grade students were randomly assigned to heterogeneous or homogeneous dyads. Groups were designated as having either group or individual account-ability for mastery of lesson content. Cooperative dyads completed a tutorial on a novel symbolic mathematics topic, featuring basic symbol learning and application of the symbols. Indicators of ongoing cooperation were collected during instruction. Five days later, students completed a posttest. Low-ability students interacted more and completed the instruction more efficiently in heterogeneous than in homogeneous groups. High-ability students completed the instruction more efficiently in homogeneous than in heterogeneous groups. Cooperation was significantly related to achievement for heterogeneous ability groups, but not for either homogeneous high- or low-ability students.
Pagetoid spread of intratubular germ cell neoplasia into rete testis: A morphologic and histochemical study of 100 orchiectomy specimens with invasive germ cell tumors

Intratubular germ cell neoplasia (ITGCN) is now considered to be the preinvasive phase of testicular germ cell tumors with the exceptions of spermatocytic seminoma, pure yolk sac tumor, and mature teratoma. Pagetoid spread of ITGGN into rete testis is a common yet unpublished finding in these cases. We reviewed 100 cases of testicular germ cell tumors from the Surgical Pathology service of Parkland Memorial Hospital (Dallas, TX) to evaluate the frequency of this pattern of spread. Additional sections were obtained from selected cases and were stained with anti-placental alkaline phosphatase, anti-low molecular weight keratin (clone AE1), and various lectins to highlight the process. Pagetoid spread of ITGCN into rete testis was identified in 24 of 60 cases (40%) in which histologic sections contained both ITGCN and rete testis. The incidence of pagetoid ITGCN involvement of the rete testis was lower in pure seminoma (seven of 25 cases [28%]) than in testes containing nonseminomatous germ cell tumors (17 of 35 cases [49%]). AE1 stained the epithelial cells of the rete testis but not the cells of the ITGCN, whereas placental alkaline phosphatase stained the neoplastic cells but not the epithelial cells of the rete testis. These stains were useful in delineating two cases in which the pagetoid involvement was so extensive that they were misdiagnosed as invasive seminomas. Pagetoid spread of ITGCN is a relatively common finding in testicular germ cell tumors and rarely can be mistaken for invasive seminoma. Immunohistochemistry can be helpful in distinguishing florid pagetoid spread from invasive seminoma.
Purification and properties of butyrylcholinesterase from horse serum

Abstract A procedure has been developed to obtain a purified form of horse serum butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) from a partially fractionated commercial preparation. A high recovery (greater than 80%) of the activity is achieved in each step of the purification procedure. In all steps involving column chromatography the cholinesterase activity is confined to a single, symmetrical activity peak. A single component is observed in the analytical ultracentrifuge over a 250-fold range of protein concentration (4–1000 μg/ml); the sedimentation coefficient, s 20,w 0 , is 11.5 ± 0.3S. There is no indication of molecular aggregation or dissociation. The purified material consists of a single migrating species upon polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in gels with different pore sizes and at neutral and alkaline pH. Kinetic data indicate that the enzyme exhibits normal Michaelis-Menten behavior. K m for acetylcholine at pH 7.5 and 25 ° is 1.6 × 10 −3 m and the Hill coefficient is one. Mg 2+ and Ca 2+ exert a stimulatory effect on the enzyme activity. It is concluded that the purification procedures employed yield a homogeneous form of BuChE, which is not contaminated by other detectable proteins.
The effectiveness of the Paleoproterozoic biological pump: A δ13C gradient from platform carbonates of the Pethei Group (Great Slave Lake Supergroup, NWT)

Samples of carbonate cements collected along a depth transect of the Pethei Platform, a 1.9 Ga stromatolitic reef, reveal a small (∼0.5‰) carbon isotope gradient between shallow and basinal facies. The magnitude of this gradient would conventionally be interpreted as indicating low export of organic matter from ocean surface waters, but steady-state simulations using a two-box model of the Paleoproterozoic ocean suggest that the small carbon isotope gradient could instead be due to high partial pressures of carbon dioxide in the Paleoproterozoic atmosphere, which would increase the ocean9s dissolved inorganic carbon content and damp the effects of biological pumping. If the Paleoproterozoic atmosphere were indeed enriched in atmospheric CO 2 in compensation for a less luminous Sun, these results indicate that the planktonic biota was a significant component of the Precambrian global carbon and nutrient cycles, affecting if not regulating (as today) the composition of both surface and deep ocean waters.
The Impact of Cooperative Learning on the Performance and Retention of U.S. Navy Air Traffic Controller Trainees

Abstract The impact of cooperative learning, compared with traditional navy instruction, on achievement, performance, attrition rate, and attitudes of U.S. Navy air traffic controller trainees was investigated. A class of 13 air traffic control trainees participated in the cooperative condition for the charts and publications unit of their training. The performance for this class was compared with that of 50 other classes who studied the same unit. Cooperative learning, compared with traditional instruction, resulted in greater learning of technical information, greater independent functional ability to perform job functions, and a zero failure rate. In addition, cooperation, compared with traditional instruction, resulted in greater esprit-de-corps and more favorable perceptions of the instructor's competence.
DNA-capped nanoparticles designed for doxorubicin drug delivery

The anticancer drug, doxorubicin (DOX), was loaded onto DNA-capped gold nanoparticles (AuNP) designed for specific DOX intercalation. Drug binding was confirmed by monitoring DNA melting temperature, AuNP plasmon resonance maximum, and hydrodynamic radius increase, as a function of [DOX]/[DNA] ratio. The capacity for drug release to target DNA was confirmed.
A Critique of Exchange Theory in Mate Selection1

Status‐caste exchange theory predicts that in interracial marriages one partner’s socioeconomic status is exchanged for the other’s racial caste status. The author examines the contradictory literature on the theory specifically in relation to black‐white intermarriage and offers three explanations for the divergent findings. First, black‐white inequality has obscured the actual status homogamy typifying intermarriage. Second, gender differences among young couples have been mistaken for racially specific patterns of exchange. Third, the empirical findings that appear to support status‐caste exchange are not robust. The author’s conclusions favor the simplest tabular analyses, which cast doubt on status‐caste exchange theory.
Analysis of carbohydrate storage granules in the diazotrophic cyanobacterium Cyanothece sp. PCC 7822.

The unicellular diazotrophic cyanobacteria of the genus Cyanothece demonstrate oscillations in nitrogenase activity and H2 production when grown under 12 h light–12 h dark cycles. We established that Cyanothece sp. PCC 7822 allows for the construction of knock-out mutants and our objective was to improve the growth characteristics of this strain and to identify the nature of the intracellular storage granules. We report the physiological and morphological effects of reduction in nitrate and phosphate concentrations in BG-11 media on this strain. We developed a series of BG-11-derived growth media and monitored batch culture growth, nitrogenase activity and nitrogenase-mediated hydrogen production, culture synchronicity, and intracellular storage content. Reduction in NaNO3 and K2HPO4 concentrations from 17.6 and 0.23 to 4.41 and 0.06 mM, respectively, improved growth characteristics such as cell size and uniformity, and enhanced the rate of cell division. Cells grown in this low NP BG-11 were less complex, a parameter that related to the composition of the intracellular storage granules. Cells grown in low NP BG-11 had less polyphosphate, fewer polyhydroxybutyrate granules and many smaller granules became evident. Biochemical analysis and transmission electron microscopy using the histocytochemical PATO technique demonstrated that these small granules contained glycogen. The glycogen levels and the number of granules per cell correlated nicely with a 2.3 to 3.3-fold change from the minimum at L0 to the maximum at D0. The differences in granule morphology and enzymes between Cyanothece ATCC 51142 and Cyanothece PCC 7822 provide insights into the formation of large starch-like granules in some cyanobacteria.
Prise en charge du patient diabétique en chirurgie ambulatoire

Resume Le controle perioperatoire de la glycemie est tres important pour les patients diabetiques. Cet objectif n’est pas difficile a atteindre pour des praticiens experimentes sachant que l’hyperglycemie et les variations du taux de glucose peuvent etre responsables de complications serieuses. En preoperatoire il faut evaluer la qualite du controle de la glycemie par le patient et son aptitude a se prendre en charge pour controler son diabete ainsi que le risque d’hypoglycemie. Les arbres decisionnels de controle glycemique appliques aux patients hospitalises sont aussi valables pour ceux qui sont operes en ambulatoire. L’adaptation des traitements et notamment de l’insuline, permet un bon controle de la glycemie en perioperatoire.
Urinary cytokines for assessing inflammation in HIV-associated wasting.

The relationship between cytokines and HIV-related weight loss has not been well established. Unlike most cytokines that are secreted in a paracrine manner, IL-6, sTNFR-II, and IL-1ra are readily detected in the systemic circulation and serve as markers of the inflammatory response. Twenty-four-hour urine concentrations of these proteins are believed to provide an integrative assessment of their systemic levels over the preceding hours. We sought to determine whether spot measurements of IL-6, sTNFR-II, and IL-1ra could be related to subsequent 24 h concentrations and prior weight loss. Eighteen subjects with severe wasting (average BMI=18±3 kg/m2with 19±13 kg of weight loss) and six HIV-negative healthy subjects were tested. Compared to values in controls, 24-h urinary concentrations of the three proteins adjusted for creatinine excreted were elevated in 44%, 89%, and 72% of patients, respectively. Twenty-four-hour concentrations were highly correlated with the spot concentrations (r=0.80, 0.87, 0.84, respectively,P <0.001). IL-1ra concentrations (24 h and spot) were correlated with weight loss in the previous 6 months, lifetime rate of weight loss and the 6 month rate of weight loss (spot: r=0.66, 0.73, 0.68, respectively,P ≤0.001). These data suggest that spot urinary collections can be used to estimate 24 h excretion rates. This strategy may be useful in assessing the inflammatory response in HIV-associated wasting.
Sustainable Urban Redevelopment: Assessing the Impact of Third-Party Rating Systems

AbstractPrioritization of urban redevelopment to achieve sustainable neighborhood revitalization has received considerable attention. This study investigates whether a prescriptive approach to urban development, the third-party rating system, coupled with a business intelligence dashboard, as a data visualization tool to display the status of redevelopment can provide feasible and intuitive integration of data in which to prioritize redevelopment. This study presents a new framework and key sustainability indicators based on existing third-party rating systems to prioritize redevelopment. These assessments are introduced into a spatial decision support system using a dashboard as an interactive tool to gather and consolidate data and to present an evaluative means for decision makers. The tool allows identification of the highest-priority sites for long-term and short-term redevelopment of properties in Paterson, New Jersey. The study attempts to advance knowledge in sustainable urban redevelopment throug...
On the intersections of circuits and cocircuits in matroids

Seymour has shown that a matroid has a triad, that is, a 3-element set which is the intersection of a circuit and a cocircuit, if and only if it is non-binary. In this paper we determine precisely when a matroidM has a quad, a 4-element set which is the intersection of a circuit and a cocircuit. We also show that this will occur ifM has a circuit and a cocircuit meeting in more than four elements. In addition, we prove that if a 3-connected matroid has a quad, then every pair of elements is in a quad. The corresponding result for triads was proved by Seymour.
Evaluating the Georgia Legislative Waiver's Effectiveness in Deterring Juvenile Crime:

In an effort to curb the reported increases in violent juvenile crime, the growing trend of state legislatures is the removal of crimes specified as serious from the jurisdiction of the juvenile co...
Syntactic and Prosodic Practices for Cohesion in Series of Three-Part Sequences in Classroom Talk

Starting from the perspective that social order is locally coconstructed through talk-in-interaction, in this article, I investigate sequential, syntactic, and prosodic practices as locally instantiated interactive resources in the coconstruction of cohesive series of consecutive 3-part sequences of talk. Methods for analysis are drawn from conversation analysis and acoustic phonetics to present a holistic account of syntactic, prosodic, and written resources-a grammar of interaction (Ochs, Schegloff, & Thompson, 1996)-in the talk of participants in high school classrooms. This coordination of resources results in interactionally defined segments of activity.
Gradient theory of fluid microstructures

The general gradient theory of fluid microstructures is outlined. This theory reduces the determination of fluid microstructures to a boundary value problem. The density and pressure tensor profiles and the tension of planar thin films and layered structures in one-component fluids are investigated. The boundary conditions determining these structures are given a geometric interpretation in the free energy-density diagram. Discussed are the implications of the theory for the validity of Antonov's rule, the duplex film hypothesis, and the asymptotic theory of disjoining pressure and of the origin of a characteristic length scale in spinodal decomposition.
Spectral properties of zeroth-order pseudodifferential operators

Abstract Let Q be a self-adjoint, classical, zeroth order pseudodifferential operator on a compact manifold X with a fixed smooth measure dx . We use microlocal techniques to study the spectrum and spectral family, { E S } S∈ R as a bounded operator on L 2 ( X , dx ). Using theorems of Weyl ( Rend. Circ. Mat. Palermo , 27 (1909) , 373–392) and Kato (“Perturbation Theory for Linear Operators,” Springer-Verlag, 1976 ) on spectra of perturbed operators we observe that the essential spectrum and the absolutely continuous spectrum of Q are determined by a finite number of terms in the symbol expansion. In particular Spec ESS Q = range( q ( x , ξ )) where q is the principal symbol of Q . Turning the attention to the spectral family { E S } S∈ R , it is shown that if dE ds is considered as a distribution on R × X × X it is in fact a Lagrangian distribution near the set {σ=0}⊂ T ∗ ( R ×X×X) 0 where ( s , x , y , σ , ξ , η ) are coordinates on T ∗ ( R × X × X ) induced by the coordinates ( s , x , y ) on R × X × X . This leads to an easy proof that ƒ(Q) is a pseudodifferential operator if ƒ∈ C ∞ ( R ) and to some results on the microlocal character of E s . Finally, a look at the wavefront set of dE ds leads to a conjecture about the existence of absolutely continuous spectrum in terms of a condition on q ( x , ξ ).
A crystalline-to-crystalline phase transition in Ca(OH)2 at 8 GPa and room temperature

[1] X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy measurements reveal that Ca(OH)2-portlandite transforms to a crystalline phase with an ordered OH sublattice between 8 and 14 GPa at room temperature under quasi-hydrostatic stress conditions in an Ar pressure medium. The amorphization previously reported at 11 GPa under no pressure medium was not observed up to 26 GPa. The width and separation of the fluorescence peaks from the ruby chips embedded in Ca(OH)2 without a medium suggest that deviatoric stress is responsible for the previously observed amorphization. Our study demonstrates that the behavior of hydrous phases in the subducting slab could be sensitive to local deviatoric stresses. Together with similar reports on quartz, our observation on Ca(OH)2 indicates that deviatoric stress is an important factor to consider for P-induced amorphization reported in a wide range of materials.
Fluctuating variable-range-hopping conduction in two dimensions

Abstract Fluctuating variable-range-hooping conduction in a narrow two-dimensional strip is studied analytically within the percolation approximation. It is argued that despite the two-dimensional character of fluctuations, the underlying physics in such geometry is essentially one-dimensional: blockage of the percolation path by an electronic hop that cannot be avoided. Conditions on sample-width and temperature for observation of such fluctuations are derived.
Diffraction properties of multiple-beam photorefractive gratings

We have analytically solved the problem of N mutually incoherent pairs of beams in photorefractive media, each pair of which shares a common grating. The results are applied to study simultaneous read–write of dynamic photorefractive holograms with beams of comparable intensity. The diffraction efficiency is shown to be a nonlinear function of the read-beam intensity and is nonreciprocal with respect to readout from the two input ports. A complete energy transfer between the two write beams occurs in a finite thickness of the photorefractive crystal, in contrast to the infinite thickness required in the standard two-beam coupling case.
Beyond a Pets Theme: Teaching Young Children to Interact Safely with Dogs

Although it is commonplace for early childhood educators to include a theme or unit on pets, opportunities to incorporate safety goals frequently are overlooked. Approximately 400,000 incidents of dog bites to children are documented in the United States annually and this estimate may be low, due to the fact that not all injuries are reported. Young children are the group at highest risk of sustaining dog bites. Due to the child’s smaller stature, these bites are more likely to be severe or disfiguring. Yet research from various disciplines supports that many of dog bite injuries to children are preventable with education and even brief interventions appear to be effective. This article offers research-based, developmentally appropriate strategies as well as a wide array of free or inexpensive resources that teachers can use to coach children in ways of interacting more safely with dogs. By making health and safety concerns a key component of themes or units about pets, teachers not only improve the curriculum but also make an important contribution to young children’s well-being.
Preferential methylation of unmethylated DNA by mammalian de novo DNA methyltransferase Dnmt3a

DNA methylation is an epigenetic modification of DNA. There are currently three catalytically active mammalian DNA methyltransferases, DNMT1, -3a, and -3b. DNMT1 has been shown to have a preference for hemimethylated DNA and has therefore been termed the maintenance methyltransferase. Although previous studies on DNMT3a and -3b revealed that they act as functional enzymes during development, there is little biochemical evidence about how new methylation patterns are established and maintained. To study this mechanism we have cloned and expressed Dnmt3a using a baculovirus expression system. The substrate specificity of Dnmt3a and molecular mechanism of its methylation reaction were then analyzed using a novel and highly reproducible assay. We report here that Dnmt3a is a true de novo methyltransferase that prefers unmethylated DNA substrates more than 3-fold to hemimethylated DNA. Furthermore, Dnmt3a binds DNA nonspecifically, regardless of the presence of CpG dinucleotides in the DNA substrate. Kinetic analysis supports an Ordered Bi Bi mechanism for Dnmt3a, where DNA binds first, followed by S-adenosyl-l-methionine.
TENNESSEE'S ADOPTION LAW AND THE LIMITATIONS OF THE CONSTITUTIONAL ARGUMENTS REGARDING OPEN RECORDS

In 1995, Tennessee enacted a statute allowing adult adoptees access to information contained in their adoption records. Since then, debate has arisen concerning the constitutional rights of both the adoptive parents and the adoptees. A further dichotomy arose concerning the newly-created variation between adult and minor adoptees. While the debate continues, certain cases have begun to outline a judicial position on these matters, establishing predictors for the future application of the Tennessee law.
Arhangel'skiĭ's solution to Alexandroff's problem: A survey

Abstract In 1969, Arhangel'skiĭ proved that | X | ⩽ 2 χ ( X ) L ( X ) for every Hausdorff space X. This beautiful inequality solved a nearly fifty-year old question raised by Alexandroff and Urysohn. In this paper we survey a wide range of generalizations and variations of Arhangel'skiĭ's inequality. We also discuss open problems and an important legacy of the theorem: the emergence of the closure method as a fundamental unifying device in cardinal functions.
Intracranial Hemangiopericytoma: Clinical Experience and Treatment Considerations in a Modern Series of 40 Adult Patients

INTRODUCTION: Intracranial hemangiopericytoma (HPC) is a malignant meningothelial tumor. Because of its rarity, few guidelines exist for optimal management. METHODS: University of California at San Francisco patients managed for intracranial HPC were compiled into a single database based on a retrospective review of patient records. Univariate and multivariate regression was performed to determine factors that independently predicted treatment outcomes. RESULTS: A total of 40 patients with intracranial HPC were treated from 1989 to 2010. Treatment and follow-up information was available for analysis on 35 patients. The median survival for all patients was 16.2 years after date of diagnosis, with 1-year, 5-year, and 10-year survival rates of 100%, 92%, and 68%, respectively. Nineteen patients (54%) had HPC recurrence. The median time until recurrence was 5 years, with 1-year, 5-year, and 10-year progression-free survival rates of 96%, 49%, and 28%, respectively. Seven patients (20%) developed extracranial metastasis. Tumor characteristics associated with earlier recurrence included size ≥6 cm (log-rank, P < .05) and nonskull base location (log-rank, P < .05). Strategies combining adjuvant radiation with tumor resection appeared to hinder tumor progression, but had no effect on overall survival or the development of metastasis. Greater extent of resection was associated with increased overall survival (log-rank, P < .05). CONCLUSIONS: Adjuvant radiation may show promise in preventing tumor progression, but recurrence remains a common treatment outcome regardless of initial strategy. When safe and feasible, gross total resection should be pursued as an initial surgical strategy to maximize overall survival. The propensity of these tumors to metastasize makes detailed staging imaging necessary. Cancer 2011;. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
The Pathway for DNA Recognition and RNA Integration by a Group II Intron Retrotransposon

Group II intron RNPs are mobile genetic elements that attack and invade duplex DNA. In this work, we monitor the invasion reaction in vitro and establish a quantitative kinetic framework for the steps of this complex cascade. We find that target site specificity is achieved after DNA binding, which occurs nonspecifically. RNP searches the bound DNA before undergoing a conformational change that is associated with identification of its specific binding site. The study reveals a facile equilibrium between intron invasion and splicing, indicating that RNP invasion of top strand DNA is a relatively unfavorable event. Group II mobility must therefore depend on the trapping of invasion products, potentially through interaction of the intron-encoded protein with the DNA target and/or initiation of reverse transcription.
Facial sporotrichoid infection with Mycobacterium marinum

Abstract We report a case of Mycobacterium marinum facial sporotrichoid infection in an otherwise healthy 2-year-old child, probably acquired through contact with pets in an aquarium. The M. marinum isolate was susceptible to clarithromycin, and the child was successfully treated with oral antibiotic therapy. This unusual case emphasizes the importance of a thorough history in the evaluation of a patient with chronic sporotrichoid skin lesions. (J Pediatr 1997;130:324-6)
Uniqueness of interval and continuous training at the same maintained exercise intensity.

The present study sought to evaluate the inconsistencies previously observed regarding the predominance of continuous or interval training for improving fitness. The experimental design initially equated and subsequently maintained the same relative exercise intensity by both groups throughout the program. Twelve subjects were equally divided into continuous (CT, exercise at 50% maximal work) or interval (IT, 30 s work, 30 s rest at 100% maximal work) training groups that cycled 30 min day−1, 3 days week−1, for 8 weeks. Following training, aerobic power (VO2max), exercising work rates, and peak power output were all higher (9–16%) after IT than after CT (5–7%). Vastus lateralis muscle citrate synthase activity increased 25% after CT but not after IT. A consistent increase in adenylate kinase activity (25%) was observed only after IT. During continuous cycling testing the CT group had reduced blood lactate (1ab) levels and respiratory quotient at both the same absolute and relative (70% VO2max) work rates after training, while the IT group displayed similar changes only at the same absolute work rates. By contrast, both groups responded similarly during intermittent cycling testing with lower 1ab concentrations seen only at absolute work rates. These results show that, of the two types of training programs currently employed, IT produces higher increases in VO2max and in maximal exercise capacity. Nevertheless, CT is more effective at increasing muscle oxidative capacity and delaying the accumulation of 1ab during continuous exercise.
Degree bounds of minimal polynomials and polynomial automorphisms

Abstract Based on the concept of minimal polynomials, we give an elementary proof of the following fact: If k is a field and F : k [ x 1 ,…, x n ] → k [ x 1 ,…, x n ] is a polynomial automorphism, then deg( −1 )≤( degF ) n −1 .
Monitoring for Continuing Endothelial Cell Loss With Cataract Extraction and Intraocular Lens Implantation

For a period of three years, more than 2,700 endothelial cell density measurements were performed in over 1,000 patients undergoing cataract extraction with and without intraocular lens implantation. We concluded the following from the data: (1) Significant cell loss occurred with all surgical procedures, averaging between 11.6% and 25.6%, depending on type of procedure and implant used; anterior chamber phacoemulsification without intraocular lens implantation caused the most cell loss. (2) Patients with Medallion suture implants produced by one of two manufacturers studied demonstrated statistically significant cell loss during the first (15.6% additional cells lost) and second (22.9% additional cells lost) postoperative years following the initial cell loss due to surgery. This evidence for continuing cell loss with the Medallion suture lens correlated with the clinical observation of an increasing incidence of late bullous keratopathy in these patients. (3) No other surgical procedure or implant type, including Choyce and Shearing implants and Medallion style lenses from another manufacturer, demonstrated any evidence of continuing endothelial cell loss following the initial loss due to surgery.
Ancrod in the Treatment of Acute Ischaemic Stroke

Ancrod converts fibrinogen into soluble fibrin products, resulting in a decrease in plasma fibrinogen and blood viscosity, and also induces the release of endogenous tissue-type plasminogen activator from the vessel wall. These activities suggest that treating patients with acute ischaemic stroke with ancrod might result in improved cerebral blood flow and patient outcome. Two large randomised placebo-controlled studies have evaluated treatment with ancrod in patients with acute ischaemic stroke. In the first, patients were treated within 6 hours of symptom onset: this was not successful in quickly lowering fibrinogen levels to the target range (0.7 to 1.0 g/L) and the results were inconclusive. However, a post hoc analysis suggested that treatment with ancrod was effective in patients whose fibrinogen level was reduced to less than 1.3 g/L within 6 hours of starting treatment. A second larger study is still in progress, but preliminary results in patients treated within 3 hours of onset of ischaemic stroke are available and indicate that the target fibrinogen level of less than 1 g/L within 6 hours of instituting treatment is being achieved in most patients.
From Newborn Loss Comes the Gift of Hope

Paper Presentation Background The family in this case requested dissemination of their experience so other healthcare professionals could learn from the death of their infant with anencephaly. The parents were passionate about doing whatever they could to find the cause of anencephaly and to support related research. Interdisciplinary collaboration throughout the woman's pregnancy was critical. "Hope" was born 6 months after her parents learned that she would not survive, and they decided to donate her organs. Our nursing staff, spiritual care consultant, and the local transplant coordinator helped them to do so. Case We worked with the parents to develop a birth plan that included selecting nurses and delivery setting, postpartum rituals, hospice, and funeral home contact. We consulted the Ethics Committee and Director of Pathology. After learning that Hope had anencephaly, her parents asked their obstetrician about organ donation. He could offer no information. The parents began their own search and contacted an anencephaly research group. We assisted them by coordinating collection of blood samples and cord blood. While the parents wanted to donate her organs and tissues, they were adamant about not placing her on a ventilator, which was required for transplant but not research donation. We enabled them to donate the lungs, liver, pancreas, and eyes. Nurses volunteered to meet with the parents to discuss a birth plan and to be available for the birth. The hospice social worker initiated grief counseling. The family priest baptized Hope immediately at birth. She was placed in her father's arms and then skin-to-skin with her mother. She was baptized again attended by her family and nurses. We escorted her and her father to the hospital chapel where we all prayed, and she was taken outside to feel the sun on her face. Her parents held her continuously for 4 days. She was discharged home and died 24 hours later. Her parents brought her back to the hospital for recovery of her organs. Conclusion The death of an infant is a profound loss, and nurses are key in coordinating interdisciplinary care to help families find meaning and cope.
Influence of thermomechanical processing on elevated temperature slow plastic flow properties of B2 aluminide Fe-39.8at.%Al

A study of the elevated temperature slow plastic flow properties of the B2 aluminide Fe-39.8at.% Al was undertaken. Polycrystalline materials possessing several different microstructures were produced by the hot extrusion of prealloyed powder and, in some cases, postextrusion heat treatments. Compression tests were conducted in air at 1200, 1300 and 1400 K. Such testing revealed that the extrusion temperature affected the active deformation mechanisms where material extruded at 1505 K had a stress exponent about twice that of the intermetallic extruded at 1200 K. Grain size refinement to about 10 microns was found to strengthen the Fe-39.8at.% Al material; unfortunately, the effectiveness of such strengthening is limited to a homologous temperature of about 0.75 for strain rates of commercial interest (less than 10 to the -7th/sec).
Meso-scale testing and development of test procedures to maintain mass balance

The Conrad Blucher Institute for Surveying and Science (Texas A&M University--Corpus Christi) has conducted numerous petroleum experiments at the Shoreline Environmental Research Facility (Corpus Christi, Texas, USA). The meso-scale facility has multiple wave tanks, permitting some control in experimental design of the investigations, but allowing for real-world conditions. This paper outlines the evolution of a materials balance approach in conducting petroleum experiments at the facility. The first attempt at a materials balance was during a 1998 study on the fate/effects of dispersant use on crude oil. Both water column and beach sediment samples were collected. For the materials balance, the defined environmental compartments for oil accumulation were sediments, water column, and the water surface, while the discharge from the tanks was presumed to be the primary sink. The "lessons learned" included a need to quantify oil adhesion to the tank surfaces. This was resolved by adhering strips of the polymer tank lining to the tank sides that could be later removed and extracted for oil. Also, a protocol was needed to quantify any floating oil on the water surface. A water surface (oil slick) quantification protocol was developed, involving the use of solid-phase extraction disks. This protocol was first tested during a shoreline cleaner experiment, and later refined in subsequent dispersant effectiveness studies. The effectiveness tests were designed to simulate shallow embayments which created the need for additional adjustments in the tanks. Since dispersant efficacy is largely affected by hydrodynamics, it was necessary to scale the hydrodynamic conditions of the tanks to those expected in our prototype system (Corpus Christi Bay, Texas). The use of a scaled model permits the experiment to be reproduced and/or evaluated under different conditions. To minimize wave reflection in the tank, a parabolic wave dissipater was built. In terms of materials balance, this design reduced available surface area as a sink for oil adsorption.
Improved feature extraction from high-resolution remotely sensed imagery using object geometry

Information extraction from high spatial resolution imagery is sometimes hampered by the limited number of spectral channels available from these systems. Standard supervised classification algorithms found in commercial software packages may misclassify different features with similar spectral characteristics; leading to a high occurrence of false positives. An additional step in the information extraction process was developed incorporating the concept of object geometry. Objects are defined as a contiguous group of pixels identified as belonging to a single class in the spectral classification. Using results from the spectral classification, a supervised approach was developed using genetic programming to select and mathematically combine feature-specific shape descriptors from a larger set of shape descriptors, to form a new classifier. This investigation focused on extraction of residential housing from QuickBird and IKONOS imagery of the Mississippi Gulf Coast before and immediately after hurricane Katrina. Use of genetic programming significantly reduced false positives caused by asphalt pavement and isolated roofing material scattered throughout the image.
Recent improvements in ocean current measurement from motional electric fields and currents

Scientific studies of ocean dynamics and transports require rapid and accurate observations of velocities over large spatial scales. One opportunity to provide some of the needed data is available in the naturally occurring electric currents and magnetic field. These EM signals arise from the motion of sea water through the Earth's magnetic field and contain information about the local and regional velocity. The mixture of local and distant responses is often considered a liability, but this seeming problem can be turned into a great benefit. The local contribution is the water velocity, v , at the sensor location. The distant contribution is determined primarily by the average velocity over the vertical water column, denoted as \bar{v}^{\astr} . The apparent velocity sensed by an instrument moving with the local water velocity is equal to v - \bar{v}^{\astr} . A method to separate these contributions and, thereby, isolate \bar{v}^{\astr} is to obtain simultaneous EM and navigational information. The difference between an independent measurement of the local horizontal velocity and the EM-derived velocity yields \bar{v}^{\astr} . Because \bar{v}^{\astr} is usefully close to being \bar{v} , the vertically averaged velocity, the method holds significant potential for improving current measurement technology. Measurements of motionally induced electric fields and currents are being made from submarine cables, towed electrode systems and free-fall profilers. Significant new information about steady and variable ocean transport has been obtained from these methods. Examples of the recent progress in measurements, interpretations and instrumentation are discussed, and a new device to measure \bar{v}^{\astr} , called the Towed Transport Meter, is described.
The Relationship between Parental Literacy Level and Perceptions of Emergent Literacy

The study examined parental perceptions of young children's literacy development and explored the relationship between parental literacy level and perceptions of the importance of literacy artifacts and events/experiences in preschoolers' literacy development. One-hundred-eight parents of beginning kindergartners were interviewed and given a test of literacy level. The interview had two open-ended items asking about why some children are successful in reading and writing in school and others are not and about what parents of preschoolers might do to help them learn to read and write better later in school. Likert items gauged views of the importance of literacy artifacts and events and interactions in the home during preschool years for later success in reading and writing. Statistical as well as interpretive analyses were used. On the whole, parents were very positive about the notion that literacy learning can begin during the preschool years. There was, however, a significant negative relationship between parental literacy level and perceptions of the importance of literacy artifacts and events; parents with lower literacy levels thought literacy artifacts and events were even more important than did parents with higher literacy levels. Further, low-literacy and high-literacy parents tended to have different perceptions of what is important for early literacy development. The purpose of this study was to examine parental perceptions of young children's literacy development and to explore the relationship between parental literacy level and perceptions of the importance of literacy artifacts and events/experiences in preschoolers' literacy development. In this study, literacy refers to reading and writing. Recent research on emergent literacy clearly indicates that literacy acquisition may begin during the preschool years, when children may acquire concepts of literacy, learn about the functions and conventions of print, and develop an interest
Communication Flows in Distribution Channels: Impact on Assessments of Communication Quality and Satisfaction

Abstract We develop and test a model of the relationships between: (1) norms of information sharing and communication flows of frequency, bidirectionality, and formality; (2) these communication flows and dealers' assessments of the quality of communication and satisfaction with communication; and (3) formality of communication flows and dealers' distortion and withholding of information. Based on data collected with a survey mailed to a national sample of computer dealers, our findings offer insight on channels communication to both researchers and practitioners. By examining the impact of communication flows on summary judgments of communication, managers can focus their efforts on vital communication flows which stimulate positive assessments of communication, and which stymie less beneficial/detrimental communication behaviors (such as distortion and withholding of information).
Reduction in red blood cell transfusion associated with engagement of the ordering physician

Background Data on red blood cell (RBC) transfusion in the United States show variation in practice and overprescribing or overdosing is considered to be prevalent. Education or restrictive interventions could modify practice. Study Design and Methods RBC transfusion and mortality rates were recorded in a single institution over a 15-year period. The first 3 years were used as a baseline. Education measures were used to influence practice for 3 years followed by a 9-year period when questionable RBC orders in nonbleeding inpatients resulted in prospective physician notification for potential modification. Physician notification was done by blood bank technologists with transfusion medicine physician support, if needed. Pretransfusion hemoglobin levels of more than 9 g/dL were recommended for cancellation and levels between 8 and 9 g/dL advised for a single unit, if 2 or more units were requested. RBC transfusion rates were described as inpatient units per 1000 discharges to allow for interyear comparison. Results A downward trend in RBC transfusion was noted for the intervention period. Comparison of the baseline period with the past 3 years of the intervention period showed an approximate 33% decrease, which was highly significant (508 ± 66 vs. 341 ± 32, p < 0.01). Inpatient mortality rates declined over this period. Conclusion Physician education in appropriate transfusion practice is desirable but may not greatly impact RBC use. Engagement of physicians who prescribe RBCs that appear inappropriate for indication or dose was associated with a significant decline in RBC use without evidence of a change in mortality.