cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Is there a potential role for serum cardiac troponin I as a marker for myocardial dysfunction in pediatric patients receiving anthracycline-based therapy? A pilot study.

Serum cardiac troponin I (cTnI) levels have been reported to have high specificity and sensitivity to acute myocardial infarction and coronary ischemic syndromes in adult patients. Our goal was to evaluate the usefulness of serum cTnI in the early diagnosis of cardiac injury from anthracyclines, and to compare these values with echocardiographic findings of cardiac dysfunction. In this prospective study, children being treated on several Children's Cancer Group protocols underwent measurement of shortening fraction (SF), ejection fraction (EF), and serum cTnI levels prior to anthracycline therapy. Sequential serum cTnI levels were then measured along with regularly scheduled echocardiograms with progressively increasing doses of anthracyclines. Fifteen children with median age of 5.75 years (range, 15 months to 15.5 years) at diagnosis were evaluated. Anthracycline doses ranged from 11.72 mg/kg (in patients <3 years of age) to 375 mg/m2. All but one patient had normal cTnI levels. His level measured at 1....
The modified Broström techniquefor reconstruction of chronic lateral ankle instability

Abstract The surgical treatment of chronic lateral ankle instability by direct anatomical repair of the incompetent ligaments is a popular, well-investigated procedure. This method of reconstruction is fairly easy, reproducible, and does not sacrifice normal musculotendinous units. The results are consistently satisfactory. The history of this procedure, along with its modifications, indications, and a technique, are presented.
Rat hepatocyte hyaluronan/glycosaminoglycan binding proteins: evidence for distinct divalent cation-independent and divalent cation-dependent activities.

Abstract We have previously shown (Biochemistry, 29 , 10425, 1990) that hepatocytes contain intracellular specific binding sites for hyaluronan (HA). Although HA-binding activity is not dependent on divalent cations, it is increased in the presence of Ca +2 . Here we report that a novel photoaffinity HA derivative (ASD-HA) crosslinks specifically to different proteins in permeable cells in the presence or absence of Ca +2 . With Ca +2 present, two proteins of approximately 24 kD and 43 kD were labeled. Additionally, a broad zone of specific crosslinking was observed in the region of 40–100 kD. However, in the presence of the chelator EGTA this zone was absent and the 24 and 43 kD proteins were also not cross-linked to the HA photoaffinity derivative. In the absence of Ca +2 , only a 54 kD protein was specifically labeled. The results indicate that different intracellular hepatocyte proteins are responsible for the Ca +2 -independent and the Ca +2 -dependent binding of HA.
A New Class of Supramolecular Wires

We present an unconventional approach to the development of 1-D supramolecular wires based on the self-assembly of donor−σ−acceptor molecules. The concept is demonstrated using one class of these systems, 1-aza-adamantanetriones (AATs), that are well-characterized in terms of their solution/solid-state self-assembly and chemical manipulation. Our results show that accompanying spontaneous organization of the molecules into 1-D periodic arrays is delocalization of the frontier molecular orbitals through the saturated tricyclic cores of the monomers that span the entire system. The electronic band structure for the 1-D wire reveals significant dispersion and can be tuned from the insulating regime to the semiconducting regime by suitable chemical functionalization of the core. The theoretical understanding of this new class of supramolecular structures sets the stage for the tailored design of novel functional materials that are an alternative to those comprised of traditional π-conjugated systems.
Modification for Cannulation of Duodenum with Flexible, T-shaped Cannula in Goats

Abstract A surgical procedure for cannulation of the proximal duodenum in lactating goats is described using a pliable T-shaped cannula. The procedure involves the establishment of cannula between the last two ribs without removal of a rib. The duodenum has a more normal orientation instead of drawing it posterior to the costal arch of the last rib. Surgical procedures are easy, cannulae are inexpensive and dangers of environmental hazards are reduced.
Generalized one-sided laws of the iterated logarithm for random variables barely with or without finite mean

The almost sure limiting behavior of weighted sums of independent and identically distributed random variables barely with or without finite mean are established. Results for these partial sums, $$\sum\limits_{k = 1}^n {k^\alpha X_k ,} \alpha \in R$$ have been studied, but only when α=−1 or α=0. As it turns out, the two cases of major interest are α=−1 and α>−1. The purpose of this article is to examine the latter.
Multiwall carbon nanotube-poly(4-styrenesulfonic acid) supported polypyrrole/manganese oxide nano-composites for high performance electrochemical electrodes

Abstract Poly(4-styrenesulfonic acid) (PSS) dispersed multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) are used as a support for polypyrrole (PPy)/MnO2 in a supercapacitor electrode. Synergetic interaction between polypyrrole and MnO2 significantly improves the electrical properties and the mechanical stability of the electrode that yields high rate capability. The (–SO3−) surface functionalities on MWCNT-PSS facilitate an ordered growth, and the molecular level dispersion of MnO2 in PPy matrix enhances the electrode performance. As an electrochemical electrode the MWCNT-PSS/PPy:MnO2 nano-composite exhibits ∼268 F g−1 specific capacitance at 5 mV s−1. The excellent rate capability and stability of the electrode is demonstrated by only 7% fade in the specific capacity at 100 mV s−1 (compared to the available capacity at 5 mV s−1) and 10% fade in the same after 5000 CV cycles. Specific capacitance of PPy:MnO2 component in the nano-composite is as high as 412 F g−1 in 0.5 M Na2SO4 electrolyte. Electrical conductivity of the MWCNT-PSS/PPy nano-composite is significantly improved upon inclusion of MnO2 in molecular level dispersion.
Tendon extracellular matrix damage detection and quantification using automated edge detection analysis

The accumulation of sub-rupture tendon fatigue damage in the extracellular matrix, particularly of type I collagen fibrils, is thought to contribute to the development of tendinopathy, a chronic and degenerative pathology of tendons. Quantitative assessment of collagen fibril alignment is paramount to understanding the importance of matrix injury to cellular function and remodeling capabilities. This study presents a novel application of edge detection analysis to calculate local collagen fibril orientation in tendon. This technique incorporates damage segmentation and stratification by severity which will allow future analysis of the direct effect of matrix damage severity on the cellular and molecular response.
Increased eating frequency linked to decreased obesity and improved metabolic outcomes.

We previously reported that more frequent eating in overweight minority youth was linked to lower visceral adiposity and circulating triglycerides. The aim of this study was to examine this issue in more detail by assessing the relationship between eating frequency and adiposity and metabolic disease risk in a cohort of exclusively overweight Hispanic youth. This analysis included 191 overweight (⩾85th percentile body mass index (BMI)) Hispanic youth (8–18 years) with the following cross-sectional measures: height, weight, BMI, dietary intake via multiple 24 h recalls, body composition via dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, lipids and insulin action (insulin sensitivity, acute insulin response (AIR) and disposition index, a measure of β-cell function) via a frequently sampled intravenous glucose tolerance test. Each eating occasion (EO) was defined as ⩾50 calories and ⩾15 min from any prior EO. Infrequent eaters (IEs) were classified as any subject who ate <3 EOs on any dietary recall (n=32), whereas frequent eaters (FEs) always consumed ⩾3 EOs (n=159). Using analyses of covariance, FEs compared with IEs consumed 23% more calories per day (P⩽0.01), ate 40% more often and consumed 19% less calories per EO (P⩽0.01). FEs also exhibited 9% lower BMI Z-scores (P⩽0.01), 9% lower waist circumferences (P⩽0.01), 29% lower fasting insulin (P=0.02), 31% lower HOMA-IR (Homeostatic Model Assessment: Insulin Resistance) values (P=0.02) and 19% lower triglycerides (P⩽0.01), as well as an 11% higher AIR (P=0.02) and 31% higher disposition index (P=0.01). The following a priori covariates were included: Tanner, sex, body fat and reported energy intake. These findings suggest that increased eating frequency is related to decreased obesity and metabolic disease risk in overweight Hispanic youth, despite increases in energy intake.
Murine mammary tumor cell clones with varying degrees of virus expression.

Single cell clones were derived from Sykes′ CCL-51, a type-B particle positive, type-C virus negative murine mammary tumor cell line. Two of the clones had similar growth properties—they formed “dome-like” structures, grew in soft agar, and had abundant microvilli by electron microscopy—but differed markedly in their expression of type-B viral information. One clone, clone 11, had morphological type-B particles, type-B specific sl antigen (3500 ng/mg protein), and cellular RNA which hybridized with MTV [ 3 H]DNA product. The other clone, clone 6 did not have detectable particles by electron microscopy, antigen levels were below the limits of sensitivity or barely detectable (∽30 ng/mg protein), and RNA hybridizable to MTV DNA product was less than 5% of the reaction noted with the positive clone. Measurement of the cellular MTV-related DNA sequences by DNA-DNA hybridization using the same single-stranded MTV DNA product revealed comparable levels of MTV DNA sequences in both clones. Type-C viral expression (gs antigen and RNA levels) in both clones was comparable and not significantly higher than noted in other “normal” murine cell lines.
Interface mechanics of porous titanium implants

The interfacial shear properties of bone tissue growth into porous coated Ti-6A1-4V femoral implants have been examined as a function of the pore size of the porous surface. Three particle size range powders (297 μm, 420–500 μm, 595–707 μm) were used to fabricate cylindrical implants which were inserted into the femoral medullary canal of dogs for 6 months. Push-out tests on the removed femurs are reported and reveal: (i) that those implants residing in cortical bone exhibited significantly higher shear properties than the equivalent implants in cancellous bone and (ii) that the interfacial shear strength and stiffness decreased with increasing pore diameter within the range 175–325 μm. The extent of bone ingrowth into the surface of the implants was measured using quantitative optical microscopic techniques. This indicated that the percentage of bone which had grown into the surface was inversely proportional to the square root of the pore size and that further the shear properties of the interface were proportional to the extent of bone in-growth.
A case study on process optimization using the gradient loss function

This paper focuses on studies where the goal is to optimize the key quality characteristics of a specific product or process. In order to do that, the process parameters must be adjusted in such a way that deviations from target are minimized while robustness to noise and to process parameter fluctuations are maximized. Since this is a multi-response, multi-objective problem, the optimum solution is a compromise. In this paper we present a gradient loss function which captures all the desired objectives, and propose a general methodology to perform the optimization analysis. This methodology is then carried out experimentally on a cosmetic product and the results are discussed.
Financial analysis of an inner city trauma center: Charges vs collections

The changes in the economy and in tax rules have caused hospitals to assess the financial viability of different areas within their institutions. While emergency departments generally have become recognized as a cost-effective portal of entry for patients, trauma centers, particularly those located in the inner city, usually are seen as areas of large investment and small financial return. This study looks at a large, inner-city trauma service and the charges, collections, and demographics of the trauma population it serves. For patients admitted to the trauma service, total collections were 77% of charges. There was no difference in collections between those patients with blunt injuries and those with penetrating injuries; violent vs nonviolent injuries; patients transferred in vs primary receivals; or patients transferred out after stabilization vs those retained at the trauma center.
Travels into Several Remote Corners of the Information Universe: A Voyage to the Department of the Houyhnhnmists, or, Licensing Issues and the Integrated Collection

The review and negotiation of license agreements has become a time-consuming but necessary part of the job of providing access to the electronic information resources required by libraries' patrons. The nature of these agreements may pose a number of barriers to the development of fully integrated collections. This article presents a fictitious case-study intended to exemplify a number of the barriers encountered in an academic library during the process of acquiring access to electronic database products.
Verified self-monitored blood glucose data versus glycosylated hemoglobin and glycosylated serum protein as a means of redicting short- and long-term metabolic control in gestational diabetes

Glycosylated hemoglobin and glycosylated serum protein have been suggested as tools for evaluation of long- and short-term glycemic control, respectively. Twenty-six patients with gestational diabetes were prospectively studied to determine the relationship of glycosylated hemoglobin and glycosylated serum protein to metabolic control. To verify the accuracy of blood glucose data, a memory-based reflectance meter was used for subjects with gestational diabetes who tested 6.5 ± 1 times per day. Our analysis revealed that despite a statistically positive correlation between glycosylated hemoglobin, glycosylated serum protein, and verified data, their use as a clinical tool is limited because of their poor predictability.
AN EXPLORATORY STUDY OF CHARACTERISTICS RELATED TO IRT PARAMETER INVARIANCE WITH THE TEST OF ENGLISH AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE

IRT equating methods have been used successfully with the TOEFL® test for many years, and for the most part the observed properties of items have been consistent with model predictions. However, items that do not appear to hold their IRT pretest estimates do exist. If relationships can be found between features of TOEFL items in pretest calibrations and subsequent lack of model-data fit when these items are used in final forms, steps to eliminate the use of such items in TOEFL final forms can be taken. The purpose of this study was to provide an exploratory investigation of item features that may contribute to a lack of invariance of TOEFL item parameters. The results of the study indicated the following: (1) subjective and quantitative measures developed for the study provided consistent information related to the model-data fit of TOEFL test items, (2) for Sections 1 and 2, items that were pretested before 1986 exhibited poorer model-data fit than items that were pretested after 1986, and (3) for Section 3 reading comprehension, model-data fit appeared to be related to changes in the relative position of items within the sections from the pretest to the final form administrations. Based on the results of the study, it was recommended that (1) the TOEFL program investigate the feasibility of not using pretest IRT statistics for items pretested before 1986 for Sections 1 and 2 and (2) that guidelines be developed for test developers to use with reading comprehension items to limit the change in relative positions of items in the test from pretest to final form administrations.
Terrestrial Millimeter Wave Communications

A summary is given for terrestrial applications of millimeter-wave communication systems. Consideration is given to the role of atmospheric attenuation in making an appropriate choice of frequency band, and to systems that take advantage of attenuation effects to limit intercept range. Examples are given for several types of recently-developed systems, including cases operating at various frequency bands,between 36 and 70 GHz. An extensive reference list is included.© (1983) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Aseptic meningitis in adult onset Still’s disease

Adult onset Still's disease (AOSD) is a systemic inflammatory disease characterized by high-fevers, articular involvement, maculopapular rash, hepatosplenomegaly, lymphadenopathy, and a neutrophilic leukocytosis. Though systemic complications of AOSD or its treatment are well described in the literature, CNS involvement in AOSD is exceedingly rare and can have protean manifestations. We present a patient with AOSD who developed chronic meningitis and sensorineural hearing loss on treatment, with a review of prior reported cases of aseptic meningitis, to highlight this rare complication of this uncommon illness.
Canine heartworm disease: a review and pilot study.

Abstract Canine heartworm disease is a mosquito vectored illness resulting from parasitization by the filariid worm Dirofilaria immitis. While presenting some danger to humans, the filariid has its greatest impact on the canine population. In recent years the disease has become established throughout much of the United States, perhaps as the result of diffusion from a suspected hearth in the southeastern coastal plain. While its distribution is known in general terms, much research remains to be done to asses the pattern of distribution as well as the impact of D. immitis on canine populations and their human owners for many locales. The present study provides a review of the literature on the parasite; on its distribution. particularly in the United States; and on the ecology of canine heartworm disease. A pilot study is presented which emphasizes the problems encountered in establishing a data base for observations on the disease at the local level.
Photoemission of spin-polarized d states in gadolinium

Abstract Recently, spin-polarized photoemission from gadolinium films was interpreted in terms of a 4f → 5d resonant scattering mechanism. In view of our photoemission data, we believe that this mechanism is very unlikely. Instead, the spin-polarization data can be explained in a straightforward manner taking into account the Gd band structure and simple photoemission escape cone rules.
Storage and Utilization of Brewers Wet Grains in Diets for Lactating Dairy Cows

Abstract Brewers wet grains were treated wtih NH 3 at 0, 2, or 4% of dry matter, compacted in plastic pails, and exposed to aerobic storage for 3, 7, or 10 d. Portions were compacted in polyethylene bags, sealed with twine, and left to ensile for 7, 14, or 28 d. During aerobic storage, water-soluble carbohydrate increased at high NH 3 but decreased at 0 and 2% NH 3 . Mold growth and spoilage were inhibited by 4% NH 3 . For ensiled grains, NH 3 delayed increases of lactate, presumably by inhibiting fermentation. Water-soluble carbohydrates increased to d 14 at 4% NH 3 , then tended to decrease with longer ensiling. The 4% NH 3 addition effectively preserved wet grains in aerobic and anaerobic storage, but 0 and 2% did not. In another study, lactating Holstein cows were fed a basal diet of corn silage, alfalfa hay, ear corn, and a mineral-vitamin mix for 70 d. Treatments substituted either 25.6% fresh brewers wet grains, 26.3% ensiled brewers wet grains, or 14.7% fresh brewers wet grains plus .72% urea for 14.3% soybean meal. Daily dry matter intakes for the respective treatments were 25.2, 21.9, 20.8, and 22.8kg. Milk yields and milk composition were not significantly different. Feed efficiency and income over feed costs were greater for brewers wet grains than soybean meal. Urea added to brewers wet grains was the most profitable diet and appears to be an economical alternative to soybean meal as a protein supplement for lactating dairy cows under these conditions.
Contributions of basic residues to ribosomal protein L11 recognition of RNA

The C-terminal domain of ribosomal protein L11, L11-C76, binds in the distorted minor groove of a helix within a 58 nucleotide domain of 23 S rRNA. To study the electrostatic component of RNA recognition in this protein, arginine and lysine residues have been individually mutated to alanine or methionine residues at the nine sequence positions that are conserved as basic residues among bacterial L11 homologs. In measurements of the salt dependence of RNA-binding, five of these mutants have a reduced value of −∂log(Kobs)/∂log[KCl] as compared to the parent L11-C76 sequence, indicating that these residues interact with the RNA electrostatic field. These five residues are located at the perimeter of the RNA-binding surface of the protein; all five of them form salt bridges with phosphates in the crystal structure of the complex. A sixth residue, Lys47, was found to make an electrostatic contribution to binding when measurements were made at pH 6.0, but not at pH 7.0; its pK in the free protein must be <6.5. The unusual behavior of Lys47 is explained by its burial in the hydrophobic core of the free protein, and unburial in the RNA-bound protein, where it forms a salt bridge with a phosphate. The contributions of these six residues to the electrostatic component of binding are not additive; thus the magnitude of the salt dependence cannot be used to count the number of ionic interactions in this complex. By interacting with irregular features of the RNA backbone, including an S-turn, these basic residues contribute to the specificity of L11 for its target site.
Understanding the Effect of Environmental History on Bilayer Tablet Interfacial Shear Strength

To understand the effect of post production environmental conditions on the interfacial strength of bilayer tablets. Bilayer tablets of microcrystalline cellulose/dicalcium phosphate were exposed to several humidity conditions higher/lower than production conditions and tested in shear to assess interfacial strength. Specific failure mechanisms were observed using x-ray microtomography and scanning electron microscopy. Transients in moisture diffusion of bilayer tablets with significant differential moisture absorption characteristics are responsible for the reduction of strength in both high and low moisture environments. X-ray microtomography and SEM experiments have shown that two different mechanisms of interfacial crack formation are present. For low moisture exposure, interfacial cracks close to the surface were produced, whereas at high moisture conditions, internal interfacial cracks were created. In both cases the fracture modes are consistent with the tensile stresses that develop locally due to the volumetric strains induced by moisture absorption. The insight gained from this work will be useful for material selection and packaging of bilayer tablet systems. While additional work is needed to develop specific guidelines for the optimization of bilayer strength, the results presented here provide a rational basis upon which such work can be conducted.
Management scheme of a workstation controller in a flexible manufacturing system

Abstract A workstation controller is an industrial computer which controls the function of the unit workstation in a flexible manufacturing system. A workstation is considered a functionally cohesive group of machine equipment and the operation is carried out independently. The basic operating unit in a workstation controller is the computer program. In other words it is a task. A set of software tools has been defined, developed, and tested for a workstation controller. The tasks create a workstation domain which makes the user application that controls and monitors the workstation operation. A specific program called Configuration Manager, consisting of various modules, is responsible for supervising the tasks within a workstation controller. Usually, a single Configuration Manager resides in a workstation controller. However, multiple Configuration Managers can be utilized in several CPU boards in a common backplane. The program has been developed on a realtime operating system to fit into the realtime environment of a manufacturing system. The Configuration Manager is written in the “C” programming language to enhance the portability. However, the user application software could be written in any higher level language.
Four suture tip rhinoplasty: A powerful tool for controlling tip dynamics

Objective To evaluate the short-term effectiveness of using a 4-suture technique to control nasal tip dynamics. The 4 sutures include a medial crural suture, bilateral intradomal sutures, and an interdomal suture. Study design and setting Retrospective photograph analysis of preoperative and postoperative photographs of 77 patients with respect to 7 dynamic variables: supratip break, projection, rotation, tip shape, tip definition, tip symmetry, and the presence of a double columellar break. Results Seventy-four patients underwent primary rhinoplasty and had an overall average score of 5.2 on a −7 to +7 scale, with a mean follow-up period of 3.8 months. The 3 patients undergoing revision rhinoplasty had an overall average score of 5.0 and a mean follow-up of 8.7 months. Conclusion The 4-suture technique worked best with respect to projection and tip symmetry, although the technique proved to be an effective tool overall in controlling all 7 variables mentioned above. EBM rating: C-4
Low atazanavir concentrations in cerebrospinal fluid

Objective—Protease inhibitors may not penetrate into the central nervous system in therapeutic concentrations, which may allow ongoing HIV replication and injury. The objective of this study was to determine atazanavir penetration into cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Design—Single random plasma or paired plasma and CSF samples were drawn from participants enrolled in a multicenter, observational cohort study and taking atazanavir with or without ritonavir between October 2003 and October 2005. Methods—Plasma samples were assayed by high performance liquid chromatography and immunoassay; lower limit of detection was 45 ng/ml. CSF samples were assayed by immunoassay (ARK ATV-test); lower limit of detection was 5 ng/ml. Results—One hundred and seventeen participants (43 ± 7.7 years, 79% men, 81 ± 15 kg) had plasma or plasma and CSF paired samples drawn a median (interquartile range) of 10 (5–17) h postdose. Median (interquartile range) plasma atazanavir concentrations with or without ritonavir were 1278 (525–2265) and 523 (283–1344) ng/ml. The median (interquartile range) CSF concentrations with or without ritonavir were 10.3 (<5–21.1) and 7.9 (6.6–22) ng/ml. Nineteen of 79 (24%) CSF samples were less than 5 ng/ml. CSF concentrations were less than 1% of plasma concentrations and near the atazanavir wild-type IC50 of 1–11 ng/ml. Conclusion—Atazanavir CSF concentrations are highly variable and 100-fold lower than plasma concentrations, even with ritonavir boosting. CSF concentrations of atazanavir do not consistently exceed the wild-type IC50 of atazanavir and may not protect against HIV replication in the CSF.
Evolutionary Perspectives on Permanent Breast Enlargement in Human Females

authors have attempted to account for the evolution of this anomaly, these explanations are invariably based on the problematic concept of breasts as sexual signals. Morris's early account, for example, suggests that with the advent of bipedalism, female breasts acted to shift the interest of the male to the front by acting as a sexual signal that mimicked "the ancient genital display of hemispherical buttocks" (1967:75). More recently, Gallup (1982) has proposed that breasts signal ovulation, thus selecting for males who could synchronize copulation with ovulation. Short (1976) has suggested that as hominid females became increas-
Dominican Americans in Washington Heights, New York: Language and Culture in a Transnational Community

The immigrant experience in the USA has led to expectations of cultural and linguistic assimilation within two to three generations. However, the immigrant situation today is far different from what it has been traditionally. For many, the immigrant experience is a transnational one, with newcomers maintaining roots in the homeland while setting down new ones; in addition, ties to the homeland are not necessarily cut after the second generation is born on US soil. The Dominican American community of Washington Heights, New York is representative of this new immigrant paradigm. The current study records the experiences of five residents of this community, representatives of the first and second generations. It shows that place in the immigrant generation order does not predict cultural and linguistic orientation. The quality of subjects' experience in the USA and the Dominican Republic, their views of the homeland and Washington Heights, and the views of the larger society toward Dominican Americans and th...
An evaluation of recovery of ventilation-perfusion ratios from inert gas data.

Abstract The recoverability of the distribution of ventilation-perfusion ratios from calculated retention (or excretion) for six inert gases was studied. Least square error minimization was investigated using noise-free artificial data and data with simulated experimental error. The accuracy of the recovered distribution was quantified by a distance function. Both unimodal and bimodal distributions were recovered from noise-free data and from data with a simulated ±1% error. Using data with a ±3% error, the original distributions were not recovered, in fact, the distance function increased while the error function decreased with repeated iterations. Since ±3% represents current experimental error in retention (or excretion) ratio measurements, great care must be taken in applying this technique to real data.
Historical trends of trace metals in a sediment core from a contaminated tidal salt marsh in San Francisco Bay.

Sedimentation of metals preserves historical records of contaminant input from local and regional sources, and measurement of metals in sediment cores can provide information for reconstruction of historical changes in regional water and sediment quality. Sediment core was collected from Stege Marsh located in central San Francisco Bay (California, USA) to investigate the historical input of trace metals. Aluminum-normalized enrichment factors indicate that inputs from anthropogenic sources were predominant over natural input for Ag, Cu, Pb, and Zn. Among these, lead was the most anthropogenically impacted metal with enrichment factors ranging from 32 to 108. Depth profiles and coefficients of variation show that As, Cd, and Se were also influenced by anthropogenic input. The levels of these anthropogenically impacted metals decline gradually towards the surface due to regulation of the use of leaded gasoline, municipal and industrial wastewater discharge control, and closure of point sources on the upland of Stege Marsh. Although trace metal contamination is expected to be continuously declining, the rates of decline have slowed down. For lead, it is estimated to take 44, 82, and 153 years to decrease to probable effects level (112 μg/g), the San Francisco Bay ambient surface sediment level (43.2 μg/g), and the local baseline levels (5 μg/g), respectively. Some metals in surface sediments (0–6 cm) are still higher than sediment quality guidelines such as the probable effects level. To further facilitate the recovery of sediment quality, more efficient management plans need to be developed and implemented to control trace metals from non-point sources such as stormwater runoff.
Isotope dilution method for assay of inagglutinable erythrocytes.

The number of cells that remain free in the presence of agglutinin is usually much larger than the number of inagglutinable cells. The true inagglutinable proportion can be found by successive agglutinations of a labeled population in the presence of unlabeled carrier cells. By this means it is shown that group A persons possess non-A erythrocytes in proportions of the order of 10–3.
Taking the Next Step: Combining Incrementally Valid Indicators to Improve Recidivism Prediction:

The possibility of combining indicators to improve recidivism prediction was evaluated in a sample of released federal prisoners randomly divided into a derivation subsample (n = 550) and a cross-validation subsample (n = 551). Five incrementally valid indicators were selected from five domains: demographic (age), historical (prior convictions), adjustment (prior incident reports), rating scale (Violation scale of the Lifestyle Criminality Screening Form), and self-report (General Criminal Thinking score from the Psychological Inventory of Criminal Thinking Styles). After converting scores on the five indicators to a common scale (z score), two combined scores were calculated: a simple summed score (unweighted summed score) and a score computed using beta weights from a Cox survival analysis of the derivation subsample (weighted summed score). Correlational and receiver operating characteristic analyses revealed that the unweighted and weighted summed scores produced equivalent results and that both improved significantly on the results of the five contributing indicators.
Innovation in local government: past, present, future

This article discusses the heightened importance of innovation in local government. It examines driving forces of innovation, as well as strategies for implementing innovation. Frameworks are discussed for studying innovation, and an overview of symposium articles is provided. The article concludes with policy implications and directions for future research.
Measurement of the beam profile of a CO 2 laser

Foamed polystyrene is used to form a permanent recording of infrared laser beams, from which the intensity distribution can be calculated quantitatively. Minimum-power densities of 450 mW/cm2can be recorded. This technique is used to analyze the single-mode operation of a CO 2 laser.
Brief exposure to copper induces apoptosis and alters mediators of olfactory signal transduction in coho salmon

Pacific salmon are particularly susceptible to copper (Cu)-induced olfactory injuries that can ultimately inhibit neurobehaviors critical to survival. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying Cu-mediated olfactory impairment remain poorly understood. In the present study, we conducted a short-term Cu exposure at levels relevant to urban runoff (5, 25 and 50 ppb) , and investigated the roles of impaired olfactory signal transduction and induced apoptosis as underlying mechanisms of olfactory injury. Increased cell death in the olfactory epithelium was evident in coho receiving 4h exposures to 25 and 50 ppb Cu. Expression of olfactory marker protein (omp), a marker of mature olfactory sensory neurons, also decreased at 50 ppb Cu. Immunohistochemical analysis of coho olfactory epithelium demonstrated a loss of type 3 adenylate cyclase (ACIII) in the apical olfactory epithelium cilia at all levels of Cu exposure, suggesting an inhibitory effect of Cu in olfactory signaling. Accompanying the loss of ACIII in Cu-exposed coho were reduced intracellular cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) levels in the olfactory rosettes. Collectively, these results support a linkage among the initial steps of olfactory signaling in Cu-induced salmon olfactory injury, and suggesting that monitoring olfactory cGMP levels may aid in the assessment of salmon olfactory injury.
The -temperature relationship in coralline aragonite: Influence of variability in and skeletal growth parameters

This paper provides an evaluation of two of the most likely pitfalls of Sr/Ca thermometry, i.e., the effect of biogenic cycling of Sr vs. Ca in the surface ocean and the effect of variable extension rate on Sr incorporation in coralline aragonite. The authors also report calibration of the Sr/Ca-temperature relationship for three coral species, Porites lobata, Pocillopora eydouxi, and Pavona clavus, collected for the Hawaiian and Galapagos islands. Analyses of seawater samples show significant spatial and depth variability in the Sr:Ca ratio. The uncertainty introduced by this effect is estimated to be <0.2[degrees]C for corals located in tropical oligotrophic waters, and potentially larger for corals located in upwelling areas. Sr/Ca along two different growth axes of a Galapagos Pavona clavus, with annual extension rates of [approximately]6 and 12 mm/y, respectively, indicate an offset of 1-2[degrees]C, with higher Sr/Ca values associated with slower extension rates. The offset observed between the two growth axes may be the result of variations in extension and/or calcification rate. These results are important in determining past sea surface temperatures for reconstruction of paleoclimates.
Ecology of North American Arctic continental shelf benthos: a review

Abstract The zoogeography, ecology, and biology of continental shelf invertebrate benthos along the arctic coast of North America from Alaska to western Greenland are reviewed. Environmental influences are noted and the life histories as well as the food sources of the fauna are summarized. The existence of regionally associated, characteristic community structures, centred upon the northern Bering Sea and the eastern Chukchi Sea, the Beaufort Sea, the Canadian Archipelago, the eastern Canadian Arctic, and western Greenland, is indicated. Early field research was exploratory and fragmented. Since 1940 more extensive studies oriented toward surveys and environmental baselines have been conducted. Over the last few decades physiological ecology studies of selected species have been undertaken to better understand adaptations to polar conditions. Recent Canadian research has included long-term field experiments on the effects of oil spillage in arctic waters as well as quantitative studies of benthos across the Archipelago and within fiords and other specialized environments. This research has suggested the need for basic biological and ecological research from the level of species through complete ecosystems in arctic waters. Additional studies on the long-term effects of pollution should be undertaken in the colder regions where it is likely that biological processes are slower and the effects of pollution are more long-lasting. Specifically, the ability to define pelagic-benthic coupling in Canadian arctic waters would provide insight into the role of the benthos in low productivity arctic ecosystems. In summary co-operative international research programmes on continental shelf benthos throughout the Arctic Basin and its surrounding seas should be undertaken. Knowledge of the range of shelf environments will provide insight into the controlling physical and biological features of the environment as well as the role of the seafloor within the arctic environment.
Biosynthesis of eideine:: II. Localization of edeine synthetase within Bacillus brevis Vm4

Abstract Edeine-synthesizing polyenzymes, associated with a complex of cytoplasmic membrane and DNA, were obtained from gently lysed cells of Bacillus brevis Vm4. The polyenzymes-membrane-DNA complex, isolated from cells intensively synthesizing edeines (18–20 h culture) contained edeine B. Edeine B was found to be bound covalently to the edeine synthetase. The amount of edeine bound to polyenzymes was 0.1–0.3 μmol/mg protein, depending on the age of cells. Detachment of edeine synthetase with a covalently bound edeine B from the membrane-DNA complex was accomplished by a treatment with (NH 4 ) 2 SO 4 at 45–55% saturation or by DEAE-cellulose colum fractionation. In contrast to other components of the complex, the edeine-polyenzymes fragment was not adsorbed to the DEAE-cellulose. Sephadex G-200 column chromatography separated the edeine-polyenzymes complex into 3 fractions. Edeine-polyenzymes complex, obtained from lysozyme-Brij-58-DNAase treated cells, contained edeine B bound to protein fraction of mol. wt 210 000 and 160 000. Edeine-polyenzymes complex detached from the complex with the membrane and DNA contained edeine B, bound only to protein fraction of mol. wt 210 000. Edeine A was not found in the edeine-polyenzymes complex. No accumulation of free antibiotics within 16–22 h old cells of B. brevis Vm4 was detected. The edeine-polyenzymes complex associated with the DNA-membrane complex has shown no antimicrobial activity. By treating of above with alkali, edeine b of specific activity: 80 units/μmol was released. The complex of DNA-membrane associated with edeine-polyenzymes complex was able to synthesize DNA, under the conditions described for synthesis, directed by a DNA-membrane complex. Edeine when associatd with this complex did not effect the DNA-synthesizing activity.
Efficacy of Beauveria bassiana for control of Tribolium castaneum with reduced oxygen and increased carbon dioxide

This study investigated the effect of atmosphere modification, a widely adopted means of insect control in stored products, on the efficacy of Beauveria bassiana for one of the most difficult to control pests, Tribolium castaneum. Oxygen reduction to 5% (±1%) as opposed to CO 2 elevation to 40% (±2%) for the first 72 h of fungus exposure resulted in significantly greater larval mortality than fungus exposure under ambient atmospheres. Both treatments reduced pupation of older larvae suggesting that slowed development may be a beneficial factor for fungal efficacy. CO 2 elevation but not O 2 reduction significantly affected the mortality of adult beetles that were exposed to the fungus. Carbon dioxide elevation significantly reduced B. bassiana's germination and growth rates, but oxygen reduction did not.
Electrolytic lesions and pharmacological inhibition of the dorsal raphe nucleus prevent stressor potentiation of morphine conditioned place preference in rats.

Rationale Exposure to a single session of uncontrollable inescapable shock (IS), but not to identical controllable escapable shock, produces a potentiation of morphine's rewarding properties that is unusual in that the stressor can be given a number of days before the drug administration in an environment quite different from the drug context. Many other behavioral outcomes of stressors that depend on the uncontrollability of the stressor are mediated by alterations in serotonergic (5-HT) neurons within the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN).
Observation of dilution line narrowing in Eu3+ :SiO2

Abstract Using excitation spectroscopy, we have observed dilution line narrowing in an Eu 3+ activated pure silica glass. Spectra have been obtained at several locations in the inhomogeneous broadened line. The amount of structure obtained in the excitation signal is qualitatively consistent with the expected Gaussian site distribution. An estimate of the number of ions producing a given spectra is obtained by comparing the observed line shape with a statistically derived simulated spectrum.
Pressurized Hot Water and DTPA‐Sorbitol as Viable Alternatives for Soil Boron Extraction. I. Boron‐Treated Soil Incubation and Efficiency of Extraction

Abstract Serious challenges associated with hot water extraction, the standard extraction method for water‐soluble boron (B), limit its use in commercial soil‐testing laboratories. Several alternatives to make B testing more practical have been proposed and studied; none of the alternatives have readily replaced the hot water method. Two relatively new, promising B extraction methods are pressurized hot water and DTPA‐Sorbitol. Very little reported work compares B extraction values obtained from the standard hot water extraction method and these two alternative methods. This study was conducted to complete an initial step in validating new procedures—extracting the designated nutrient from fertilized, incubated soils by using standard and alternative extraction methods and comparing the resulting values. The three extraction methods were used to extract B from samples of calcareous sand and silt loam soils and limed, loamy fine sand, all which had been treated with 10 levels of B (0–8 mg kg−1) and incubat...
Alterations in Blood and Milk Lipids Produced by Administration of Triton WR-1339

Abstract Attempts have been made to increase milk fats by increasing blood lipids with the surface active detergent, Triton WR-1339. In experiments with lactating rats, feeding a 3% Triton diet did not consistently increase milk or blood cholesterol and triglycerides. A 200-mg dose given intravenously caused hyperlipemia, but no consistent results were obtained for milk lipids. Dairy cows given intravenous infusions (125 to 500 mg/kg body weight) of Triton responded with elevated blood lipids. Triglycerides in blood increased about 15-fold, and cholesterol tripled. The blood lipid response was slower in cows than in rats. Lipid content of milk was not significantly affected by the treatment, even at time of highest blood levels. Reduction in feed intake and milk production of cows occurred. The higher levels of Triton administration were accompanied by edema of the brisket which persisted for 2 to 4 days.
Approximating Fisher's information for the functional measurement error model

For the functional measurement error model, the true, unobservable explanatory variables when treated as nuisance parameters yield an increase in the number of nuisance parameters corresponding to an increase in sample size. Fisher's information may not exist for all parameters under this scenario. We propose a simple but effective method of deriving Fisher's information by approximating the design matrix of explanatory variables with a quantile design matrix. We illustrate the application of our method with a numerical example. Adaptation of this method shows very good performance for the prediction problem.
Detecting Behavioral Biases in Mixed Human-Proxy Online Auction Markets

Currently many auction websites directly or indirectly provide support for the use of automated proxies or agents. Buyers can use proxies to monitor auctions and bid at the appropriate time and with the appropriate bid price, sellers can use proxies to set prices or negotiate deals. Proxy complexity varies, however most proxies first require some input on the part of the human trader and then perform the trading task autonomously. This paper proposes and tests a theoretical model of human behavior that can be used to detect behavioral biases in electronic market environments populated by humans and software agents. The paper also quantifies the effect of these biases on individual and business profits.
Antenatal detection of fetal compromise

The fetus has become increasingly accessible and visible as a patient over the last two decades. Two major technical advances have contributed to the obstetrician's ability to study and understand the fetus. The first advance was electronic fetal heart-rate monitoring, followed by the second major advancement in the form of real time ultrasound. Prior to the introduction of these technologies, biochemical determiniations of oestriol and human placental lactogen were used to monitor fetal wellbeing. Currently the emphasis, both in clinical practice and research protocols, is on biophysical surveillance of the fetus.