cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Evidence on the motivation for management forecasts of corporate earnings

A multivariate model of the process by which managers decide to release public forecasts of their firms' earnings is developed, based on factors that are hypothesized to affect the demand for and the willingness to supply such forecasts. We test the model on data from a comprehensive sample of earnings forecasts, and find support for our hypotheses about the likely joint influence of those factors. Larger firm size, greater leverage, higher and more stable earnings rates and less rapid growth rates are found to be associated with an increased propensity for management to provide earnings forecasts for their firms.
Low temperature resistivity of ordered and disordered A15 compounds

The low-temperature electrical resistivity has been measured for the high-${T}_{c}$ $A15$ compounds ${\mathrm{Nb}}_{3}$Sn, ${\mathrm{Nb}}_{3}$Al, and ${\mathrm{Nb}}_{3}$Ge and also a low-${T}_{c}$ compound ${\mathrm{Mo}}_{3}$Ge. It is found that most of the high-${T}_{c}$ $A15'\mathrm{s}$ exhibit a ${T}^{2}$ dependence in the temperature range ${T}_{c}lT\ensuremath{\lesssim}40$ K, while ${\mathrm{Mo}}_{3}$Ge shows a ${T}^{5}$ dependence on temperature. Data are also presented for irradiated ${\mathrm{Nb}}_{3}$Sn which show that the ${T}^{2}$ power law is preserved for increasing residual resistivity $\ensuremath{\rho}(0)$. Previous analyses of $A15$ resistivity are examined in some detail to show that the ${T}^{2}$ dependence in the low-temperature resistivity of high-${T}_{c}$ $A15$ materials is an intrinsic effect and is not crucially dependent on the real phonon structure in these materials. It is argued that the observed ${T}^{2}$ dependence remains an unsolved theoretical problem.
Size dependence of the pressure-induced γ to α structural phase transition in iron oxide nanocrystals

The size trend for the pressure-induced gamma-Fe2O3(maghemite) to alpha-Fe2O3 (hematite) structural phase transition in nanocrystals has been observed. The transition pressure was found to increase with decreasing nanocrystal size: 7 nm nanocrystals transformed at 272GPa, 5 nm at 343GPa and 3 nm at 372GPa. Annealing of a bulk sample of gamma-Fe2O3 was found to reduce the transition pressure from 352 to242GPa. The bulk modulus was determined to be 2626GPa for 7 nm nanocrystals of gamma-Fe2O3, which is significantly higher than for the value of 1906 GPa that we measured for bulk samples. For alpha-Fe2O3, the bulk moduli for 7 nm nanocrystals (3365) and bulk (30030) were found to be almost the same within error. The bulk modulus for the gamma phase was found to decrease with decreasing particle size between 10 and 3.2 nm particle size. Values for the ambient pressure molar volume were found within 1 percent to be: 33.0 cm3/mol for bulk gamma-Fe2O3, 32.8 cm3/mol for 7 nm diameter gamma-Fe2O3 nanocrystals, 30.7 cm3/mol for bulk alpha-Fe2O3 and 30.6 cm3/mol for alpha-Fe2O3 nanocrystals.
Nonlinear temperature modulation of sodium channel kinetics in GH3 cells

Abstract The effect of temperature on sodium channel function was examined in GH3 cells, using the whole cell patch-clamp methodology. Specific parameters examined were current-voltage relationships, activation time, and inactivation time. For the temperature range studied, 23–37°C, there was no change in the current-voltage relationship. A linear response to temperature was seen in the inactivation time constant, τh. The activation time constant, τm, was clearly nonlinear, with a sharp discontinuity at 28°C. This nonlinearity was especially evident at lower membrane voltages. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that membrane structural changes, which occur during the thermotropic phase transition, are capable of influencing the function of the intramembranous portion of the channel. Caution should, therefore, be exercised in extrapolating data on channel function obtained at room temperature to physiological temperatures.
Air motions over the windward coast of the Island of Hawaii

Attention is called to the strong land-sea breeze regime which dominates local winds over the eastern slopes of the Island of Hawaii. An analysis is made of the diurnal variation of the winds measured at Hilo Airport by conventional soundings during the summer of 1965. The diurnal wind oscillation has a maximum range of over 6 m sec ?1 at the surface and extends to an altitude of over 3 km. An example of the trajectory of a radar-tracked, constant volume balloon is analyzed to illustrate the combined effect of sea breeze and barrier deflection flow on the local winds measured over the slopes. DOI: 10.1111/j.2153-3490.1967.tb01490.x
Cdc28 Activates Exit from Mitosis in Budding Yeast

The activity of the cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (Cdk1), Cdc28, inhibits the transition from anaphase to G1 in budding yeast. CDC28-T18V, Y19F (CDC28-VF), a mutant that lacks inhibitory phosphorylation sites, delays the exit from mitosis and is hypersensitive to perturbations that arrest cells in mitosis. Surprisingly, this behavior is not due to a lack of inhibitory phosphorylation or increased kinase activity, but reflects reduced activity of the anaphase-promoting complex (APC), a defect shared with other mutants that lower Cdc28/Clb activity in mitosis. CDC28-VF has reduced Cdc20- dependent APC activity in mitosis, but normal Hct1- dependent APC activity in the G1 phase of the cell cycle. The defect in Cdc20-dependent APC activity in CDC28-VF correlates with reduced association of Cdc20 with the APC. The defects of CDC28-VF suggest that Cdc28 activity is required to induce the metaphase to anaphase transition and initiate the transition from anaphase to G1 in budding yeast.
Interference in Floquet-Volkov transitions

Floquet states are signatured by pseudoeigenvalues which are discretely separated by the photon energy. Similarly, the laser-assisted photoemission effect (LAPE) induces electron-photon energy exchange (with momentum change), and also results in a discrete energy distribution. Both effects result from coherent interactions of electrons and photons. Here, we investigate the coherent interference between a Floquet state and the LAPE effect.
A high-resolution oligonucleotide map generated by restriction of poliovirus type I genomic RNA by ribonuclease III.

Abstract Processing of poliovirus Type I (Mahoney) genomic RNA with Escherichia coli ribonuclease III produces a large number of discrete fragments. Analysis of these fragments (and isolated oligonucleotides) using a high-resolution sodium dodecyl sulfate-agarose-acrylamide preparative gel and a two-dimensional fingerprinting gel system has allowed us to map 76 T 1 ribonuclease-resistant oligonucleotides within the poliovirus genome at 200- to 300-base intervals from the poly(A) end. Strikingly, the most preferred cleavage sites on the poliovirus genomic RNA are located close to each terminus, approximately 75 bases from the 5′ end, and 616 bases from the 3′ end. Furthermore, these and other internal sites appear to punctuate the translation products of the poliovirus mRNA intercistronically. Thus cleavage of poliovirus genomic RNA by ribonuclease III greatly resembles processing of bacteriophage T 7 early mRNA by this enzyme.
Characterization of post-Occlusion Oxygen Tension in Cortical Arterioles in vivo

Depth-resolved pO2 and blood flow in descending arterioles after occlusion is characterized with two-photon lifetime imaging in the mouse brain. Oxygen tension decreases rapidly in depth with branches supplementing pO2 levels after occlusion.
Proton NMR studies of Co(II) complexes of the peptide antibiotic bacitracin and analogues: insight into structure-activity relationship.

Bacitracin is a widely used metal-dependent peptide antibiotic produced by Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus licheniformis with a potent bactericidal activity directed primarily against Gram-positive organisms. This antibiotic requires a divalent metal ion such as Zn(II) for its biological activity, and has been reported to bind several other transition metal ions, including Co(II), Ni(II), and Cu(II). Despite the wide use of bacitracin, a structure−activity relationship for this drug has not been established, and the structure of its metal complexes has not been fully determined. We report here one- and two-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) studies of the structure of the metal complexes of several bacitracin analogues by the use of paramagnetic Co(II) as a probe. The Co(II) complex of this antibiotic exhibits many well-resolved isotropically shifted 1H NMR signals in a large spectral window (∼200 ppm) due to protons near the metal, resulting from both contact and dipolar shift mechanisms. The as...
Simulation in echocardiography: an ever-expanding frontier.

cardiographic simulators in this context is particularly interesting. These simulators provide an opportunity for hands-on experience as a teaching aid to acquire proficiency in this complex clinical technique. The echocardiographic simulators available for training range from online software programs to mannequin-based transesophageal echocardiographic (TEE) and transthoracic echocardiographic (TTE) simulators. The available options include normal and abnormal cardiac anatomies and functions and recording feedback. There also is a wide variation in the available features, price, and quality/ robustness of the software programs. Therefore, the authors thought it prudent to provide the readership with an overview of the status of simulation in echocardiography. In this article, the authors review the significance of simulation in anesthesia in general and echocardiography in particular. Starting with a brief historical perspective, the challenges associated with the current paradigm of echocardiographic training and the opportunities offered by the echocardiographic simulators as teaching tools are discussed. Taking stock of the major advancements in technology for simulation in echocardiography, the available options are reviewed. The authors also make suggestions on what needs to be done to advance the potential of this unique teaching tool.
Nature and reactivity of the surface species observed over a supported cobalt catalyst under CO/H2 mixtures

Abstract The nature and reactivity of the surface species present at the surface of a Co-supported sample were investigated by in situ and operando DRIFTS. The operando DRIFTS data collected over a 15% Co/Siralox® showed that the state of the surface was typically carbon-poor under our operating conditions, i.e. the nature of the surface was metallic rather than carbidic. A significant modification of the cobalt surface was observed with time on stream. An accumulation of waxes was also noted at the catalyst surface, despite the fact that the reaction was performed at ambient pressure. Chemical transient experiments carried out by removing CO from the feed indicated that the various types of CO(ads) present (e.g. linear and bridged) displayed an apparent uniform reactivity. In contrast, two types of formates reactivity were observed, while the IR spectra of these formate species were undistinguishable. The faster reacting formates, possibly adsorbed at the interface of Co and the support or directly on an oxidic phase of cobalt, could potentially be an intermediate in the formation of the methanol side-product observed under our reaction conditions.
Vitamin D and innate immunity

Vitamin D's role in bone health has been well established. Recently, studies have identified additional roles of vitamin D in the immune system, cardiovascular system, and cancer prevention. The effect of vitamin D on the immune system is particularly relevant to the dermatologist in that it has implications for atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and skin cancer. However, there is much disagreement on a dose of vitamin D that is both safe and effective as both ultraviolet exposure and certain vitamin D-rich foods come with unwanted consequences. This review aims to update the dermatologist on the roles of vitamin D in the immune system, the safety and dose of different sources, and risk factors for vitamin D deficiency that may necessitate supplementation. Immune consequences of vitamin D status represent one additional aspect that illustrates how guidelines for supplementation are needed and will only be useful clinically if they are presented in context with validated controlled clinical trials.
Morphological studies of Dalkon shield tails removed from patients.

Abstract Examination of the tails of Dalkon Shields removed from patients showed that approximately 34% of the tails had breaks or holes in the nylon sheath immediately below the double knot at the base of the Shield. The location of these holes is such that most of them would have been within the endometrial cavity. For control purposes, unused sterile Shields were removed from their pouches, and the tails were inspected for breaks in the sheath. Breaks were found in approximately 9% of these. Most of the holes were in the same location as those seen in tails removed from patients. The internal contents of the short terminal segments of Dalkon tails located beyond the double knot, from Shields removed from patients, were studied. Thirty-five (35) segments were evaluated by phase contrast microscopy and 10 were studied subsequently by transmission electron microscopy. Bacteria were found within the interfilamental spaces inside the sheath of 8 of the 10 tails. These observations suggest that bacteria which have ascended through the tail from the vagina could exit through these breaks in the sheath or from the terminal end of the tail directly into the endometrial cavity. The potential clinical implications of the data presented in this paper must be taken into consideration in the management of the non-pregnant asymptomatic wearer of a Dalkon Shield.
Corrections to "The noise figure of optical amplifiers"

In the above-named letter [ibid., vol. 10, pp. 1604?1604, Nov. 1998], corrections are provided for p. 1604, the third line from the top in the left column, as well as equaations (13) and (15).
EFFECTS OF GALLAMINE ON PLASMA CORTISOL AND CATECHOLAMINE LEVELS IN MAN

Effects of gallamine on plasma cortisol and catecholamine concentrations were studied in ten elective surgical patients. A total of 200 mg of gallamine in divided doses was administered intravenously to each patient prior to start of the operation. Maintenance of anaesthesia was with halothane-nitrous oxide-oxygen. Hypoxia and hypercarbia were not allowed to occur, as substantiated by blood gas determinations.
Comparison of Uniform- and Variable-Rate Phosphorus Fertilization for Corn–Soybean Rotations

Variable-rate (VR) technology can be used to vary fertilization rates within a field. The objective of this study was to compare VR and uniform-rate (UR) P fertilization for corn (Zea mays L.)-soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] rotations. Grid soil sampling (0.2- to 1.7-ha cells), differential global positioning systems (DGPS), and grain yield monitors were used in strip trials established on six fields (12 site-years). Three replicated P fertilization treatments were a control (no P) and a single application of the P requirement of the 2-yr rotation based on soil-test P (STP) using UR or VR. Measurements were plant dry weight (DW), P concentration (PC), and P uptake (PU) when crops were 15 to 20 cm tall; grain yield; and STP after crop harvest. Phosphorus increased grain yield (P ≤ 0.05) of five crops, and the fields had initial mean STP ≤ 16 mg kg -1 (Bray-P 1 or Mehlich-3). Phosphorus increased plant DW, PC, and PU of five, six, and seven crops, respectively. Within each field, yield responses were observed only in areas with STP < 20 mg kg -1 and (or) areas with Clarion soil (fine-loamy, mixed, mesic, Typic Hapludoll). The responses of plant DW, PC, and PU were not related to STP or soil series. The fertilization method did not influence (P ≤ 0.05) crop responses to P. However, VR fertilization resulted in better P fertilizer management because it applied 12 to 41% less fertilizer and reduced STP variability compared with the traditional UR fertilization method.
Riemann-Finsler Geometry with Applications to Information Geometry

Information geometry is a new branch in mathematics, originated from the applications of differential geometry to statistics. In this paper we briefly introduce Riemann-Finsler geometry, by which we establish Information Geometry on a much broader base, so that the potential applications of Information Geometry will be beyond statistics.
Orbital Tumors Excision without Bony Marginotomy under Local and General Anesthesia.

To present our experience of removing middle to deep orbital tumors using a combination of minimally invasive soft tissue approaches, sometimes under local anesthesia. Methods. In this retrospective case series, 30 patients (13 males and 17 females) underwent tumor removal through eyelid crease (17 eyes), conjunctival (nine eyes), lateral canthal (two eyes), and transcaruncular (two eyes) approaches. All tumors were located in the posterior half of the orbit. Six cases were removed under monitored anesthesia care with local block, and 24 were under general anesthesia. Results. The median (range) age and follow-up duration were 48.5 (31–87) years old and 24.5 (4–375) weeks, respectively. Visual acuity and ocular motility showed improvement or no significant change in all but one patient at the latest followup. Confirmed pathologies revealed cavernous hemangioma (15 cases), pleomorphic adenoma (5 cases), solitary fibrous tumor (4 cases), neurofibroma (2 cases), schwannoma (2 cases), and orbital varix (1 case). None of the patients experienced recurrence. Conclusions. Creating a bony marginotomy increases intraoperative exposure of the deep orbit but adds substantial time and morbidity. Benign orbital tumors can often be removed safely through small soft-tissue incisions, without bone removal and under local anesthesia.
Working-Class Women Theorize Globalization

Abstract I analyze working-class women's intellectual understanding of the labor they perform and its connection to the global processes – economic, political and cultural – that surround them. Incorporating feminist and cultural theories of globalization, I examine working-class women's oral histories and letters as theoretical texts, and explicate the relationships between labor, culture, critical consumption, the physicality of work and the individual imagination constructed in their narratives.
Epizootic of Simian Haemorrhagic Fever

Two epizootics of simian haemorrhagic fever (SHF) have been reported among quarantined Indian rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta). The first outbreak occurred in July 1964 at the Sukhumi Institute of Experimental Pathology and Therapy, USSR1,2; the second occurred in October 1964 at the US National Institutes of Health (NIH) quarantine colony3,4. The virus causing the NIH epizootic was isolated in cell culture and characterized5. Although the Soviet workers showed that the disease could be transmitted from monkey to monkey, they have not yet isolated the causative agent in either cell culture or small laboratory animals. This report describes the isolation in cell culture of the virus causing the Sukhumi epizootic and the serological relationship between the viruses causing the Sukhumi and NIH outbreaks.
Cascade stimulated emission in the sodium dimer

Abstract We have observed many stimulated emission lines near 910 nm, 1030 nm and 690 nm, when diatomic sodium molecules are pumped by a pulsed laser at 354.7 nm. A mechanism of cascade emission, which may be responsible for laser action in the 910 nm and 690 nm region, is proposed and discussed.
Rheb Activation in Subventricular Zone Progenitors Leads to Heterotopia, Ectopic Neuronal Differentiation, and Rapamycin-Sensitive Olfactory Micronodules and Dendrite Hypertrophy of Newborn Neurons

Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) hyperactivity in perinatal neural progenitor cells (NPCs) of tuberous sclerosis complex 1 (Tsc1) heterozygote mice leads to heterotopia and abnormal neuronal morphogenesis as seen in patients with tuberous sclerosis. Considering that pathological hyperactive mTOR also occurs in individuals carrying no genetic mutations, we examined whether increasing mTOR activity in neonatal NPCs of wild-type mice would recapitulate the above phenotypes. Electroporation of a plasmid encoding constitutively active Ras-homolog enriched in brain (Rheb(CA)) into subventricular zone NPCs increased mTOR activity in newborn cells. At 19 d post-electroporation (dpe), heterotopia and ectopic cells with a neuronal morphology were observed along the migratory path [rostral migratory stream (RMS)] and in the olfactory bulb (OB). These ectopic cells displayed action potentials and received synaptic inputs identifying them as synaptically integrated neurons. RMS heterotopias contained astrocytes, neurons, and entrapped neuroblasts. Immunostaining at 3 dpe revealed the presence of Mash1(+) Olig2(-) cells in the migratory route accompanied by ectopic neuronal differentiation and altered direction and speed of neuroblast migration at 7 dpe, suggesting a non-cell-autonomous disruption of migration. At >19 dpe, newborn Rheb(CA)-expressing neurons displayed altered distribution and formed micronodules in the OB. In addition, they displayed increased dendritic complexity along with altered membrane biophysics and increased frequency of GABAergic synaptic inputs. OB heterotopia, micronodules, and dendrite hypertrophy were notably prevented by rapamycin treatment, suggesting their mTOR dependence. Collectively, these data show that increasing mTOR activity in neonatal NPCs of wild-type mice recapitulate the pathologies observed in Tsc1 mutant mice. In addition, increased mTOR activity in individuals without known mutations could significantly impact neurogenesis and circuit formation.
CpG-Induced IFNγ expands TLR4-specific IL-18 responses in vivo

Serum IL-18 responses to LPS mice increase after pretreatment with CpG-containing DNA. Compared to saline-pretreated controls, mice pretreated with CpG for two days produced 20-fold more serum IL-18 when challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). In contrast, IFNγ-deficiency or anti-IFNγ pretreatment reduced CpG-expanded IL-18 responses to LPS by 67% and 83%, respectively. Mice pretreated with either IFNγ or CpG comparably increased LPS-inducible serum IL-18 responses. LPS, compared to challenge with other TLR agonists, was best able to trigger high serum IL-18 levels in CpG-pretreated mice and this response were TLR4-dependent. CpG, compared to pretreatment with other TLR agonists, optimally expanded LPS-induced IL-18 responses that correlated with higher levels of circulating IFNγ levels prior to LPS challenge. High-level serum IL-18 responses were caspase-1-dependent and P2X7 receptor-independent. We conclude that CpG promotes high-level IL-18 synthesis by an IFNγ-dependent and IFNγ-sufficient mechanism in vivo that is optimally triggered by LPS. (150 words)
An electron microscopic study of initial intramembranous osteogenesis

Calvariae of fetal mice were investigated with electron microscopy in order to demonstrate initial stages of immature, membrane bone calcification. As a consequence, nucleation sites for initial calcification of hydroxyapatite crystals in woven bone were found in extrusions from osteoblasts within the osteoid. Growth of the crystals epitaxially from these initial calcification loci into the surrounding collagen was spherulitic, forming discrete spheres referred to as “bone nodules”. These nodules, when coalesced, formed seams of bone. Decalcified, the organic substructure of the bone nodules was revealed. It contained a centrally disposed initial calcification locus, a peripheral zone of decomplexing collagen and an intermediate zone of altered collagen. Fully formed collagen fibrils remained interposed between most of the coalesced nodules. Polysaccharides were localized within the initial calcification locus and in the peripheral zone of the bone nodules where collagen was shown to be decomplexing.
Low and high dose bromocriptine have different effects on striatal dopamine release: An in vivo study

We wished to determine if low and high doses of bromocriptine produce distinct patterns of dopamine release and metabolism. Accordingly, we administered bromocriptine (0, 2.5, 5, and 10 mg/kg, IP) to rats and monitored extracellular concentrations of dopamine and dopamine metabolites in the corpus striatum with the technique of cerebral microdialysis. Extracellular dopamine levels increased following administration of 2.5 and 5 mg/kg bromocriptine. In contrast, dopamine levels decreased following 10 mg/kg bromocriptine. Dopamine metabolite levels decreased 45 minutes following all doses of bromocriptine. Bromocriptine administration had no effect on the levels of 5HIAA, the major serotonin metabolite. These findings with high dose bromocriptine fit the predicted profile of a dopamine D2 receptor agonist. The delayed decrease in dopamine metabolites at all bromocriptine doses is consistent with the known dopamine synthesis inhibiting action of bromocriptine. In contrast, the increased dopamine release observed following low and medium doses of bromocriptine is not readily explainable by current theories of bromocriptine action which predict decreased dopamine release and therefore decreased striatal extracellular dopamine levels with both high and low-doses of bromocriptine. Our findings indicate that bromocriptine has a complex pharmacological action that extends beyond simple agonism at dopamine D2 receptors.
Interview with Dr Peter Griffith

Dr Peter Griffith received his PhD in Ecology from the University of Georgia (GA, USA), his MSc in Marine, Estuarine and Environmental Science from the University of Maryland (MD, USA) and a BSc with Honors in Botany and Zoology from Duke University (NC, USA). Dr Griffith is now the founding director of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Carbon Cycle and Ecosystems Office, supporting the North American Carbon Program, a component of the US Global Change Research Program designed to quantify continental-scale carbon sources and sinks in North America, NASA’s Arctic Boreal Vulnerability Experiment, and the NASA Carbon Cycle and Ecosystems Focus Area. As a distinguished expert in carbon cycles, Dr Griffith speaks to Ruth Williamson, Commissioning Editor ofCarbon Management, about the changes in carbon cycle research throughout his career, important advances in our understanding of climate science, and important obstacles and future directions for carbon cycle scientists.
Mutation analysis of the M6b gene in patients with Rett syndrome

Human Xp22.2 has been proposed as a candidate region for the Rett syndrome (RTT) gene. M6b, a member of the proteolipid protein gene family, was mapped to Xp22.2 within one of the RTT candidate regions. In this article we describe the structure of the M6b gene, refine the physical mapping of M6b between markers DXS69E and DXS414, and present the results of mutation analysis of the M6b gene in patients with RTT. The data from mutation analysis on 55 RTT patients make it very unlikely that M6b is involved in RTT.
Effect of a Constructed Wetland on Disinfection Byproducts: Removal Processes and Production of Precursors

The fate of halogenated disinfection byproducts (DBPs) in treatment wetlands and the changes in the DBP formation potential as wastewater treatment plant (WWTP)-derived water moves through the wetlands were investigated. Wetland inlet and outlet samples were analyzed for total organic halide (TOX), trihalomethanes (THM), haloacetic acids (HAA), dissolved organic carbon (DOC), and UV absorbance. Removal of DBPs by the wetland ranged from 13 to 55% for TOX, from 78 to 97% for THM, and from 67 to 96% for HAA. The 24-h and 7-day nonpurgeable total organic halide (NPTOX), THM, and HAA formation potential yields were determined at the inlet and outlet of these wetlands. The effect of wetlands on the production of DBP precursors and their DBP-formation potential yield from wastewater was dramatic. The wetlands increased DBP yield up to a factor of almost 30. Specific changes in the DOC precursors were identified using 13C NMR spectroscopy.
Dynamics of intramural scroll waves in three-dimensional continuous myocardium with rotational anisotropy

It has been suggested that reentrant activity in three-dimensional cardiac muscle may be organized as a scroll wave rotating around a singularity line called the filament. Experimental studies indicate that filaments are often concealed inside the ventricular wall and consequently, scroll waves do not manifest reentrant activity on the surface. Here we analyse how such concealed scroll waves are affected by a twisted anisotropy resulting from rotation of layers of muscle fibers inside the ventricular wall. We used a computer model of a ventricular slab (15x15x15 mm(3)) with a fiber twist of 120 degrees from endocardium to epicardium. The action potential was simulated using FitzHugh-Nagumo equations. Scroll waves with rectilinear filaments were initiated at various depths of the slab and at different angles with respect to fiber orientation. The analysis shows that independent of initial conditions, after a certain transitional period, the filament aligns with the local fiber orientation. The alignment of the filament is determined by the directional variations in cell coupling due to fiber rotation and by boundary conditions. Our findings provide a mechanistic explanation for the prevalence of intramural reentry over transmural reentry during polymorphic ventricular tachycardia and fibrillation.
Electro modulated photo induced absorption of C60 doped MEH-PPV

Abstract We have studied the field induced absorption (FIA) spectra of C 60 doped and undoped MEH-PPV films in the spectral range, hω p , of 0.2 to 4 eV, with and without CW illumination with photon energy above the optical gap Eg. For hω p p > E g we measured the electroabsorption (EA) spectrum of the doped material with and without illumination and compared it with that of the undoped material. For hω p 60 :PPV charge transfer complexes. This novel technique reveals three absorption bands at 0.4, 1.18 and 1.65 eV, which we assigned to bound pairs of C 60 −:PPV + complexes.
Effects of Process Maturity on Quality, Cycle Time, and Effort in Software Product Development

The information technology (IT) industry is characterized by rapid innovation and intense competition. To survive, IT firms must develop high quality software products on time and at low cost. A key issue is whether high levels of quality can be achieved without adversely impacting cycle time and effort. Conventional beliefs hold that processes to improve software quality can be implemented only at the expense of longer cycle times and greater development effort. However, an alternate view is that quality improvement, faster cycle time, and effort reduction can be simultaneously attained by reducing defects and rework. In this study, we empirically investigate the relationship between process maturity, quality, cycle time, and effort for the development of 30 software products by a major IT firm. We find that higher levels of process maturity as assessed by the Software Engineering Institute's Capability Maturity Modelâ¢ are associated with higher product quality, but also with increases in development effort. However, our findings indicate that the reductions in cycle time and effort due to improved quality outweigh the increases from achieving higher levels of process maturity. Thus, the net effect of process maturity is reduced cycle time and development effort.
Respiratory Metabolism of Aerated Potato Disks

RESEARCH in several laboratories has clearly demonstrated that aerated potato disks develop an increased capacity for uptake of oxygen1–7. This additional respiratory capacity is not increased by 2,4-dinitrophenol7 and is relatively insensitive to inhibition by cyanide6 and carbon monoxide5,6. However, cyanide8, low temparature (0–5° C.)7 or absence of oxygen at normal temperature8 will prevent the development of the increased respiratory capacity.
Accountability of the accused: facing public perceptions about financial conflicts of interest in spine surgery.

Outrage is a familiar reaction from those accused of a conflict of interest. This reaction is a natural response to a common misconception among the accusers and the accused: both mistakenly equate the presence of a conflict of interest with presence of conscious bias, which implies voluntary control and, therefore, deliberate deception or fraud. The offence and insult resulting from this misunderstanding engender vehement denunciations from those accused of mixing financial considerations with purposes of presumed higher social value or more moral purity, such as
Microstructure evolution during solid-state foaming of titanium

Abstract Solid-state foaming of commercially pure titanium was achieved by high-temperature expansion of high-pressure argon bubbles trapped in titanium by a powder-metallurgy technique. The foaming step was performed at constant temperature, where creep of the titanium matrix controls pore expansion, or during thermal cycling around the α⧸β allotropic temperature, which induces transformation superplasticity of the matrix. Superplastic foaming led to significantly faster pore growth and higher terminal porosity than isothermal creep foaming. During thermal cycling, the porosity remains nearly fully closed to the surface of the specimen up to the point where the maximum porosity (44%) is obtained, despite the presence of some internal pore coalescence. With continued thermal cycling, pores coalesce further by fracture of thin interpore walls and pores finally open to the surface, but without a significant increase in the amount of total porosity. The remnants of these walls result in a jagged pore morphology. Under isothermal conditions, pores remain small, equiaxed and unconnected with no pore surface roughness. However, after long annealing times, they exhibit faceting due to surface diffusion.
Disseminated Cladophialophora bantiana disease in a patient with prediabetes

Cladophialophora bantiana, a dematiaceous fungus from the family Phaeohyphomycetes, is highly neurotropic and primarily reported as a rare cause of brain abscess. Pulmonary infection and disease outside the central nervous system is extremely rare, particularly in immunocompetent patients. We report an unusual case of disseminated cladosporiosis in a young man with a new diagnosis of prediabetes but no other identifiable risk factors for disease. Fungal cultures were positive for C. bantiana from brain abscess aspiration, vertebral bone cultures and subcarinal lymph node biopsy. Although the patient demonstrated initial good response to surgical debridement of brain abscesses plus antifungal therapy, he eventually expired from septic shock secondary to C. bantiana pneumonia and recurrent brain abscesses 2 years after initial diagnosis.
Opening Up the Black Box: Literacy Instruction in Schools Participating in Three Comprehensive School Reform Programs:

This study examines patterns of literacy instruction in schools adopting three of America’s most widely disseminated comprehensive school reform (CSR) programs (the Accelerated Schools Project, America’s Choice, and Success for All). Contrary to the view that educational innovations seldom affect teaching practices, the study found large differences in literacy instruction between teachers in America’s Choice schools and comparison schools and between teachers in Success for All schools and comparison schools. In contrast, no differences in literacy teaching practices were found between teachers in Accelerated Schools Project schools and comparison schools. On the basis of these findings and our knowledge of the implementation support strategies pursued by the CSR programs under study, we conclude that well-defined and well-specified instructional improvement programs that are strongly supported by on-site facilitators and local leaders who demand fidelity to program designs can produce large changes in t...
Comparative Study of the Microanatomy of Four Species of Harvestmen (Opiliones, Eupnoi)

Most species descriptions of harvestmen from Central America that belong to the suborder Eupnoi are based on characters such as total body length, relative size of leg segments, coloration of the body and legs, and armature of the eye mound and dorsal scutum. Characters based on reproductive morphology and microanatomical structures are generally absent from most taxonomic works. Not surprisingly, the taxonomy of these harvestmen from this region requires extensive revision. In an effort to identify novel characters, we used scanning electron microscopy to compare the morphology of somatic and reproductive structures of Prionostemma vittatum (Roewer, 1910), Metopilio niger (Goodnight and Goodnight, 1942), and Metopilio ornatipes (Banks, 1909). Specifically, we investigated the morphology of the ocularium, ozopore, dorsal scutum, genital plate, pedipalp, spiracular opening on tibia II, ovipositor, and penis. We compared the morphology of these Neotropical taxa with that of a temperate sclerosomatid species, Leiobunum formosum (Wood, 1870). In general, we observed interspecific variation in the surface texture of the cuticle and the distribution of setae on the body and appendages. Potentially informative characters include cuticular structures associated with the ocularium, anterior propeltidium, meso- and metapeltidium, dorsal scutum, genital plate, pedipalp, and penis. We also observed intersexual variation with respect to morphology of Spicer's tarsal organ and the claw of the pedipalp.
ECOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT: IMPLICATIONS FOR TEACHERS OF LEARNING DISABLED STUDENTS

Results obtained from normative or criterion-referenced assessments are sufficient to determine the starting point for most students' academic or social instruction. However, some students' learnin...
Applying tabu search with influential diversification to multiprocessor scheduling

Abstract We describe a tabu search approach to the scheduling problem of minimizing the makespan on n tasks on m equivalent processors. This problem is isomorphic to a variant of the multiple bin packing problem. We make use of a candidate list strategy that generates only a small subset of all possible moves, and employ a dynamic tabu list for handing tabu restrictions. We also introduce an influential diversification component to overcome an entrenched regionality phenomenon that represents a “higher order” difficulty encountered by local search methods. Influential diversification notably improves the behavior and quality of the solutions of our tabu search procedure as the search horizon grows. Results are presented for a range of problems of varying dimensions, and our method is also compared to an extended simulated annealing approach that previously has produced the best solutions for the isomorphic bin packing problem.
Subjective fatigue is not associated with cognitive impairment in multiple sclerosis: cross-sectional and longitudinal analysis.

BackgroundStudies in multiple sclerosis (MS) report conflicting conclusions regarding fatigue and cognition, which may partly be due to the use of small sample sizes and frequent reliance on a cross-sectional approach.ObjectiveThe ability to distinguish between these two disabling symptoms is necessary in order to properly assess and treat MS patients.MethodsIn a retrospective analysis, we assessed the correlation between fatigue and neuropsychological (NP) testing using a cross-sectional (n = 465) and longitudinal approach (n = 69). Cognition was measured using a comprehensive battery called the Minimal Assessment of Cognitive Function in MS (MACFIMS), and fatigue was measured with the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS). FSS scores were categorized as normal (≤4.0), borderline fatigue (4 < FSS < 5.0), and fatigued (≥5.0). Repeat assessments (n = 69) were categorized as improved or worsened by a change in FSS of either 0.5 or 1.0. ResultsMS patients had significantly higher FSS scores than normal controls (P < ...
3-HMG-coenzyme a reductase inhibition and extracellular matrix gene expression in the pressure-overloaded rat heart

The purpose of this study was to determine whether 3-HMG-Coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibition would attenuate the early pressure overload-induced activation of extracellular matrix genes in the left ventricle (LV) of the heart. Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized to 1 of 4 treatment groups: sham-operation+vehicle (SH-V), aortic constriction+vehicle (AC-V), AC+rosuvastatin (RSV, 2 mg/kg; AC-LO), and AC+RSV (10 mg/kg; AC-HI). Rats were injected with normal NaCl (V) or RSV once daily, beginning 1 day before surgery, and killed 1 or 3 days after surgery. Hemodynamic measurements were made in the open-chest anesthetized state. LV levels of transforming growth factor beta1 (TGF-beta1), procollagen 1 (C1), and fibronectin (FN) mRNA were measured by Northern blotting. AC induced a approximately 25% increase in LV weight after 3 days that was not altered by RSV treatment. LV expression of TGF-beta1, C1, and FN mRNA was approximately 2-fold, approximately 2.5-fold, and approximately 5-fold greater, respectively, in hearts of AC-V compared to SH-V rats 3 days post-operation, and was not significantly decreased by either dose of RSV. Inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase does not attenuate the pronounced aortic constriction-induced increases in the early expression of TGF-beta1, C1, and FN in this model of acute pressure overload of the rat heart.
Upper mantle surprises derived from the recent Virginia earthquake waveform data

Recent high resolution regional waveform modeling reveals that the lithosphere beneath the North American craton is subdivided into an upper nearly uniform layer and a lower layer with a high velocity gradient. The boundary occurs at about a depth of 115 km and is responsible for 8° discontinuity in seismic record sections that is often observed in craton environments. Unexpectedly, we find seismic velocities in the lower layer significantly reduced along a corridor from the New Madrid rift zone to Virginia. This reduced velocity in the lower lithosphere may be associated with a possible historic hotspot activity. We also find a well developed X-discontinuity that we model as a ∼3% increase in P velocity starting at a depth of ∼290 km. These anomalous features transition into a nearly 1D craton structure to the north with a strong low-velocity anomaly just above the 410 discontinuity along an east–west boundary. The latter two features may be relics of structures formed from the descending Farallon plate between Late Cretaceous and Early Tertiary.
Heterotrophic nitrogen fixation in oligotrophic tropical marshes: changes after phosphorus addition

In order to determine the impact of nutrient enrichment on phosphorus (P) limited wetlands, we established experimental P additions in marshes throughout northern Belize. P significantly increased macrophyte primary production, which led to the rapid elimination of cyanobacterial mats. The replacement of cyanobacterial mats by macrophytes constrained autotrophic nitrogen (N) fixation, increased the quantity, and changed the quality of organic matter input to the sediments. We predicted that the activity of sediment heterotrophic N fixers will be impacted by these alterations in carbon input. We used the acetylene reduction technique to measure potential (glucose amended) nitrogenase activity (NA) in sediments from controls and treatment plots that have been P enriched for four years and dominated either by Eleocharis cellulosa, or Typha domingensis for two years. NA in P-enriched plots was 2–3 orders of magnitude higher than NA in controls. NA was positively correlated with the soil reactive P, both total organic and microbial carbon, live root biomass, and total phospholipid fatty acids (PLFA) as an indicator of active microbial biomass. It was negatively correlated with the concentration of ammonium-N. Path analysis revealed that the indirect effect of P on NA through the root biomass was more important than the direct effect of P. NA of the upper sediment layer was consistently higher in Eleocharis than in Typha dominated plots, despite the higher litter input by Typha. We feel that the higher levels of lignin and phenolics occurring in Typha litter, relative to Eleocharis, constrained NA in Typha plots.
Children in Homeless Families: Risks to Mental Health and Development

This study examined the psychological adjustment of 159 homeless children in comparison with a sample of 62 low-income children living at home. In each group, ages ranged from 8 to 17 years. As expected, homeless children were found to have greater recent stress exposure than housed poor children, as well as more disrupted schooling and friendships. Child behavior problems were above normative levels for homeless children, particularly for antisocial behavior. Across the 2 samples, however, behavior problems were more related to parental distress, cumulative risk status, and recent adversity than to housing status or income. Results suggest that homeless children share many of the risks and problems of other American children being reared in poverty. In the past decade, there has been an alarming increase in the number of homeless families with children and, concomitantly, a growing concern about the welfare of children living under such precarious and marginal conditions (Institute of Medicine, 1988). In a status report from the U.S. Conference of Mayors (1989), it was estimated that 36% of all the nation's homeless were families, and well over half of those family members were children. Nationwide, it has been estimated that 100,000 children may be homeless with their parents on any
Assessing Professionalization: A Comparison of College Baseball and Basketball Coaches:

This study explores variation in concern about professionalization among NCAA Division I baseball and basketball coaches. Questionnaires were sent to 100 baseball and 100 basketball coaches randoml...
A unified stochastic model for detecting and tracking faces

We propose merging face detection and face tracking into a single probabilistic framework. The motivation stems from a broader project in algorithmic modeling, centered on the design and analysis of the online computational process in visual recognition. Detection is represented as a tree-structured graphical network in which likelihoods are assigned to each history or "trace" of processing, thereby introducing a new probabilistic component into coarse-to-fine search strategies. When embedded within a temporal Markov framework, the resulting tracking system yields encouraging results.
Exercise Behavior, Functional Capacity, and Survival in Adults With Malignant Recurrent Glioma

Purpose Identifying strong markers of prognosis are critical to optimize treatment and survival outcomes in patients with malignant recurrent glioma. We investigated the prognostic significance of exercise behavior and functional capacity in this population. Patients and Methods Using a prospective design, 243 patients with WHO grades 3 to 4 recurrent malignant glioma and Karnofsky performance status (KPS) ≥ 70 completed a self-administered questionnaire that assessed exercise behavior and performed a 6-minute walk test (6MWT) to assess functional capacity. Cox proportional models were used to estimate the risk of all-cause mortality according to 6MWT distance (6MWD; 489 meters) and exercise behavior (metabolic equivalent [MET] –h/wk) adjusted for KPS and other important clinical factors. Results Median follow-up was 27.43 months. During this period, 149 deaths were recorded (61% of the total sample). Exercise behavior was an independent predictor of survival (P = .0081). M...