cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Experimental determination of the effects of pressure and temperature on the stoichiometry and phase relations of wüstite

Abstract When quenched metastable wustite (Fe.924O and Fe.947O) is held at 300°C at pressures up to 200 kbar in a diamond anvil cell, a mixture of magnetite, metallic iron and wustite is found. We interpret this to indicate that magnetite plus metallic iron constitute the stable phase assemblage at pressures and temperatures below this boundary is stoichiometric FeO ( a 0 = 4.332 ± 0.001 A ) at pressures below 110 kbar at 300°C. However, just below the boundary in the pressure range 110 kbar to 200 kbar at 300°C, the residual wustite is non-stoichiometric ( a 0 A ). Data collected at pressures and temperatures above the boundary indicate that non-stoichiometric wustite (FexO) plus metallic iron constitute the stable phase assemblage and that the value of x in FexO increases as pressure is increased isothermally to 100 kbar and then decreases as pressure is increased above 100 kbar.
Thought-stopping: A visual aid for clients

Abstract A table is presented that helps to elucidate the sequence of procedures involved in instruction in thought-stopping.
Effects of protease inhibitors on hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and lipodystrophy: a 5-year cohort study.

Background Although human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)–related morbidity and mortality rates in patients with advanced HIV infection who are treated with combination antiretroviral drugs have declined, significant metabolic adverse effects associated with these regimens have been increasingly recognized. However, since data from patients studied before and after initiation of protease inhibitor (PI) therapy are scant, the true effect of PIs on these metabolic changes remains unknown. Objectives To examine temporal trends in serum glucose and lipid levels after initiation of PI therapy, to assess whether changes are independent of virological response and improvement in disease severity, and to determine risk factors associated with the development of hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and lipodystrophy. Methods A 5-year historical cohort analysis in a population of 221 HIV-infected patients observed in the Infectious Diseases Clinic of a tertiary care center from October 1, 1993, through July 31, 1998. Clinical and laboratory data were retrieved from medical records and a computerized database. The main outcome measure was the incidence of hyperglycemia, hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, and lipodystrophy. Adjusted incidence rate ratios (IRRs) were estimated by means of Poisson regression. In addition, mixed regression analyses were performed to examine effects of PIs on serum lipid and glucose levels, modeled as continuous outcomes. Results The cumulative incidence of new-onset hyperglycemia, hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, and lipodystrophy was 5%, 24%, 19%, and 13%, respectively. Most of these events occurred after initiation of PI therapy. Protease inhibitors were independently associated with hyperglycemia (adjusted IRR, 5.0; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.3-19.4), hypercholesterolemia (adjusted IRR, 2.8; 95% CI, 1.5-5.2), hypertriglyceridemia (adjusted IRR, 6.1; 95% CI, 3.1-11.7), and lipodystrophy (adjusted IRR, 5.1; 95% CI, 1.9-13.9). Anabolic steroids and psychotropic medications were also associated with lipodystrophy. Inclusion of potential intermediate variables (eg, virological suppression and increase in body weight) did not reduce the magnitude of the association with PIs. The association between hypertriglyceridemia and ritonavir was stronger than for other PIs (Wald test,P=.02). In contrast, the incidence of hyperglycemia, hypercholesterolemia, and lipodystrophy did not vary significantly across different PIs. Longitudinal mixed models confirmed that serum lipid levels were more substantially affected by antiretroviral therapy, particularly PIs, than serum glucose levels. Similarly, controlling for surrogate markers did not abolish the strong association between PIs and increase in serum lipid levels. Conclusion We found an independent association between PI use and hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and lipodystrophy that is not explained by the antiviral and therapeutic effect of PIs.
Judgment Analysis of School Superintendent Decision Making.

AbstractJudgment analysis (JAN) was used to determine whether school superintendents used all the information at their disposal to make decisions about the management of school programs in various simulated environments. Seventy-five numerical profiles, each of which represented a unique environmental condition, were judged by two groups of superintendents. In each of the groups, there was only one combined policy. The results suggest that the subjects relied on only part of the available information when making their judgments and were little influenced by the addition of information that created great changes in the organizational environment.
Partial trisomy and partial monosomy resulting from a reciprocal segregating in a large family

Partial trisomy 7p with partial monosomy 9p is a rare disorder with only 3 cases reported. Both these abnormalities i.e., partial trisomy 7p and partial monosomy 9p result in distinct clinical phenotypes. However, patients with combined 7p trisomy/9p monosomy present with a phenotype consistent with trisomy 7p. We present a fourth case of trisomy 7p/monosomy 9p with long term follow-up and document the medical complications associated with this disorder. Long term follow-up of patients with chromosome abnormalities provides a unique opportunity to document the medical history and complications associated with such abnormalities.
Asian-Americans, Political Organizations, and Participation in Chicago Electoral Precincts:

Precinct-level data for voter registration and turnout in Chicago elections are used to assess the impact of the Asian population and party organization on political participation during the 1990s. Controlling for the effects of newer immigration, mobility, and socioeconomic status, the authors learn that larger Asian-American populations are associated with higher voter registration. Voter turnout is negatively affected in areas of higher Asian populations but attenuates when independent precincts are examined separately from machine-style precincts. This suggests that registration may be encouraged in Asian areas, but voting appears to be negatively affected by political party organizations.
ELECTRON MICROSCOPY OF LYSIS FROM WITHOUT OF ESCHERICHIA COLI B BY COLIPHAGE T2.

The fine structure of cells of Escherichia coli B infected with coliphage T2 and the appearance of the products of cell lysis following replication of this phage were examined by electron microscopy. Cells sampled 10 minutes after infection show an extensive alteration of their cytoplasm as a result of phage infection. Granules that are presumed to be ribosomes have been resolved with great clarity in such cells. Hexagonal, electron dense bodies approximately 500 A in diameter—presumably the condensed phage DNA—are distributed randomly throughout the protoplast of cells sampled 23 minutes after infection. The membrane that surrounds the viral DNA in intact phages was not resolved although a zone greater than 100 A separated the cellular ribosomes from the condensed phage DNA. The products of lysis are primarily vesicles bounded by one unit membrane. Some of vesicles consist of concentric rings that are composed of triple-layered membranes of a thickness of approximately 75 A. Granules were not attached to the membranes bounding the vesicles.
Near Infrared Spectroscopy as an Analytical Tool in the Biorefinery

Near infrared spectroscopy (NIR) is becoming a powerful technique for rapid quantitative biomass analysis, and its flexibility, ease of use, and small sample requirements make it an excellent tool for many applications within the biorefinery. Through the use of Partial Least Squares algorithms, robust and predictive chemometric models can be developed from calibration sets of known values. In our laboratory, NIR has been exploited for: 1) determining cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin content of woody and herbaceous biomass, 2) observing lignocellulosic component changes before and after various pretreatment methods, 3) monitoring fermentation of glucose into ethanol, and 4) monitoring enzymatic hydrolysis of cellulose to glucose. These results demonstrate that NIR can be used for selecting optimal feedstocks for different process streams within the biorefinery based on composition, monitoring conversion of biomass to liquid fuels for optimization of reaction parameters, and tracking reaction completion. Because NIR can be utilized for solids or liquids and offers fast, nondestructive analysis, this technology has wide-ranging applications within the biorefinery.
Compensatory muscle activation caused by tendon lengthening post Achilles tendon rupture

Purpose The purpose of this study was to establish a relationship between the lengthening of the Achilles tendon post-rupture and surgical repair to muscle activation patterns during walking in order to serve as a reference for post-surgical assessment.
Silicon carbide power device status and issue

In this paper, the status and issues of primary silicon carbide devices types are reviewed. The device types reviewed include SiC MOSFET, JFET, bipolar, IGBT, thyristor and JBS diodes. In addition, the key issues relating SiC material to device reliability and performance are identified.
A Cognitive Approach to the Development of Early Language.

A controversial issue in the field of language development is whether language emergence and growth is dependent solely on processes specifically tied to language or could also depend on basic cognitive processes that affect all aspects of cognitive competence (domain-general processes). The present article examines this issue using a large battery of infant information-processing measures of memory, representational competence, processing speed, and attention, many of which have been shown to predict general cognition in a cohort of full-terms and preterms. Results showed that various aspects of infant memory and representational competence (a) related to language at both 12 and 36 months, (b) predicted similarly for the two groups, and (c) predicted 36-month language, independently of birth status, 12-month language, and the 12-month Bayley Mental Development Index. Additionally, the results established predictive validity for the MacArthur 12-month language measure. These findings support a domain-general view of language.
Evaluating the influence of aseismic ridge subduction and accretion(?) on detrital modes of forearc sandstone: an example from the Kronotsky Peninsula in the Kamchatka Forearc

Abstract The Kronotsky Peninsula, in the forearc region of the Kamchatka magmatic arc, lies on trend with the Emperor Seamount chain situated on the currently subducting Pacific tectonic plate. Detrital modes of volcaniclastic sandstone interbedded with mafic Eocene(?) basement rocks and within the overlying sedimentary sequence provide insight into the late Cenozoic geologic history of this area. Eocene(?) and basal Miocene sandstones are primarily composed of variably altered mafic volcanic debris. Their detrital modes are similar to those of Emperor Seamount sandstones and Hawaiian beach sands. Although aspects of the stratigraphy and volcaniclastic sand composition are consistent with a seamount setting, there is no physical evidence for an accretion event, and the suggested Eocene age for this unit makes an Emperor Seamount origin unlikely. A seamount origin cannot be ruled out for older Kronotsky basement complexes, however. A Miocene lull in Kronotsky volcanism was followed by rapid basin subsidence and influx of arc-derived turbidites from the west. Detrital modes of these sandstones are typical of a moderately evolved continental or micro-continental arc. An anomalously high proportion of sedimentary lithic fragments is the only possible compositional fingerprint attributable to seamount or ridge subduction.
A new graph for insertion of umbilical artery catheters

THE LENGTH of insertion for umbilical artery catheters has been based on the graphs tabulated by Dunn 1 for total body length and shoulder umbilical length. Despite frequent use, these graphs have not been critically evaluated and have several potential limitations. They are based on the anatomic landmarks of the pathologist (the diaphragm) rather than those of the clinician (vertebrae). The original study included only eight of 25 patients with TBL _< 40 cm (fiftieth percentile for patients weighing 1,200 gin); and used only postmortem patients. Using live patients and including a larger number of low-birth-weight neonates, we re-evaluated Dunn's graphs. In addition, new graphs for catheterization were calculated and their accuracy determined. METHODS
Observation of dynamical systems in the presence of bounded nonlinearities/uncertainties

This paper proposes new types of observers for dynamical systems subjected to bounded nonlinearities or uncertainties. The design of these observers utilizes techniques related to variable structure theory. A measure for the rate at which the estimates converge to the actual states is derived. Simulation results exhibiting the performance of these observers are included.
Pyoderma gangrenosum: the great pretender and a challenging diagnosis.

Background:The initial presentation of pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is virtually indistinguishable from a pyogenic infection, making debridement appear necessary. However, operative approaches often lead to exacerbation and rapid extension through pathergy.Objective and Methods:In attempts to increase awareness of this condition and minimize misdiagnoses, a review of published reports involving PG of the hand and digits was performed and included 35 patients in addition to our case of a 14-year-old female with a history of ulcerative colitis.Results:Of the total cases, 29 patients were misdiagnosed as having an infection and subsequently treated with antibiotics; 13 of these patients also had debridement of their lesions. Twenty-eight patients had associated medical conditions, including ulcerative colitis, Crohn disease, diabetes mellitus, and cancer.Conclusion:When approached with a rapidly growing ulcerated lesion that does not respond to operative therapy, the possibility of PG should be entertained and ...
Cells expressing preproenkephalin mRNA in the rat pineal gland are not serotonin-producing pinealocytes: evidence using in situ hybridization combined with immunocytochemistry for serotonin.

1. Preproenkephalin (PPEnk) mRNA expressing cells have been identified in rat pineal gland using radioactivein situ hybridization histochemistry.
Our friendship gardens: healing our mother, ourselves

Embracing the best ideals of Victory Gardens, this essay celebrates Friendship Gardens. The latter go further: collapsing the dualisms separating victors from losers. Friendships that transcend differences and honor diversity are among the many fruits and organic gifts harvested and shared in the commons created by Friendship Gardens. This essay shares the hope of transforming enemies into friends and neighbors. It also joins many millions whose dreams are already taking flight while getting grounded: seeking to transform all our toxic lawnscapes into foodscapes; ending the dis-ease of billions going to bed starving amidst the mountains of food wasted for growing Wall Street profits in the twenty first century.
Towards a curriculum for electronic textiles in the high school classroom

This paper proposes a curriculum for a high school e-textile course-a curriculum rooted in our experiences in developing an e-textile construction kit and in holding several courses and workshops with these materials. The paper briefly describes the e-textile kit and reports on our teaching experiences, reflecting on the relationship between the evolving tools and curriculum and our user experiences.
Reaction of Amines with [(tBu)Al(μ3-O)]6: Determination of the Steric Limitation of a Latent Lewis Acid

The reaction of primary and secondary amines with the hexameric tert-butylalumoxane, [(tBu)Al(μ3-O)]6, has been investigated. Reaction of [(tBu)Al(μ3-O)]6 with 2 equiv of RNH2 (R = Et, nPr, iPr, nBu, tBu) results in the formation of [(tBu)6Al6(μ3-O)4(μ-O)2(NH2R)2], R = Et (1), nPr (2), iPr (3), nBu (4) and tBu (5). The molecular structure of compound 4 has been determined by X-ray crystallography, the Al6O6 core structure of which consists of two fused boat-conformation Al3O3 rings, derived from the opening of two opposing edges of the Al6O6 cage of [(tBu)Al(μ3-O)]6. The nBuNH2 groups are bound to the aluminum atoms of the open cage. Compounds 1−3 and 5 are isostructural to compound 4 on the basis of 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy. No reaction is observed for R2NH (R = Et, iPr, nBu, Ph). On the basis of the cone angle (θ) of the amine, we suggest that steric hindrance is the reason for the lack of reactivity of the secondary amines R2NH. A discussion of the steric constraints imposed on a latent Lewis acid i...
Optical storage and its possible use in high-energy physics

Abstract This report discusses the current status of optical storage technology and the potential for optical data storage as an alternative to magnetic data storage for future experiments in high-energy physics. The industry is currently geared mostly towards small (5 1 4 inch) optical disk drives, both in Write Once, Read Multiple (WORM) and in erasable form. These drives present no advantage to the high-energy physics community because of their limited capacity. However, 12 inch optical disk drives are suitable, though not optimal, for large-scale data collection as is common in high-energy physics. These systems are available in single units or in the form of automated juke-boxes. An optimal and relatively cost-effective system is currently in development. It makes use of write-once optical tape. Some disadvantages common to all current optical systems are the general lack of standards and the difficulty in procuring systems and media from different sources.
Science role in countering terrorism

Geoscience expertise figures as a component of a new report on harnessing the U.S. science and technology community in the fight against terrorism. The National Research Council report, “Making the Nation Safer: The Role of Science and Technology in Countering Terrorism,” proposes research agendas in a number of areas perceived to be vulnerable to terrorism. These areas include nuclear and radiological threats, toxic chemicals and explosive materials, information technology, energy systems, and cities and fixed infrastructure.
Outcome of reoperation for carpal tunnel syndrome

One hundred thirty-one patients with reoperation for carpal tunnel syndrome were followed for a mean of 11 years. Reoperation failed in 15 patients, necessitating a third operation. Satisfaction, symptom severity, and functional status scores were assessed with a standardized questionnaire in the other 116 patients. Patients with normal findings on preoperative nerve conduction studies, those who filed for compensation, and those who had pain in the distribution of the ulnar nerve had significantly worse results. Those with abnormal findings on nerve conduction studies who had not filed for compensation had the best symptom and function scores and satisfaction at latest follow-up examination; those with normal findings on nerve conduction studies who had filed for compensation had the poorest outcome. Although most patients were satisfied with the overall outcome, many reported residual symptoms; in addition to the 15 patients who required a third operation, 22 patients were dissatisfied with the final result.
The biosynthesis by brain microsomes of cerebrosides containing nonhydroxy fatty acids.

Incubation of microsomes from mouse brain with UDP-gal, a long-chain base, and W-fatty acyl-CoA resulted in formation of NFA-cerebroside labeled in the fatty acid residue. The rate of synthesis was ten times that of the system lacking UDP-gal or long chain base. The incubation system also formed NFA-ceramide, at a much higher rate. Stearoyl- and lignoceroyl-CoA were much more effective in forming ceramide and cerebroside than palmitoyl- and oleoyl-CoA, a correlation which suggests that ceramide is an intermediate in cerebroside biosynthesis. When NFA-ceramide, together with a phospholipid mixture, was incubated wit,h labeled UDP-gal, NFA-cerebroside was formed. Utilization of the exogenous ceramide was demonstrated by a number of chromatographic procedures. Under the same conditions, but with labeled UDP-glc, the corresponding glucose-containing cerebroside was formed, at a somewhat higher rate. The organic synthesis of labeled lignoceric acid and lignoceroyl n-sphingosine is described. Also described is a simplified method for large-scale preparation of purified n-sphingosine. The labeled ceramide was utilized by the microsomes for the formation of galactosyl lignoceroyl sphingosine. Under a variety of conditions the microsomes failed to convert psychosine and labeled acyl-CoA-to cerebroside.
Shortening of the QT interval of the EKG is associated primarily with increased ventricular contractility rather than heart rate.

The objective of this study was to gather direct evidence on whether the duration of the QT interval relates primarily to heart rate or to ventricular contractility. The electrocardiographic and cardiodynamic consequences of electrical stimulation (15 V, 5 ms, 10Hz) of various intrathoracic sympathetic efferent neuronal structures were studied in 10 anesthetized mongrel dogs. Stimulation of efferent sympathetic axons in the right intraganglionic nerve, which innervates the sinoatrial node, induced tachycardia (110±5 - 133±6 bpm; p<0.01) without significantly altering right or left ventricular intramyocardial ventricular chamber pressures. The QT interval, as determined by leads I, II and III of the EKG and a transthoracic lead, was not affected by this intervention (310±8 - 302±ms). Increasing heart rate to a similar degree (111±3 - 131±3 bpm) by right atrial pacing did not induce changes in the QT interval. When right (23±3 - 49±8 mm Hg; p<0.01) and left (81±10 - 127±19 mm Hg; p<0.01) ventricular forces were augmented without concomitant increases in heart rate by stimulating efferent sympathetic axons in the left caudal pole cardiopulmonary nerve the QT interval shortened (322±11 - 290±12 ms; p<0.01). Only when an efferent sympathetic nerve, that contains fibers destined for both the sinoatrial node and the ventricles was stimulated did both heart rate and ventricular contractility augment and QT shorten (318±10 - 290±11 ms; p<0.01). These results indicate that QT interval shortening induced by efferent sympathetic neurons is primarily associated with augmentation of ventricular contractility rather than heart rate.
Social tolerance and proximate mechanisms of dispersal among winter groups of meadow voles, Microtus pennsylvanicus.

Abstract Proximate mechanisms for movement among communal groups of meadow voles were examined during two winter seasons. Radiotelemetry and live trapping were used to identify group members and monitor the movement of voles. Paired encounters between individuals removed from the field indicated that aggression neither precipitated nor prevented movement of animals between groups during winter. Dispersal most often occurred in conjuction with loss of nestmates to predation. The removal of nestmates resulted in increased home range size and movement between groups for males, but not for females. With the onset of reproduction, aggression increased toward individuals from other groups, but not toward nestmates. Winter groups did not break up with the onset of breeding, but these groups were closed to the immigration of new members.
On the continuation of orthogonal structure across surfaces of discontinuity in the momentum-energy tensor

Gonsidering a three-dimensional surface in the EinsteinRiemann 4-space in which the energy-momentum tensor has discontinuities but also has well-defined one-sided limits, the conditions are found under which the orthogonal structure of the energy-momentum tensor is continued across the discontinuity, Further, it is found that an EinsteinRiemann space that is empty except for a number of mechanical bodies of finite extent has metric structure throughout only if the discontinuities in the energymomentum tensor satisfy certain conditions, (T.F.H.)
Thalamic deep brain stimulation: comparison between unilateral and bilateral placement.

Background Unilateral thalamic deep brain stimulation (DBS) is accepted as an effective treatment for essential tremor (ET) and the tremor of Parkinson disease (PD). There are, however, relatively little data concerning bilateral thalamic DBS and no thorough comparisons between the 2 methods. Methods To assess the relative benefit of a staged second contralateral DBS placement in patients with PD and ET, we compared preoperative baseline assessments with those at 3 months after the initial implantation, and again at 3 months after the second contralateral implantation. The assessments included the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale for patients with PD (n = 8) and a modified Unified Tremor Rating Assessment for patients with ET (n = 13). The design included open and blinded (unknown activation status) assessments. Results Overall, after the second implantation, all specific measures assessing tremor contralateral to that side improved in patients with PD and ET, generally without sacrificing those contralateral to the first side implantation. Midline tremors (face and head) improved only after the second side implantation. In patients with ET, functional and subjective scores tended to further improve after the second placement; however, patients with PD had less subjective improvement. Hand tremor scores in patients with ET randomized to "on" stimulation improved from 6.7 +/- 0.9 to 1.3 +/- 1.2 (P Conclusions Bilateral thalamic DBS is more effective than unilateral DBS at controlling bilateral appendicular and midline tremors of ET and PD. Despite this, overall functional disability only improved in patients with ET, possibly secondary to more problematic adverse events in patients with PD, especially balance problems. Bilateral DBS should be considered when unilateral DBS does not offer satisfactory benefit, especially in patients with ET.
Dopamine-B-hydroxylase: suicide inhibition by the novel olefinic substrate, 1-phenyl-1-aminomethylethene.

Abstract Dopamine-B-hydroxylase [E.C.1.14.17.1] plays a key role in the biosynthetic interconversion of neurotransmitters. It is now demonstrated for the first time that dopamine-B-hydroxylase also catalyzes the oxygenation of an olefinic substrate, 1-phenyl-1-aminomethylethene, producing 2,3-dihydroxy-2-phenylpropylamine after acid workup. This reaction gives the normal oxygenase stoichiometry of electrons to O 2 to product of 2:1:1, and is kinetically comparable to other oxygenase activities of dopamine-B-hydroxylase, with a k cat value of 10 sec −1 and a K M of 8.3 mM. 1-Phenyl-1-aminomethylethene is also a time-dependent, first-order inactivator of dopamine-B-hydroxylase. The inactivation process exhibits the characteristics of mechanism-based, irreversible inactivation, giving a K I value of 13 mM and a k inac of 0.04 min −1 . The central role of dopamine-B-hydroxylase in catecholamine metabolism suggests possible pharmacological uses for olefinic inhibitors of this enzyme.
Submarine Chert-Argillite Slide-Breccia of Paleozoic Age in the Southern Klamath Mountains, California

A unique chert-argillite breccia—a breccia with an argillite matrix, in which nearly all the fragments are chert—underlies an area of at least 60 sq mi in the southern Klamath Mountains of California. Rocks of this composition have not been reported previously, in the Klamath Mountains or elsewhere, but in northwestern Trinity County they make up a large part of the western Paleozoic and Triassic belt. The remainder of the belt consists of northerly trending sinuous zones of two other principal lithologies: radiolarian chert, rhythmically interbedded with slate or phyllite, crops out in three zones in the eastern, central, and western parts of the area; and massive metabasalt and metadiabase intruded by gabbro and serpentinite occur in a zone about 3 mi wide in the eastern part of the area. Although the predominance of chert fragments makes the chert-argillite breccia apparently unique, rocks that are generally similar, consisting of angular to subangular clasts in a pelitic matrix, have been studied in many localities. Field relations and petrographic features of the chert-argillite breccia—specifically the angularity of clasts, absence of a sandy matrix, preservation of Radiolaria in both chert clasts and pelitic matrix, presence of contorted flow laminae in the matrix, large size of some of the exotic blocks, close association with chert, pillow lava, and limestone, absence of stretching or slickensiding of clasts, and overall dimensions of the unit measurable in miles—variously preclude origin of the rock as a normal sedimentary conglomerate, a tectonic breccia, a tillite, or a subaerial mudflow, but include features common to numerous submarine-slide deposits. We interpret the chert-argillite breccia as the result of uplift and subsequent sliding of a thick deposit of inter-layered chert and pelitic ooze. Brittle fracturing of the chert and mobilization of water-saturated ooze produced the observed features. Fossiliferous limestone blocks within the slide-breccia indicate that it is no older than Silurian or Devonian, and it predates Jurassic metamorphism and plutonism. The relation of the breccia to a major northwest-trending fault zone, and to serpentinite within this zone, suggests that the formation of the breccia was generally synchronous with the faulting and ultramafic intrusion. Rocks of the central metamorphic belt, east of the mapped area, were metamorphosed during a Devonian orogeny, and we suggest that the submarine slide-breccia was formed as a frontal effect of the same orogeny.
Empirical likelihood analysis of the rank estimator for the censored accelerated failure time model

SUMMARY We use the empirical likelihood method to derive a test and thus a confidence interval based on the rank estimators of the regression coefficient in the accelerated failure time model. Standard chi-squared distributions are used to calculate the p-value and to construct the confidence interval. Simulations and examples show that the chi-squared approximation to the distribution of the log empirical likelihood ratio performs well, and has some advantages over the existing methods.
Adaptive behavior in males with fragile X syndrome

Adaptive behavior has long been a key component of the definition of mental retardation. However, research on these important skills in fragile X and other genetic syndromes is just under way, having taken a back seat to studies using mixed etiologic groups. Further, adaptive behavior is complex, and measurements of these skills must have a developmental orientation, apply to multiple life settings, and reflect typical as opposed to optimal performance. After reviewing these features, this article highlights three areas of adaptive functioning in males with fragile X syndrome: profiles, trajectories, and adaptive behavior-IQ relations. Many males with fragile X show relative strengths in domestic and personal chores of daily living, or so-called “practical” intelligence. Whereas age-related gains in adaptive skills are often seen in boys, particularly during the preschool years, adolescents and adults seem to have relative stable adaptive age scores and declines in adaptive standard scores. Such developmental courses may parallel the IQ trajectory often seen in males with fragile X syndrome. The need for further adaptive research is emphasized, particularly in light of the critical role these skills play in the ultimate life success of individuals with mental retardation. © 1995 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
A gut reaction to IL-9

The pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease is orchestrated by specific subsets of cytokine-secreting T cells. The interleukin 9–producing subset of helper T cells contributes to the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease in part by disrupting intestinal barrier function and impairing tissue-repair mechanisms.
Medical Tourism: Revenue Generation or International Transfer of Healthcare Problems?

This paper focuses on the relatively new conduit for the transfer of services from the developed to the developing economies - the growing trend of "medical tourism" where patients travel to low-co...
Heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein I (hnRNP-I/PTB) selectively binds the conserved 3' terminus of hepatitis C viral RNA.

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a positive-strand RNA virus whose genome is replicated by a direct RNA-to-RNA mechanism. Initiation of negative-strand RNA synthesis is believed to proceed from the 3' end of the genomic RNA. The high conservation of the 3' terminus suggests that this region directs the assembly of proteins required for the initiation of RNA replication. We sought to determine whether host proteins bind specifically to this RNA structure. We observed specific binding of cellular proteins to labeled 3'-terminal RNA by mobility shift analysis. UV crosslinking revealed that the predominant 3'-terminal RNA-binding protein migrates as a single, 60-kDa species that can be precipitated by monoclonal antibodies directed against heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein I, also called polypyrimidine tract-binding protein (hnRNP-I/PTB), a protein previously shown to bind to the 5' internal ribosome entry site (IRES) of the HCV genome. Purified hnRNP-I/PTB also bound selectively to the 3' end of the HCV genome. hnRNP-I/PTB binding requires the upstream two stem-loop structures (SL2 and SL3) but not the most 3'-terminal stem-loop (SL1). Minor alteration of either the stem or loop sequences in SL2 or SL3 severely compromised hnRNP-I/PTB binding, suggesting extremely tight RNA structural requirements for interaction with this protein. hnRNP-I/PTB does not bind to either end of the antigenomic RNA strand and binds to the 5' IRES element of the genome at least 10-fold less avidly than to the 3' terminus. The strong, selective, and preferential binding of hnRNP-I/PTB to the 3' end of the HCV genome suggests that it may be recruited to participate in viral replication, helping to direct initiation of negative-strand RNA synthesis, stabilize the viral genome, and/or regulate encapsidation of genomic RNA.
Statistical methods in surveying by trilateration

Abstract Trilateration techniques use distance measurements to survey the spatial coordinates of unknown positions. In practice, distances are measured with error, and statistical methods can quantify the uncertainty in the estimate of the unknown location. Three methods for estimating the three-dimensional position of a point via trilateration are presented: a linear least-squares estimator, an iteratively reweighted least-squares estimator, and a non-linear least-squares technique. In general, the non-linear least-squares technique performs best, but in some situations a linear estimator could in theory be constructed that would outperform it. By eliminating the need to measure angles, trilateration facilitates the implementation of fully automated real-time positioning systems similar to the global positioning system (GPS). The methods presented in this paper are tested in the context of a realistic positioning problem that was posed by the Thunder Basin Coal Company in Wright, Wyoming.
Managing gastric residual volumes in the critically ill patient: an update.

Purpose of reviewGastric residual volumes (GRVs) remain a major deterrent to adequately feeding patients with gastric-delivered enteral nutrition. The purpose of this review was to define the most up-to-date consensus of the utility of the use of GRVs for monitoring tube-feeding intolerance in gastr
Photodetachment of Gaseous Multiply Charged Anions, Copper Phthalocyanine Tetrasulfonate Tetraanion: Tuning Molecular Electronic Energy Levels by Charging and Negative Electron Binding

We report photodetachment photoelectron spectroscopy (PES) of gaseous copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) tetrasulfonate quadruply charged anions, [CuPc(SO3)4]4-, and its monoprotonated and -sodiumated triply charged anions, [CuPc(SO3)4H]3- and [CuPc(SO3)4Na]3-. The [CuPc(SO3)4]4- tetraanion was found to possess a negative electron binding energy of −0.9 eV, whereas the trianions have binding energies of 1.0 and 1.2 eV for the sodiumated and protonated species, respectively. The PES spectral features of the three multiply charged anions were observed to be similar to that of the parent CuPc neutral molecule, except that the anions have lower binding energies due to the presence of the negative charges (−SO3-). The data thus suggested a stepwise tuning of the molecular electronic energy levels of the CuPc molecule through charging, wherein the molecular orbital energies of the parent molecule were systematically pushed up by the negative charges. We further carried out semiempirical calculations, which provided i...
Influence of benthic macroinvertebrates on mixing of profundal sediments in southeastern Lake Huron1

Vertical distributions of size classed benthic macroinvertebrates were investigated in centimeter-thick sections of twelve cores from each of two stations in southern Lake Huron. Stations were selected on the basis of radioactivity profiles indicating surface sediment mixing to 3 and 6 cm. The corresponding occurrence of major taxonomic groups (amphipods and oligochaetes) to 2 cm at the first station and to 4 cm at the second suggests that these organisms play a significant role in sediment redistribution. Comparison of published tubificid defecation rates with sedimentation rates determined radiometrically indicates the extent to which benthic macroinvertebrates can mix surficial sediments.
New parallel algorithms for thinning of binary images

This paper describes two new parallel algorithms for thinning. Instead of a conventional 3 X 3 operator, a small cross window '+' with 5 or 9 points is employed in the implementation. The algorithms do not change the connectivity of the images. The experimental results show that the algorithms make the skeleton much closer to the medial axis, and make it more convenient to reconstruct the original pattern. Comparing with the other thinning methods, the new approach here gives advantages on saving the time and the window size when real world images are processed.© (1991) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Historic Tree Collections Management: A New Vision for Old Trees

Municipalities and institutions of horticulture maintain large numbers of trees, many of which are in the process of senescing. In a botanical garden, park or arboretum, a collection of historic trees comes with the benefits of shade, beauty and a display of natural history but those benefits come with the challenges of safety, liability, aesthetics and a commitment to environmental protection. As a result, institutions of public horticulture are seeking innovative means of understanding, showcasing, and preserving their historic trees. This research compared the historic tree collections management strategies being used at institutions of horticulture in the United States with the strategies being used at institutions abroad. It uncovered the existence of management plans specific to historic and aging trees. The research involved collecting the details of those plans, with a focus on the philosophies that govern the decision making processes regarding historic and aging trees and tree collections. The article discusses the history of tree culture, outlines reasons for management planning and highlights current practical techniques being used by experts in the field. Finally, it addresses the terminology being used for historic and ancient trees worldwide and examines ways to combine strategies used in museums and architecture for living collections.
In and out of the state: Working the boundaries of power in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Anthropology has often renewed itself by studying collective self-organization beyond the reach of the state. The idea that power usually flows top-down from a state monopoly is increasingly questioned in an era of networks fuelled by interactive decision-making processes that include non-state actors. Power theoretically understood as potentia – the elementary power through which human beings deploy their productive capacities and creative possibilities – is ontologically prior to power expressed as an obsession with order that is often repressive (potestas). Granting precedence to potentia over potestas inevitably leads us to question the conceptual centrality of the state. The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which has long stood – and stands today – as a symbol of the antithesis of social order, offers much material for reflection on this issue. While this paper considers how people negotiate the boundaries between state and non-state power in the contemporary DRC, its lasting contribution is to re...
Enhancement of the epithermal neutron beam used for boron neutron capture therapy.

Abstract Purpose: This report describes a study to enhance the epithermal neutron beam at the Brookhaven Medical Research Reactor by increasing the epithermal neutron flux and/or reducing contamination by fast neutrons. Methods and Materials: The beam was reevaluated using Monte Carlo calculations and flux and dose measurements in air and in an ellipsoidal head phantom at the patient irradiation port. Changes in its geometry and materials were considered, including rearranging the fuel elements in the reactor core and redesigning the moderator and the patient irradiation port. Results: Calculations of the new fluxes and doses at the patient irradiation port showed that the epithermal neutron flux can be increased by 100%, while the fast neutron dose per epithermal neutron can be reduced by 38%. In 1992, some of the proposed changes were made. In June 1992, measurements were made after one additional fuel element was added to replace a graphite spacer block on the epithermal beam side of the reactor core. The results show that the epithermal neutron flux increased by 18%, as predicted by the Monte Carlo calculations. In October 1992, the fuel elements in the reactor core were rearranged by placing four new fuel elements in the first row facing the epithermal port; the intensity of the epithermal neutron beam increased by 50% and the fast neutron and gamma doses per epithermal neutron may have decreased slightly. Conclusion: The epithermal neutron beam at the Brookhaven Medical Research Reactor has gained a 50% increase in the epithermal neutron flux and the fast neutron and gamma doses per epithermal neutron are reduced slightly after the rearrangement of the fuel elements in the core.
Drug Use–Chronic and Relapsing or a Treatable Condition?

It is argued that the term "chronic relapsing disorder," which is used frequently to characterize drug use, does not capture the complexity of drug treatment evaluation findings and thereby limits an understanding and appreciation of the accomplishments of drug treatment. Specifically, it is noteworthy that a substantial minority (19%) of treated drug users have been found to maintain abstinence over a 6-year period posttreatment, and that the three major multisite treatment evaluations sponsored by NIDA have all found that overwhelming majorities of treated drug users do not revert to the levels of drug use (or criminal activity) shown pretreatment. Thus, the view of inevitable and continuing adoption of pretreatment behaviors, i.e., chronic relapse, gives undeserved comfort to those who deny the utility of drug treatment, and does so at a time when changes in the health care industry threaten the integrity of that treatment.
Plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin d is associated with markers of the insulin resistant phenotype in nondiabetic adults

We examined the cross-sectional association between plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] and markers of the insulin resistant phenotype. Plasma 25(OH)D concentrations were measured in 808 nondiabetic participants of the Framingham Offspring Study. Outcome measures included fasting and 2-h post 75-g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) glucose and insulin; these were used to calculate the homeostatic model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and insulin sensitivity index (ISI(0,120)). We also measured plasma adiponectin, triacylglycerol, and HDL cholesterol concentrations as markers of the insulin-resistant phenotype. After adjusting for age, sex, BMI, waist circumference, and current smoking status, plasma 25(OH)D concentration was inversely associated with fasting plasma glucose and insulin concentrations, and HOMA-IR. Compared with the participants in the lowest tertile category of plasma 25(OH)D, those in the highest tertile category had a 1.6% lower concentration of fasting plasma glucose (P-trend = 0.007), 9.8% lower concentration of fasting plasma insulin (P-trend = 0.001), and 12.7% lower HOMA-IR score (P-trend < 0.001). After adjusting for age and sex, plasma 25(OH)D was positively associated with ISI(0,120), plasma adiponectin, and HDL cholesterol and inversely associated with plasma triacylglycerol, but these associations were no longer significant after further adjustment for BMI, waist circumference, and current smoking status. 25(OH)D and 2-h post-OGTT glucose were not associated. Among adults without diabetes, vitamin D status was inversely associated with surrogate fasting measures of insulin resistance. These results suggest that vitamin D status may be an important determinant for type 2 diabetes mellitus.