cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Does self-awareness influence caregiver burden?

BACKGROUND Caregiver burden is experienced by a significant number of caregivers of survivors of acquired brain injury (ABI). It is known that self-awareness can impact functioning following ABI. However, the impact of self-awareness on caregiver burden has not been established. OBJECTIVE To investigate the relationship between self-awareness and caregiver burden following ABI. METHODS We studied 57 patient-caregiver pairs up to 28 years post-discharge from a post-acute comprehensive holistic milieu-oriented neurorehabilitation program. The Mayo-Portland Adaptability Inventory-4 (MPAI-4) was completed by survivors of ABI and their caregivers. Discrepancies in reports between survivors of ABI and their caregivers were used to determine self-awareness. Additionally, caregivers completed the Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI). RESULTS Survivors of ABI with impaired self-awareness reported significantly higher levels of functioning than survivors of ABI with unimpaired self-awareness (p < 0.001). Unimpaired self-awareness (p < 0.001) and lower survivor self-reported MPAI-4 Total Score (p < 0.001) significantly predicted caregiver burden. CONCLUSIONS Survivors of ABI's level of functioning and their level of self-awareness significantly impacted caregiver burden. Survivors of ABI with impaired self-awareness not only lack insight into their functional abilities but also tend to overestimate their capabilities; this likely contributes to the need for greater levels of supervision and worsened caregiver burden.
Interventions Incorporating Therapeutic Alliance to Improve Hemodialysis Treatment Adherence in Black Patients with End-Stage Kidney Disease (ESKD) in the United States: A Systematic Review.

Background In the US, Blacks with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) have a four-fold higher prevalence rate of hemodialysis treatment and higher subsequent rates of hemodialysis treatment nonadherence and hospitalization compared to their White peers. Nonadherence to prescribed dialysis therapy is an underestimated life-threatening behavior, because of its association with increased morbidity and mortality. Few studies have specified and systematically evaluated targeted methods of increasing hemodialysis treatment adherence among Black hemodialysis patients with added focus on therapeutic alliance, a rewarding patient-centered relationship between patients and providers, based on common goals and objectives. This review seeks to evaluate the state of the science to determine the salience of a therapeutic alliance for the development of effective interventions positively impacting hemodialysis treatment adherence among Black patients. Methods Medline (via PubMed), Embase (OvidSP), Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL; EBSCOhost), and PsycInfo (ProQuest) databases were used to search for abstracts with the keywords “dialysis”, “therapeutic alliance”, and “treatment adherence and compliance”, including all underlying index terms and alternative variations of terms, in order to cover the entire scope of the field. Only randomized clinical trials and pre/postintervention studies published in the previous 10 years (2009–2019) and including a proportion of Black patients >25% were included for review. Results Only three intervention studies met these criteria, for a total aggregated sample of 130 — mean age 58.1 years and 53% female. None of these studies was composed exclusively of Black patients (range 62%–91.3%), nor did they present data specifically for Blacks. Despite the lack of robust data informing strategies to improve hemodialysis adherence among Blacks with ESRD, a limited number of intervention studies have reported positive effects on hemodialysis attendance. Discussion/Conclusion Further research is warranted to fill this significant gap in our understanding of theoretically based, therapeutic alliance–enhanced, and culturally tailored hemodialysis treatment–adherence interventions among Blacks.
Overcoming the anaerobic hurdle in phenotypic microarrays: Generation andvisualization of growth curve data for Desulfovibrio vulgaris Hildenborough

Growing anaerobic microorganisms in phenotypic microarrays (PM) and 96-well microtiter plates is an emerging technology that allows high throughput survey of the growth and physiology and/or phenotype of cultivable microorganisms. For non-model bacteria, a method for phenotypic analysis is invaluable, not only to serve as a starting point for further evaluation, but also to provide a broad understanding of the physiology of an uncharacterized wild-type organism or the physiology/phenotype of a newly created mutant of that organism. Given recent advances in genetic characterization and targeted mutations to elucidate genetic networks and metabolic pathways, high-throughput methods for determining phenotypic differences are essential. Here we outline challenges presented in studying the physiology and phenotype of a sulfate reducing anaerobic delta proteobacterium, Desulfovibrio vulgaris Hildenborough. Modifications of the commercially available OmniLog(TM) system (Hayward, CA) for experimental setup, and configuration, as well as considerations in PM data analysis are presented. Also highlighted here is data viewing software that enables users to view and compare multiple PM data sets. The PM method promises to be a valuable strategy in our systems biology approach to D. vulgaris studies and is readily applicable to other anaerobic and aerobic bacteria.
Teaching peroral endoscopic pyloromyotomy (POP) to practicing endoscopists: An "into-the-fire" approach to simulation.

BACKGROUND Peroral endoscopic pyloromyotomy, or gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy, is a novel endoscopic procedure for the treatment of refractory gastroparesis. We present a simulation-based curriculum using an "into-the-fire" approach with hands-on pre- and post-tests to teach this procedure. METHODS Six, 1-day peroral endoscopic pyloromyotomy courses were taught by an expert surgical endoscopist in 2018 to 2019. The curriculum is composed of a series of pretraining tests, lectures, mentored hands-on instruction, and post-training tests using porcine models. Both pre- and post-testing included a confidence survey, a knowledge-based written test, and a specific assessment form for the peroral endoscopic pyloromyotomy procedure. Participants' scores were analyzed using paired t tests. RESULTS Twenty-eight practicing physicians participated. After completing the curriculum, participants had improved confidence scores (10.5 ± 5.2 vs 19.4 ± 3.6; P < .001), written test scores (6.8 ± 1.6 vs 8.0 ± 1.1; P < .001), and hands-on performance scores (23.6 ± 3.4 vs 29.3 ± 1.4; P < .001) with marked improvement in all components of the peroral endoscopic pyloromyotomy procedure. Postcourse surveys showed 93% of participants had performed or intended to perform the peroral endoscopic pyloromyotomy procedure within the next year. CONCLUSION Our simulation curriculum with an into-the-fire approach to teach peroral endoscopic pyloromyotomy is effective in improving practitioner knowledge, confidence, and technical skills, leading to an increase in the adoption of this procedure.
ADCME: Learning Spatially-varying Physical Fields using Deep Neural Networks.

ADCME is a novel computational framework to solve inverse problems involving physical simulations and deep neural networks (DNNs). This paper benchmarks its capability to learn spatially-varying physical fields using DNNs. We demonstrate that our approach has superior accuracy compared to the discretization approach on a variety of problems, linear or nonlinear, static or dynamic. Technically, we formulate our inverse problem as a PDE-constrained optimization problem. We express both the numerical simulations and DNNs using computational graphs and therefore, we can calculate the gradients using reverse-mode automatic differentiation. We apply a physics constrained learning algorithm (PCL) to efficiently back-propagate gradients through iterative solvers for nonlinear equations. The open-source software which accompanies the present paper can be found at this https URL.
Tools for Infinite Dimensional Analysis

Over the past six decades, several extremely important fields in mathematics have been developed. Among these are Ito calculus, Gaussian measures on Banach spaces, Malliavan calculus, and white noise distribution theory. These subjects have many applications, ranging from finance and economics to physics and biology. Unfortunately, the background information required to conduct research in these subjects presents a tremendous roadblock. The background material primarily stems from an abstract subject known as infinite dimensional topological vector spaces. While this information forms the backdrop for these subjects, the books and papers written about topological vector spaces were never truly written for researchers studying infinite dimensional analysis. Thus, the literature for topological vector spaces is dense and difficult to digest, much of it being written prior to the 1960s. Tools for Infinite Dimensional Analysis aims to address these problems by providing an introduction to the background material for infinite dimensional analysis that is friendly in style and accessible to graduate students and researchers studying the above-mentioned subjects. It will save current and future researchers countless hours and promote research in these areas by removing an obstacle in the path to beginning study in areas of infinite dimensional analysis. Features Focused approach to the subject matter Suitable for graduate students as well as researchers Detailed proofs of primary results
3D NUMERICAL SIMULATION OF FLOW FIELD AND TEMPERATURE FIELD IN A ROUND BILLET CONTINUOUS CASTING MOLD WITH ELECTROMAGNETIC STIRRING

A new 3D mathematical model describing the electromagnetic stirring(EMS)in the round billet continuous casting mold was developed and the method combining the finite element finite volume was used to solve the Maxwell's equations and the turbulent Navier-Stokes equations. The characteristics of magnetic field,flow field,temperature field and inclusion trajectory during EMS were analyzed considering the influences of the exciting current intensity and frequency.The simulated magnetic field in the mold is in good agreement with the measured data in the real steel plant,the electromagnetic force is circumferential distribution at the horizontal section of billet.Molten steel forms two pair of recirculation zones in the longitudinal section of the mold and rccirculates at the horizontal section.Most of superheated molten steel is stranded in the upper region of mold,the core temperature of billet reduces dramatically and the temperature gradient at the solidifying forefront of billet increases.Most inclusion particles accumulate in the upper zone of mold and do a swirl like motion.The flow behaviour,temperature distribution and inclusion motion in the mold are all influenced obviously by the exciting current intensity and frequency.
Plague Exposure in Mammalian Wildlife Across the Western United States.

Plague is caused by a bacterial pathogen (Yersinia pestis) that can infect a wide range of mammal species, but its presence in wildlife is often underappreciated. Using a large-scale data set (n = ...
Development of Fluorescently Labeled, Functional Type I Collagen Molecules.

While de novo collagen fibril formation is well-studied, there are few investigations into the growth and remodeling of extant fibrils, where molecular collagen incorporation into and erosion from the fibril surface must delicately balance during fibril growth and remodeling. Observing molecule/fibril interactions is difficult, requiring the tracking of molecular dynamics while, at the same time, minimizing the effect of the observation on fibril structure and assembly. To address the observation-interference problem, exogenous collagen molecules are tagged with small fluorophores and the fibrillogenesis kinetics of labeled collagen molecules as well as the structure and network morphology of assembled fibrils are examined. While excessive labeling significantly disturbs fibrillogenesis kinetics and network morphology of assembled fibrils, adding less than ∼1.2 labels per collagen molecule preserves these characteristics. Applications of the functional, labeled collagen probe are demonstrated in both cellular and acellular systems. The functional, labelled collagen associates strongly with native fibrils and when added to an in vitro model of corneal stromal development at low concentration, the labelled collagen is incorporated into a fine extracellular matrix network associated with the cells within 24 hours. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
The Mirror Has Two Faces: Welfare Clients and Front-Line Workers View Policy Reforms

Abstract This paper analyzes in-depth interviews with 45 frontline welfare workers and clients in one county to explore the perceptions that develop at the front-lines of the welfare system and to consider how these perceptions may influence new welfare reform strategies. This exploratory study finds that welfare workers utilize three distinct typologies to understand their clients. In contrast, clients believe that the welfare system is not designed to help them succeed, that many workers are personally invested in enforcing system rules, and that administrative policy is inconsistently applied. While both workers and clients believe that the new policy goal of employment is important, they both raise considerable questions about the barriers and disincentives that many clients may encounter as they try to leave welfare for work. This paper concludes by considering how these conditions may influence implementation of the most recent round of initiatives to reform the welfare system.
Vicia cytogenetic tests for environmental mutagens: A report of the U.S. environmental protection agency Gene-Tox program☆

Vicia root-tip mitotic and pollen mother-cell meiotic tests are two major kinds of cytogenetic tests for environmental mutagens. According to the present review, 81 of 85 earlier studies used mitotic tests to determine the frequencies of chromosome or chromatid aberrations and/or sister-chromatid exchange from root-tip meristematic cells; only 4 used meiotic tests to determine the frequencies of chromosome aberration from pollen mother cells. Treatment of root-tip meristem can be done by allowing the newly germinated roots to absorb the chemical mutagens from a water solution. Pollen mother cells can be treated by spraying the solution or pipetting the liquid over the flower buds. After an appropriate recovery time, the samples are fixed and stained, and the slides are prepared for metaphase or anaphase figures for scoring aberration frequencies. Slides for meiotic tests are prepared for metaphase I and/or Anaphase I stages for scoring chromosome aberration frequencies. Results of both cytogenetic tests should be expressed in terms of number of breaks per cell or per 100 cells. Test results of 76 chemicals from 32 classes in this review indicate that the Vicia root-tip mitotic test is reliable, efficient, and relatively inexpensive. These results also reveal that antibiotics are most frequently studied, followed by alkyl sulfones, pyrimidine, and purine derivatives. Of all the agents studied through root-tip mitotic tests, about 90% gave positive responses; antibiotics (phleomycin and bleomycin) had very high mutagenicity (less than 1 ppm gave positive response).
Evidence for the Low Altitude Acceleration of Auroral Particles

It has long been surmised that no matter where the origin of auroral particles, there must be particle energization mechanisms local to the magnetosphere in order to account for the height distribution of the auroral light these particles produce. The problem of describing these acceleration mechanisms remains a central one in auroral physics.
Adaptive parallel algorithms for the synthesis of real-time computer systems

Distributed computing systems are widely used in mission-critical real-time applications like missile defense systems, aircraft control and sonar applications. Designing a low cost distributed computing system which satisfies all the stringent requirements of a given application is a difficult problem. This problem can be alleviated using Computer-Aided Synthesis (CAS) tools. Due to the large number of design alternatives, the CAS tools are compute intensive and can take a considerably long time even for medium sized real-time applications. In this paper we describe a set of parallel synthesis algorithms which dynamically adapt to the number of available processors in a parallel computer system to substantially reduce the total turn-around time of the synthesis process.
A practical approach to diagnosis of disorders of intestinal absorption.

THE diagnosis of malabsorptive disease is usually possible with a simple approach using a few widely available tests. Patients with these diseases usually present themselves with diarrhea or nutritional deficiency or both. One should suspect malabsorption in any patient with diarrhea even when the classic frothy, foul, floating and greasy stools of steatorrhea are not present. One must also suspect malabsorption in anyone with unexplained nutritional deficiency of almost any sort even when there are no bowel symptoms; iron, folate, or vitamin B12 deficiency anemia, bleeding disorders from vitamin K deficiency and osteomalacia are typical of these deficiencies. Although . . .
Questioning the Role of Technology in Higher Education: Why is this the Road Less Traveled?

Abstract This paper analyzes four issues that influence teaching and learning in college classrooms. These issues include the idea that using instructional technology in higher education should not be questioned; relationship between the corporate community and higher education; and effectiveness of distance learning as an instructional delivery system. The fourth issue, and possibly the most important, is developing a rich and deep understanding for the meaning of computer instructional technology, its relationship to teaching and learning, and the role it plays in shaping the context of what it means to be “educated.” A critical perspective, supported by the literature, is used to analyze these issues in the context of the college classroom. The paper closes with 20 questions intended to generate thinking and discussion about making thoughtful, informed and contextualized instructional decisions.
Context-enhanced video understanding

Many recent efforts have been made to automatically index multimedia content with the aim of bridging the semantic gap between syntax and semantics. In this paper, we propose a novel framework to automatically index video using context for video understanding. First we discuss the notion of context and how it relates to video understanding. Then we present the framework we are constructing, which is modeled as an expert system that uses a rule-based engine, domain knowledge, visual detectors (for objects and scenes), and different data sources available with the video (metadata, text from automatic speech recognition, etc.). We also describe our approach to align text from speech recognition and video segments, and present experiments using a simple implementation of our framework. Our experiments show that context can be used to improve the performance of visual detectors.
ATP Inhibition of CLC-1 Is Controlled by Oxidation and Reduction

The effect of intracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) on the “common gating” of the CLC-1 chloride channel has been studied by several laboratories with controversial results. Our previous study on the channel expressed in Xenopus oocytes using excised inside-out patch-clamp methods showed a robust effect of ATP in shifting the open probability curve of the common gate toward more depolarizing voltages (Tseng, P.Y., B. Bennetts, and T.Y. Chen. 2007. J. Gen. Physiol. 130:217–221). The results were consistent with those from studying the channel expressed in mammalian cells using whole cell recording methods (Bennetts, B., M.W. Parker, and B.A. Cromer. 2007. J. Biol. Chem. 282:32780–32791). However, a recent study using excised-patch recording methods for channels expressed in Xenopus oocytes reported that ATP had no direct effect on CLC-1 (Zifarelli, G., and M. Pusch. 2008. J. Gen. Physiol. 131:109–116). Here, we report that oxidation of CLC-1 may be the culprit underlying the controversy. When patches were excised from mammalian cells, the sensitivity to ATP was lost quickly—within 2–3 min. This loss of ATP sensitivity could be prevented or reversed by reducing agents. On the other hand, CLC-1 expressed in Xenopus oocytes lost the ATP sensitivity when patches were treated with oxidizing reagents. These results suggest a novel view in muscle physiology that the mechanisms controlling muscle fatigability may include the oxidation of CLC-1.
A member lookup algorithm for C

The member lookup problem in C++ is the problem of resolving a specified member name in the context of a specified class. Member lookup in C++ is complicated by the presence of virtual inheritance and multiple inheritance. In this paper, we present an efficient algorithm for member lookup in C++. We also present a formalism for the multiple inheritance mechanism of C++, which we use as the basis for deriving our algorithm. The formalism may also be of use as a formal basis for deriving other C++ compiler algorithms.
Method of quasilinearization and positivity of solutions in abstract cones

In this paper, the method of quasilinearization is extended to differential equations in Banach spaces using abstract cones. Frequently, it is useful to apply this technique to a comparison system. Several applications are given indicating the flexibility obtained by appropriate choice of the comparison system and cone.
Sex-specific effects of chronic anabolic androgenic steroid treatment on GABAA receptor expression and function in adolescent mice

Abstract Anabolic androgenic steroids are synthetic derivatives of testosterone designed for therapeutic uses, but now taken as drugs of abuse. Potential health risks associated with anabolic androgenic steroid abuse are believed to be higher in adolescents than in adults, but few studies have tested anabolic androgenic steroid effects in adolescent subjects or determined if effects of these steroids differ between females and males. We have studied GABA A receptor expression and function in the medial preoptic nucleus of mice chronically treated during adolescence with the anabolic androgenic steroid, 17α-methyltestosterone. Three-week treatment did not elicit significant differences the expression of α 1 , α 2 or α 5 subunit mRNAs in animals of either sex, although there was a trend toward decreases in all three subunit mRNAs in female mice, which was augmented and attained significance for the α 2 subunit mRNA in females treated for six weeks. Immunocytochemical analysis revealed that treatment with 17α-methyltestosterone for 6 weeks also elicited a significant decrease in the number of α 2 -immunopositive neurons in female subjects. To test if anabolic androgenic steroid treatment also promoted changes in GABA A receptor function, spontaneous inhibitory synaptic currents were analyzed in adolescent animals treated for 3–4 weeks. This treatment regimen promoted a significant decrease in spontaneous inhibitory synaptic current frequency in female, but not male mice. Finally, anabolic androgenic steroid treatment was found to have no effect on the numbers of interneurons within the medial preoptic nucleus, as assessed by immunoreactivity for calcium binding proteins, suggesting that the decrease in the frequency of spontaneous inhibitory synaptic currents in female mice does not arise from an anabolic androgenic steroid-induced loss of interneurons. Taken together, our results indicate that chronic exposure to 17α-methyltestosterone elicits significant changes in GABAergic transmission in the medial preoptic nucleus of female, but not male, mice effectively enhancing the sexually dimorphic nature of GABAergic transmission in a forebrain region crucial for the expression of aggression and sexual behaviors.
Generation of specific effector and memory T cells with gut- and secondary lymphoid tissue- homing potential by oral attenuated CVD 909 typhoid vaccine in humans

Induction of effective memory T cells is likely to be critical to the level and duration of protection elicited by novel live oral typhoid vaccines. Using cells from volunteers who ingested Salmonella Typhi vaccine strain CVD 909, we characterized the induction of interferon (IFN)-gamma-secreting central (T(CM), CD45RO(+)CD62L(+)) and effector (T(EM), CD45RO(+)CD62L(-)) memory T populations, and their gut-homing potential based on integrin alpha4/beta7 expression. Both CD4(+) T(EM) and T(CM) populations secreted IFN-gamma. However, although CD4(+) T(EM) expressed, or not, integrin alpha(4)/beta(7), CD4(+) T(CM) cells were predominantly integrin alpha(4)/beta(7)(+). In contrast, IFN-gamma-secreting CD8(+) cells were predominantly classical T(EM) and CD45RA(+) T(EM) (T(EMRA), CD45RO(-)CD62L(-)) subsets. However, although CD8(+) T(EM) expressed, or not, integrin alpha(4)/beta(7), CD8(+) T(EMRA) were predominantly integrin alpha(4)/beta(7)(+). This is the first demonstration that oral immunization of humans with S. Typhi elicits diverse IFN-gamma-secreting CD4(+) and CD8(+) T(CM) and T(EM) subsets able to migrate to the gut and other lymphoid tissues.
Relationship of Tensile Strength of Glass Fibers to Diameter

The measured strength of a glass fiber is associated with the special circumstances attending its formation. Experimental evidence is presented which shows that, contrary to generally accepted belief, the strength of a fiber does not depend on fiber diameter. When fibers of different diameter are formed under controlled, nearly identical conditions, the breaking strengths are identical within the experimental limits and there is no significant effect of diameter as such. Summary (1) The properties of glass fibers, including strength, are associated with the special circumstances attending their formation. (2) In the past, fibers of different diameters were inevitably made under different forming conditions; it was found necessary in hand drawing to heat the glass to higher temperatures and to pull faster to obtain fibers of small diameter. (3) In the past, therefore, fibers of different diameters were reported as having different strengths (i.e., breaking stresses, not breaking loads), and this difference was ascribed to diameter as such without considering whether it might be due to different forming conditions. (4) When fibers of different diameter are formed under controlled, nearly identical conditions, the breaking strengths are identical within the experimental limits and there is no significant effect of diameter as such.
Problems associated with choice and quality of life for an individual with intellectual disability: a personal assistant's reflexive ethnography

A gap exists between research and practice within the field of intellectual disability. In particular, researchers suggest that personal choice enhances quality of life. Following Bourdieu's sugges...
Present status of reversed vein bypass for lower extremity revascularization.

Abstract During the past 4 years we have performed 239 reversed vein bypasses for leg ischemia in 196 patients including 45 to the above-knee popliteal artery, 118 to the below-knee popliteal artery, and 76 to infrapopliteal arteries. The cumulative primary patency results by the life-table method through 24 months are 97% at 6 months, 91% at 1 year, and 88% at 2 years. No difference was evident in patency rates with respect to site of distal anastomosis or reason for graft performance (i.e., for claudication [31%] or for limb salvage [69%]). Twenty-two percent of these patients did not have an intact ipsilateral greater saphenous vein. By a variety of techniques including the use of cephalic and lesser saphenous veins, vein splicing, and proximal superficial femoral endarterectomy, we have been able to perform autogenous vein bypass in 94% of all patients who require lower extremity revascularization. The patency of bypasses made from conduits other than greater saphenous vein does not differ from that of the entire series. Both the graft patency and vein utilization rates in the present report are equal to those of recently published series of in situ saphenous vein bypasses and are clearly better than the published results with reversed vein bypass a decade and more ago. We conclude that, although in situ saphenous vein bypass is a good procedure, it is not superior to reversed vein bypass performed in the same time period. This report again emphasizes the hazards of evaluating any new treatment by the use of historic controls. (J VASC SURG 1986;3:288-97.)
JNK Signaling Confers Tolerance to Oxidative Stress and Extends Lifespan in Drosophila

Changes in the genetic makeup of an organism can extend lifespan significantly if they promote tolerance to environmental insults and thus prevent the general deterioration of cellular function that is associated with aging. Here, we introduce the Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) signaling pathway as a genetic determinant of aging in Drosophila melanogaster. Based on expression profiling experiments, we demonstrate that JNK functions at the center of a signal transduction network that coordinates the induction of protective genes in response to oxidative challenge. JNK signaling activity thus alleviates the toxic effects of reactive oxygen species (ROS). In addition, we show that flies with mutations that augment JNK signaling accumulate less oxidative damage and live dramatically longer than wild-type flies. Our work thus identifies the evolutionarily conserved JNK signaling pathway as a major genetic factor in the control of longevity.
The Changing Pattern of Pulmonary Suppuration: Surgical Implications

SUMMARY Of all the organ systems, the response of bacterial infection in the lung to antibiotic therapy has been the most dramatic. The entire clinical picture of pulmonary suppuration has changed forever. For this reason, the classic descriptions of disease must be discarded once and for all in favor of their drug-modified counterparts. Just as important, the continued emergence of drug-induced "mutant forms" must be constantly watched for and recognized. Out of the large pool of cases in whom antibiotics can affect total cure, we are confronted with a small but significant number of patients that have reacted to therapy in an unusual and sometimes even a bizarre way. The recognition and management of these cases often requires the best in judgment and experience on the part of the internist and the thoracic surgeon. Burford and Blades 11 recognized and voiced this problem early in the antibiotic era, when in 1942 they discussed the influence of sulfonamide therapy on postpneumonic empyema. Although this quotation is specific, its thought is applicable to all types of pulmonary suppuration today: "There is no denying the vast prognostic difference that sulfonamide has wrought in the pneumococcic and streptococcic pneumonias. Neither is there any doubt that treatment with these agents has brought about a decided reduction of the incidence of complications. However, it is our belief that the picture of postpneumonic empyema has become so atypical and bizarre since the universal use of sulfonamide therapy as to make re-evaluation of the disease necessary if we are to avoid committing grave errors in its treatment."
Commitment to Military Intervention: The Democratic Government as Economic Investor

Much of the work on US military intervention addresses the patterns it exhibits and the circumstances that lead to the decision to resort to force. This article deals with a somewhat different aspect of the issue: the structure of the incentives that determine the US government's commitment to persevere in the armed interventions it has chosen to undertake. Commitment is modeled in terms of the costs of the intervention and public support for the venture, and the model is based on an economic metaphor. The hypothesis is that the public responds to costs in the manner of consumers, making its support an inverse function of costs. By contrast, Government responds to costs in the fashion of an investor, viewing costs as an investment to be redeemed: up to a point, the higher the cost, the greater the commitment. The parameters of the model are statistically estimated for the wars in Korea and Vietnam, and the point at which public and governmental support coincide is discussed.
Jet-Flow Scavenging of a Curing Oven—Part II: Numerical Simulation

In this part the heat, mass, and momentum transfer within a curing over that is commonly used in microelectronic manufacturing have been numerically analyzed. The local partial pressure of the vapor is a determining factor in the promotion of contamination. Based on the results of this study a new design is recommended. The significant features of the new design are: (i) ability to maintain the partial pressure of the vapor below the saturation pressure corresponding to the temperature at every location within the oven, and (ii) improved facility for scavenging of the vapor. Qualitative comparisons of results obtained here with flow visualizations (Part I) are excellent.
Biomedical Data Sharing, Security and Standards

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) implemented a policy on data sharing in 2003. The policy reaffirmed the principle that data should be made as widely and freely available as possible while safeguarding the privacy of research participants, and protecting confidential and proprietary data. Restricted availability of unique resources upon which further studies are dependent can impede the advancement of research and the delivery of medical care. Therefore, research data supported with NIH funds should be made readily available for research purposes to qualified individuals within the scientific community. One approach to sharing data is to establish a network of databases. However, there are a number of barriers to creating successful networks, which can include fundamental differences in informatics infrastructure and communication tools used at various research sites. Solutions will entail standards for data collection, processing, and archiving to allow interoperability among the databases and the ability to query data across databases. Open architectures for data collection as well as software to facilitate communication across different databases are needed.
One dimensional large signal parametric model of folded waveguide TWTS

Summary form only given. We have implemented a simple hybrid circuit model for folded waveguide slow wave structures [1] in the CHRISTINE-CC large signal simulation code [2]. The unit cell of the circuit model consists of an inductive shunt element that represents the interaction gap region, combined with a section of transmission line that represents the folded waveguide. The model has only 4 real valued parameters in the absence of loss, but when the values of these parameters are carefully chosen the model accurately reproduces the dependence of phase velocity and characteristic (Kino) impedance vs. frequency over the operating band as calculated using HFSS. Cold circuit loss is included by introducing attenuation in the waveguide sections and by adding a resistive part to the shunt. By using alternating transmission line lengths, the model correctly reproduces stop bands created at the 3π/2-point when the beam tunnel is offset from its centered position.
Evidence for phase memory in two-photon down conversion through entanglement with the vacuum

An experiment has been carried out in which two pairs of light beams produced by down conversion in two nonlinear crystals driven by a common pump were mixed by two beam splitters, and the coincidence rate for simultaneous detections of mixed signal and idler photons was measured. It is found that the down-converted light carries information about the phase of the pump field through the entanglement of the down-converted photons with the vacuum.
Experimental searches for hot and cold dark matter

A way to fix the overproduction by cold dark matter of small-scale structure in the universe is to add hot dark matter in the form of neutrinos. Unlike cold dark matter, such as supersymmetric neutralinos, which very likely could be detected directly, the nature of the neutrinos must be determined from terrestrial experiments. The LSND experiment may be providing such evidence, since in a v¯ u beam 22 events consistent with v¯ u p → e + n are seen, whereas only 4.6 ± 0.6 are expected from backgrounds; the probability of this being a fluctuation is −7 . If subsequent analysis shows a similar effect from the independent channel ν μ → ν e , then this would imply a neutrino mass difference which would contribute significantly to the dark matter of the universe. Explaining also the solar and atmospheric neutrino deficits results in a neutrino mass pattern which gives a cold + hot dark matter mix which fits the structure of the universe on all scales and requires a critical density universe and a universe age compatible with that of the oldest stars. Further evidence for this mass pattern comes from the production of heavy elements in supernovae. The net for cold dark matter must be cast more widely, but the new experiments just starting have a good chance of detecting neutralinos, if these are indeed the major constituent of the universe.
Response of Douglas fir seedlings to nitrate and ammonium nitrogen sources at different levels of pH and iron supply

Douglas fir seedlings were grown for two to three months in sand and soil cultures in a greenhouse to examine their growth response to nitrogen (N) source at different levels of pH and iron (Fe) supply. In the first two experiments nutrient solutions of known pH were automatically applied to the top of the sand cultures and allowed to run to waste from the bottom. Under these conditions seedlings made most growth on nitrate (NO3−N) under acid (pH4) conditions, but most growth on ammonium (NH4−N) under neutral (pH7) conditions. Calcium carbonate (CaCO3) was used to create a range of pH conditions (from 4.0 to 7.2) in a peat and sand artificial soil. Over the pH range 4 to 6 NH4−N or NO3+NH4−N produced larger seedlings than NO3−N alone, but above pH6 growth on all N sources was depressed. Chemical analysis showed that seedling Ca concentration had increased and Fe concentration had decreased with increase in CaCO3 application. Both Ca and Fe concentrations were higher in seedlings receiving NO3−N than in those receiving NH4 or NO3+NH4. In sub-irrigated sand cultures, Doughlas fir seedlings receiving NO3−N were shown to respond to additions of Fe chelate, but seedlings receiving NH4−N responded little to Fe chelate. At pH5 seedlings receiving NO3−N did not grow as big as seedlings receiving NH4−N in the absence of Fe chelate, but addition of Fe chelate resulted in NO3-fed seedlings growing larger than NH4-fed seedlings. The relationship between seedling Fe concentration and N nutrition is discussed. The relatively larger root dry weight and surface area of seedlings grown on NO3−N, as compared to NH4−N, in sand culture, was noted.
Mortality patterns from lung cancer and nonneoplastic respiratory disease among white males in the Beryllium Case Registry

Study was undertaken of mortality patterns among white males entered into the Beryllium Case Registry (BCR) while alive with a diagnosis of beryllium-related nonneoplastic respiratory symptoms or disease. Analyses demonstrate an excessive risk of lung cancer among those subjects in the BCR who had been previously diagnosed with acute chemical pneumonitis or bronchitis secondary to short-term beryllium exposure. In the evaluation of the excessive lung cancer risk in this population, consideration should be given to the competing effects from the high case fatality rate of nonneoplastic respiratory disease. This excessive risk of lung cancer could not be explained on the basis of cigarette smoking per se. The findings of the present study utilizing subjects in the BCR are consistent with results of animal studies that over 30 years ago first demonstrated beryllium to be a carcinogen and with numerous epidemiologic studies demonstrating an increased risk of lung cancer among workers occupationally exposed to beryllium and its compounds.
Effect of alloxan on islet tissue permeability: protection and reversal by NADPH.

Abstract Previous work has shown that incubation of slices of the toadfish islet of Langerhans in a diabetogenic concentration of alloxan increases the permeability of their cell membranes to D-[1-14C]-mannitol, which normally remains in the extracellular space. We have now found that prior incubation of the slices in as little as 10−5M NADPH, which markedly stimulates insulin release, protects the slices against this action of alloxan. Similarly, incubation of islet slices in NADPH after incubation in alloxan reverses the action of the latter. NADP, which produces little or no stimulation of insulin release, does not protect against or reverse the action of alloxan. These results suggest that alloxan may damage the β-cell membrane by acting at or near a site involved in insulin release.
Synthesis and Characterization of a Bimetallic Boratabenzene Cobalt Complex

Reaction of 1,4-(BBr 2 ) 2 C 6 H 4 with cobaltocene gives a bimetallic cobalt complex with cyclopentadienyl and boratabenzene ligands. Oxidation allows the dicationic dicobalt(III) complex to be isolated; the bis(hexafluorophosphate) salt has been structurally characterized. Variable-temperature magnetic susceptibility measurements on the neutral dicobalt(II) complex showed substantial deviation from the Curie-Weiss law; a fit to the Bleaney-Bowers equation for a singlet ground state and a triplet excited state gave an exchange interaction of J = ca. -28 cm - 1 . Electrochemical studies, as well as near-infrared data on the mixed-valence species, suggest that the interaction between the metal centers is weak.
Pharmacogenetic association of the NPPA T2238C genetic variant with cardiovascular disease outcomes in patients with hypertension

Context The NPPA gene codes for the precursor of atrial natriuretic polypeptide, suggesting that NPPA may modulate the efficacy of some antihypertensive drugs. Objective To test whether participants with minor NPPA alleles in the T2238C or G664A variants had different rates of cardiovascular disease or blood pressure (BP) changes than common allele homozygotes when treated with a diuretic vs other antihypertensive medications. Design, Setting, and PatientsPost hoc analysis of 38 462 participants with hypertension from ALLHAT, a multicenter randomized clinical trial conducted in the United States and Canada. Genotyping was performed from February 2004 to January 2005.Intervention Participants were randomly assigned to receive a diuretic (chlorthalidone; n = 13 860), a calcium antagonist (amlodipine; n = 8174), an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (lisinopril; n = 8233), or an α-blocker (doxazosin; n = 8195). Main Outcome Measure The primary outcome measure was coronary heart disease (CHD), defined as fatal CHD or nonfatal myocardial infarction (mean follow-up, 4.9 years). Secondary outcomes were stroke, all-cause mortality, combined cardiovascular disease outcomes, and 6-month systolic and diastolic BP changes. Genotype × treatment interactions were tested where genotypes were modeled additively and dominantly. Results Depending on genotype, the event rates per 1000 person-years were 15.3 to 19.7 for CHO, 9.6 to 15.4 for stroke, and 27.4 to 30.7 for all-cause mortality. For the NPPA T2238C variant, lower event rates were found for the C allele carriers than for the TT homozygous individuals when comparing chlorthalidone and amlodipine (CHD: CC = 0.86; TC = 0.90; TT = 1.09; P = .03 [dominant model]; stroke: CC = 1.18; TC = 0.82; TT = 1.26; P = .01 [additive and dominant models]; all-cause mortality: CC = 0.87; TC = 0.98; TT = 1.12; P = .05 [dominant model]). Combined end points yielded similar results. Consistent with these clinical findings, 6-month changes in systolic BP for those with the CC genotype showed larger reductions with chlorthalidone (−6.5 mm Hg) than with amlodipine (−3.8 mm Hg), lisinopril (−2.4 mm Hg), or doxazosin (−3.8 mm Hg). Among those with the TT genotype, systolic BP differences between drugs were less (range, −5.4 to −7.5 mm Hg; P value, <.001 to .003 for interaction); diastolic BP showed similar results. We found no pharmacogenetic associations with the NPPA G664A variant. Conclusions The NPPA T2238C variant was associated with modification of antihypertensive medication effects on cardiovascular disease and BP. Minor C allele carriers experienced more favorable cardiovascular disease outcomes when randomized to receive a diuretic, whereas TT allele carriers had more favorable outcomes when randomized to receive a calcium channel blocker.
Trophic cascades in an invaded ecosystem: native keystone predators facilitate a dominant invader in an estuarine community

Determining how various factors contribute to the invasibility of systems is essential for both understanding community formation and informing management of natural areas. Research demonstrating that predators can provide biotic resistance to invasions by consuming invasive species has led to the presence of healthy predator populations being associated with reduced invasion potential of ecosystems. However, predators structure communities in many ways and their presence could also potentially facilitate invasions if they decrease populations of native species that compete with or consume an invader. We considered these two impacts of predators on invasion by analyzing the effects of two keystone predators (Pisaster spp. and Enhydra lutris nereis) on two foundation species (a native mussel Mytilus californianus and the invasive exotic bryozoan Watersipora subtorquata, a putative competitor for space with Mytilus californianus). Both native predators were found to facilitate the invasion of the exotic bryozoan, and the rate of invasion was highest when both predators were present. Facilitation of W. subtorquata occurred via indirect mechanisms that partly involved the removal of a competitor (mussels) via predation. These results illustrate that although predators can provide biotic resistance to invasion, healthy predator populations do not always confer this advantage and in fact may facilitate invasions. Therefore, implementation of management actions to enhance populations of top predators could also potentially increase the invasibility of some ecosystems.
Fuzzy logic flowers in Japan

Fuzzy logic is briefly explained, and its use in controllers is described. Further theoretical development and commercial implementation of these ideas in Japan is surveyed. Work progress in domains other than control is indicated. >